DON’T GET SHORT-CHANGED THIS CHRISTMAS

If your festive plans have fallen through you shouldn’t be left out of pocket. Whatever this season throws at you make sure you know your rights, says Michelle Nightingale

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS IF .... ...you’ve booked a Christmas meal and it’s cancelled

Restaurants will be led by government guidelines and should refund you in full if your booking is cancelled due to Covid restrictions.

If, however, it’s you who cancels the booking, it’s at the restaurant’s discretion. You may be offered a refund, or the option to put your deposit towards a future booking. Either way, contact the restaurant as soon as possible as they may be able to take another booking in your place (Covid rules permitting), improving your chances of a refund.

...your UK festive break is cancelled

Many of us have had holidays cancelled this year and your rights remain the same if you have a festive break planned in the UK. If your staycation can’t go ahead due to lockdown laws, then you should get a full refund, although your holiday provider may try to encourage you to rebook for a later date. Package holidays that include accommodation and travel are protected by ABTA regulations, so you’re guaranteed a refund.

If you decide not to travel, then it’s at the discretion of your holiday provider and their cancellation terms. That said, most providers are being as flexible as they can and will happily move your booking to a later date.

...you’ve bought gift cards and the business goes bust

If the retailer has gone into administration, then the administrators do have the power to refuse to accept vouchers and gift cards. Firstly, it’s worth contacting them direct, because even if they won’t accept them initially, they may still accept them at a later date.

For companies that have gone into liquidation you can register a claim with the liquidators, although there’s no guarantee that you’ll receive the full amount back. For amounts over £100 you may be able to claim the money back through your card provider as a breach of contract.

...the gifts you’ve ordered don’t arrive in time due to Covid-19

Our postal service, including all the different delivery services, has been doing a sterling job this year under challenging circumstances. However, if you want to ensure your gifts are safely stowed under the tree before the big day, you’ll need to allow extra time. It’s handy to know that retailers are obliged to deliver within their stipulated timeframe or within 30 days of the order being placed. If your order is delivered late or doesn’t arrive, you’re within your rights to cancel and claim a full a refund.