Tackling Doorstep Crime

170, 000 incidents of doorstep crime are recorded nationally every year.

A new campaign has been launched to tackle rogue traders who commonly pose as tradesmen charging high prices for sub-standard work.

'Good Neighbours Stop Rogue Traders' is encouraging us all to look out for those around us, particularly the vulnerable who are commonly targetted.

TSI Chief Executive Leon Livermore, said: "This campaign gives power back to communities that have been blighted by rogue traders and prevents those most at risk from becoming victims of doorstep crime. 

"While trading standards officers strive to track down and prosecute rogue traders, community intervention is the first step in preventing detriment caused by doorstep crime. The 'Good Neighbours Stop Rogue Traders' campaign highlights the impact community-spirit and the goodness of neighbours, friends and relatives can have in making Britain a safer place."

Dawn Adamson, Lead Trading Standards Officer Fife Council said:

"We are working to stop Fifers becoming victims of doorstep crime but we need neighbours to report any suspicious activity. Look for the signs of an unwanted doorstep caller such as: cold callers in the area, unexpected work starts at a neighbour's property, poor quality work is visible, or your neighbour appears anxious or distressed.

"If you suspect problems report it by calling the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06 and if you have concerns about your neighbours safety call the police."

The Good Neighbours Stop Rogue Traders campaign is a partnership between Fife Council, the Trading Standards Institute (TSI), Citizens Advice and Trading Standards Scotland. 

Norma Philpott, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice and Rights Fife, said: 

"Rogue traders bring misery to thousands of households. It’s disgraceful that some traders rip people off on their own doorstep. Staff and volunteers at Citizens Advice and Rights Fife already help victims of these crimes, but preventing con artists from doing damage in the first place is crucial. 

"We'll continue to work closely with Trading Standards and other organisations across Fife to crack down on illegal practices, bring rogue traders to justice and help victims to move on. We want people to be on the lookout for doorstep crime in their community to help stop neighbours falling foul of rogues."