2008
Unwanted or damaged Christmas gifts? Call Consumer Direct for advice
Contrary to popular belief, you don't automatically have the right to return unwanted Christmas gifts and claim a refund, but you may be able to take advantage of shops' goodwill policies, advises government advice service Consumer Direct.
10 January 2008
Under the law, it is only the gift buyer who has a contract with the retailer and can ask for a refund, but only if the product is not as described, unfit for purpose or of unsatisfactory quality.
Many shops will offer goodwill policies and will allow you to exchange goods for other items or credit notes, although this is not a legal obligation.
David Sayer, Head of Governance for Consumer Direct North East said: 'Even if you don’t have any legal rights to return goods, many shops will allow you to exchange goods or get a credit note so it's worth checking their policies. If an item is faulty or damaged then you should always try to take it back as soon as you can. In each case, always try to take the receipt or other proof of purchase such as a bank or credit card statement with you.'
Shoppers hitting the January sales should also be aware that they have exactly the same rights when they buy sale items as they do for full price goods.
Further information about your rights and advice on solving consumer disputes can be obtained by calling Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.
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Notes for Editors
1. Consumer Direct is a telephone and online consumer advice service, managed by the Office of Fair Trading and delivered working in partnership with Local Authority Trading Standards. It provides clear, practical consumer advice to help consumers resolve problems and disagreements with suppliers of goods or services.
2. Consumer Direct North East, based in Redcar, was launched in May 2006. The service is the latest addition to the Consumer Direct network. There are now eleven regional operations in England, Wales and Scotland.
3. The service is delivered through contact centres across England, Scotland and Wales and is available to consumers via a single, telephone number and the Consumer Direct website (www.consumerdirect.gov.uk).
4. The information and advice helpline is available on 08454 04 05 06 from 0800-1830 Monday to Friday, and 0900-1300 Saturday, excluding bank holidays and public holidays.
5. To call a Welsh speaking Consumer Direct adviser, telephone 08454 04 05 05. Minicom users should call 08451 28 13 84.
6. Calls cost a maximum of 4 pence per minute from a BT landline. Calls from mobiles or other networks may vary. Your service provider may charge a minimum cost per call. The advice and information given is free.
7. Since it was first launched in 2004, Consumer Direct users have saved significant amounts of money through refunds, replacements and repairs.
