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The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has uncovered evidence of unfair sales practices targeted at elderly and disabled consumers buying mobility aids. This has led to an investigation into two nationwide traders.

 

The investigation raised particular concerns about doorstep sales of wheelchairs, scooters, stairlifts, bath aids, hoists and adjustable beds used by older people, disabled people and those with medical conditions.

 

The OFT said consumers can experience high pressure and misleading sales practices when buying this equipment at home, with victims likely to experience distress and inconvenience which could impact on their health and wellbeing.

 

Have you ever felt pressured into buying equipment? If you bought something do you think you got a good deal? Do you know where to go to get independent and impartial advice? We'd love to hear your stories.

Disclaimer :Any posts on ESDA forums are posted by individuals acting in their own right and do not necessarily reflect the views of ESDA.

Your Comments

"When I started work with the Association I heard of a lady in Peacehaven who had been pressured into buying a mobility scooter. When the scooter was delivered it would not fit through her door so the salesman took the wheels off it and reassembled it in her home. And there it stayed. She paid over £3000 for what was essentially a white elephant taking up valuable space in her home."

Nick Tapp, ESDA Posted 4 October 2011 11:10:56

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