Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has introduced a new scheme to establish high standards of trading by businesses in the Western Isles.  The scheme is intended to demonstrate a commitment by businesses to fair and honest trade, and an undertaking by the Trading Standards Service to support local companies. 

Cllr Norman A Macdonald, Chairman of Environment and Protective Services said: “The Buying with Confidence scheme supports Western Isles building traders while giving protection to the islands’ consumers.  Member companies will be independently checked by staff from the Comhairle’s Trading Standards Service against the Partnership rules on trustworthiness and compliance with the law.”

Only if companies pass stringent checks can they display the Buy with Confidence logo.

The businesses must also agree to a number of membership conditions including:

• A written customer complaints procedure:

• A commitment that customers will be dealt with promptly, effectively and courteously, in accordance with good business practice.

• If it is not possible to resolve a customer complaint within one month or receipt, the customer will be given a written explanation for the response of the business and where necessary will be referred to the Trading Standards Service to assist in reaching a solution.

 

As well as offering legal advice and assistance the Trading Standards service can now also provide a mediation service for consumers and businesses that are members of the ‘Buy with Confidence’ scheme.

Marina MacSween, Consumer Protection Officer has undertaken mediation training and is now an Associate member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.  This widens the role of the Trading Standards service by offering mediation as an alternative dispute resolution, other than small claims procedure and legal action.

Following achievement of approval companies will receive advice from Trading Standards on the use of the logo and certificate and display of customer leaflets.

Further details of the buy with confidence scheme can be found on the Comhairles website www.cne-siar.gov.uk/buywithconfidence