Buying Things

Consumer Rights

Anyone who buys goods or services is a consumer. When you buy or hire goods and services, you have legal - or 'statutory' - rights. This applies whether you buy in a shop, privately, online or some other way.

If you want to know your rights when it comes to buying goods or services (e.g. a haircut), check out Consumer Direct.

Consumer Direct is run by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) and offers consumer advice - both on its website www.consumerdirect.gov.uk and on its helpline 08454 040506 (Minicom users 08451 28138)

Making a complaint

If you feel a shop / trader hasn't treated you fairly (i.e. perhaps refused you a refund) or you'd like to make a complaint about goods or services you have bought, you can contact Consumer Direct or you can also contact your local Trading Standards Department or Citizen's Advice Bureau for advice (see below).

Citizen's Advice Bureau (CAB)

For free and confidential information and advice.

Help is also available in different languages; go to www.citizensadvice.org.uk for more information and help with finding your local CAB.

Trading Standards

Trading Standards Officers are responsible for enforcing the Trades Description Act. Trading Standards can help and advice you if you're making a complaint.