2007
Consumer Direct West Midlands has reached a milestone achievement after responding to over 200,000 calls since Jan 2006. Based in Coventry, the government-funded online and telephone helpline service is working in partnership with 14 Local Authority Trading Standards teams across the region and offers people clear, practical consumer advice on a range of issues from returning faulty goods through to advice on what to look out for when making a big purchase.
5th October 2007
Within the last year, the top 10 complaints received have included:
1. Mobile Phone contracts
2. TV's
3. Mobile phone handsets
4. Work carried out by Independent Garages
5. Upholstered Furniture (Sofas etc)
6. Double Glazing
7. Internet Service Providers
8. Leather Furniture
9. General Building Work
10. Fitted Kitchens
Currently, nearly 3000 people per week contact Consumer Direct West Midlands with their queries and complaints.
Peter Meachem – Consumer Direct Advisor recieved the 200,000th call. Peter said:
'I have been amazed by the number of calls that we have taken as a centre and I am delighted that I was able to take the milestone call!'
David Hurst, Consumer Direct Centre Manager commented:
'Whilst this is a fantastic achievement for the centre, the number of calls we receive demonstrates the number of people who experience difficulties when they have bought goods and services - from signing up to a mobile phone contract to having an extension built. I am really proud of our team of specialist advisors who have worked really hard to offer support and give the front line advice to consumers. By working in partnership with Trading Standards we have really been able to make a difference and help protect vulnerable consumers.'
You can contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06
