Guidance for Consumers

General information

The organisations listed in the 'useful links' section below provide a weatlh of online consumer and safety information, advice and news. We also publish a list of trade associations and other bodies which may be able to help with particular problems.

Consumer Direct London

Consumer Direct provides clear, practical consumer advice to help consumers sort out problems and disagreements with suppliers of goods or services. From overcharging to faulty goods, and dodgy workmanship to reporting dishonest traders and scams, Consumer Directs' trained advisers are ready to offer individual solutions for individual problems. Consumer Direct works in partnership with Local Authority Trading Standards Advice Services and Consumer Support Networks, providing first level advice and information on a wide range of consumer problems.

More complex problems or complaints requiring further investigation or assistance are referred to Trading Standards or other advice services. To speak to a Consumer Direct adviser, please call 08454 04 05 06 (Minicom users should call on 08451 28 13 84). To contact us please email through the Consumer Direct website.

A wide range of consumer information and advice is also available online from the Consumer Direct website at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk.

Education Programme for schools and consumer groups

Trading Standards offers a full range of educational material and support for schools, youth groups and adult organisations. These can involve presentations, leaflets and consumer games as required and can be tailored to individual needs.

As part of this programme Trading Standards run two national consumer competitions: The Young Consumer of the Year is designed for students between 14 and 17; the Consumer Challenge is for children with special difficulties.

For further details on any of these competitions or to discuss a presentation or display please contact:

Alan Ritchie
Trading Standards Team Leader
020 8308 7617
alan.ritchie@bexley.gov.uk