The Consumer Council welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the Financial Conduct Authority’s consultation on Guidance for Firms on the Fair Treatment of Vulnerable Consumers.
Of the devolved UK nations, Northern Ireland has the lowest median wage with median weekly earnings for 2018 at £521 compared to the UK average of £569 . A recent report released from Which? shows that only half (49% ) of those in Northern Ireland were content with their income, over a quarter (26% ) do not have money saved for a “rainy day”, and 50% of consumers have less than £300 left after mortgage/rent and essential bills in a typical month.
The Consumer Council welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the Financial Conduct Authority’s consultation on Pension Transfer Advice: contingent charging and other proposed changes.
Alongside responding to the questions posed by the FCA, The Consumer Council has highlighted some unique considerations about Northern Ireland consumers which should also be considered.
The Consumer Council commissioned Perceptive Insight to undertake quantitative research with a representative sample of consumers across Northern Ireland (NI). The aim of the research was to ascertain public perceptions about the likely impacts of Brexit for NI consumers, particularly in relation to: Utilities/energy; Transport; Postal services; and General consumer detriment.
Do you feel under pressure and tempted to spend money that you cannot afford at Christmas? To help you stay within your budget, The Consumer Council has put together this food and present planner. Click on the link to download your free copy
Northern Ireland is unique in the UK in its dependence on aviation for economic and social connectivity to the rest of the UK and beyond. The expansion of Heathrow airport is an opportunity to increase the domestic connectivity of Northern Ireland to the Heathrow hub. The Government should consider the use of a PSO to ring fence slots to facilitate this.
The Consumer Council's Enquiries and Complaints Report explores consumer complaints, enquiries, consumer outreach, and data for The Consumer Council and beyond.
