Rogue Trader Week operation

CARMARTHENSHIRE’S Trading Standards team joined with Dyfed Powys Police to undertake a large-scale exercise during Rogue Trader Awareness Week.

Large areas of the county were covered, particularly in known problem areas of Llwynhendy, Bryn and Llangennech in Llanelli, with more than 820 homes visited.

Residents were advised about doorstep crime and handed advice packs so they know what to look out for and what they should do if they answer the door to a cold caller.

Trading Standards officers and police also used the opportunity to gather information and intelligence, discovering that the majority of cold callers in Carmarthenshire are people touting for building work.

Alongside the Rogue Traders Week operation, Trading Standards teams have been busy visiting communities, giving scams awareness talks to groups and speaking to people who have complained about rogue traders.

People are being advised to stay on their guard, to always think twice about agreeing to pay for goods or services on their doorstep, and to check out Carmarthenshire’s Registered Traders Scheme if they need to employ someone to help with DIY, gardening or cleaning.

Cllr Jim Jones, Executive Board Member for Public Protection, said: “Our officers covered large areas of the county during and after Rogue Trader Awareness Week, but particularly concentrated their efforts in known hotspots for doorstep crime where cold callers have recently visited.

“We were pleased to be working with the police to raise awareness and gather intelligence which will help us stay one step ahead of rogue traders.

“If someone turns up on your doorstep trying to sell you goods, or claiming they can undertake building or maintenance work on your behalf, always think twice before agreeing or parting with money. If in doubt, call police or trading standards for advice.”

Inspector Jolene Mann of Dyfed Powys Police said: “From dealing with victims of rogue trading, police officers see first-hand the distress and upset this type of incident can cause. By working with our partners in Carmarthenshire Council we’ve been able to offer advice and support to people in our communities who are vulnerable to this type of crime, which will hopefully prevent others from becoming a victim.”

For further advice and information from Carmarthenshire Trading Standards call 01267 234567 or email tradingstandards@carmarthenshire.gov.uk.

• Report suspicious behaviour to police immediately on 101.

Protect yourself from becoming a victim:

• If in doubt, keep them out
• Don’t sign on the spot
• Always ask for an identity card and look up the organisation to check the salesperson’s identity is correct
• Don’t get taken in by sales banter or high pressure selling techniques
• Always shop around for the best price
• Read the small print and double check the facts
• Talk to someone you trust for a second opinion
• Avoid handing over money before work is started
• Think very carefully before you agree to a trader starting any work straight away
• Trust your instincts – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
• And finally … it’s okay to say NO. Remember it’s your doorstep and your decision. If you feel pressured for any reason ask the person to leave

Pic caption: From left, Sgt Rhian Curtis and PCSO Alan Davies with Carmarthenshire County Council Trading Standards officers Kayleigh Phillips, Quita Davies and Viv Jones.