Doorstep traders target old and disabled

 

And Powys County Council’s Trading Standards Service is encouraging people to be wary and understand their rights when buying mobility aids from doorstep traders.

 

It says that last year, Consumer Direct received 4,500 calls from people complaining or asking advice about mobility aids. And an Office of Fair Trading Report published last month found that elderly and disabled customers who are subject to high pressure sales techniques from doorstep traders can pay high prices for mobility aids.

 

Cllr Geraint Hopkins, Cabinet Member for Environment and Regulation, said: “With so many different mobility products available, it can be difficult to know whether you’re buying the right item and what price you should be paying. It’s important that people aren’t pressurised into making a hasty decision that could leave them out of pocket or with an item that’s not what they need.

 

“We want our residents to have the confidence to say no if they’re unsure about what’s being offered or want to take the time to discuss their needs with a family member, friend or trusted healthcare professional.”

 

Mywelshpool has teamed up with the Office of Fair Trading to provide the following advice:

 

- Think twice before you buy and if you are made to feel under pressure to make a purchase, have the confidence to say no

 

- Be wary of time-limited or exclusive offers that need to be signed on the spot this can be a high pressure sales tactic

 

- Double check the facts. Do you fully understand the costs and know whether it includes extras like installation, on-going serving charges or warranties?

 

- Always shop around to compare products and prices.

 

- Talk to someone you trust for a second opinion.

 

- If you spend more than £35 with a trader on the doorstep, you usually have seven days in which to cancel (subject to certain conditions)