TSB Statements, Closed Account

On these forums we try to say it as it is, so I'll get the bad news out of the way first. As a general rule, ex-banks can be very hard to get statements out of. To my knowledge there's no set standard. I have no idea where TSB stood in relation to other banks on this front, other than to say that they've generally been ahead of the curve on driving paperless statements. I use the word stood, because given their current situation, even if they are one of the more reasonable banks with statements for ex-customers they clearly are not going to get it done as fast as they ordinarily would.

For verification purposes it doesn't surprise me that an ex-customer wouldn't be able to get past statements via the call center.

The options as I see them are:

1. Wait, either for TSB to get you the statements or to build up enough statements at your new bank. Bank branch employees, as a rule, are not in the habit of telling bare-faced lies, because doing so opens them up to the significant chance of facing an irate person - with an understandable reason to be irate - at a later date. Definitely, definitely, do not be that person. Anyone who has survived the past month working in a TSB branch deserves a medal. My point is that the chances that this has already been sorted out, whilst far from certain, are not awful either.
2. Claim for compensation, making clear that all you want is a small amount to compensate for the inconvenience, but that what you are really after is the statements with no delay. That if you don't get the statements there is the possibility of loss. By all means explain why you need them so urgently, and that the only reason you are an ex-customer is that you felt unable to continue to deal with the issues. But do not exaggerate your losses, and do not elaborate on your potential losses (as the truth is that you haven't got a clue what they might be). I don't endorse this option, because I don't think it will cause you to get your statements within the time you want. However it might be a good idea to try it anyway, because if nothing works and this really does harm you, you have informed them at an early stage of the problem and given them an opportunity to make the problem as small as possible. If they fail then compensation would be a reasonable expectation.
3. Try to draw attention to your case. I'd recommend writing to your MP (actually I'd recommend this whichever option you choose whether you support their party or not. Even if they're no help, politicians of all sides need to understand that this is more than a flash in the pan). Social media can be very effective, although given everything that has been happening regarding scammers, I question whether I would want to be contacted via social media. Alternatively you could try the mainstream media, or this site:

https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/faqs/I-have-a-money-related-news-story/

If you go for option three, be very sure not to go over the top on the staff you actually dealt with. The issue is the problem that has been caused to you as a result of feeling unable to bank with TSB, and not the lady at the bank counter who has undoubtedly had the worst month of her working life.