New Forest District Council has been made aware that several residents in the district have received cold calls from two individuals claiming to be working with the council on the Solent Green Deal scheme and asking for householders’ details.
Reports so far have been from the Lyndhurst area. These individuals are not representing the council or Solent Green Deal. Neither the council nor Solent Green Deal use cold callers to promote schemes or services and all NFDC staff working on council business carry formal identification with them.
Residents who receive a cold call like this are asked to report it to the Police by telephoning 101. The police will share information with Hampshire Trading Standards. Concerned householders can also contact Hampshire Trading Standards Quick Response Team for further advice, Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm, on 01962 833666.
Anyone who encounters the bogus cold callers is encouraged to note as much information as they can to provide to the police and Trading Standards, such as the company name given by the callers, descriptions of the individuals or a vehicle registration.
Local people are urged to remain vigilant for individuals cold calling in their area and to keep a lookout for elderly or vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours.
Cllr Jill Cleary, New Forest District Council portfolio holder for housing and communities, advised: “Legitimate cold callers will carry identification, so always examine it carefully. Do not allow anyone into your home whom you are unsure of and do not give any personal details or sign up to any work on the doorstep.”
Solent Green Deal is a scheme developed for Hampshire residents by local authorities and supported by New Forest District Council, which can help people to make energy improvements to their homes. Solent Green Deal only works with a list of approved contractors and would not employ cold callers. For details of the scheme and approved contractors visit solentgreendeal.org.uk or call freephone 0800 052 2242.
