A free consumer advice hotline will help Scots deal with problems buying goods in shops and online.
The service, unveiled yesterday, will also help with issues such as switching mobile phone and internet providers and purchasing travel insurance.
It was set up with £600,000 of taxpayers’ cash and supported by the Scottish Government.
Pamela Stewart, of Advice Direct Scotland, which runs the service, said: “We want to provide all citizens of Scotland with practical consumer advice and information which makes a difference and remains completely free to use.
“Accessing advice that people need shouldn’t cost them a penny.”
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Scottish Government business minister Jamie Hepburn helped launch the scheme in Glasgow.
He said: “Whether they’re experiencing issues with a used car they’ve purchased, a holiday booking they’ve faced problems with, or a trader who has been working on their properties, the new service is there to help.
“We are using Scotland’s devolved consumer powers to provide a flexible service which protects and empowers the people of Scotland while supporting businesses which are innovative, efficient and fair.”
Trading standards chiefs called for councils to work with the new service and use feedback to protect the public from unfair practices or unsafe products.
Freephone 0808 164 6000 or visit www.consumeradvice.scot
