Plan ahead, shop safely and know your rights, writes Lesley Purveur, of Larken and Co solicitors

Most of us will be remembering this month for much more than the infamous November 5 date, writes Lesley Purveur, of Larken and Co solicitors.

With government at the forefront of people’s minds as much now as in 1605, and with the country back in lockdown after the Prime Minister’s latest announcement, we continue to face the challenges of a global pandemic that will mark 2020 in history forever.

The latest restrictions are to be reviewed at the end of November, when it is hoped the infection rate will be under greater control nationwide, meaning rules and restrictions might be relaxed before Christmas.

With the festive season throwing up worries at the best of times, dealing with it in times of covid-19 requires even greater organisation.

Even prior to the government’s recent announcement, there were growing calls for consumers to start Christmas shopping early to help retailers survive the impact of 2020.

The British Retail Con- sortium recently launched a national campaign ­— Shop Early, Start Wrapping, Enjoy Christmas ­— intended to encourage British consumers to start their festive shopping early in the hope that this drive will help spread demand in what is traditionally the country’s busiest shopping period.

This year, we have more things to think about with lockdown restrictions in place, social distancing and tighter coronavirus measures across the country, so those who tend to make a last minute dash to the shops need to start earlier this year, spread out the shopping and plan ahead to avoid the usual rush and any possible disappointment with present buying.

Shoppers, shop staff, warehouse workers and delivery drivers all need to stay safe and comply with guidelines, so extra time must be allowed for in-store shopping, if restrictions ease, and for online purchases, which are predicted to soar, to be made and delivered.

Consumers should therefore make a real effort this year to start shopping early. They should also be aware of their retail rights so they are not left out of pocket, particularly when the demands of the season already place pressure on the purse.

For purchases of any kind, I would always recommend receipts are retained and the refunds policy checked. Some shops will offer only exchanges or credit notes.

There are, of course, laws in place for products being faulty, poor quality, or unfit for purpose. It is anticipated some stores will extend their returns policy for refunds over the Christmas period this year, particularly as consumers are encouraged to start gift shopping earlier.

With more consumers shopping online and taking advantage of Black Friday sales, it is also vital you know your online shopping rights and the policy for goods purchased during sales.

If a gift is bought by telephone or mail order, the buyer has extra return rights under the Consumer Contracts Regulations, with 14 days after they receive their order to notify the seller they intend to return the gift and get a full refund.

If they choose to do this, they will have a further 14 days after notifying the seller to return the item.

Online retailers have 30 days to deliver unless otherwise agreed. Last-minute shoppers can only be certain of a refund if delivery by Christmas was guaranteed.

With much uncertainty and greater demands on the retail sector and logistics companies, guaranteed deliveries may be rare.

Where parents are separating or divorcing it can be even more difficult making Christmas arrangements, particularly in the current climate. It is wise to set expectations early so, again, planning ahead is essential.

Solicitors can help resolve differences through mediation and negotiation, or court if necessary. Parents should try to cooperate and agree about gifts, considering sharing the cost of any main present and ensure arrangements are fair.

Contact Lesley at Larken & Co on 01636 703333 or lesley.purveur@larken.co.uk