400 Basingstoke Homes Give Cold Callers The Cold Shoulder

Hampshire County Council is now supporting over 400 households keep potential rogue traders away, with the introduction of two new ‘No Cold Calling Zones’ in the Basingstoke district.

The County Council’s Trading Standards and Hampshire Constabulary recognise that most cold callers represent legitimate companies, yet the hard, pressurised selling tactics adopted by a minority of unscrupulous callers can often be intimidating for householders, particularly the elderly and vulnerable.

Discouraging Rogue Traders

‘No Cold Calling Zones’ are aimed at discouraging rogue traders from approaching people living in the zone and give residents the confidence to say ‘no’ to people seeking business at their doorsteps. They are not meant to stop legitimate callers such as charities, the local Avon representative, councillors or MPs, but to deter people who are unknown to the residents, from seeking work that is often overpriced and/or unnecessary.

The latest zones cover 57 homes in Southington and 196 homes in Whitchurch. They are the result of a partnership with Hampshire County Council Trading Standards and Community Safety Services, the police, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Whitchurch Town Council, Overton Parish Council and Neighbourhood Watch.

Packs For Residents

Residents living in the areas are all being given special No Cold Calling Zone packs, containing information about the zone, consumer advice and information on cancellation rights. Also included are window stickers, telling visitors that cold callers are not welcome, and a copy of the new and improved ‘Buy With Confidence’ directory of traders approved by Trading Standards. The directory now contains information on over 500 organisations from more than 100 different trades.

Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Ken Thornber, said:

“No Cold Calling Zones have been helping thousands of households see a significant reduction in the number of cold calls they receive, and there are now zones covering 5,360 households across every Hampshire district. Each zone has been specially selected to have the most impact based on local knowledge and positive support from residents. This sends out a firm message that rogue traders and distraction burglars are not welcome in Hampshire.”

To report any concerns regarding cold callers phone Hampshire Constabulary on 0845 045 45 45 and ask to be put through to your local police station or contact the Trading Standards Quick Response team on 08454 04 05 06. Advice on dealing with cold callers can be found online.