Warning over cold callers
20 July 2011 by Paul Rhoades
The council and local trading standards have said that they are very concerned about the number of complaints they have received in the Scunthorpe and North Lincolnshire area regarding cold callers offering will writing services.
Callers are typically targeting older citizens and while "legal speak" is difficult enough to understand, the sales staff are reportedly using scare tactics to pressurise people into agreeing and closing the deal on the spot.
In a press release from the council released earlier today, Cllr Nigel Sherwood, cabinet member for Highways and Neighbourhoods said:
“North Lincolnshire Council Trading Standards has received 13 complaints, including one yesterday, since February this year where people have been paid between £1,200 and £2,000 for legal service that have not been provided.
If you think you might have been conned in this way report the company to Consumer Direct on 08454 040506."
It would appear that callers to residential properties unnecessarily frighten people telling them that their assets will have to be spent on care for them and then claim to offer advice on how this can be avoided.
Residents have reported that callers promise people cut price wills, storage of wills, lasting power of attorney and property trusts but the service offered reportedly fails to materialise.
Within the town there are many solicitors offering these services at very reasonable rates (from as little as £50 for a will), and with any door step caller, residents should remember to never give them any money on the spot and that there is a 7 day cooling off period for doorstep sales under the consumer protection legislation.
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