Hi creakyride, sorry to hear of your problems with the companies you have had dealings with, I'm afraid the same issues existed before covid and brexit, I feel it's a case of whoever shouts loudest gets the most attention nowadays and the default attitude nowadays of 'you don't get my respect until you've earned it' doesn't help with customer relations.
There are some good guys out there, I had a response from one solar PV company which said they weren't accepting new work as their books were full and when I asked if they had a waiting list they said no as they couldn't say when they might be able to get back to me. I much prefer an honest response like that and I will try them again because of it.
It's not easy sometimes when ppl treat you badly, do try not to take it personally if you can. Clean the slate, dust yourself down, tell yourself you're worth better, it's their loss, and try again when you can.
I'm sure you'll get your money back from the cc company, I suggest contacting them to let them know what's happening. I've had to do it twice, was surprised how easy it was.