Keeping you safe as a consumer - Trading Standards
Here you can find everything you need to know about how the law protects you when you are shopping or buying services. You can also find a list of businesses that have been approved by the council.Age Restricted Sales
Certain products including alcohol, cigarettes, fireworks and spray paints cannot be sold to persons under specified ages.
Buy with Confidence
This is a business partnership managed by the council's Trading Standards Service. The partnership is accredited by LAATSN (Local Authority Assured Trader Scheme Network) and forms part of a regional partnership.
Consumer advice and information
Trading Standards works in partnership with Consumer Direct - a UK sited telephone advice service.
Counterfeit goods
Buying Counterfeit goods supports crime and adds to the £11 billion lost to UK businesses due to intellectual property theft. We have a dedicated reporting line and information on how to identify fake DVDs.
Doorstep Crime
We have several ongoing projects aimed at doorstep crime.
Fair Trading
Trading Standards provide guidance, advice to businesses and consumers and enforces a range of criminal legislation aimed at promoting fair trading.
The legislation covered includes the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 (from 26 May 2008), pricing, credit, travel, distance selling and e-commerce, estate agency and HIPS, unfair contract terms and much more.
For information on the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations please refer to the separate page.
Child Car Seat Safety Check
Is your child's car seat safe? Checks have shown that up to 70% of child car restraints are fitted incorrectly.
Loan Sharks
Loan sharks are criminals who lend money at extortionate rates of interest, they do not have the required licence under the Consumer Credit Act and cause misery to their victims.
Product Safety
Consumers and Businesses need to be certain that the goods they buy and sell are safe.
Scams
Common scams include bogus competitions, lotteries, clairvoyants and business directories.
Trade Desciptions
The description given on goods and services should be honest and reliable.
Weights and Measures
If you are a business selling goods by weight or measures then this page relates to you; for advice, information and enforcement of legislation.
Last updated: 2 May 2008
