The report, titled ‘Protecting the Public's Health in Stoke-on-Trent’, details the daily work of the Trading Standards, Consumer Protection, and Environmental Health teams. Key successes include the seizure of £2.4 million of unsafe goods, protection of £3.5 million of residents' money from scams and rogue traders, and the confiscation of £750,000 worth of illegal tobacco and vapes.
Furthermore, approximately 1,200 food businesses are inspected annually to ensure health and hygiene standards, with 300 new businesses registered this year. The report notes the evolution of these services from addressing historical industrial health challenges to tackling modern risks such as unsafe vapes, air pollution, and food safety.
The teams are increasingly focused on preventing harm proactively. However, the report also acknowledges challenges, including new online trading methods, evolving regulations, and financial pressures on local government services, necessitating continued investment and intelligence-led enforcement.
“"This year’s public health report shines a spotlight on the work our public protection teams do every day to keep residents healthy and safe that largely goes unseen. They have achieved some great successes this year and have carried out vital work to keep our communities safer and healthier. I welcome this report and also endorse the actions that we have set out to continue protecting all residents of Stoke-on-Trent."
Residents are encouraged to report concerns to Trading Standards on 01782 238884 or via the council's website at www.stoke.gov.uk/tradingstandards. The full report can be accessed via the provided link.
