Do you know someone who may be vulnerable to being targeted at home by rogue traders or criminals who use distraction methods to gain entry to the property? Vigilant neighbours can make all the difference to the safety of those who may not feel able to raise the alarm themselves, including older people and those that live alone.

HOW DOES THE NOMINATED NEIGHBOUR CARD SCHEME WORK?

You volunteer to be your vulnerable neighbour’s nominated contact, in the event of them being visited by an unexpected caller. Your neighbour does not have to speak to the caller on the doorstep themselves but instead holds up at the window a specially designed card which clearly directs them to go to your address as their Nominated Neighbour. As the Nominated Neighbour, you should then verify the caller’s credentials. Genuine callers will not mind following the instructions on the card. Suspected rogue traders should be reported to Oxfordshire County Council’s Trading Standards team on 01865 895999 or online at https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/ as well as to police.

The card has a list of useful telephone numbers (including Trading Standards) on the rear, as well as space to add your own.

WHERE DO I GET A CARD FROM?

You can request a card by emailing your nearest Neighbourhood Policing Team (please include your name and the delivery address):

– In Bicester and surrounding area: bicestertownnhpt@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk

– Banbury and surrounding area: banburytownnhpt@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk

– Kidlington and surrounding area: kidlingtonnhpt@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk

You can also request a card from the Community Safety Team at Cherwell District Council by phoning 01295 221824 or emailing community.safety@cherwell-dc.gov.uk.

(The content for this post is provided by Neighbourhood Alert/ Thames Valley Police/ Police Community Safety Team)