AIBU to expect compensation for losses caused by train cancellations?

[Thecomedyclub]

For the third time in five weeks, my train into London has been cancelled at very short notice with no bus replacement or other options.
I feel so sorry for all the people who are affected by this, as my line serves Gatwick. I suppose I’m adding this as it illustrates the disruption caused to a very wide group of travellers.
My gripe, however, is that this happens with enormous regularity and the result (for me) is that I miss theatre or a concert/gig which I clearly can’t be refunded for - and with no notice of the cancellations, I can’t even try to resell my tickets.
Whilst I do apply for Delay Repay, it doesn’t remotely cover the loss. Is it even possible to insure against an associated loss due to train failure? No idea.
My question is whether I am unreasonable to expect a better system which takes into account associated losses. I know (!) that on the face of it I would view that IABU but there’s certainly something to think about. I’m on a line which, in other countries, would have been repaired quickly but we don’t appear to be capable of quick action.

I usually find people who think trains work much better in Europe got a TGV once from Paris to Lyon and think all trains are like that in Europe. French regional trains are designed and run by sadists.

That’s one of the reasons but the other delays weren’t connected. Staff shortages and “police incident” are also quoted.

if this is happening regularly surely you can plan for an alternative. There must be an alternative train service that you could use

We're using it daily for the kids to get to school. Train every half hour, so it isn't practical to leave that much contingency every day. But obviously not as essential to be on time as a concert. Schools where pupils come by train do seem to be understanding, but we are heading towards exams so may just need to go for really early trains.

One thing that would really help is a bit more upfront honesty. If we know enough trains are cancelled, we can drive. But the "delayed, delayed, actually cancelled" thing is really unhelpful.

The most common reasons we get are lack of crew, fault with a train and techy stuff like overhead wires.

I think it was easier when it was train strikes. You could plan in advance.

I understand where you're coming from OP because it's incredibly frustrating when the trains are crap. But realistically, they can't be held responsible for all the things people miss because they don't have an obligation to get people to specific events.

But you just said it happened three times in five weeks! So you do know it’s a risk.

Just insure your tickets or plan to get to destination significantly earlier.

You are of course right and I agree, but the reality is if you are planning to use public transport, you better have good insurance. I think this every time I see the train for Manchester Airport at Glasgow Central. Having travelled a few times to Manchester by train there is no way on this earth that I would risk it before a flight, without a minimum buffer of at least half a day.

You dont ever think its an issue yet its happening with enormous regularity? If you cant potentially forsee something thats happening with enormous regularity i think thats on you

You've had 3 cancelled trains in 5 weeks but never think there will be an issue using public transport? That makes zero sense

You can put a claim in to the Train Operating Company but I am not sure what it covers. You need to ask when you book your ticket.

I don’t buy the insurance as I have 3 ways I can get to central London (admittedly 3rd way is an PiTA) and it’s very unlikely they’d all be screwed. If I could only get one train I would.
I also leave early enough that I have time to get the next train or go the slowest way, it’s not like there’s a shortage of things to do in central London while waiting if I arrive early.

I use this line to get to work. Delays in both directions are very common but with a plethora of reasons. In the last few weeks there have been signal issues, vehicle hitting level crossing gates, speed restrictions due to safety inspections, trespassers on the line and a line-side fire. My all time favourite is "the train was late leaving the depot"! I translated this as the driver overslept.
When you book your tickets on the app, you get offered the option to insure immediately before the payment screen.

I am also on this line for my commute and it’s appalling! I can’t remember the last time I didn’t have an issue. And the price they charge for such poor service is astronomical.

The only thing I would suggest if it’s for socials is driving to the end of the tube line (Morden) and going in that way, that will also help if they cancel the last train home (I’m still traumatised from a journey like this and it was 2 years ago, trains planes and automobiles, got home at 4am!) or look into getting a cab to your nearest hub station like Haywards Heath, three bridges etc. as there are many more options from there.

Other than that I don’t have much more to suggest other than ticket protection when you purchase as others have said, but trust me I sympathise!