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UPDATES: The final day of CTSI’s 2025 Conference in Blackpool wrapped up with energy, inspiration, and forward-looking discussions. Day Three highlighted the profession’s evolving role, from inclusivity and leadership to tackling complex consumer protection challenges. Awards, plenaries, and masterclasses showcased how Trading Standards is shaping the future - empowering officers, protecting communities, and preparing the next generation of practitioners ...

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UPDATES: Day Two of CTSI’s 2025 Conference in Blackpool explored the cutting edge of Trading Standards, from AI’s risks and rewards for consumer protection to the dangers of unregulated cosmetic procedures. Delegates debated, learned, and celebrated new recruits at graduation ceremonies, before winding down with the annual Awards Dinner and after-party, blending insight, networking, and a dash of glamour ...

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UPDATES: Day One of CTSI’s 2025 Conference in Blackpool set the tone for an ambitious three days, with packed plenaries exploring inclusion, consumer detriment and emerging challenges facing Trading Standards. From dynamic pricing and unsafe products to disability awareness and new legislation, the opening day showcased the profession’s breadth, passion and determination to protect consumers and support fair trading ...

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UPDATES: CTSI has cautiously welcomed new funding announced in the Government’s Spending Review, including billions for councils and targeted investment for tobacco and vape enforcement. While the plans offer fresh opportunities for Trading Standards, key questions remain over local priorities, ringfencing and whether frontline services will truly see the benefits ...

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UPDATES: Emaciated animals, ignored warnings, and serious disease control breaches - Trading Standards uncovered shocking conditions on farmland near Farcet. A Peterborough farmer has now been banned from keeping livestock for a decade after pleading guilty to multiple animal welfare offences. Here’s how the case unfolded and why authorities say it matters ...

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UPDATES: A cruel new scam is targeting people at their most vulnerable—grieving families and friends of the recently deceased. Fraudsters are hijacking funeral notices to steal money and personal details, prompting strong warnings from CTSI. Here’s how the scam works, why it’s so damaging, and what you can do to protect yourself and others ...

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UPDATES: Criminals are exploiting ‘ghost’ number plates that vanish from ANPR cameras, helping them dodge fines, speed traps and even serious investigations. With plates costing as little as £30 and penalties lagging behind the risk, CTSI and MPs are calling for a crackdown. Here’s why authorities say the system is being dangerously abused - and what could change next ...

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UPDATES: A High Street jeweller has been fined after Trading Standards uncovered thousands of pounds’ worth of counterfeit designer watches on sale in a Northern Ireland shopping centre. The case highlights how fake goods deceive customers, undercut legitimate businesses, and why authorities are cracking down on traders who try to pass off counterfeits as the real thing ...

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UPDATES: A rogue car dealer who ignored consumer rights, sold faulty vehicles and flouted a court order has been sent to prison after months of complaints from buyers. Trading under multiple names, he continued to evade responsibility until Trading Standards stepped in ...

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UPDATES: A Hammersmith & Fulham resident was targeted by a suspected rogue roofer who ramped up a £700 quote to £7,000 and applied relentless pressure for payment. After Trading Standards stepped in, the trader vanished. This case highlights how doorstep scams operate and how quick action can stop victims losing even more money ...

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UPDATES: Unsafe cosmetic products sold online are leaving children with devastating, life-changing injuries, CTSI has warned. From unregulated nail glues to social media-fuelled beauty pressures, a growing number of young people are at risk. A harrowing case highlighted on TV has reignited calls for tougher action and for parents to think twice before buying beauty products online ...

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UPDATES: An online trader has been handed a suspended prison sentence after Trading Standards uncovered tens of thousands of pounds’ worth of counterfeit clothing sold through his business. From fake football shirts to sports memorabilia, the case highlights the scale of online counterfeiting - and the serious consequences for those who profit from it ...

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UPDATES: Millions of people are living in fear of illegal money-lenders, and a new national campaign is urging them to seek help. Stop Loan Sharks Week 2025 shines a light on the hidden emotional toll of loansharking - and reassures victims that confidential support is available whenever they’re ready to come forward ...

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UPDATES: Social media-fuelled beauty trends are putting health at risk, CTSI has warned, as unregulated nasal tanning sprays gain popularity - especially among young people. Linked to skin cancer and other serious health problems, these products are largely untested and poorly regulated. Here’s why experts say this tanning craze could have dangerous, long-term consequences ...

UPDATES: Details the outcome of a major investigation into illegal IPTV services, with substantial confiscation orders reinforcing the financial consequences of organised intellectual property crime.

UPDATES: A prosecution over a serious allergen failure highlights the importance of accurate food information, staff training and robust procedures after a child with a wheat allergy was put at risk.

UPDATES: Fresh calls for stronger action on animal welfare examine the challenges facing enforcement and the role Trading Standards can play in protecting consumers and responsible businesses.

UPDATES: A successful prosecution serves as a reminder of retailers' responsibilities after expired food was found on sale, reinforcing the importance of effective stock control and compliance.

UPDATES: Record seizures underline the scale of the illicit vape market, with Trading Standards continuing to target illegal products, organised criminality and the risks posed to consumers.

UPDATES: A local initiative shines a spotlight on toy safety, raising awareness of potential hazards and encouraging retailers and consumers to prioritise compliance and child safety.