Sefton Council Warns Against Nuisance Calls

by
4th March 2016

Sefton Council is warning residents to be vigilant following a number of nuisance calls that have targeted households across the borough.

The cold callers claim that the Government has issued new regulations requiring everyone to have energy efficient boilers installed by the end of the year. However, Sefton Trading Standards have assured householders that there is no such requirements in place and urge residents to be cautious if they receive any calls of this nature.

Cllr. Paulette Lappin, Cabinet Member for Regulatory, Compliance and Corporate Services, said: “Unfortunately, it appears many cold callers are now making potentially misleading claims in order to deceive residents and potentially coerce them into purchasing goods or services.

“I would urge residents to be cautious and to check any information provided by telemarketing companies.”

Southport Cllr Simon Shaw has personally been on the receiving end of these calls and contacted Sefton Trading Standards to highlight the issue.

He added: “The worst offending company starts off their cold call with a recorded message saying that householders are required to install new boilers before the end of 2016 and then invites them to press a button on their telephone keypad to speak to somebody.

“Although there are good reasons to install energy efficient boilers it is simply incorrect to say that the Government are forcing the issue.  I very much support Cllr. Lappin’s warning.”

Residents who would like to find out information on local energy schemes and offers can contact Energy Projects Plus (a local environmental charity) by telephone on the Save Energy Advice Line 0800 043 0151 who will be able to guide residents through their energy options.

Anyone concerned about nuisance calls should contact the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office) which is responsible for the regulation of unsolicited live calls, recorded calls and texts and can take action against companies. The ICO helpline number is 0303 123 1113.

Residents who are receiving a high volume of unsolicited calls from telemarketing companies can also register for the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) by telephoning 0345 070 0707 or online at www.tpsonline.org.uk.

 

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