Cold Callers Could Soon Get The Cold Shoulder In Parts of Ilkley

Cold callers could soon be given the cold shoulder in parts of Ilkley through Police and Trading Standards plans to tell them they are no longer wanted.

The Ilkley Neighbourhood Policing Team and West Yorkshire Trading Standards are asking residents if they want to set up a Cold Calling Control Zone.

Residents are being consulted about the proposal which would see a zone set up across 15 streets on the Grove Park Estate to be monitored by the NPT and by Trading Standards officers.

The scheme itself would be paid for by cash recovered from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act and would see officers set up signs and distribute window stickers to participating residents warning cold callers not to approach their properties.

Police and partners have decided to propose the scheme in response to a number of instances of cold calling in Ilkley this year and to several crimes involving fraudulent traders and distraction burglars.

While the majority of cold callers trying to sell products such as double glazing or roofing may be genuine, the technique can also be often used by thieves to trick their way into houses claiming to be from utilities companies.

Officers have stressed the cold calling zone would only be intended to put off opportunists and thieves rather than reputable trades and salesmen.

Inspector Sue Sanderson of The Ilkley Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “While we have not had a significant issue with distraction burglaries in Ilkley some burglaries of this kind have been reported through cold calling by bogus officials.
“Cold calling, even when legitimate, can also be very intimidating for more elderly residents so we hope this proposed zone will be positively received.
“If any residents became aware of individuals or companies persistently breaching the Cold Calling zone they could contact us here at the NPT.”

Adding that the NPT was consulting with residents, the Inspector said the zone was not intended to affect local traders.

“This initiative is not intended to threaten local traders such as window cleaners and milkmen who can always put leaflets through the door, without attracting any complaints. What we want to do is help give those who may be vulnerable to pushy sales tactics the confidence to say ‘no,” she added.

Graham Hebblethwaite, Chief Officer of Trading Standards, said “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.

“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 registered trader scheme”

For further information on Cold Calling Control Zones please visit http://www.ts.wyjs.org.uk/wyjs-trading-doorstep-crime.asp

To report incidents of doorstep crime or cold calling in your area, or to enquire about setting up a zone please call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506