Consumer Champion Network

The consumer champion network is a new volunteer initiative by Suffolk Trading Standards

Consumer Champion Network

What is the Consumer Champion Network?

 The consumer champion network is a new volunteer initiative by Suffolk Trading Standards to reach out to Suffolk residents and make it easier for everyone to access information about consumer protection.

The aim of the network is to educate and empower you about your consumer rights, and to build resilience to rogue traders and scams. The volunteer 'Consumer Champions' will act as a bridge between Trading Standards and the local community, and help us to ensure that our Service meets your particular concerns.

 

How to get involved

We offer different ways for residents to get involved that will suit their lifestyle and level of engagement with the Network:

 

 

  • They can simply choose to receive email updates on the latest news and scams in Suffolk .

 

Or to take a more active role, we have developed two levels to the scheme to account for different needs and commitment levels:

 

 

  • Level 1. Volunteers will receive basic training that is provided to all members; as well as access to educational documents, posters and leaflets to disseminate within their local community.
  • Level 2. In addition to basic training, will have refresher training twice year, as well as access to a range of literature and training manuals. You will be expected to want more involvement, such as giving talks, or running events at your local community centre/libraries.

 

Why should you be a Consumer Champion?

 

  • Receive alerts on the latest Trading Standards news
  • Understanding basic trading standards law
  • Chance to make a difference to your community, signpost them to the relevant help and resolve their problems.
  • Enhancement of future employability and personal development.
  • Opportunity to meet and work with other volunteers

What support will you get?

 

 

  • Training materials- including step-by-step flowcharts to answer queries you may come across.
  • Contact details of relevant organisations and services.
  • Explanation of contract law and other various consumer protection legislation.
  • Access to the Community Engagement Officer to answer your queries.
  • Meetings twice a year with the Community Engagement Officer and other Consumer Champion volunteers in your area. (level two only)

How do I join?

Anyone can join the Consumer Champion Network and can give any level of commitment they are able to.

Need to provide your contact details including an email address.

Complete an application form (109k)and return to the Community Engagement Officer via email or post.