Following the recent Watchdog programme regarding claims management companies, the Association of Professional Claims Managers (APCM) would like to remind consumers of the need to ensure that they are dealing with a reputable and professional claims management firm.

Claims management firms provide a valuable service for consumers and have helped them to secure many millions of pounds worth of refunds against PPI and other mis-sold financial products. The APCM believes some banks have been slow and/or unwilling to adhere to the Financial Services Authority’s new guidelines for ensuring that PPI complaints are dealt with fairly and consistently, on a case-by-case basis. The recent High Court case is, we believe, evidence of this. From our experience, some consumers may not have received the full redress they were entitled to without the support and help of professional claims management companies. In addition, many customers tell us they simply did not have the stomach, the time or the inclination to take on the banks themselves.

However, the level of service and clarity of information given to consumers can historically vary widely from firm to firm. The APCM is seeking to address this inconsistency of standards in the industry, and recommends that consumers look for the APCM Member logo when selecting a claims management company.

APCM members have to comply with the Claims Management Code which sets the bar for the professional standards it expects from member firms; standards which exceed those required by the rules of the industry regulator, the Ministry of Justice.  The APCM Member logo means that honesty, transparency and fairness are at the heart of the service you will receive.

Further information about the APCM or a copy of the Claims Management Code can be obtained by visiting the APCM website www.apcm.org.uk or telephoning 0845 519 1309.