Norfolk Trusted Trader launches new website to boost consumer confidence

Norfolk Trusted Trader, the only approved trader scheme from Norfolk County Council, is launching a new and improved website which will provide an easy and accessible experience to both consumers and traders.

Using a Norfolk Trusted Trader gives consumers peace of mind. Already well known for trusted home improvements traders, the Norfolk Trusted Trader scheme boasts many traders in other sectors such as computer services, car and van sales and cleaners - to name just some.

This is an exciting development which will provide many new opportunities to both consumers and scheme members, such as:

• A dedicated support line for consumers and businesses
• The ability for consumers to leave reviews directly on the site
• Businesses will be able to upload photos and videos of work to boost their profile page
• An online portal for scheme members to be able to request Trusted Trader support and assistance
• Continued free access to an Alternative Dispute Resolution scheme

This development has come about as part of our ongoing work to maintain and develop the scheme and follows a tender process for improved delivery of our online directory and feedback service. As a result, we have appointed Trusted Directory Services Ltd, who take over from 1 December 2022.

Trusted Directory Services currently host and support a number of different local authority Trusted Trader schemes and we are confident they will deliver a high level of service for Norfolk Trusted Trader.

Cllr Margaret Dewsbury, cabinet member for communities and partnerships, said:

"We are always looking for new ways to improve our Trusted Trader offering. This new contract brings with it many additional features, such as online reviews, which help boost confidence in the businesses on the site.

"The scheme has been running for over 12 years and has helped many consumers have more confidence in a variety of traders. They can rest assured that all the businesses on the site have been rigorously vetted so you can choose with confidence to avoid rogue traders."

Other services that Trusted Directory Services will deliver on behalf of Norfolk Trusted Trader are:

• Processing new membership applications
• Managing renewal of Trusted Trader membership
• Complaint management
• Audit services for new application and feedback

Consumers and current members of the scheme don't need to do anything, and if you'd like to join the Norfolk Trusted Trader scheme, or want to find out more, please visit our Trusted Trader webpages. Traders who join the scheme before the end of February 2023 will enjoy 50% off their first year of membership.