Victoria Coren Mitchell Contemplates Legal Battle with Ovo Energy Over Erroneous Charges
Victoria Coren Mitchell is considering legal action against Ovo Energy, expressing her frustration and “despair” after the company allegedly made a significant, incorrect withdrawal from her bank account. The acclaimed television host voiced her grievances on social media, declaring that only legal measures would suffice in addressing what she describes as the “terrible service” provided by the energy firm.
In her online statement, Coren Mitchell lamented reaching a “breaking point” with Ovo Energy, labeling them as the worst service provider she has ever dealt with. Her distress stems not only from the unwarranted financial deduction but also from the overall poor customer service experience, which she claims has significantly impacted her.
The situation prompted Coren Mitchell to conduct an informal survey among over 30,000 social media users, inquiring about the service quality of Ovo Energy’s competitor, Octopus Energy. An overwhelming 87% of respondents favored Octopus, underscoring the public’s preference and potential dissatisfaction with Ovo.
Responding to the outcry, Ovo Energy extended an apology to Coren Mitchell, assuring her that a senior complaints handler would urgently address her concerns in hopes of a swift resolution. This incident adds to a series of customer service complaints faced by the company, including instances of exorbitantly high bills reported by customers and criticized energy-saving tips during the 2022 energy crisis, which suggested customers cuddle to stay warm.
Ovo Energy, a major player among Britain’s “big six” energy suppliers, has faced scrutiny from Ofgem, the energy regulator, which demanded improvements in the company’s customer service. Despite these challenges, Ovo maintains a commitment to enhancing the customer experience, as echoed in a statement from an Ovo Energy spokesperson who emphasized the company’s dedication to providing optimal support to its clientele.
Coren Mitchell’s public ordeal has ignited a broader discussion on energy providers’ customer service, with many sharing their own experiences and expressing a preference for alternatives like Octopus Energy. This incident highlights the growing concern among consumers regarding unexpected charges and the quality of service from their energy suppliers.