Chris Hargreaves started his career as an investigative journalist in 2013, specialising in complex consumer and criminal cases
As Chris wrote in his review of 2014, – from consumer campaigner to investigate journalist – angrypolicyholders.com is changing in 2015. Investigative Journalism will now play an integral part in Angry Policyholders arsenal.
Investigations will predominantly cover the insurance and financial services industry, however, where there is a strong public interest, specifically consumer led, Angry Policyholders will take on cases with a broader remit.
angrypolicyholders.com may have limited resources compared to their peers, but this does not mean we can’t provide the same results. Admittedly it may take longer to conclude cases, but we do get results, no matter the size or complexity of the case.
Christopher Hargreaves our founder and consumer campaigner is definitely a man on a mission. At Angry Towers we have a saying about Chris: you can ignore Chris, but make him angry at your peril! You only have to look at his previous campaigns to see that it will only drive him harder to stand up for consumers or bringing campaigns to a successful conclusion.
Chris’s expertise obviously lies in the insurance and financial services industry. Even though he only became an investigative journalist just over twelve months, Chris has already accepted complex investigations into the UK insurance industry.
Along with cases where evidence suggests consumers are being treated unfairly or ripped off, Chris can be found undertaking complex criminal cases that are in the public interest. It is only when Chris’s cases become public that people will appreciate what he has been doing in the background during 2014.
We spoke to Chris about why he turned his skills to investigative journalism. Chris told angrypolicyholders.com: “I found myself frequently being approached by consumers and industry insiders who asked if I would be interested in carrying out investigations that allegedly had a detrimental impact on consumers.
“I suppose it was a logical move for angrypolicyholders.com not only to focus on campaigns and consumer education, but to take a more investigative approach to what we did. Obviously it is a fine balancing act trying to juggle family life, Angry Policyholders and a day job.
“Don’t get me wrong, I have never been frightened of a challenge or pushing myself, but adding ‘investigative journalist’ to my CV has without doubt put immense pressure on my time and resources.
Chris continued: “With previous consumer cases and campaigns we have shown what we are capable of, with little to no resources. I hope that my short career in investigative journalism further proves what we can achieve. But I get so frustrated at times because I know if we had the right help and support we could do so much more for consumers.”
The APH Team has been mentioned in other articles, but what or who is The APH Team? Chris explained that The APH Team is the collective term given to the individuals who help with cases and investigations.
The APH Team changes regularly and can include industry experts, specialists or individuals who may not wish to be named, but want to help Angry Policyholders behind the scences. Together they make a formidable team and a force for good. Knowing Chris I understand that he always appreciates The APH Team expert advice, dedication, support and especially the generosity of donating of their time for free.
Chris concluded: “I have been very honoured to have been asked to take on so many investigations especially with such a short career in the field. It has also been privileged to have worked with so many people who have been so generous with their time and helped me throughout the last year.”
So if you have a concern or case you believe Chris and The APH Team should investigate please get in touch. All communications are treated confidentially and you can be assured your case will be handled sensitively.
Please use the form below or you can call our confidential hotline on 0161 914 6822