desperation was rising, it was getting harder and harder to charge my iphone, i really had to wriggle the cable just right to get a charge
in the end i had my friend screw open the phone to check (my warranty has expired so no issue there) and was willing to have him replace the whole part but he suggested this solution first
take a toothpick and carefully try and scrape out what has accumulated in there
you will be amazed at all the lint and fluff you will find (the back of the socket should be white)
hopefully this will save you all some cash and hassle
do not forget to upvote and follow
thanks
Bart