Press releases
12 December 2006
Stress-Free Christmas
Brushing up on your consumer rights could help take much of the stress out of getting set for Christmas this year, advises Consumer Direct.
The telephone and on-line consumer advice service is on hand to equip the public in the South West with the knowledge they need to help the preparation for the festive season to run smoothly.
'The run-up to Christmas is a busy time for us all. Knowing your rights can help take some of the stress out of Christmas shopping. And if you’re not sure where you stand when it comes to taking back faulty goods or a gift you’ve had second thoughts about, Consumer Direct is on hand to give you clear, practical advice,' says Clive Kenyon, the Contact Centre Manager at Consumer Direct South West.
Follow Consumer Direct's top festive tips to ensure your celebrations are hassle free:
- Keep all your receipts in case you need to return any purchases.
- If anything you buy - from gifts to a new set of fairy lights - turns out to be faulty you may have a right to claim a repair, replacement or a refund.
- For more expensive gifts costing over £100, think about using a credit card. This way, should problems arise; you may get extra protection from your credit card company.
- Think twice when buying from street traders or one-day sales. These stalls are often set up only for Christmas and you may not be able to find them again if something goes wrong.
- If shopping on the internet, remember to order in plenty of time and double check with the provider that the delivery date will be before Christmas.
- And finally, remember that if you simply change your mind about a purchase, the retailer is not obliged to offer you a refund or an exchange. Many offer a replacement or credit note, but this is a goodwill gesture and not a legal requirement so check before you purchase.
