Whilst most of us enjoy a relaxing break during the summer, there are times when a holiday does not go to plan.
There are a number of ways you can obtain redress without going to Court.
The first step is to go through the Holiday companies` complaints procedure. If this does not work, you can consider the ABTA`s arbitration and conciliation schemes.
The ABTA Arbitration scheme - this can be used for breach of contract and/or negligence between consumers and members of ABTA. You can also claim minor illness and personal injury for claims limited to £1500 per person.
There is a fee of £108 - £264, which is recoverable if successful .
The claim will be decided by a neutral, independent arbitrator, based on written documents, who will then produce a binding decision.
The ABTA Conciliation scheme - this is for disputes relating to personal injury and sickness.
A neutral third party assists both parties to see if a mutually satisfactory settlement can be reached by negotiation, which is conducted either by telephone or writing.
If an agreement is reached, there is a cooling off period to allow the parties to obtain legal advice, but the settlement becomes binding when signed by both parties.
If no agreement is reached, the conciliator will issue a recommendation for settlement.
The fee is payable by the ABTA member.
Please feel free to contact John Buckle on 01922 707 598 or johnbuckle@hcbgroup.com if you require any further information about such claims.
