Warning as rogue traders impersonate council staff

Rogue traders have impersonated council staff to tell elderly and vulnerable people repairs are needed to their homes, particularly roofing work, an authority said.

The Safer Redditch Partnership warned people to be alert after a rise in doorstep crime and tradespeople scams across the Worcestershire town.

Criminals have targeted the elderly, using high-pressure tactics to gain entry or take money, including pretending to be from Redditch Borough Council.

The council said anyone genuinely working for it would carry ID and be happy to confirm their department or an officer contact, and would wait if needed while their identity was confirmed.

Councillor Ian Cresswell said anyone with concerns about someone working on a property should report them to Citizens Advice, who worked with Trading Standards.

He said advice was never to agree to having work done by a cold-caller, get at least three quotes from different people, take time to make an informed decision and use a reputable company.

Vulnerable people can ask a trusted neighbour to speak on their behalf under the free Nominated Neighbour scheme.

Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.