FOS lead ombudsman challenges 'myth' of consumer favouritism

Caroline Mitchell speaks out

Scott Sinclair
clock

Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) lead ombudsman Caroline Mitchell has challenged the 'myth' its adjudicators are pre-disposed to finding in favour of the consumer when settling advice complaints.

"More often than not we do support the adviser," Mitchell (pictured) told advisers at a conference examining alternative investments in London on Thursday. Mitchell reiterated the FOS receives few advice complaints, pointing out it had only 850-odd open complaints related to unregulated collective investment schemes (UCIS) or non-mainstream pooled investments (NMPI) recommendations. This is against a rate of more than 4,000 new PPI gripes it receives each week. Mitchell said clearly communicating risk - and recording that this has taken place - remained the most important thing adv...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Regulation

Is FCA expert evidence truly independent?

Is FCA expert evidence truly independent?

Upper Tribunal judgment thinks not

Gareth Fatchett
clock 25 June 2026 • 5 min read
SFO to secure further £491,000 from overseas investment fraudster

SFO to secure further £491,000 from overseas investment fraudster

Targeted British expats in Jakarta

Jen Frost
clock 22 June 2026 • 1 min read
Lords warns financial services bill could weaken regulators' accountability

Lords warns financial services bill could weaken regulators' accountability

Open letter to investment minister

Michael Nelson
clock 19 June 2026 • 2 min read