Help to beat rogue traders

The scheme is run by Central Bedfordshire Council’s Trading Standards team as a way of cracking down on rogue traders and cold callers.

People signing up to the scheme are the first point of contact for elderly and vulnerable people in their neighbourhood. If someone knocks at the door unexpectedly, they are directed to talk to the Nominated Neighbour rather than the householder having to open the door.

Councillor Brian Spurr, Executive Member for Community Services, said: “We’ve already had a very positive response since launching the Nominated Neighbour scheme last year, but we’d still like more people to put themselves forward.

“It’s as simple as filling out a postcard with your details and then that will be supplied to anyone in your area who has asked for help.

“Our Trading Standards team are always on hand to offer support and information.

“With 170,000 instances of doorstep crime occurring nationally each year, this is another way in which we are cracking down on rogue traders making a quick profit in return for carrying our poor-quality, unnecessary and overpriced repairs.”

For more information email [email protected]

Anyone who has been targeted by a rogue doorstep trader can also call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 04 05 06.