Consumers in Pembrokeshire and the rest of Wales can now benefit from a new telephone and online advice service giving practical advice on consumer issues. 'Consumer Direct', a DTI-funded project, is staffed by fully trained consumer experts based in a contact centre in Cardiff. Gerry Sutcliffe, consumer minister, said: "Whether you're spending £20 on a pair of jeans, £2,000 on a house repair or £20,000 on a car, Consumer Direct can give you the knowledge, tools and confidence to avoid pitfalls and resolve disputes." The new service will also offer practical information and advice via a website, and on-line users will be able to e-mail their queries to advisers. Evidence from a pilot project showed that each consumer who used the service saved an average of £100. Consumers will be able to access advice via a national telephone number 08454 040506 (or 08454 040505 for Welsh speakers). "Consumer Direct will work in partnership with local authorities and Consumer Support Network members, including Trading Standards and other advice agencies," said Clr. Peter Stock, cabinet member for communities. He said there would be several benefits for Pembrokeshire residents, together with Pembrokeshire County Council and other local authorities in Wales. "Consumer Direct will increase the amount of consumer advice and information available locally," he said. "It will also help Pembrokeshire's Trading Standards department to focus on where they can best offer support, such as handling more complex cases, helping vulnerable customers, supporting reputable traders and clamping down on dishonest traders and scams." If consumers in Pembrokeshire have been caught out by a rogue trader or dodgy salesman, Consumer Direct can pass details on to the council's trading standards department so enforcement action can be taken.
