New timeshare HelpLine saves more than £1million for owners

In its first year of operations, the HelpLine launched by the Timeshare Association, TATOC, has helped thousands of timeshare owners -- conservatively saving them more than £1million. An independent consumer body, TATOC – the Timeshare Association (Timeshare Owners and Committees) -- is run by timeshare owners for timeshare owners.

In 2008 the HelpLine handled more than 6,000 phone calls – 60 per cent were general enquiries, the remainder complaints.  Most complaints related to dubious re-sale practices or scams based on non-timeshare holiday clubs.  Phone activity was augmented by substantial postal and email communications.

This year the HelpLine handled more than 1,400 calls in January and February. The service is free of charge and available to member and non-member resorts and individuals.

            Telephone number for the TATOC HelpLine:  0845 230 2430

At its annual conference in Warrington , Cheshire , TATOC delegates learned that HelpLine services have been enhanced with the opening of a new office in central Manchester and the recruitment of additional staff.

Harry Taylor, Chief Executive, said TATOC was going from strength to strength. 

“We have a good team in place, excellent office facilities and the knowledge and expertise of the timeshare industry to focus exclusively on the interests of timeshare owners and prospective owners,” he added.  According to TATOC board director Geoff Chapman, the HelpLine has a crucial role to play.  “Many problems are still out there and the demand for our services is growing,” he said.

As part of its remit, TATOC executives have met with senior officials at the Department of Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform (BERR) – formerly the Department of Trade and Industry -- to address consumer issues and legislation.  More meetings are planned with the Office of Fair Trading (OFT), Consumer Direct and politicians and regulators in Brussels .  The Association will also be involved in the implementation into national law of the EU Timeshare Directive that aims to close many loopholes that rogue operators are currently exploiting.

While its interests are focussed on the consumer, TATOC will continue to forge a close and professional relationship with reputable timeshare companies.  “We will do this in part through Resort Accreditation and Affiliation programmes,” said Mr Taylor.  “We are keen to work with companies that share the TATOC vision of enhancing the holiday experience for existing and prospective timeshare owners.  We also aim to be the voice of timeshare owners.”

In a video message to the conference, Arlene McCarthy, MEP for the North West Region of England, thanked TATOC for its assistance in helping to draft the EU Timeshare Directive.  She has been prominent in the campaign to win better rights for timeshare owners.  Ms McCarthy also chairs the European Parliament’s Internal Market & Consumer Protection Committee.

For further information please contact:  Jennie Thompson

jennie.thompson@timeshareassociation.org

Tel 00 34 615 022 542   OR

Harry Taylor, chief executive, on +44 (0)845 230 2430.

harry.taylor@timeshareassociation.org