Residents in rural areas are being protected from doorstep crime thanks to the successful Trade Watch scheme, which deters cold callers and rouge traders from targeting isolated or vulnerable households.
The voluntary scheme was launched in 2019 as a joint initiative between the council and Humberside Police.
As part of the scheme, residents agree not to commit to any work offered on the doorstep and to report any suspicious companies or activities to the police.
Residents in rural areas can sign up to the scheme, and once they do, they receive a Trade Watch window sticker and supporting information.
Where full streets or villages take part in the scheme, street signs are available, deterring doorstep criminals before they begin.
The scheme was refreshed and given a new focus after Malcolm Fowler, Winteringham Neighbourhood watch co-ordinator, approached the council’s Safer Neighbourhoods team for help following reports of an increase in doorstep sellers in the village.
Funded by the North Lincolnshire Community Safety Partnership (CSP), a new leaflet was designed and handed to every resident and old signs replaced with a more hard-hitting message.
Since the revamp there have been no reports of vulnerable Winteringham residents falling prey to doorstep criminals.
Cllr Carl Sherwood, cabinet member for community wellbeing (rural) said: “No-one likes cold callers and Trade Watch is an important deterrent to them and to rogue traders who take advantage of vulnerable people in our rural communities.
“This can be anyone who offers to resurface your drive for you, clean your gutters or take waste to the tip.
“Trade Watch also plays an important role in helping communities look out for each other.”
Inspector Kate Duffield of Humberside Police said: “Voluntary initiatives such as the Trade Watch scheme are a huge asset to our communities and play a pivotal role in helping deter crime.
“Most importantly, they really make a difference in ensuring we are able to protect residents across the area, particularly those that are most vulnerable.
“Schemes like this really bring the community together and provide fantastic opportunities for local residents to get involved and make a difference alongside us and partnering agencies.”
The CSP includes North Lincolnshire Council, Humberside Police, Humberside Fire and Rescue, Ongo, the National Probation Service, NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB (Integrated Care Board) and the Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner.
The CSP is working with the council to extend Trade Watch and Neighbourhood Watch. If you are interested in finding out more please contact saferneighbourhoods@northlincs.gov.uk.
Pictured: Inspector Kate Duffield from Humberside Police, Malcolm Fowler from Winteringham Neighbourhood Watch, Anya Snow from Safer Neighbourhoods and CSP manager Tracey Coyne.
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