Doorstep traders warning in Dumfries and Galloway

Dumfries and Galloway Trading Standards, is warning people of unscrupulous traders that sell mobility aids on the doorstep.
Mobility aids are products that are used by older or disabled people such as mobility scooters, wheelchairs, and walk-in baths. These items are often sold to vulnerable people in their home. Consumer Direct, the Office of Fair Trading managed advice service, attracts a large number of calls from people complaining or asking for advice about mobility aids.
Trading Standards has found that bogus businesses sell mobility aid products to people in their home to secure a deal. These rogue traders often use a range of persuasive and emotional tactics to secure a fast sale and con people out of their money, for example you are made to feel that there is a great urgency in the offer and that if you don't sign up now, you will miss out.
Trading Standards say that "Mobility aids are important products for older and disabled people, which can significantly improve the quality of their lives. For many, they are an absolute necessity. Our aim is to support our consumers in Dumfries and Galloway to become more aware of the risks of doorstep sellers and the tricks they use to get you to agree to buy products that you may be able to purchase at a cheaper price. We want people to have the courage to refuse making on the spot decisions about buying costly mobility aids that they could get cheaper."
Trading Standards offers the following advice on how people can avoid being scammed by rogue doorstep traders selling mobility aids:

Do not make snap decisions. Take time to talk to someone you trust before you make a decision.
Shop around. Compare pricing and information on the various options available to you so that you are not over-charged.
Even if you invite a trader into your home, you should still be on your guard. Consider asking a friend or family member to be with you when the trader visits you in the home.
For advice on doorstep selling, please contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 or visit their website.