Our aims
We aim to provide a high quality, accessible consumer advice service in Highland to ensure that consumers are well informed, and, where appropriate, to conciliate between consumers and traders with a view to assisting in the resolution of consumer disputes.
Who we can help
Our Consumer Advice service is available to Highland residents and customers of Highland businesses.
All consumers are treated equally and fairly.
Confidentiality and privacy
Information you give to us will be treated as confidential. Meetings with you will be held in conditions of privacy, usually in a dedicated interview room.
What it will cost
There is no charge for the consumer advice service.
How we can help
We will give you clear and accurate information on the consumer law relating to your problem and will give you practical advice on pursuing your complaint yourself.
If, after following our advice, you are unable to resolve the problem yourself we may be able to assist by contacting the trader and attempting to resolve the complaint by conciliation.
We can give you information about pursuing your complaint via the relevant court or arbitration system.
What we can't do
We have no powers to force traders to give refunds or provide replacements, or take other actions to resolve your complaint.
We cannot take civil court action for you.
If we can't help you
If your problem is outwith the scope of our service (for example, you live outside Highland or it is not a consumer matter), we will try to direct you to the agency best able to help.
If you're not satisfied
We aim to provide a high quality service, but if you're not satisfied with how we dealt with you, complain to us and we will investigate