Good afternoon Resident

There has been an increased number of reports relating to cold callers within the Folkestone and Hythe area. In light of this, I have conducted foot patrol several times over the last couple of weeks within the Sandgate and Folkestone West wards.

Cold callers are persons who door knock at addresses without the correct licences, they attempt to convince residents that a job needs completing, or that the goods they are selling are for charity or through a scheme. Either way, the goods or services are normally overpriced when compared to legitimate companies. The amounts charged quickly spiral and the perpetrators can become aggressive when persons refuse to pay.

The following websites are useful:

The Kent county Council website has helpful advice: Doorstep crime - Kent County Council

Trading standards checked is a site that contains vetted traders: Trading Standards Checked

Remember to always get 3 quotes, never pay up front and don’t pay by cash.

If you feel threatened or intimidated by cold callers please get yourself somewhere safe and call 999. For non-emergencies please contact us via 101 or Home | Kent Police.