Consumer Support Network

Terms of Reference

Network aims

To promote the development of joined-up, quality consumer advice and information services at a local level. Ensuring that people have easy access to good quality and responsive consumer advice and information.

Network purpose

The aim of the Barking and Dagenham Consumer Support Network is to improve access and promote networking amongst all levels of advice and information providers to ensure consistency improve efficiency and offer support to each other.

Main principles

The Consumer Support network will coordinate the advice and information services within Barking and Dagenham by:

Encouraging networking between all advice and information providers, both formal and informal
Identifying the needs of the Barking and Dagenham community for consumer advice and information and any gaps in the provision of advice to meet those needs
Working together to achieve the aims outlined in the Barking and Dagenham Consumer Support Network Action Plan, in order to improve current services
Working to achieve the most effective deployment of resources to meet identified needs
Ensuring that core advice providers achieve the required certification to their level of competence under recognised quality management schemes
Give the number of members and the large geographical area covered, a Network steering group will be formed to drive the Network forward
Seamless referrals
Joint project working

Network members

All organisations in Barking and Dagenham who are involved in providing consumer advice and information both formally and informally will be invited to participate in the Network. Local businesses and business advice agencies will also be encouraged to participate.

Equalities statement

In carrying out the above work the Barking and Dagenham Consumer Support Network will act at all times consistent with the aims of promoting equal opportunities and of celebrating diversity in the community.

Meetings

The Network will hold at least 3 meetings annually each of which will incorporate an element of relevant training, and one of which will also act as the Network's Annual General Meeting.

Contact

Trading Standards

Environmental and Enforcement Services

Roycraft House

15 Linton Road

Barking

IG11 8HE

Supported by Barking and Dagenham Direct:

Tel: 020 8215 3000

Fax: 020 8227 5184

Textphone: 020 8227 5755

Email: 3000direct@lbbd.gov.uk|

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8am - 8pm.