14-20 November 2022 is National Consumer Week campaign in Scotland, the annual campaign to encourage Scots to make informed spending choices and be aware of their consumer rights.

With the cost-of-living crisis hitting household budgets, consumers are being urged to carefully consider purchases in the run-up to Christmas. This year’s ‘savvy spenders’ campaign highlights the importance of Scots thinking about where they make purchases, especially for high-ticket items such as cars.

The campaign also offers energy savings tips, where to get practical support with gas and electricity bills, and how to avoid scams.

Martin Whitfield MSP said: 

“The cost-of-living crisis is piling additional financial pressures on households across the country, so there has never been a better time to be a ‘savvy spender’ and make informed consumer choices on your spending. 

“National Consumer Week puts the focus on different ways of making savings, how to avoid some of the main purchase pitfalls and being aware of your rights when it comes to key consumer issues.” 

Some of the key tips for consumers from Advice Direct Scotland include:

  • When it comes to cars, consider where you buy – seeking recourse can be easier through a dealership or garage than places such as Facebook Marketplace.
  • Make the most of your money – check prices with other retailers before any final decisions.
  • Avoid hidden delivery charges – check the terms and conditions before you buy.
  • Use a credit card if spending over £100 – your purchase will be protected under the Consumer Credit Act.
  • Returns and repairs – goods should be of satisfactory quality, there should be no faults or damage, and the goods should be durable.
  • Struggling with energy costs, or understanding bills and meters – energyadvice.scot can provide free, practical advice on support and assistance.
  • Avoid scammers offering bogus energy efficiency measures – check what you are signing and seek advice from reputable sources such as consumeradvice.scot
  • Remember that help is available if something goes wrong – organisations such as consumeradvice.scot will help you resolve the problem.

More information on the campaign can be found by visiting www.consumeradvice.scot/ncws22/