I had a similar situation a few years ago trying to renew a rating about to "expire." Could I get these ATO's moving? No way!
Since under EASA, the whole training decisions have been given to ATO's it has become a disaster for the customer. There is now a clash of interests where they just want to charge the maximum they can so any rating more than 3 years out is, by them, considered dead and a full initial required and charged for! This despite confirmation by the CAA that it is a recommendation not a requirement.
Expecting you to pay double because THEY cannot provide a sim partner is just another scam. I had ATO employees sitting in the sim at times before EASA. Not now.
It's a very frustrating position to be in and I lost. I wish you better success.
PS. You could always try calling operators and try to "piggyback" one of their courses?