Lincs: A multi-agency has been formed to crackdown on rogue traders throughout the county

Lincolnshire Trading Standards, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the Environment Agency and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have been joining forces with Lincolnshire Police to crack down on rogue trading in the county.
Rogue TradersRogue Traders
Rogue Traders

The multi-agency approach saw teams comprising members of staff from each organisation, combing the county, seeking out rogue traders and having different agencies with various responsibilities allowed effective and swift action to be taken against those who flout the law.

Working together with all the agencies relevant allowed Lincs Police to form a one stop shop enforcement team to help prevent any potential offenders from slipping through the net.

A Day of Action was held on Wednesday 9th April and this involved two check points set up on either side of the county with representatives from the above mentioned agencies.

Det Insp Andy Beaver for Lincs Police urged people to help the operation by reporting any suspicious activity.

He said: “Rogue traders target the most vulnerable in our community using underhand tactics.”

“You might not necessarily fall for them yourself but it might be that your elderly neighbour or relative could.”

“That’s why we want people to report any suspicions about anyone living or working in your neighbourhood.”

“Your call could save further people from falling victim.”

“Alarm bells should ring if a caller suggests work that you don’t think you need or does not agree a set price for the work.”

“If you say you don’t have the cash to pay, a rogue trader may well persuade you to go to an ATM with them. A reputable tradesperson would never do this.”

“These people have no scruples and when you consider that it is the most vulnerable people who fall victim, we hope you won’t need any further incentive to pick up the phone and report any suspicions you may have.”

“It will help us to investigate if you make notes on the appearance and clothing of the suspect and take down any details of their vehicle.”

For more information visit www.adviceguide.org.uk or call the Citizens Advice helpline on 0845 04 05 06 or for more information about the campaign visit www.oft.gov.uk/doorstepselling.