Stop doorstep con-men

AN action group has been set up to stop bogus officials and burglars sneaking into Oldham homes.

The aim is to distinguish honest traders from crooks, and prevent distraction burglaries.

The Oldham Doorstep Crime Action Group has been set up to make people aware of the dangers and how to avoid them. The group is also responsible for making sure people know their rights about cold calling and doorstep selling.

Bad practices include pressure selling, unfair contracts, overpriced or substandard home maintenance or improvements, phoney consumer surveys and bogus charity collections.

Cabinet Member for People and Communities, Councillor Rod Blyth, said: “The distraction type of burglar or bogus official will quite often target the elderly and more vulnerable members of our society. It is important that people follow the simple advice and look out for our elderly and vulnerable neighbours. No one should be made to feel like a victim in their own home. Studies inform us that only 10 per cent of these types of crimes are reported due to people feeling embarrassed, fearful or the worried about the possibility of losing their independence.

“However I would urge residents to report any incident so that we can build up a better picture of what is happening.

“If everyone follows the ‘lock, stop, chain and check’ advice then we will all be much safer. Remember. if in doubt keep them out.”


Four-point action plan

Lock your front and back doors, even when at home, and remove the keys.

Stop and think if you are expecting anyone. Look through the spy-hole or the window to see who it is.

Chain: make sure you use the door chain or bar when opening the door to a stranger and keep it on while you talk to them.

Check: ask for and check identity cards. Call the company they say they are from using the phone directory. Don’t call the number on the ID card — it may be fake.