Whistleblowing and Enforcement
Ready to Burn is a Defra scheme that Woodsure administers on their behalf. There are currently over a thousand businesses complying with the Air Quality (Domestic Solid Fuels Standards) (England) Regulations 2020 that outlaws the sale of wet wood and house coal, which are the most polluting fuels.
Enforcement for those who do not join Ready to Burn and continue trading without this legal requirement is dealt with by the relevant Local Authority. Woodsure engages with all stakeholders to outline the ways in which we can provide support and correct any misinformation.
Woodsure is committed to raising industry standards and will always take steps to encourage others to follow this lead. Although enforcement is delivered by local authorities, we are uniquely placed in the industry to deliver first hand assistance and a channel for direct reporting. Woodsure holds Primary Authority relationship with Trading Standards to provide evidence, witness statements and ongoing support in respect of enforcement action. Over the last year, we have seen a rise in reports to local authorities. We are aware that actions have been taken in many cases with potential penalties for transgressors ranging from fines (per incident) to direct court action.
As part of our commitment to this area, Woodsure encourages those who identify any fuel suppliers not adhering to the legislation to contact us directly. The team can be contacted by calling 01684 278188 or emailing [email protected]. Every case reported to us is followed up internally and always dealt with in the strictest confidence. If possible, please provide screenshots, photographs, or links in order for us to compile evidence. This greatly improves the quality of the information we can pass to Trading Standards.
We understand concerns within the industry regarding enforcement and want to assure certified suppliers that we take reports of non-complying businesses seriously. We take a proactive approach informing them of the legislation, getting them certified, and if necessary reporting to Trading Standards. If you have any questions on the role that Woodsure plays within enforcement, please contact us using the above details.