We regularly visit shops, markets and car boot sales, to monitor for counterfeit and illegal goods. We also monitor popular auction and social websites.
We carry out visits to all shops that sell age-restricted products and help them make sure that they don’t break the law.
Age-restricted products
- alcohol
- tobacco
- fireworks
- DVDs
- knives and offensive weapons
Buying on behalf of children
It's an offence to buy alcohol on behalf of children. If you're caught you could be issued with an £80 penalty notice or a court could fine you up to £5,000.
We regularly test shops by sending in a young volunteer who tries to purchase one of these products. If you sell to our volunteers you'll be prosecuted.
We also investigate cigarettes and alcohol being sold to children from houses.