Cold callers are being frozen out in Yate thanks to a new pilot scheme between South Gloucestershire Council and Avon and Somerset Police.
‘No Cold Calling Zones’ have been launched in parts of the town in a bid to help reduce doorstep crime. They have been set up by the Council’s trading standards officers with support from police and local Neighbourhood Watch schemes.
Doorstep crime can range from rogue home improvement firms, to bogus officials and charities.
The first No Cold Calling Zones are being introduced in the Walton Heath and Ferndown areas in Yate.
No Cold Calling Zones are identified by street signs and stickers on the front doors of houses. Residents are provided with advice on how to say ‘no’ to unwanted callers and also encouraged to report callers who ignore the zones to trading standards or the police.
Councillor Heather Goddard, executive member for communities, said: “We are working in close partnership with the police and the local neighbourhood watch to launch the No Cold Calling Zones to help tackle doorstop crime.
“This initiative will expand on the approved trader scheme the council runs, Buy With Confidence, to make it harder for rogue traders to potentially exploit often vulnerable residents with intimidating and unscrupulous tactics.”
Acting Neighbourhood Sergeant Neil Whyman said: “No Cold Calling Zones have already proved effective in cutting doorstep crime in other areas of the constabulary.
“The scheme demonstrates how, by working with the council and local people, we can put a stop to rogue traders who often target the most vulnerable in our community.
“We also know that rogue trading is linked to other doorstep crime like distraction burglary. Both can be prevented by sticking to one simple rule: if you’re unsure, don’t open the door.”
If an area is interested in a particular area becoming a No Cold Calling Zone, they are advised to contact the council’s trading standards department.
The No Cold Calling Zones scheme does not prevent all callers. Utility services staff, registered charity collectors and canvassing politicians can still do so. As can traders involved in door to door selling if they have made a prior appointment.
For more information on the No Cold Calling Zones scheme, contact Charlotte Allard or Kevin Evans at South Gloucestershire Council’s trading standards department on 01454 864419.
For more information on the Buy With Confidence scheme visit www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk or ring Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.
Source: South Gloucestershire Council
