Guidance forConsumers
Citizens Advice can provide free, confidential and independent advice to help you with a problem you may be having with a trader or business. Visit Citizens Advice or call on
0808 223 1133
We are unable to advise on consumer issues directly but Citizens Advice refers complex or urgent enquiries, and those requiring further action, back to us. We can only deal with the criminal aspect of any problem, which may mean you will have to take civil action if, for example, you believe a trader owes you compensation.
Help and advice for consumers
We are here to help ensure that consumers across Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay can have confidence that they’ll be treated fairly and within the law by businesses.
Consumer advice guides
Comprehensive advice on your rights and what you can do if things go wrong, including how to try to resolve a dispute with a trader.
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
COVID-19 consumer guides and resources, including how to stay safe from coronavirus-related scams.
Product safety and recalls
We try to ensure that all products on sale within the two counties are safe and that any hazards are correctly labelled. Occasionally unsafe products get onto the market and a safety recall is issued.
Scams, rogue traders and doorstep crime
Information and advice to help you to avoid falling victim.
Consumer awareness easy read guides
Download easy read guides to buying products and services, rogue traders and scams.
Buy With Confidence
Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards Service runs the Buy With Confidence scheme to promote the highest standards of trading across the two counties, for the benefit of both consumers and businesses. Traders who are part of the scheme have been vetted by Trading Standards to ensure they operate within the law and treat customers fairly.
Latest consumer news
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Pensioner imprisoned for selling illicit tobacco
A 75-year-old Plymouth man has been sentenced to an 18-month custodial sentence, half to be served in prison, for selling illicit tobacco and evading £162,000 in duty. Patrick White, of … Continue reading
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Devon, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards expands to include Plymouth from April
Devon, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards Service will merge with Plymouth City Council Trading Standards from 1 April 2021. All four authorities have approved the plans which will give them … Continue reading
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How to verify if a vaccine invite text is genuine
This week the NHS began texting some people inviting them to book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment. Almost 400,000 people aged 55 and over and thousands of unpaid carers will be … Continue reading