WCYT

Essex residents are now able to avoid the cowboys and find traders they can trust, thanks to a new scheme launched by Essex County Council Trading Standards.

Buy With Confidence will allow residents to find a local business that has been approved by Trading Standards, which means they don’t have to fear being ripped off by a rogue trader.

Any local trader wishing to sign up to the scheme will be fully audited by Trading Standards. This is to ensure that the business has the necessary procedures in place to deal with any problems quickly and efficiently.

Once a trader joins the scheme they will be able to use the Buy with Confidence logo, and will also have their details listed at www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk.

Residents who use a trader from the Buy With Confidence list will be able to fill in an online feedback form. Businesses will be constantly monitored by Trading Standards, and any that fall below expectations can be expelled from the scheme.

The scheme is open to businesses across Essex, including those based within the Thurrock and Southend-on-Sea districts.

County Councillor Tracey Chapman, Cabinet Member for Environment & Waste said: “The launch of Essex County Council’s Buy With Confidence scheme is great news for residents and reputable local businesses. It is vitally important to know that a trader is trustworthy before you let them start work, and Buy With Confidence aims to provide that peace of mind. The scheme will also help to ensure that reputable businesses do not lose out to rogue traders.”

Businesses wanting to find out more about the benefits of Buy with Confidence, or how to apply for the scheme can visit www.essex.gov.uk/buywithconfidence or call 0845 603 7626.

Residents wanting to find reputable traders can call Consumer Direct on 0845 404 0506 or visit www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk

WCYT

A community interest company keeping vulnerable residents in Essex safe from rogue tradesmen and doorstep conmen

www.whocanyoutrust.org.uk

New traders scheme has the cowboys on the run

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