by Saqib Khan | Jan 18, 2024 | General, People
Martin Lewis, the renowned founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, has highlighted a groundbreaking announcement from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) that has seemingly gone unnoticed. This revelation has the potential to result in substantial payouts for individuals who acquired a car or van through motor finance before 2021.
In a recent tweet, Lewis emphasized the magnitude of this development, drawing parallels to the scale of Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) claims, which amounted to £40 billion. The FCA’s move is in response to emerging evidence from two significant ombudsman cases, indicating that companies may be wrongly rejecting complaints related to commissions in pre-2021 motor finance transactions. Consequently, the FCA is undertaking a comprehensive review of complaint handling procedures.
Lewis speculates that upon completion of the investigation, the FCA may establish either a redress scheme, requiring all firms to compensate affected customers, or redress rules that dictate payouts based on a predefined formula for those who file complaints. Potential compensations could encompass interest on loans, commission amounts, or even the entire loan, potentially resulting in thousands of pounds returned to many individuals.
The significance of promptly filing complaints becomes evident, especially if the FCA opts for a redress scheme with a potential cutoff date. While the freeze on complaint handling is currently in place, Lewis suggests that initiating a complaint now can serve as a marker for individuals who believe they have been mis-sold motor finance.
Your Motor Finance Payout Questions Answered: Insights from Martin Lewis
Martin Lewis has provided preliminary information to keep individuals informed about the ongoing situation. His team is diligently working on an in-depth guide to answer all questions related to motor finance compensation. This guide will be available in a few weeks.
Q: What complaints will the investigation cover?
A: The FCA’s investigation will focus on complaints where individuals purchased a car using car finance before 28 January 2021, with the finance being a personal contract purchase (PCP) or a hire purchase (HP) agreement featuring a ‘discretionary commission arrangement.’
Q: Which claims won’t the investigation cover?
A: The investigation will not cover complaints related to car finance transactions made on or after 28 January 2021, car leasing agreements, or claims unrelated to commission.
Q: How much could I get if a redress scheme goes ahead?
A: The FCA has not disclosed specific compensation amounts yet, emphasizing an orderly and efficient settlement process for those owed compensation.
Q: Should I file a complaint now or wait if I think I’m affected?
A: Lewis advises filing complaints as soon as possible, considering potential cutoffs. However, the FCA has temporarily paused firms from responding to complaints received after 17 November 2023 until 25 September 2024.
Q: What if the firm I want to complain to has gone bust?
A: Complaints can be directed to the administrator or liquidator in case of a firm’s insolvency, with details available on the FCA’s Financial Services Register.
Q: What happens if my complaint hasn’t received a response yet?
A: Complaints received after 17 November 2023 won’t be addressed until after 25 September 2024. Individuals with prior complaints can follow the regular process or escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) if unsatisfied.
Q: Can I resubmit a rejected claim based on the FCA’s investigation?
A: The possibility depends on the stage of the complaints process, with options available for reconsideration at certain stages.
Q: Should I contact Khan Mather now if I think I have a claim?
A: Yes please contact us today and we can collate all the information in readiness to submit a claim on your behalf.
by Saqib Khan | Oct 3, 2023 | Employment law, General, People
Introduction:
In recent years, the traditional 9-to-5 office routine has undergone a remarkable transformation. The rise of remote work, accelerated by global events, has given rise to a new era of flexibility and freedom. While sceptics argue that working from home is synonymous with distractions and reduced productivity, there is a growing body of evidence and personal experiences that counter this notion. In this blog post, we will explore why working from home can still be highly productive, enabling individuals to thrive in their professional lives while enjoying the comforts of their own space.
- Eliminating Commute Stress:
One of the primary advantages of working from home is the elimination of the daily commute. No longer will you find yourself stuck in traffic or crowded public transportation. By reclaiming this time, employees can start their day with a sense of calm and readiness, translating into a focused and productive mindset from the get-go.
- Customizable Work Environment:
Working from home allows individuals to create a personalized work environment tailored to their needs. From selecting an ergonomic chair to optimizing lighting and temperature, the ability to curate a comfortable workspace can enhance productivity. Additionally, people can decorate their workspace to reflect their personality, fostering a sense of ownership and motivation.
- Reduced Distractions and Interruptions:
While some argue that working from home invites distractions, the opposite can be true with proper planning and discipline. Remote workers can proactively structure their day, creating a dedicated workspace that minimizes interruptions. By utilizing noise-cancelling headphones, setting boundaries with family members or room mates, and leveraging productivity tools, individuals can create an environment conducive to deep work and sustained concentration.
- Enhanced Focus and Time Management:
Working from home often enables employees to concentrate on tasks without the constant interruptions common in office settings. Freed from the lure of water cooler conversations or impromptu meetings, workers can allocate focused time to complete assignments efficiently. Additionally, with the flexibility to manage their own schedules, employees can adapt their work hours to align with their natural peak productivity periods, harnessing their energy for optimal output.
- Leveraging Technology:
Advancements in technology have paved the way for seamless communication and collaboration in remote work environments. With video conferencing, instant messaging platforms, and project management tools, remote teams can stay connected, exchange ideas, and maintain a high level of productivity. Moreover, the availability of virtual whiteboards, cloud-based file sharing, and project tracking software facilitates smooth coordination, enhancing teamwork even when physically apart.
- Work-Life Balance:
One of the most significant benefits of working from home is the potential for improved work-life balance. Without the need to commute or adhere to rigid office hours, individuals can allocate more time to their personal lives. This increased harmony between work and personal responsibilities can lead to reduced stress levels and greater overall satisfaction, positively influencing productivity when it is time to focus on work-related tasks.
Conclusion:
Contrary to popular misconceptions, working from home can indeed foster productivity when approached with intention and a proactive mindset. The elimination of commutes, customizable work environments, reduced distractions, enhanced focus, and leveraging technology all contribute to unlocking remote work’s potential. By embracing this new way of working, individuals and organizations can enjoy the benefits of increased efficiency, improved work-life balance, and a motivated workforce. With the right tools, mindset, and support, the home office can be a haven for productivity and success.
Many of our employees work from home a few days a week and we find it has improved morale and productivity. You can always contact our employees by email if they are at home or in the office.
by Saqib Khan | Sep 13, 2023 | General, People
Introduction
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need to address issues related to menopause and menstruation in the workplace. While these topics have historically been considered taboo or overlooked, organizations are now realizing the importance of creating inclusive and supportive environments for all employees. The British Standards Institution (BSI) has taken a significant step forward by launching an initiative to provide guidance and best practices on managing menopause and menstruation in the workplace. In this blog post, we will explore the BSI’s initiative and the positive impact it can have on individuals and organizations.
Understanding Menopause and Menstruation: Menopause and menstruation are natural biological processes that affect many individuals. Menopause typically occurs in women between the ages of 45 and 55, marking the end of their reproductive years. Menstruation, on the other hand, is a monthly cycle experienced by women during their reproductive years. Both menopause and menstruation can have various physical, emotional, and psychological effects on individuals, which can impact their well-being and work performance.
The BSI Initiative: The BSI is an internationally recognized organization that develops and publishes standards across various industries. In response to the growing awareness of menopause and menstruation-related challenges, the BSI launched an initiative to address these issues in the workplace. The initiative aims to provide organizations with practical guidance and recommendations to support employees going through menopause or experiencing menstruation-related difficulties.
Key Focus Areas
The BSI initiative focuses on several key areas to help organizations create inclusive and supportive environments:
- Education and Awareness: The initiative emphasizes the importance of educating employees, managers, and HR professionals about menopause and menstruation. By raising awareness and dispelling myths surrounding these topics, organizations can foster a more understanding and empathetic workplace culture.
- Policy and Guidance: The BSI encourages organizations to develop policies and guidelines that address menopause and menstruation in the workplace. These policies can include provisions for flexible working arrangements, access to appropriate facilities, and support mechanisms such as counselling or employee assistance programs.
- Training and Support: The BSI highlights the significance of providing training to managers and colleagues to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to support individuals going through menopause or experiencing menstruation-related challenges. Training sessions can cover topics such as symptom management, communication strategies, and creating a supportive work environment.
- Facilities and Amenities: The BSI recommends that organizations review and improve their facilities to cater to the specific needs of employees experiencing menopause or menstruation. This may include providing discreet and hygienic disposal options for sanitary products, access to private restrooms or quiet areas, and temperature control measures to alleviate menopausal symptoms.
Benefits and Impact: Implementing the BSI’s guidance on menopause and menstruation can bring several benefits to both individuals and organizations:
- Improved Well-being: By creating an inclusive and supportive environment, individuals going through menopause or experiencing menstruation-related challenges can feel more comfortable and valued at work. This, in turn, can positively impact their overall well-being and job satisfaction.
- Increased Productivity: When individuals feel supported and understood, they are more likely to perform at their best. By addressing menopause and menstruation-related issues, organizations can help reduce absenteeism, presenteeism, and workplace stress, ultimately leading to increased productivity.
- Enhanced Diversity and Inclusion: Taking proactive steps to support employees during menopause and menstruation contributes to a more diverse and inclusive workplace culture. It demonstrates that an organization values the experiences and needs of all its employees, regardless of gender or age.
Conclusion
The British Standards Institution’s initiative on menopause and menstruation marks a significant milestone in recognizing the importance of addressing these topics in the workplace. By providing guidance and best practices, the BSI is helping organizations create inclusive and supportive environments that benefit employees and the overall success of the organization. Embracing the changes associated with menopause and menstruation is not only the right thing to do; it is a step toward fostering a more understanding, empathetic, and productive working environment for all.
We know that menopause in particular is a very important subject at the moment and therefore we decided to write a blog on the subject. If you have been discriminated against in the workplace with regards to menopause, or anything else, please get in touch to speak to one of our qualified employer’s liability solicitors on 0161 850 9911.
by Saqib Khan | Aug 25, 2023 | People
Saqib started KhanMather in 2011. It has been running for over 12 years now and is a very successful firm of solicitors with over 20 members of staff covering many areas of law.
When Saqib commenced his legal career, he realised that he wanted to have his own firm, as he felt that he could provide high quality legal services to clients in a very client centric way. Saqib believes that the client is extremely important and must be looked after whilst having their expectations managed. He is very results driven, and in order to obtain results, it is his belief that hard work needs to be applied. He is in the office virtually every day and when he isn’t, he is either seeing clients or at court.
On a day-to-day basis, he looks after the management of the firm together with the other directors. They have regular meetings to discuss any issues that they are encountering and how these can be resolved so that the firm can run smoothly. In addition to these duties, he has a handful of clients that he provides legal assistance to and he provides an element of supervision to all of the staff, especially the trainee solicitors, as he is their Principal.
Saqib’s proudest achievement in his legal career is being appointed as a Deputy District Judge in 2022. He wanted to develop his career and assist with the administration of justice.
Saqib believes that over the years, he has gained a considerable amount of knowledge, but he finds it difficult delegating certain tasks which is something that he feels that he should work on. He loves being part of a well-oiled machine that produces consistently good results, which is a testament to his colleagues’ abilities and hard work. In the future, Saqib would like the firm to grow into offering many other areas of law, so that the firm’s clients have a one-stop shop for their legal needs.
It is worthy of note that Saqib’s first job was working at his local McDonald’s restaurant which taught him a lot about hard work and achieving results. In his spare time, Saqib has recently taken up clay pigeon shooting and has joined a local club.
AN UNKNOWN FACT ABOUT Saqib
He enjoys listening to Latin American House Music, and he has attended many gigs over the past three decades to see his favourite performers live.
Saqib’s primary core belief is that if you want something, you need to put a substantial amount of consistent effort into the task at hand. At the start of his career, he invested a lot of time on a daily basis into reading into his subject area in order to gain knowledge and then applying the same in his work and taking advice from those more experienced than himself.
