05 July 2009The first areas in the District to launch a new initiative aimed at giving residents the confidence to say no to uninvited door step traders are set to be unveiled next week.
Brasted and Sundridge are set to become the first ever “Cold Calling Control Zones” in the District when the scheme is launched at Brasted Pavillion at 12.30pm on Monday 19 May.
A Cold Calling Control Zone is an area which seeks to deter people from calling on residents face-to-face, at their doors, without having first made an appointment. It also warns cold callers that they are being watched.
The control zone will be highlighted through the use of signs placed on lampposts in the area indicating that doorstep selling is not welcome, and will run in current Neighbourhood Watch areas.
Residents will also be given leaflets and door stickers that explain what is expected and what they can do to reduce the risk from bogus callers or rogue traders.
The scheme is being introduced by West Kent Neighbourhood Watch in partnership with Sevenoaks District Community Safety Partnership, West Kent Police, Kent Trading Standards and Kent County Council Community Wardens.
Cllr Keith Loney, Sevenoaks District Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for community safety, says: "These zones help people feel safer and more secure in their homes. It encourages the community to look out for vulnerable residents, especially older people and is a proven and effective measure in the fight against doorstop crimes. I am delighted that we have been able to work with West Kent Neighbourhood Watch to introduce them."
Cold calling is not a criminal offence, however it is never wise for people to open their door to anyone they do not know or were not expecting. For further advice on dealing with cold callers talk to Kent County Council Community Wardens or Police Community Support Officers.
Information is also available on the community safety section of Sevenoaks District Council website.
