Our approach when we consider making a payment because of the distress or inconvenience caused by avoidable delays in our complaint handling.
We aim to apply a consistent and fair approach to ensure outcomes are appropriate and proportionate, based on the individual features of each complaint, including the reasons for and length of delay.
Sometimes it may take us longer than the timeframes set out in the Complaints Scheme to provide our full response to a complaint. This could be for a variety of reasons, including the complexity of a case and the nature of our investigation. When we are unable to meet the timeframes set out in the Scheme, we will keep complainants regularly updated on progress.
In deciding what outcome is appropriate, we must consider the factors set out in the Scheme. Where there have been avoidable delays on our part (excluding any period of time where a complaint is deferred under the Scheme), we will take that into consideration.
Levels of payments
This table shows the levels of payment we believe are appropriate when assessing the impact of an avoidable delay. We use this table as a guide to be consistent. However, we will continue to assess all complaints on their individual merits in line with the Scheme.
| Response time (from the date we received the complaint)* | Payment amount |
|---|---|
| Up to four months | None - apology offered where appropriate |
| Up to six months | £50 |
| Up to eight months | £75 |
| Up to 10 months | £100 |
| Up to 12 months | £125 |
| Greater than a year | £150 - £250 |
*These timescales exclude the duration of any deferral under the Scheme.