True support for NHS staff - Covid-19 - Vaillant are an example to British Gas

SteveMSEG

Got home on Monday after a shift at the local NHS hospital and my boiler had leaked and no hot water so contacted British Gas who installed the boiler less than 6 years ago but refused to help as they said they would only cover it for 2 years (now they say 5 years if installed recently). With the Consumer Rights Act I think they, as the retailer, should still offer to repair/replace boiler if faulty within 6 years but kept fobbing me off and said they didn't know about Consumer Rights Act! 

They then passed me between Installation and Homecare team with several dropped calls or endless on hold music. The also said they were restricted to emergencies with Homecare due to Coronavirus so even if they were responsible they wouldn't come out despite me suggesting that being a careworker it is important to have hot water to wash after a shift in the hospital and could prove to lead to a medical emergency for my patients and family.

Then they said thank you for everything being done by the NHS and they all really appreciate what we're doing but unfortunately are not able to demonstrate it with their service. I'm still waiting for British Gas to get back to me.

Therefore, I contacted the manufacturer Vaillant who were completely different and incredibly helpful when I explained my situation. They have recently advertised on their website (www.vaillant.co.uk/homeowners/repairs-servicing/repair-options/) that they are offering free boiler repairs to NHS workers until the end of June upto £500.

"To claim for the support please call our dedicated phone line for National Health Service staff on 03301028571 where you will be asked for proof of ID and address."

This is the support that all NHS and keyworkers would really appreciate, as coping with things like boiler breakdowns can be really difficult when facing the stresses and strains of the day job at the moment.

Thank you Vaillant, you are an example to the bigger companies like British Gas who in this case have not even got close to their statutory responsibilities let alone gone the extra step in demonstrating their appreciation to NHS staff and I hope even more companies follow your example.