What does the FOS typically focus on when resolving complaints?

The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) primarily focuses on resolving disputes between customers and financial services. It serves as an impartial entity that helps individuals who feel they have been treated unfairly by financial service providers. When a complaint is lodged, the FOS investigates the circumstances of the complaint, evaluates the evidence presented by both parties, and aims to reach a fair and equitable resolution.

This focus on resolving disputes is essential because it helps maintain trust in the financial system, ensuring consumers have a mechanism to seek redress when they feel their rights have been violated or when they have faced inadequate service. The FOS's ability to mediate and enforce decisions in favor of consumers plays a crucial role in upholding standards within the financial industry.

Other options, while relevant to the broader financial services landscape, do not represent the primary mission of the FOS. Educating customers on financial products, conducting financial crime investigations, or promoting new products fall outside its core function of resolving complaints and disputes.