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Advice for consumers

Trading Standards work to provide a fair trading environment in the city, making sure the goods you buy are safe, you get what you pay for and that you are not misled by the prices.

Consumer Direct

Advice and support for consumers in Portsmouth is now provided by Consumer Direct.  Consumer Direct is a telephone and online advice service, which is supported by local authorities and the Department of Trade and Industry.  They provide clear, practical 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 and Minicom users can call 08451 28 13 84

Ask CEdRIC

Ask CEdRIC is a useful one-stop website that contains information and links to all consumer education resources produced by Trading Standards and other consumer organisations.  It includes three sections suitable for use with business, community groups and schools (based on the Citizenship curriculum).

Square Deal

The Square Deal partnership has been set up between Portsmouth City Council, Trading Standards and local business to work towards a fair and honest trading environment for the people of Portsmouth.

Rip-Off Tip-Off

Alternatively, to make a complaint against a trader visit the Rip-Off Tip-Off website.