Christmas is an expensive time of year for everyone. Gifts for friends and family, food on the big day, as well as the parties and nights out surrounding the festive period can be a big ask on our finances. Checking the authenticity of the products that we buy is vital in not only ensuring that …
‘Second-hand’ fashion was a phrase once synonymous with older sibling hand-me-downs, wear-and-tear patches on old school blazers and ‘growing into’ trousers. However, in 2019, vintage items are not only coming into their own but are very often trendier than some of the newly produced ‘fast-fashion’ items out there. In our article looking at climate change, we …
It’s the beginning of November. Suddenly, shop windows are filled with tinsel, the high street resembles a chaotic free-for-all and the same festive songs begin to be played ad nauseum. Like it or not, Christmas is just around the corner, and with that, many of us are tempted (or forced) to overspend and overstretch our …
Payday Loans: Unaffordable, Unsustainable, Under Scrutiny Read More »
With the deadline of 30th November for applications for help-to-buy ISAs fast approaching, our team at consumeradvice.scot have demystified and simplified the process of applying for a help-to-buy ISA before it’s too late. A substantial free bonus is paid by the government, leaving many to wonder why first-time buyers wouldn’t want to apply for the scheme …
ISA – Getting a Good Deal? Help-To-Buy Scheme Deadline Approaching Read More »
Tablet, Mobile Phone, Laptop, 4G TV with 3 different subscriptions and internet access. That’s a list of my own telecommunication devices, subscriptions and monthly costs that enable me to keep fully involved and interacting effectively with what is happening in the world. It’s a shopping list that seems to grow in length with every passing …
Keeping Communication Current: Top Tips to Avoid Unnecessary Expense Read More »
Unfortunately, when Government Commissions are developed in order to address issues which affect the general population, little consideration is afforded to decisions which may ultimately impact the most vulnerable in our society by consumer detriment. Some work has been done recently in addressing the problems faced by vulnerable consumers, yet there is much more which …
Consumer Detriment, Harm and Vulnerability: The Often-Overlooked Casualties Read More »
With confirmation that the European Union will be implementing ‘right to repair’ principles in the production of lighting, washing machines, dishwashers and fridges by 2021, increased responsibility will be placed on manufacturers to ensure that these appliances are made longer-lasting, with additional responsibilities concerning maintenance for up to ten years. The consumer appliance market in …
Right to Repair 2021: Electrical Appliance Top Tips, Now! Read More »
In the largest repatriation project in recent times, dubbed ‘Project Matterhorn’, the Civil Aviation Authority will see over 150,000 Thomas Cook customers brought home from abroad after the company announced that they are entering compulsory liquidation. Thomas Cook, founded over 178 years ago, originally operated trips for the Temperance Movement. However, the company has hit financial …
Thomas Cook Administration: Your Rights Explained Read More »
When the term ‘puppy farm’ was first put to me, my mind’s eye conjured up images of dogs bounding happily and freely through fields. I thought of a friendly farmer and his family spending time with their dogs, long walks in the countryside and fresh air. Unfortunately, the reality is often a lot less pleasant. …
Harm and the Farm: Illicit dealings in Puppy Farming Read More »
Imagine meeting the love of your life online. Imagine telling that person all about you and imagining a happy future together. Imagine trusting that person enough to share very personal information, including financial details and even giving that person large sums of money they told you they desperately need. Now imagine finding out that it …
Romance Scams: Top Tips to Avoid a Broken Heart and Empty Bank Account Read More »
