This information applies to Northern Ireland

You might be able to get compensation, but only if your train journey is delayed because of something that’s within the control of the train company. This could include delays because of engineering works but not because of exceptionally severe weather conditions or security alerts.

If you're entitled to compensation, Northern Ireland Railways must offer you a full refund if you can't travel at all because the train you were intending to go on was delayed. If you can actually travel but the train arrives more than 30 minutes late, you can get a voucher based on the length of your delay and the fare you paid for your single journey. If your journey was delayed by:

• 30 minutes or more, you'll get 25 per cent of your ticket price back
• 60 minutes or more, you'll get 50 per cent of your ticket price back
• 90 minutes or more, you'll get 100 per cent of your ticket price back.

You must request compensation as it isn't given automatically. You can claim your refund on the spot or by completing a form available at any main station. You can get details from the ticket collector on your train or from the station where you bought your ticket. You have to claim within 28 days. You'll need the ticket or a photocopy of the ticket as evidence if you make a claim.

If you're offered a voucher as compensation, but you want a cash refund, you should ask for this, although the company doesn't have to give you cash. A voucher is valid for one year from the date of issue and can be exchanged for a ticket for a journey on any railway service. Claims for additional expenses, like overnight stays, can be considered in very exceptional circumstances.

You may also be able to claim a refund of a taxi fare if you're stranded at a station because of a delayed train. However, the train company may not pay this unless you told the duty manager at the station that you were going to have to take a taxi and they couldn't get you to your destination by any other means.

If you aren't happy with the way Northern Ireland Railways deals with your claim for compensation, you can take your complaint to Customer services manager, Central Station, Belfast. Telephone 028 9089 9400 (textphone 028 9038 7505) or email feedback@translink.co.uk. Your complaint should be dealt with within 15 working days.

If you are not satisfied with how Northern Ireland Railways have dealt with your complaint you can contact the General Consumer council for Northern Ireland on 0845 601 6022 or email complaints@gccni.org.uk.

Other Frequently asked questions about travel:

• When we go on our family holiday abroad, how many passports will we need?
• Do I need a passport when I travel within the UK?
• How much duty-free can we bring back with us from holiday?
• Can I use my mobile phone in the car?