I didn't receive a reference number but have finally reached a resolution with Vodafone. My handset has been replaced free of charge and I've received an apology and compensation. The CAG Vodafone rep couldn't help and only repeated what I'd heard from the other Customer Service people. What eventually worked was writing a formal complaint (followed by an email) to the UK CEO which was then investigated by the Director's Office. They did a thorough investigation and last week I eventually spoke to someone from the Director's Office who apologised for the whole mess - the first helpful person I'd spoken to in 6 frustrating months!

Thanks for your reply Citizen B. I had no idea I had to record Customer Service calls. I think Vodafone have a record of all the contact I've made since getting the phone but I don't. I will try the CAG Rep, thanks. Would like to get this sorted without too much more hassle.

After 5 months of hours of calls to Customer Service, trips to Vodafone stores and Apple appointments I've reached a point where I think a small claims case is my only way forward. Would love to hear any advice on this and how to proceed with my case, as I've never had to do this before. Been a Vodafone customer with no problems uptil now. Upgraded to new iPhone in October and it was quickly apparent there was a fault - 50% of calls couldn't get though to me and I often couldn't call or text without switching the handset off and on again. Vodafone initially said it was probably a local network problem but it persisted and I did hours of troubleshooting over the phone, resetting networks, software etc. Then an Apple genius appointment which also didn't work. Phone has been sent off for repair twice, the first time the handset came back they said it was fixed, but it had exactly the same connection problems. The second time I received an email to say the phone was Out of Warranty due to liquid damage and I'd have to pay £204 to proceed with the repair. Since then I've written to the UK CEO with no response and spoken to Customer Services 3 times who all repeat the same thing. They told me I could collect the phone and have it independently assessed by an Apple technician but in order to take the phone back I have to sign papers to say that I accept that its been repaired/the reasons it hasn't been repaired. I also think its Vodafone's responsibility to provide me with the working iPhone I am paying for.. I've been told that I'll be eligible for compensation but not until the repair is fixed. Now about to pay my 5th month of bills for a phone which doesn't work. Has anyone had similar experience and do you know how long the Small Claims process takes? Thanks in advance for any advice. Laura