Scheme to protect residents from rogue traders relaunches

Updated measures to help consumers identify reputable tradespeople

A business partnership set up to protect local residents from unscrupulous traders has been relaunched.

The Perth and Kinross Better Business Partnership (BBP), which is approaching its 15th anniversary, was set up in 2003 in response to a rise in instances of people falling foul of cowboy traders.

The scheme’s relaunch introduces an updated code of practice and a BBP charter, which sets out how members should behave.

Additionally, in order to maintain the integrity of the members list, an annual membership fee has been introduced, meaning consumers will be able to identify a current member by a BBP sticker bearing the current year.

Housing and communities convener Councillor Peter Barrett was joined at the relaunch by trading standards officers and BBP member Instant Image, who produce signs and vehicle graphics.

He said: “We are all aware of the impact that rogue traders and unscrupulous companies can have on consumers.

“The BBP sets out a wide-ranging list of businesses that pledge to trade fairly and honestly, providing valuable reassurance for the public that they can be confident they will receive a high standard of service.

“After 15 years of operation, and now well over 250 members, it is appropriate that the scheme is reviewed and refreshed for the future.

“I hope more local companies will consider joining the BBP.”

The scheme aims to create a list of local traders who have pledged to operate in an open and honest manner to give consumers confidence they are dealing with a reputable person.

Perth and Kinross Council joined with Police Scotland to establish the partnership, and all members are vetted by the force and the council’s trading standards team.

The BBP now has 267 members ranging from funeral directors to wedding photographers and nurseries to architects, as well as including a large number of tradesmen.

Local business customers will also now be able access a fast-track application process to join the BBP.

The list of current Better Business Partnership members can be found on the Perth and Kinross Council website at pkc.gov.uk/bbp or by calling 01738 476476.

Businesses who would be interested in becoming a member of the BBP can also find information about how to join online.

“After 15 years of operation, and now well over 250 members, it is appropriate that the scheme is reviewed and refreshed for the future. COUNCILLOR PETER BARRETT

At the relaunch, from left, Sgt Kevin Johnstone, Councillor Peter Barrett, PC John Morrison, Craig Robertson of Instant Image, Angie Menzies from Perth and Kinross Council, David and John Hair of J&D Hair Electrical Contractors and Niall Smith from the...