Doorstep Crime – cold calling controlled zones
Hello again, I hope I find you all well, ive recently discovered that in an area close to me, the council are trying to implement a cold calling controlled zone throughout the whole town. Now on the face of it, it seems like a good idea, but as an ex door to door salesman myself, im really not sure what to think. Of course I can understand the safety issues, but a blanket ban? some door to door sale people offer really good services/bargains and are on the whole, reputable people who are just trying to earn an honest living. maybe how about implementing certain things like id badges, or possibly any sales person going in to the area should have to take an ad out in local papers the week before, to warn residents they will be visiting the area, these are just thoughts running through my head, maybe a blanket ban is necessary, but if you are like me, we would always be wondering what bargain or money saving offer we missed out on lol. as it stands most controlled zones have an opt in service, which seems to work well. I have gathered some info for you on controlled zones and doorstep crime, hope you enjoy reading.
What is doorstep crime?
The majority of people who knock on your door ARE likely to be genuine. However, it is important to know that some are rogue traders, doorstep criminals and uninvited sales people and may turn up unannounced, with the intention of tricking their way into your home.
So-called ‘doorstep crime’ often results from an initial cold call. Unscrupulous traders will prey on the elderly and vulnerable members of society, carry out unnecessary, substandard and sometimes even dangerous work and then use strong arm tactics to persuade consumers to part with large sums of money for poor workmanship. In addition, burglars may use cold calling as a pretext to engage in distraction burglary or sneak in thefts.
Whilst cold calling is not currently illegal, it is a practice that the vast majority of people do not want. Some people may find it intimidating, frightening and intrusive not to mention irritating and frustrating at times.
In response to increasing complaints about cold callers and doorstep crime, and as part of our doorstep crime initiative, West Yorkshire Trading Standards has implemented in excess of 40 successful Cold Calling Control Zones throughout the county and continue to play an integral part in the development of potential zones.They have been established with the help and support of the Police, Community Safety Partnerships, Neighbourhood Watch Groups, Housing Associations, local Councillors and most importantly, local residents.
What is a Cold Calling Control Zone?
Cold Calling Control Zones are areas which are considered to be vulnerable to doorstep crime and where residents have, collectively, stated that they do not want cold callers. The main aim of the zones is to prevent incidents of doorstep crime, raise awareness of the activities of rogue traders who target vulnerable people, and give residents the confidence to say NO to uninvited callers as a community. Therefore, reducing levels and fear of crime in the allocated areas.
Zones are clearly identified by signs on lamp posts at the main entrance and exit points, informing traders that they are entering an area where residents do not buy goods and services at the door. Each household will also receive an information booklet offering advice, as well as a door sticker to deter unwanted callers.
Cold Calling Control Zones are a low maintenance initiative and, once established, are easily sustained. As part of the scheme, residents are also given the opportunity to attend awareness talks and workshops which will provide information on vital issues such as how to deal with doorstep salesman, alternative ways to compare energy companies and who to contact in an emergency. Residents will also be able to participate in regular evaluation of the project, allowing them to contribute to the improvement and expansion of future zones
The zones have been hailed a huge success nationally and have been show to reduce overall crime in the areas where they now exist.
How can I set up a zone?
The purpose of the scheme is to empower residents, and to encourage them to work as an entire community against doorstep sellers and therefore increase the reporting of related crimes and incidents.
There are several important points to note regarding the establishment of a zone:
• In order to set up a zone, a minimal amount of funding is required, and will vary depending on the size of the zone.
• There also needs to be evidence, within the area, to suggest that cold calling is a problem.
• Partnership working is vital to ensure zones are created and managed efficiently and effectively
• We also recommend that there is a designated person in place who is willing to be the point of contact to ensure sustainability
To figure out whether YOU can set up a zone in YOUR area, follow this link to our simple step by step guide
Avoid Being a Victim
Avoid being a victim by following these ‘Stay Safe’ Tips
• Be aware of pressure selling tactics such as claims of special offers or offers that are only on for one day and don’t let them make you think that you are the odd one out on the street who hasn’t bought from them
• If someone claims they are part of a Trade Association or an approved body, ensure they have evidence and don’t be scared to check up on them.
• If you have arranged an appointment and for someone to come and see you, use the password scheme when booking with the organisation. If the person calling on you doesn’t know the agreed password, don’t let them in.
• Have a spy hole or peephole on your door so you can see who is calling
• Use a door chain before you are certain if who you are letting in
• Always ask for id and confirm it with the organisation they claim to be with by getting the number from your local directory or the internet (see list of useful numbers below). Don’t rely on the number the salesperson has given you
• Always have your doors locked. Distraction burglaries occur when one person has you engaged at the front door and an accomplice enters through the back door•Calling Control Zones have recently featured on Money Saving Expert.com. Follow this link to see Martin Lewis’s tips on beating cold callers and junk mail
Download the OFT’s top tips to deal with doorstep callers
Download the OFT’s advice about your rights when buying on the doorstep
this advice has been reproduced from the trading standards service website.
please take it seriously, there really are a lot of unscrupulous people around! take care & stay safe.so until the next time, I wish you happiness and health.
Carl Abbott
Comments