OFFICERS from Shropshire Council’s public protection team are joining forces with trading standards teams and police forces from Shropshire and across the West Midlands from this week in a regional campaign that aims to stop rogue traders targeting the vulnerable and elderly.
Operation Rogue Trader started with Rogue Trader Day on Wednesday, and is followed by a month of activities during May and June to help protect the public and businesses from unscrupulous and bogus tradespeople.
Automati c Number Plate Recognition technology was also used across the county on Rogue Trader Day, and the information gathered will be used to help limit and disrupt the activities of bogus traders in Shropshire and neighbouring counties. Information about activities during the remainder of Operation Rogue Trader will be announced shortly.
David Edwards, head of the public protection team, said: “Intelligence suggests that rogue traders continue to target vulnerable residents in their homes. Doorstep crime can affect our own parents, grandparents or neighbours so we are asking people to be aware, particularly as the evenings are now getting lighter and more people consider having work done on their homes rather than moving.
“By ensuring that our officers and the police work closely together, this campaign will help us to crack down on these unscrupulous trades people who often leave their victims feeling helpless, ashamed and often paying out substantial amounts of money for unnecessary or substandard work.
“This work continues year round, but by highlighting the problem over the next month it is hoped that we get clear messages to the public – ultimately if you suspect it – report it.”
Anyone wanting to report a suspected rogue trader is advised to contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06, the regional Government-funded helpline supported by Shropshire Council.