Returning gifts rights reminder

Monklands residents have been reminded of their consumer rights when returning or exchanging unwanted Christmas gifts.

From purchasing the wrong size of jumper to receiving two copies of the same book, the post-festive period results in lots of requests for refunds or gift swaps.

The Consumer Rights Act gives everyone the legal right to either get a refund for goods that are of unsatisfactory quality, unfit for purpose or not as described, or to get a repair – depending on how long the items have been owned.

Consumers also have more rights when shopping online and for most online returns the regulations state that you can cancel an online order up to 14 days after receiving it, followed by a two-week period in which you can send it back.

Advice Direct Scotland, the country’s national advice service, has been running a Christmas campaign to help Monklands consumers make the most of the festive period.

Anyone in Scotland who wants more advice on their consumer rights can contact consumeradvice.scot for free on 0808 164 6000.

Specialist advisers are available from 9am-to-5pm, Monday-to-friday, excluding public holidays.

Colin Mathieson, spokesperson for

Advice Direct Scotland, said: “Even with the best intentions when it comes to buying gifts, we can’t always get it right.

“Many of us rely on the robust returns policies of our favourite retailers, and the ability to swap an unwanted gift for something more appropriate when required.

“Consumers have extensive rights when it comes to returns and refunds, and it is always worth remembering these.

“Anyone in Scotland who has any questions about their rights can contact us for free, impartial and practical advice on the phone line or via our website.”