Rail passengers may soon only receive compensation for train delays exceeding 30 minutes, as per potential government plans. Currently, most rail companies refund 25% of the ticket price for delays between 15 and 29 minutes. For delays of 30 to 59 minutes, passengers typically receive 50% compensation, increasing to a full refund for delays over an hour.
Under the proposed changes, compensation will only be granted if delays exceed 30 minutes. This new system aims to automate the compensation process, eliminating the need for passengers to submit “delay repay” forms online with ticket proof.
The Times reports that these proposals are part of a plan to streamline the compensation process into a single system as UK rail companies transition to public ownership by October 2027. The cost of compensation will shift to taxpayer funds once all rail compensations are nationalized.
In the 2023-24 financial year, around £138 million was paid out to rail passengers. The Department for Transport declined to comment on the proposed changes but emphasized the government’s commitment to rebuilding public trust in the railway system through ongoing reforms.
Trainline recently highlighted that rail passengers are missing out on over £80 million in compensation annually for delayed journeys. The company has launched a petition urging the government to enable simpler compensation claims for online ticket buyers with a “one-click” process.
Trainline’s CEO, Jody Ford, emphasized the need for easy compensation procedures, stating that passengers deserve a rail reform that prioritizes their needs. The push for “one-click” delay repay reflects industry and government cooperation towards enhancing passenger experience and simplifying the claims process.