No Cold Calling!

Residents in parts of Gosport, Itchen Abbas and Andover are receiving help in the battle against rogue traders with the introduction of new ‘No Cold Calling Zones’.

Hampshire County Council Trading Standards and Hampshire Police 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.

No Cold Calling Zones

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 or the local Avon representative, but to deter people who are unknown to the residents, from seeking work that is often overpriced and/or unnecessary.

Help For Hampshire 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 Trading Standards approved traders. The directory now contains information on over 500 organisations from more than 100 different trades.

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 at the Trading Standards.