The Trader Register

If you've ever struggled to find a reliable builder or been frustrated when an electrician hasn't shown up, the Trader Register could be the answer.

The Trader Register is designed to put residents in touch with traders who are committed to doing a good job at a fair price.

Householders often find it difficult sourcing a reliable builder, plumber or electrician, and for the less mobile it can become a real issue. They risk becoming the victims of doorstep rogues who call at the door and mislead them about the need for property repairs.

The Register exists to help householders find a trader to work on their home or garden. Consumers who chose a trader from the register are making a first step towards getting a good job done. Everyone who uses the Trader Register will be sent a copy of our top tips for agreeing home improvement and repair work to help them get it right first time and avoid potential problems.

While traders participating in the scheme are not approved by Trading Standards or any other agency, if there is a problem, members have pledged to work with us to find a solution.

South Staffordshire Age Concern is providing the telephone helpline for the Trader Register.

Anyone who wants to find a trader in their area can ring 01785 330888 and we will find a selection of traders for them. The service is free for anyone who lives in Staffordshire or Stoke-on-Trent. If you have access to the Internet you can try it yourself at www.traderregister.org.uk

Hundreds of traders have already joined the Trader Register. They cover the whole area of Stoke and Staffordshire and include builders, roofers, electricians, plasters, painters and decorators as well as those who specialise in outside work on the garden, driveways and double glazing.

Our aim in launching the scheme is to have enough members to offer all local residents a choice of trader for their home improvement work. And if they aren't enough traders with a certain skill in an area, we will work with local trainers to offer opportunities for young people and others to learn a trade and offer a service.

Some householders need additional support and the Trader Register works closely with the Alliance of Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent Home Improvement Agencies to help these consumers.

Home Improvement Agencies exist to enable older, disabled or vulnerable people to live in their own homes with comfort, dignity and security. They offer a variety of services assisting people with repairs and adaptation including access to funding sources, help in choosing a suitable trader and managing the work as it goes along. Anyone who contacts the Trader Register and is eligible for further assistance will be offered the opportunity to receive additional help from their local Home Improvement Agency.

The Trader Register has been produced by Staffordshire County Council Trading Standards working with a group of partners including Age Concern, Home Improvement Agencies, Citizens Advice Bureaux, Stoke City Council and local District Councils all of whom are committed to supporting Staffordshire residents and businesses.

Last Modified: 14/08/2008 12:15:51
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