It is National Consumer Week next week which aims to raise the profile of consumer issues and consumers' rights.

This year's theme, Foot In The Door, focuses on providing consumers with help and advice so they can make the right choice when buying goods and services from home or when approached on the doorstep, as well as warning them about distraction burglary and advising on personal safety in their homes.

Most of us have a fair idea of our rights when we go shopping, but how many of us know where we stand when we buy by post, phone, via the internet or from someone who calls at the door?

You do have additional rights when you shop from home. Before you buy, the seller must provide their name, and if you have to pay in advance, a postal address. The seller must also give written descriptions of the goods or services, the price, details of delivery costs, delivery arrangements and information about your right to cancel. With a few exceptions (e.g. goods made specially, personalised goods, perishable goods, sealed audio or video goods which have been opened) the law gives you an opportunity to change your mind and cancel the order. You have seven working days after the date you received the goods or for services, seven working days after the day you agreed to go ahead with the contract. Remember these rights are in addition to your rights if the goods or services are faulty or misdescribed.

However, what should you do if you don't want someone to get their foot in your door?

The best advice York Trading Standards can give is to think twice.

If someone calls offering to do work or sell you goods ask them to leave information so you can make an informed decision later. If they won't that should tell you something about the person. Don't let anyone into your home unless you know who they are and you are expecting them. Don't sign anything just to get rid of them.

Beware of people who call asking to use your phone because they are ill or have broken down. They may not be genuine, and when they leave you may find valuables missing. If you think they are genuine you can always offer to phone for them without letting them in.

York Trading Standards can offer advice on your rights and what to do in relation to doorstep callers. We also have a booklet called 'Think Twice' which is aimed at older and vulnerable consumers, but the advice is relevant for all.

In addition York Trading Standards, Age Concern(York) with the Safer York Partnership, including the police, have a register, the Home Services Directory, of vetted trades people, which is available to older and vulnerable residents, together with a conciliation scheme if things do go wrong.

For copies of the booklet, the directory or further advice contact us at 9 St Leonard's Place, York, telephone (01904) 551562, fax 551590, or email trading.standards@york,gov.uk

Updated: 12:58 Thursday, November 07, 2002