Since EASA, I understand the UK branch is now somewhat skeleton staffed - 6 FOI’s for the entire UK airlines?!?
I’ve also just been on the receiving end of shocking customer service from FCL, albeit non of it at my expense but had to wait nearly a month for a rating to be added to my licence...
I understand for an extra cost (£100!) you can arrange for a 1 day service at the next available window - I recommend those submitting ratings to do exactly that!