Financial Ombudsman

British  

noun

1. any of five British ombudsmen: the Banking Ombudsman , set up in 1986 to investigate complaints from bank customers; the Building Society Ombudsman , set up in 1987 to investigate complaints from building society customers; the Insurance Ombudsman , set up in 1981 to investigate complaints by policyholders (since 1988 this ombudsman has also operated a Unit Trust Ombudsman scheme); the Investment Ombudsman set up in 1989 to investigate complaints by investors (the Personal Investment Authority Ombudsman is responsible for investigating complaints by personal investors); and the Pensions Ombudsman , set up in 1993 to investigate complaints regarding pension schemes

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Example Sentences

The pair reported the scam to Santander but were told it was unable to refund the money, which led them to make an appeal to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2026

It says this means "upfront" checks on affordability, faster access to refunds, and the right to complain to the Financial Ombudsman.

From BBC • May 18, 2025

You can read guidance on motor finance complaints on the Financial Ombudsman site here, and guidance from the Financial Conduct Authority here.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2024

Bella's bank has refused to refund her as a victim of fraud, although she is now challenging that decision with the Financial Ombudsman Service.

From BBC • Jan. 13, 2024

With several dozen employees and a turnover of around £11m, the company is not afforded the same protections as individual consumers, such as the Financial Ombudsman Service or the Contingent Reimbursement Model code.

From BBC • Oct. 21, 2023