Trading Standards Service Plan 2024 to 2025

Trading Standards has to face the challenge of operating effectively in light of an evolving regulatory landscape and growing demands for service. We have summarised some of the main challenges.

Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Bill

In May 2024, the Government passed the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Bill, which is the most significant reform to competition and consumer protection laws for over 20 years. The Bill creates a number of new consumer protection rules and regimes, including a replacement for current unfair trading legislation and new rules around subscription traps, fake reviews, drip pricing and hidden fees. The new legislation could be in force from Autumn 2024.

Food Standards Delivery Model

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is working to review the current food standards delivery model and introduce a new model that addresses the perceived shortcomings in the current system and supports Local Authorities in effectively targeting their resources for food standards controls. It is currently expected that Local Authorities will start to transition to the new model from October 2024.

Training Needs and Qualification Framework

There is a lack of qualified Trading Standards Officers both regionally and nationally. This has resulted in the adoption of a 'grow your own' approach, with an apprentice now in post. The Service is also looking to appoint another apprentice to start in September 2024. In addition, both current Enforcement Officers are aiming to complete the professional qualification framework by June 2025. Whilst adding pressures in the short to medium term, this process is seen as vital to help future-proof service provision. 

Scams Awareness

An ageing population means that there are more residents vulnerable to rogue traders and mass marketing scams. To raise awareness of these issues, the Service has signed a partnership agreement with the National Scams Team to identify and support victims in Stockton-on-Tees and will continue to introduce No Cold Calling Zones in suitable locations throughout the Borough.

Financial Investigations

The Service no longer has its own in-house Accredited Financial Investigator (AFI). However, in certain cases, it is important that action is taken to restrain and or confiscate the assets of offenders under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. As a result, available Accredited Financial Investigators from other local authorities and regulatory partners will be commissioned to undertake such work, as and when it is needed.

Smoking and Vaping Legislation

The government has announced its intention to create a smoke free generation, making it illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born after 1 January 2009. Linked to this is a new illicit tobacco strategy, combining the operational, investigative and intelligence expertise of Trading Standards and other agencies in disrupting organised crime groups involved in the illicit tobacco market.

The government has also announced a ban on the sale of single-use disposable vapes and new powers to restrict vape flavours, introduce plain packaging and change how vapes are displayed in shops so they don't appeal to children. Trading Standards will be at the forefront of all these plans to protect children's health and tackle youth vaping.