Scheme controlling callers aims to protect vulnerable

Cold callers could soon be given the cold shoulder in the Rawdon and Yeadon areas of Leeds.

Following a string of incidents involving rogue traders, distraction burglaries and doorstep criminals it has been decided to take action to protect the most vulnerable members of the community.

Neighbourhood Watch, working alongside West Yorkshire Trading Standards to implement the first cold calling control zone within the area, has also consulted closely with police and local residents to ensure the zone is supported and that the most vulnerable streets are identified.

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The majority of people who knock on doors are likely to be genuine, however the tactic of turning up unannounced is often being used by thieves to trick their way into houses. These bogus callers are intent on stealing and cheating vulnerable residents out of their money and valuables.

Cold calling control zones aim to arm residents with the knowledge they need to be safe within their homes, but most importantly the confidence to say no to cold callers. They are not aimed at reputable traders such as window cleaners.

The entrances to the zone are marked by signs warning cold callers not to enter the zone or approach properties within it.

Graham Hebblethwaite, chief officer of West Yorkshire Trading Standards, said yesterday: “Any scheme set up to protect the community by deterring uninvited callers is a positive thing and we will support any initiative which will improve the quality of life for local residents.

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He added: “We always advise people never to do business with a person who calls at their door without an appointment. If you need work doing, always obtain two or three quotes from reputable traders, in particular those that are members of a registered trader scheme.”

Coun Neil Taggart, chair of the West Yorkshire Joint Services Committee, which oversees the work of Trading Standards, said last night: “A number of criminals do pose as doorstep salesman and bogus utility company officials and the implementation of these Cold Calling Control Zones helps to raise awareness over the type of tactics often employed by doorstep criminals and also brings this type of criminal activity to the forefront of people’s minds.”

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