The new service operates using the same telephone number and provides the same level of advice as Consumer Direct did.
Consumer Direct's intention was to make such basic advice available to everyone regardless of the area in which they live.
Trading Standards offices were notified of all complaints relating to a trader based in their area.
Data was transmitted on a secure network using a standardised xml format which assists automated uploading of the information into local databases and eventually into the proposed eTSN (electronic Trading Standards Network).
Consumer Direct closed on 31 March 2012 with its functions being passed to Citizens Advice.