BROMSGROVE residents are being called upon to support elderly and vulnerable friends and family after reports of cold calling and possible scams in the area.
A scheme to deter cold callers and rogue traders is in place across the district and the council’s Community Safety Team is urging more residents to sign up and work with their neighbours to ward off doorstep criminals.
After receiving a number of reports from areas with known vulnerable or elderly residents, the council is encouraging more people to be part of the Nominated Neighbour scheme.
The project deters scam callers who do not want to have their identity checked.
Nominated Neighbour uses bright yellow window stickers to show potential house callers that they will only be seen if accompanied by a known and trusted person and after their identity has been verified by that other person.
Coun Margaret Sherrey, Bromsgrove District Council’s portfolio holder for community safety, said: “Some con artists and rogue traders will knock on doors to see if they can bamboozle someone, often leaving the householder out of pocket and shaken up.
“These criminals are the lowest of the low, preying on vulnerable people but as those already using Nominated Neighbour know, this scheme can give cold callers the cold shoulder.
“If you think it could be right for you or someone you know, then why not get in touch.
“It’s free, and our Community Safety team can also offer guidance and support.”
Visit nwcsp.org/help-and-advice/nominated-neighbour-scheme.aspx for more information on the Nominated Neighbour Scheme.
