Which? has launched a new tool to help consumers claim compensation for delays to their train journeys.
The compensation entitlement for train delays differs from one train company to the next – and can also vary depending on the route travelled within the rail network.
To make it easier for consumers to know what they’re entitled to, Which? has dissected the terms and conditions of train companies across the country.
Compensation for train delays
The tool – available here – means you just have to tell us who you travelled with, and how long your journey was delayed by, and we’ll tell you what you’re entitled to.
If your train was delayed and you chose to travel anyway, the tool helps you work out how much compensation you should receive. But if your train was delayed and you chose not to travel, you should apply for a refund for your ticket.
Letter templates are also available to help you make a written complaint.
National Rail vouchers
The National Rail Conditions of Carriage state that compensation must be in the form of National Rail vouchers. The exception is with some train companies if your compensation is above a certain level, typically £30 to £40.
The vouchers can be used with any train company, not just the one you travelled with, and last for a year from the date of issue.
Season tickets sagas
Delay/Repay is a Department for Transport (DfT) scheme that allows annual or monthly season ticket passengers to claim compensation for delays as if they were travelling on a single/return ticket.
Weekly season ticket passengers have always been able to claim as if they were travelling on a single/return ticket, so these rules apply if you hold a weekly ticket too.
