Can you cancel a bank/building society cheque?

baycas

An elderly friend was taken to the bank/building society by a salesman to draw a cheque for an order for a mobility item. The bank staff were alerted by a concerned customer but issued the cheque anyway. thier policy is to only issue cheques over £1000 so even though the item wasn't quite that amount a cheque for £1001 was issued. There appears to be an overcharge of approx £400 compared to other companies selling very similar products. Trading Standards have advised to cancel the order (it is within the 7 days). The bank have said they will not cancel the cheque. I appreciate that in normal circumstances for just a 'change of mind' Cancelling a cheque is a breach of agreement. but this order was obtained under a degree of pressure. Can anyone advise??
Thanks

dacouch

Did the salesmen visit him at home?

baycas

Hi
Yes he phoned an advert in a national paper. Does that make a difference?

Techhead_2

I always feel really awkward about these sort of posts. The implication is that you feel that your friend is incapable of making a decision and that bank staff should make judgements about a customer's capacity.

Its difficult to advise without seeming either callous or intrusive.

It may be that your friend is just not very good at, or reluctant to, getting a good price. Or it may be that the company has taken advantage of your friend's reduced capacity.

I always think you need to deal with these things seperately, give the company the benefit of the doubt and persuade your friend to cancel the order or seek a discount.

Secondly, perhaps arrange a proper assessment of your friends needs ( mentally and physically) so that your friend can be protected from being taken advantage of.

I would make a plea that you don't unnecessarily inflame the situation, this could be very upsetting for your friend.

shaun_from_Africa

Yes he phoned an advert in a national paper. Does that make a difference?

Where the advert was seen doesn't make a difference, but where the contract was signed does.
http://whatconsumer.co.uk/cooling-off-and-cancellations/

Scroll down to the sections entitled:
Buying from a doorstep seller
&
Buying away from the trader's normal place of business.

Your friend can't cancel the cheque, but if they want to cancel the contract, get them to write to the company concerned (recorded delivery & keep a copy), informing them of their wish to cancel in accordance with their legal rights.