Residents in Hedge End’s first No Cold Calling Zone are saying the introduction of the scheme is already showing results, with a reduction in the number of cold callers to their homes.

The scheme is an initiative set up between Hampshire County Council’s Trading Standards and Hampshire Constabulary to help reduce doorstep crime. Signs advertising the area as a No Cold Calling Zone are displayed aiming to put off rogue traders and bogus callers from approaching homeowners in the area.

In March signs went up in half of Granada Road, part of St Johns Road, Church Lane, Waters Edge, Oak Tree Gardens and New Cliff Gardens. Police Community Support Officer for Hedge End Tracey Chilcott contacted the council about setting up a zone after four elderly residents complained about the number of cold callers who were visiting their properties.

 PCSO Chilcott said: “We wanted to stop bogus callers and distraction burglars targeting and taking advantage of elderly or vulnerable residents who might not have the confidence to say no to them at the door. Setting up this zone has empowered the residents, making it easier for them to turn unexpected callers away.

 “Everyone has been really happy with the zone. The signs went up in March and many of the residents have said that they have already noticed a drop in the number of cold callers visiting their homes. The Safer Neighbourhoods team works hard to protect all members of the community and we hope that this zone has made residents feel safer and more confident in their homes.”

Residents are also given No Cold Calling Zone stickers to display on their doors and in windows and receive an information pack containing advice on crime prevention.

Resident Geraldine Luscombe said:  “It’s a jolly good idea and I’m pleased that it has been set up.”

Town Councillor Valerie Houghton agreed adding: “The Town Council are really happy to support this initiative.” 

 Zones have also been set up in Hamble and Botley and one is being planned for West End.

It ‘s not illegal to cold call even in No Cold Calling Zones but the signs have been shown to have a deterrence factor.

Police are also reminding residents that if someone does knock at the door with a legitimate reason to ask for appropriate ID before letting anyone in.

Their message is ’If in doubt, keep them out!’

If you’d like your area to become a No Cold Calling Zone, you can contact the police at Hedge End, Trading Standards, Eastleigh Borough Council’s Community Safety team or Hedge End's Town Clerk.

And if you live in Hedge End’s first No Cold Calling Zone let Hedgeendpeople know what you think of the scheme!

Or if you have any thoughts generally on the effectiveness of setting up No Cold Calling Zones then we’d like to hear them too!