A number of residents in Northamptonshire have been in touch with Northamptonshire County Council after being targeted by cold callers, who knock on doors in the areas and then take a ‘hard sell’ approach which often leads residents into situations where they make a purchase because they feel pressured into it.
The Council has now introduced a new scheme called ‘Buy With Confidence’ that vets traders and in turn, gives local people the peace of mind that they are working with a trusted professional who will not pressure them into buying goods or services.
The cabinet member for environment is Ben Smith. He commented on this new initiative to reduce the amount of pressure put on local people by cold callers, saying:
“Our advice is always very clear – don’t buy goods or services from someone who cold calls at your door. Our simple message, which is supported by Northamptonshire Police, is: if you’re not sure don’t open the door. If you do wish to have work done on your property, we recommend you use the Buy With Confidence scheme, which is operated by trading standards. Traders who are part of the scheme are stringently vetted and continuously monitored for legal compliance.”
The Council has also produced printed materials to help support the crack-down on rogue cold callers, by producing stickers and leaflets using flyer printing. Northampton residents can obtain a copy of these by contacting Trading Standards.