Vulnerable people can nominate a neighbour to help them deal with callers at the door. A nominated neighbour pack is available from your co-ordinator, NW Liaison Officer, or Trading Standards. The elderly and vulnerable often need help in assessing if a caller is genuine. As a result, the Metropolitan Police launched the Nominated Neighbour Scheme; this means that a vulnerable home owner does not need to answer the door to a stranger, they can simply hold up a card requesting the caller to attend their 'nominated neighbour' who will confirm their identity and return with them if appropriate.

The Metropolitan Police Service continues to work with the community to provide a proactive response to curb doorstep crime by providing:

• Guidance in dealing with callers at the door
• Advice on door security
• Advice to users of Lifeline Alarms
• Information packs including door stickers
• Nominated Neighbour Scheme

With plausible identity cards too easy to produce, it is no longer adequate to take a quick glance at identity cards and be satisfied that a caller is who they say they are.

Do not agree to any work being done, or sign anything until you've discussed it with family, friends or neighbours. Bogus callers can pose as builders or gardeners and try to trick you into paying for unnecessary work. Never agree to this and always get at least two quotes from reputable companies, you can check with the local Trading Standards office for genuine companies.

If in doubt keep them out!