When this happens, do you still get the first 15 minutes? How about Rapids? Do they go to free vend when there are issues, like Ecotricity?
Pod Point always gives you 15 minutes no matter what on an AC Post. The 15 minute timer is disabled when a post loses communications so it will continue without claiming a charge.
A rapid charger that's connected to the internet won't allow you 15 minutes, you must claim a charge to start. But when it loses communications with the server it will go to free vend too. Plug in, press start and go. 30 Minute rapid session only when offline it seems though.
The problem is when Pod Point themselves are messing about with their software. A lot of the time the chargers still have a connection, but the app does not and claims all the units are offline or unknown status. When that happens you have to call up and hope they answer and will either manually start the charge or throw the unit onto free vend for a while.