‘Trading Standards Approved’ scheme launched
3rd January 2017

TrustMark has teamed up with Trading Standards to create a new consumer accreditation scheme to give assurance of a trader’s compliance with standards set by both bodies.

The ‘Trading Standards Approved’ scheme is aimed to tell potential customers that the tradesperson not only complies with TrustMark’s Government-endorsed Standards for quality of workmanship, but also understands fair trading practices and has in place all the correct documentation and insurances.

TrustMark says the initiative “will give tradespeople further credibility that they are reputable and have a solid trading history, whilst giving their customer the reassurance and confidence that they have been thoroughly checked by both Trading Standards and TrustMark and have been approved to use this accreditation.”

Steve Ruddy, Head of Service Buckinghamshire & Surrey Trading Standards, the body which worked with TrustMark to set up the national scheme, said:  " This is a ground-breaking example of how central and local government can work together, combining national recognition and local reassurance to both protect residents and support local businesses."

TrustMark Chief Executive Simon Ayers added: “The Trading Standards Approved scheme isn't just another 'badge' to add to a firm’s website and marketing materials, it's an investment with great benefits.  When a consumer chooses a tradesperson that has the TrustMark ‘Trading Standards Approved’ logo, they know they will get a reputable, reliable firm that has not only been vetted by a TrustMark Scheme Operator, but also checked directly by Trading Standards.  As always, we are working towards a future when consumers have confidence is the tradespeople they employ and that they see that 'rogue' traders are the exception, not the rule.”

To join the scheme, firms will need to be TrustMark registered.  TrustMark will carry out the DBS Checks and Trading Standards will do the Intelligence Checks. For those firms that gain Trading Standards approval, they will also get additional business support with exclusive access to assured advice on consumer law, including unfair contract terms, cancellations rights and drafting invoices.   The scheme is currently being piloted by TrustMark Ambassadors across a number of trades and will be rolled out on a national level during 2017.

www.trustmark.org.uk/trading-standards