Set to launch to residents and consumers early in the new year, the new scheme aims to promote local businesses who trade fairly and protect consumers from unfair trading practices and doorstep crime.

Highland Council has joined the Trusted Trader network with the launch of the Highland Trusted Trader scheme.

The aim of the scheme is to:

• Increase consumer confidence
• Help protect residents from unfair trading and doorstep crime
• Encourage good practice within the local business sector
• Promote vetted local businesses

Traders who join Highland Trusted Trader will see their business showcased with other vetted businesses across the Highlands and will have access to official logos and marketing materials to promote their business.

Highland Trusted Trader is funded by an annual membership fee. This covers a Trading Standards vetting process, administration and promotion of the scheme.

Small businesses who join now and who are among the first 20 Highland traders to apply, will get 50% off the yearly membership fee. For a limited time only and on a first come, first served basis, new members to the Highland Council Trusted Trader scheme can join for £120 annual fee (inclusive of VAT). The usual membership fee is £240 (inclusive of VAT).

Highland-based businesses with a minimum of six months’ clean trading history interested in joining Highland Trusted Trader, are invited to complete the expressions of interest form.

David MacKenzie, trading standards manager, said: “Highland Trusted Trader is a new measure we have put in place to prevent consumers from being defrauded, scammed or exposed to unsatisfactory work and dishonest practices by disreputable traders. Members of the scheme are vetted by our officers, a rigorous process that considers trading history, business practices and a commitment from the business to trade fairly. Following our strict Code of Practice ensures accountability and gives protection to our local residents and consumers.”

Highland Trusted Trader Scheme is part of Scotland Trusted Trader, which is a collaboration between local councils, their council’s Trading Standards teams, Kent Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Trusted Directory Services (TDS).

TDS is responsible for the scheme administration, customer service and website support.

Applications to join the Highland Trusted Trader Scheme can be made on the Trusted Trader website.