Police and Trading Standards are concerned about reports that young men are attempting to sell household supplies such as tea-towels and dusters etc by knocking at homes in the Borough and claiming they are recently out of prison and trying to make a living.
The goods are of poor quality but some householders are convinced to make a donation because the men claim this is part of a Probation Service initiative to help them stay on the straight and narrow.
The Probation Service do NOT run such initiatives.
If you get a visit from such individuals, who will usually have a large black bag with them containing the goods, you are reminded that you do not have to open the door to anyone and if you do, keep the door chain on. If you do not wish to look at the goods or speak to the person just say that you do not deal with anyone at doorstep and shut your door. Do not engage them in conversation.
Please make a note of the person’s appearance, any accent, and any distinguishing clothing and telephone the Police non-emergency number, 101, to report the matter.
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I have met several of these young men over the years on the doorstep and I have been convinced that they work for indiviudals who are taking advantage of them by getting them to sell these very poor quality goods (which cost ‘nothing’ to make) and taking half of the proceeds.
I find it odd to believe that there is a network of them doing this for themselves and taking all the proceeds.
Is there any way that this can be investigated further?