Angus Council’s trading standards service is urging people to stay safe in their own homes by saying “no” to cold-calling doorstep traders.
The council is refreshing its Doorstoppers project with the introduction of new door and window stickers in Forfar.
Householders are encouraged to display the stickers, which tell unwanted doorstep traders to go away those who don’t are committing a criminal offence and consumers should report them to the council’s ACCESSLine on 08452 777 778 or at any ACCESS office.
Council leader Iain Gaul said: “This is the fourth week of Scam Awareness Month, and with the focus on doorstep crime it is an ideal opportunity to refresh our Doorstoppers project.
“Angus Council is committed to protecting our citizens from doorstep callers who scam, cheat, steal and intimidate especially our more vulnerable and elderly, who should be left in peace in their own homes to enjoy life.
“Doorstoppers highlights and helps combat the problem of doorstep sellers who prey on these vulnerable consumers by raising awareness of the problem and providing practical help and information on the many ways in which consumers can protect themselves from rogue traders on the doorstep.”
Stickers will be available from the end of this month in all Angus Council ACCESS offices, ACCESSLine and libraries.
In 2005 the Doorstoppers initiative was launched in Angus to disrupt and deter doorstep crime.
It is a multi-agency initiative, including trading standards, social work, neighbourhood watch, the police and many third sector partners.
Meanwhile, bosses at Angus Care and Repair have reinforced the message for people to be on their guard against bogus callers.
They said that with the arrival of better weather many people will be turning their attention to home repairs.
Care and repair manager Judith Leslie said: “Please be aware of bogus callers or unwanted tradesmen telling you what is needed as it may turn out to be unnecessary and expensive.
“There seem to be many more ‘odd job people’ trying to trade in Angus, so please make sure that they are legitimate, trained in what they say they can do, insured and recommended by someone local.
“If you are unsure of whether the work is needed or not you can get advice from Angus Care and Repair.
“An officer will visit you to check what is necessary or if you already have quotes they will look at them for you. This service is completely free of charge.
For more information about Angus Care and Repair services contact 01307 463232 or email enquiries@anguscareandrepair.org.