Cold call control zones

Launch event

A launch event will give you the opportunity to gain publicity for your zone and allow you to answer any questions that local residents may have. Make sure you have sufficient representatives, including Trading Standards present to answer any questions from local residents.

Publicise your event:

• Mention it in your consultation document to make sure everyone in the zone knows about it
• Prepare a press release and issue it to local media outlets
• Advertise on your organisation’s website and social media

This launch can also be used to hand out Residents’ Information Packs to attendees. Have a list of houses within the zone so that you can make sure everyone has a pack.

Remember that not every household in the zone will be able to attend the launch, particularly those with mobility issues.

Make sure that street signs are in place by the time you launch the zone as this will clearly identify it's boundaries and provide a photo opportunity for the media.

After the launch event

It is advised that your appointed zone champion is the person to be the first point of contact for Trading Standards. They will also make sure street signs are not damaged, replacement door stickers are made available and that new residents are informed of the zone’s operation and obtain a Residents' Information Pack. This duty could be done by a community group or Community Council.

Trading Standards will continue to monitor reported incidents of doorstep crime in the area. After the zone has been in operation for six months, we will survey residents in the area to gauge the zone's effectiveness.