The actions Consumer Scotland will take to improve outcomes for consumers in Scotland are set out in our latest work programme published today.
As the levy-funded advocacy body for the electricity, gas, post and water sectors in Scotland the Work Programme 2024-2025 sets out our plans within these key areas, as well as within the wider economy.
In addition, the work programme details the contribution Consumer Scotland will make to achieving the Scottish Government’s National Outcomes during 2024-2025.
All our projects are underpinned by the need to advance the interests of consumers across three key strategic challenges – the affordability of goods and services, climate change mitigation and adaptation and improving the experiences of consumers in vulnerable circumstances.
Chief Executive of Consumer Scotland Sam Ghibaldan said:
“Consumers are facing an array of challenges, not least the impact of a prolonged period of high inflation which has stretched budgets and reduced the affordability of many essential services.
“Our work programme sets out how Consumer Scotland will advance the interests of consumers in the forthcoming year, addressing deep-rooted challenges and advocating for positive, sustainable change across different markets and services.
“This includes major strategic issues such as funding models for investment in key infrastructure, the design of charging or tariff systems, regulation which supports and protects consumers and opportunities for improved collaboration across markets.
“Alongside work to achieve long-term change, we will also prioritise changes that need to happen now to tackle issues of detriment including work on the affordability of essential goods and services, consumer access to vital markets and the standards of service experienced by consumers.
"We want to thank all those with an interest in consumer issues who responded to our consultation and helped us shape our final work programme for 2024-2025.”
Background
Summary of responses to consultation on draft work programme 2024-2025
Consumer Scotland was established in April 2022 as the statutory body for consumers in Scotland. We advocate on behalf of consumers and represent consumer interests. We are a Non-Ministerial Office, accountable to the Scottish Parliament.
Under the Consumer Scotland Act 2020 Consumer Scotland must publish an annual forward work programme setting out its priorities for the year and lay it before the Scottish Parliament.