Know your rights at Christmas

The Christmas build up is an exciting time but it can also be a source of stress and anxiety. Citizens Advice Peterborough is here to help with a few top tips on queries relating to the festive period

Working?
Zero-hours contracts are becoming increasingly popular, especially in the run up to Christmas, as they give businesses a huge amount of flexibility. It’s important to remember that in a genuine zero-hours contract this flexibility works both ways. Zero-hours workers have to be able to refuse work offers if it suits them without comeback from the employer. Employers need to be fully aware of their responsibilities if they decide to use zerohours contracts and set out their terms clearly. ● Visit the work section of our website at www.citizensadvice.org.uk/work

Shopping?
Keep receipts – although in some cases you may be able to use a bank statement as proof of purchase. Lots of shops will say you can return items within 14 or sometimes 30 days, as long they are not used. For online purchases the 14-day period starts the day after you receive your order, and there doesn’t need to be anything wrong with the item for you to get a refund. The shop’s returns policy might be written on your receipt, or you could check their website or call your local branch to ask. Bear in mind that shops often reduce the amount of time you have to return items bought in a sale, although you’ll still always be protected if something is faulty. If you paid for standard delivery when you bought something, the seller has to refund this if you return it. If you chose a more expensive delivery option, you’ll have to pay the difference.

● Call the Citizens Advice Consumer helpline on 0345 4040 506

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