Education

In the 21st Century, everyone needs to have the skills and knowledge they need to negotiate the confusing and sometimes unscrupulous world of sale and purchase of goods and services.

Consumers and Businesses alike are vulnerable if they are unaware of their rights and obligations with regard to the consumer protection legislation which governs they way the marketplace operates.

For Consumers

The Trading Standards Service in Wales has consumer advice services which offer consumer education to individuals, groups, organisations etc. to bring attention to consumer rights and responsibilities in purchasing goods and services.  They will respond positively to requests for talks, presentations.  They will stage special events to deal with specific areas of interest.  For example, the recent rise in reported crime involving doorstep callers, and rogue traders, has generated more requests for information and advice on how to prevent consumers from becoming victims of this type of crime.  Many authorities are now responding to requests and also targetting special services at vulnerable people.

For Business

The Trading Standards Service can offer professional, knolwedgeable and accessible advice and information to businesses and individuals who seek to carry out their day to day transactions within the law and to benefit from the improvements in customer relations this can bring. 

Welsh trading standards services will visit new businesses to help them to understand which legislation applies to their business.  They will respond positively to requests from businesses for up to date help and advice on particular subjects or on general issues which come within their remit. For example, recent changes in the law on Under-Age Sales of Tobacco will be of concern to many who sell tobacco, Trading Standards Services across Wales will be ensuring that retailers in their areas are aware of these changes and what it means to their business.