I think I've been an idiot...but I'm seething.

[TalentedMsRipley]

I ordered/paid for a sofa from an online shop. I realised a few days later that I couldn't actually afford it and asked for a refund. I was promised refund had been requested and would take 2 weeks. 3 weeks passed....and no money.
They promised money would be in my account soon.

I rang today and the girl said she actually just found out the other day that they don't do refunds. At all.
I feel I was misled, as in the mean time I borrowed money from my family to buy a slightly cheaper sofa, on the understanding that I was to receive a refund from this first company.

Any advice? It's a tiny company, run by one woman. Shes now ignoring my calls & emails.

Distance selling regulations may be your friend here:

www.which.co.uk/consumer-rights/regulation/distance-selling-regulations

What were the T&C's of the sale? If the sofa's made to order then they may not do refunds as they'll have to buy in materials etc.

But you need to check the T&C's.

You have relied to your detriment on the statement that they would refund you.

Promissory estoppel may mean that they must abide by it - you might need more expert advice -
and most important - can you prove it?

Can you ask the bank to do a charge back??