FOS confirms independent review after Dispatches exposé

Channel 4 programme raised issues

Tom Ellis
clock • 1 min read

The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) has confirmed it is to be independently reviewed following the Dispatches documentary that claimed to unearth a number of issues with the Ombudsman.

The Channel 4 programme painted the FOS in a negative light, suggesting employees were not adequately trained to deal with cases and that people lose out because it is easier to let down a complainant rather than persuade a business of the decision taken. An undercover reporter secretly filmed interviews with FOS employees who admitted to not being fully competent at their jobs. One admitted to googling different products, while another said the customers often know more about the product than the investigators because they are "so invested in their own complaint". Staff also talked o...

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 Companies

Shackleton to acquire Hurst Point creating £17.5bn advice giant

Shackleton to acquire Hurst Point creating £17.5bn advice giant

Will be one of the UK’s largest financial planning firms

Isabel Baxter
clock 24 April 2026 • 2 min read
Sapia Partners avoids FCA penalty with £19.6m WealthTek payment

Sapia Partners avoids FCA penalty with £19.6m WealthTek payment

Exposed clients to ‘unacceptable risk’

Michael Nelson
clock 23 April 2026 • 1 min read
Tatton-backed Absolute adds first IFA through partnership programme

Tatton-backed Absolute adds first IFA through partnership programme

St George’s Financial Services joins

Jen Frost
clock 23 April 2026 • 2 min read