Test Purchasing Volunteers

West Yorkshire Trading Standards Service is responsible for enforcing the consumer legislation in relation to the sale of age restricted products including tobacco, alcohol, fireworks, solvents, videos and lottery tickets. Because certain products present genuine risks to the health and welfare of children and teenagers, there are strict laws prohibiting the sale of such items to underage youngsters.

Complaints about underage sales are received from concerned members of the public, the Police, schools, community organisations and health professionals and by far the most common are those relating to the sale of cigarettes to under 16s and alcohol to under 18s. In response to such complaints, each retailer in question is advised by letter that a complaint has been received, reminding them of their legal obligations and giving guidance on how to ensure compliance with the law.

Enforcement visits are subsequently made by a Trading Standards Officer, during which a test purchase is attempted. Children aged 12 or 13 are used for cigarette purchases and 14 or 15 for alcohol. All children are supervised at all times and evidence necessary for any possible court action is gathered. Many of the visits are made as part of a joint approach with West Yorkshire Police Officers.

The majority if illegal sales result in offenders being prosecuted and media coverage of court appearances is actively encouraged as a deterrent to others.

Similar action is taken in relation to complaints about fireworks sales in the three weeks around Bonfire Night, and solvents, videos and lottery tickets.

HOW CAN YOU HELP

Do not attempt to buy goods when you know you are too young to purchase them. You are putting the trader’s livelihood at risk and you could be breaking the law yourself.

If you know of any trader who is selling the above products to the underage, you can report it to us on our ‘Consumer Hotline’ Telephone number 08454 040506.

We are always looking for volunteers to help us find the traders who are prepared to sell products to the underage. If you are aged between 12 and 15, it is important that you obtain permission from your parents and ask them to contact us. If you are the right person for the job you will actually work with one of our officers who regularly set up test purchases. For more details, parents or guardians must write in, enclosing a picture of yourself and including your height to: West Yorkshire Trading Standards Service, PO Box 5, Nepshaw Lane South, Morley, Leeds, LS27 0QP. We will then contact suitable volunteers.

Any trader wanting further information should contact the Consumer Helpline on
08454 040506 or, look at the guidance notes on our for business pages.