The Furniture Ombudsman on the BBC
The Furniture Ombudsman (TFO) has appeared on the BBC 1 daily consumer programme; “Don’t Get Done, Get Dom”.
The popular television show helps the public with issues surrounding their consumer rights and customer service. As a specialist dispute resolution service for consumers and retailers, TFO was asked to appear on the TV show to provide information about its services to assist consumers. This is the second time TFO has been mentioned within Series 6 of the popular show presented by Dom Littlewood.
TFO is headed up by Kevin Grix and a team of professionally qualified Adjudicators who provide an independent and impartial view on issues regarding furniture products within the home; this can include kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, flooring, living room furniture and much more.
Furniture retailers and manufacturers join TFO as Members and make a promise to abide by a Code of Practice, which gives the consumer additional rights. This means that if things do not go as planned, TFO can help resolve the problem.
During the TV episode 6 of the show, Kevin spoke of how each case brought to TFO is assessed on an individual basis, with different remedies offered, depending on the evidence collated by an expert consultant.
Kevin Grix said, “If you are looking to buy new furniture for your home, we would strongly encourage you to buy from a Member of TFO, as then you know you are buying from a responsible retailer who has pledged to do the right thing. You will also have the additional assurance that if things do not go quite as planned; we will be here to help you.”
Currently, approximately 4,500 stores are covered by TFO Membership; this includes many of the UK's biggest retailers including B&Q, Homebase, Laura Ashley and Tesco.
As was shown on episode 3, TFO can also offer assistance when the retailer is not a Member of the scheme. TFO’s experts can provide an independent inspection report for the consumer, which if necessary can be used in court.
TFO has been approached by Don’t Get Done Get Dom, and other consumer television and radio shows as they are a recognised as an independent, non-statutory body specialising in furniture complaints. TFO is always pleased to take part in consumer broadcasts in order to help increase standards within the furniture industry, by offering advice to consumers, to ensure they receive a fair deal and understand their consumer rights.