Wokingham

As we approach the Christmas season, ‘Brushing up on your consumer rights could help take much of the stress out of shopping for Christmas this year.’ That’s the message from Wokingham District Council and Consumer Direct South East.

Consumer Direct’s telephone and online consumer advice service is on hand to equip Wokingham people with knowledge they need to help them prepare for the festive season to run smoothly.

Wokingham Cllr Barrie Patman, executive member for community safety, said: “The days before and after Christmas are a busy time for us all. Knowing your rights can help take some of the stress out of Christmas shopping. And if you’re not sure where you stand when it comes to taking back faulty goods or a gift you’ve had second thoughts about, Consumer Direct is on hand to give you clear, practical advice.”

Advice for Wokingham shoppers includes:

#Keep all receipts in case you need to return any purchases. Although you will have many more receipts than usual at this time of year, do not be tempted to throw them away. Proof of purchase is invaluable if you need to return goods.

#If anything you buy, from gifts to a new set of fairy lights, turns out to be faulty, you have a right to claim a repair, replacement or a refund. If an item is faulty, it is up to the retailer you bought the goods from to sort the matter out, not the manufacturer.

#For more expensive gifts costing over £100, think about using a credit card. This way, should problems arise, you will get extra protection from your credit card company. If you do use a credit card, remember that you will be charged interest if you do not pay off the balance in full each month.

#Think twice when buying from street traders or at one-day sales. These stalls are often set up only for Christmas and you may not be able to find them again if something goes wrong.

#If shopping on the internet, remember to double check with the provider that the delivery date will be before Christmas. When buying online, use a credit card to give you extra protection.

#When buying toys, always look for suitable age warnings and safety marks – such as the CE Mark and the Lion Mark - on the packaging.

#Beware of cheap imitations, just as you would risk buying low quality or potentially unsafe products.

#Always remember that if you simply change your mind about a purchase, the retailer is not obliged to offer you a refund or an exchange. Many do offer a replacement or credit note, but this is a goodwill gesture and not a legal requirement.

Whatever the time of year, Wokingham Consumer Direct South East can give people information and confidence to avoid pitfalls and help resolve disputes. Whether the issue is about returning faulty goods, tackling shoddy workmanship or reporting scams, Consumer Direct’s trained advisers can be contacted by telephone on 08454 04 05 06 or online at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk.

Wokingham District Council