Security event to highlight the dangers of doorstep crime

Date published: 27/05/2006

A unique security event to highlight the dangers of doorstep crime has been organised by Rochdale police, Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council and the Rochdale Safer Communities Partnership.

Called "Feeling Good, Keeping Safe’, the security event takes the form of a play, performed by The Feeling Good Theatre Company. It features a series of short sketches focusing on doorstep crime and contains key messages and tips on how to keep safe in the home.

The play takes place on Thursday, 29 June at 2pm to 3.30pm in Rochdale Town Hall. It is free, and open to all. Goody bags packed with useful crime prevention information will be handed out to everyone who attends.

Bogus caller crime, or doorstep crime, continues to be a problem in Rochdale and the surrounding areas. Criminals operate by trying to trick householders out of money or valuables. They often pose as utility, council, police or charity workers. Or they may try to panic householders by claiming there is something wrong with the water or gas supply, or that they need to use the telephone urgently.  Some bogus callers may offer to do home repairs or ask to come in to show products they are selling.

Nicola Oldham, Divisional Watch Administrator, based at Rochdale, said: "Older, vulnerable people are often targeted by criminals. This is a despicable crime, with the typical victim being around 80 years of age.

"However, a good deal of doorstep crime could be prevented if residents were more aware of "doorstep etiquette".  We hope this event, in its own unique way,  will encourage local people to be more assertive when dealing with cold callers. We want it to be informative - but a lot of fun too."

The "Feeling Good Keeping Safe’ theatre event is free, however tickets must be obtained in advance. For further details contact Nicola Oldham on 0161 856 8480.