Your Rights When UK Trains Are Delayed or Cancelled
---
title: "Your Rights When UK Trains Are Delayed or Cancelled"
author: Alex
published: false
tags:
- transport
- rail
- guide
---
Train disruption is frustrating, but passengers have established rights. Knowing them turns a bad journey into compensation. The rules are consistent across all UK operators, though claiming processes vary slightly.
Delay Repay Scheme
All UK train companies participate in Delay Repay. This statutory scheme guarantees compensation for delays of 15 minutes or more. The compensation scales with the delay severity.
- 15 to 29 minutes delayed: 25 percent of the single fare or relevant portion of a return
- 30 to 59 minutes: 50 percent
- 60 to 119 minutes: 100 percent
- 120 minutes or more: 100 percent of the full return fare
Season ticket holders calculate compensation based on the proportional daily rate.
How to Claim
Most operators accept claims through online forms. You will need your ticket details, journey information, and ideally the scheduled and actual arrival times. Photographs of paper tickets or mobile ticket screenshots serve as evidence. Claims must typically be submitted within 28 days of the journey.
When You Can Claim
Compensation applies to delays within the operator's control. Extreme weather, trespassers, or suicides on the line sometimes qualify for discretionary payments rather than automatic ones. Industrial action is more complex. Some operators pay Delay Repay during strikes, others do not. Check your specific operator's policy.
Alternative Transport Costs
If your train is cancelled and you must take a taxi or alternative transport, keep receipts. Operators will usually reimburse reasonable costs if no alternative service exists. The key word is reasonable. A £200 taxi from London to Manchester will likely be questioned.
Seat Reservations and Downgrades
Reserved seats are not guaranteed, though they should be honoured when possible. If you are forced to stand for the entire journey despite having a reservation, document this. Some operators offer partial refunds.
First-class ticket holders downgraded to standard due to overcrowding or rolling stock changes can claim the fare difference. Photograph the ticket and any evidence of the downgrade.
Final Thought
Compensation is not charity. It is a contractual obligation when operators fail to deliver the service paid for. The schemes exist specifically because disruptions happen. Use them without guilt.
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