Trading standards officers from Caerphilly County Borough Council attended an event at the Young at Heart 50+ club in Bargoed on Thursday 11th November.
The event was organised by Communities First to provide useful advice to older people on a range of subjects. Trading Standards were keen to promote the preventative measures available to protect them in their homes from unwanted doorstep callers.
The message seemed to be received loud and clear by Marian Davies from Bargoed (above), who is keeping the ‘Cold Caller’ at bay.
Cabinet member for the environment, Cllr Lyn Ackerman explains, “Trading standards’ presence at this event was to broaden the awareness of doorstep crime and the very serious implications it can have, particularly on vulnerable residents. It is imperative that we educate our residents of the dangers to ensure their health and happiness.’
Doorstep crime is crime arising from rogue traders, bogus workers and officials as well as distraction burglary – research suggests that older people and those living alone are particularly at risk.
The All Wales Doorstep Crime Partnership, who launched the campaign, includes all Welsh Police Forces, the Wales Heads of Trading Standards and Crimestoppers Wales.
Some of the materials available for people to take away from the event included a door hanger (to be placed inside the house), which states, ‘If in doubt, keep them out’ and various leaflets from the Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership informing people of their rights and preventative measures.
Here is some useful advice to help prevent you from becoming a victim of doorstep crime.
- Stop and think before you open your door – use your door bar and viewer, if fitted.
- Never invite tradesmen or salesmen into your home.
- Ask officials for ID and close the door. Check it using the telephone directory, not the number on the card. A genuine official will not mind waiting.
- Never purchase goods and services on your doorstep unless you have discussed it with a friend or relative.
- Don’t keep large sums of cash in your home or let anyone know that you have cash on the premises.
- If you are not interested, tell them so firmly and close the door
For more information on Doorstep Crime contact Caerphilly County Borough Councils trading standards team on 01495 235291.
Further information on the Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership can be found on the Safer CCB website.
