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Higherin
Direct Line

Claims Handler Review

at Direct Line

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Insurance and Risk Management

Glasgow

Review Submitted: April 2021

Overall Rating

2.4 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

1.5/5 - Overview of Role
1/5 - Skills Development
3/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
2/5
As a claims handler we are the first point of contact for customers who have been involved in an accident, require an emergency recovery, or have been a victim of a crime. It is our job to make the customer feel at ease and explain the process thoroughly to then book their vehicle for repairs or explain the "total loss" process if the damage costs exceeds the vehicle price.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
1/5
So far I have not enjoyed the Apprenticeship but appreciate the opportunity to meet new people and enter the world of work

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
1/5
The only skills I believe I have gained is learning how to stay calm when dealing with a loud and angry customer, including customers who swear, make racist remarks or shout inappropriate words.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
1/5
The two companies which handle our qualifications and education, Microcom and Babington were extremely organised and always had our best interest at heart but due to the companies lack of organisation or care for the apprenticeship program those companies where not able to complete all tasks necessary. Meetings that were planned were moved many times, scheduling team fail to schedule times where everyone is available on several occasions, meaning many people missed essential learning time. Our learning breaks were often questioned by management asking whether we need that time. Considering the apprentices are paid less than others due to that time, it is insulting that a manager would question why we receive the Learning Break for studying. Overall apprentices are not cared for at all and would recommend thinking twice before applying for one in future.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
2/5
My specific manager is great and tries very hard to help us in anyway possible and goes the extra mile to ensure I have everything I need. However, the apprentices talk and unfortunately having a manager like this seems to be quite rare for the others in other teams and also other departments.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
Amazing!!! Our training provider is absolutely amazing and both have worked as hard as possible despite the obstacles places by the company.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
I do not believe the qualifications we receive will assist in this particular role but will be beneficial for if we decide to branch out to different parts of the company
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
Yes, this is something the company excels in, there are many Yammer groups to join and build a community within the business

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Direct Line to a friend?
No
Why?
Essentially there is a lot of stress, considering the pay the stress is far far too high and mental health is not considered in any of the business decisions
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Direct Line?
Be more compassionate to employees including apprentices. Speak to all employees with respect no matter their age. Kindess and understanding can go a long way in having happy employees.
In This Review
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