New Consumer Champion – Consumer Focus

From 1 October there will be a new consumer champion to fight for the rights of consumers, Consumer Focus.

The new body has been formed through a merger of the National Consumer Council, energywatch and Postwatch, and will be have stronger statutory powers and a wider remit.

Speaking about the new organisation in August, Consumer Affairs Minister Gareth Thomas said:
"One body, rather than three, means a stronger voice fighting for consumers. It means a joined up and co-ordinated approach to tackling problems, rather than the old fragmented system."

Ed Mayo, Chief Executive of Consumer Focus, said:
"At a time of rising food, fuel and mortgage costs, there could not be a better time to see a new consumer champion come forward and campaign for people.
"The new name has been chosen by consumers and staff to reflect our goal of making a practical difference to people."

There have been similar mergers creating Consumer Focus Scotland and Consumer Focus Wales, also starting work on 1 October. In Northern Ireland, because postal services are a reserved policy matter, the new organisation will be called Consumer Focus Post.

Other changes to protect consumers are also coming into force in October:

Energy and post companies will have to comply with strong new complaint handling standards drawn up by the regulators Ofgem and Postcomm
New redress schemes or ombudsman will resolve energy and post complaints where suppliers and service providers have been unable to do so, and provide compensation for consumers where it is appropriate
The role of Consumer Direct will be extended - it will become the single point of contact for all consumers to obtain information and impartial advice, including on energy and postal issues.

The new website, www.consumerfocus.org.uk, will go live on 1 October.

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