Saying NO to doorstep callers

Thankfully 'doorstep crimes' like distraction burglary and other crimes associated with cold calling are rare. Cold Calling Controlled Zones are a way of discouraging cold calling and preventing residents becoming a victim of this kind of crime.

The zones encourage residents to collectively say 'No' to the practice of cold calling and report people who breach the residents wishes not to be cold called to trading standards or the police. A particular benefit of the zones is that they can reduce the concern felt by some householders when the doorbell rings and the caller is unknown.

The zones are visibly identifiable by signs attached to lamp posts and by each participant displaying a sticker stating 'say no to doorstep callers' in a prominent position. If an unwanted cold caller knocks on the door, a card explaining 'I do not deal with uninvited doorstep callers' can be shown

Surveys have shown that over 95% of residents do not want traders knocking on their doors. In Cold Calling Controlled Zones, traders who are known, or who have made prior arrangements are welcome as normal.

If you feel you live or know of an area which may benefit from a zone, please ring the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06 or visit the Citizens Advice Consumer website. Please provide details of the location and the reason for nomination.

We are currently consulting residents of the streets listed below about the possibility of introducing a cold calling controlled zone into these areas :

Anyone wishing his or her views to be taken into consideration during the consultation process please email trading.standards@york.gov.uk. We would also welcome the views of businesses that may be affected by the implementation of the zones.

Current Cold Calling Controlled Zones in your ward can be viewed using the links below :

• Acomb Ward
• Bishopthorpe Ward
• Clifton Ward
• Derwent Ward
• Dringhouses and Woodthorpe Ward
• Fishergate Ward
• Fulford Ward
• Guildhall Ward
• Haxby and Wigginton Ward
• Heslington Ward
• Heworth Ward
• Heworth without Ward
• Holgate Ward
• Hull Road Ward
• Huntington and New Earswick Ward
• Micklegate Ward
• Osbaldwick Ward
• Rural West York Ward
• Skelton, Rawcliffe and Clifton Without Ward
• Strensall Ward
• Westfield Ward
• Wheldrake Ward