Ofcom Consumer Panel

Public scrutiny of the telecommunications sector (and of Ofcom's performance as regulator) is the responsibility of a special consultative and advisory body, the Ofcom Consumer Panel. It commenced operations in February 2004 to represent the views and interests of consumers. Although it is funded by Ofcom, it is a formally independent 'arm's length' organisation, which sets its own agenda for inquiries and publishes its findings independently. It advises Ofcom on communications issues that affect diverse groups of consumers and citizens, comments on Ofcom's strategies, and undertakes research on emerging issues facing consumers, such as Premium Rate Services.

The Ofcom Consumer Panel is charged with giving advice on standards of service and quality, electronic communications, and the handling of consumer complaints. It monitors the quality of Ofcom's own consultation processes. A crucial aspect of its role is to engage with different groups of consumers (including disability groups, low-income consumers, and people from rural areas). The Consumer Panel also hosts a 'Consumer Forum on Communications', which is a discussion body comprising consumer groups, membership organisations, and others.

Useful links:
www.communicationsconsumerpanel.org.uk