Good neighbours stop rogue traders
Neighbours, family, friends and carers are being encouraged to be extra vigilant and look out for those in their communities most at risk from rogue traders, during National Consumer Week.
Rogue traders exploit vulnerable people by convincing them to pay for shoddy or incomplete repair work, charge extortionate fees for their services, or threaten those who do not comply.
Hackney Council trading standards makes sure that there is fair and safe trading in Hackney and protects the interests of consumers and businesses. They can answer consumer queries and give advice on rights and entitlements.
To avoid becoming a victim of a scam trading standards advise:
• Don't agree to repair works being done on the spot - always shop around
•Avoid handing over money to someone before the work is started
• Never agree to go to the bank with the trader to get money out
• Always read documents carefully before you sign them
• Don’t be afraid to say NO.
During National Consumer Week, 3 to 7 November Hackney Council’s trading standards team will be visiting an elderly lunch group where they will act out doorstep scenarios, and talk about the best ways to avert a potentially dangerous situation.
Preventing doorstep crime is one of the focuses of The 'Good neighbours stop rogue traders' campaign, a partnership with local councils the Trading Standards Institute (TSI), Citizens Advice and the National Trading Standards Board.
Trading standards also deals with the prevention of underage sales; such as alcohol, tobacco, fireworks and knives; weights and measures; making sure unsafe goods such as toys, furniture and cosmetics are not being sold in shops in Hackney.
For advice or to report a trader contact Hackney Council’s trading standards on: 0208 356 4929 or email: trading.standards@hackney.gov.uk