:: press release ::

Tuesday July 08, 2008

ROSS SUPPORTS ‘QUICK CHECK’ SCHEME 
 

East Antrim MLA Alastair Ross has given his support to the Quick Check scheme which is now operational in the Newtownabbey area of his constituency, and aims to give peace of mind to residents concerned about bogus callers and distraction burglars.  
 

Mr Ross said that whilst the vast majority of people who call at your door will be genuine, there are rising numbers of bogus callers who aim to target the frail or elderly. Quick Check is a free telephone number that residents can call to check that those calling at their doors claiming to be representing charities are real.  
 

Commenting after a meeting of Twinburn Residents Association in Newtownabbey on Wednesday night the DUP representative said,  
 

“It is important that we do not create fear among residents, but unfortunately there are those who would try and exploit our elderly, posing as reputable charity collectors and then forcing their way into someone’s home.  
 

‘Quick Check’ is a scheme which is now operational in the Newtownabbey area, and by phoning the free phone number (0800 013 22 90), concerned residents can speak to an operator who will check whether someone claiming to represent a charity is actually genuine. If the person at the door is genuine, they will wait and not be offended.  
 

The operator checks with the company on your behalf and if they believe there is anything suspicious going on they will contact the local PSNI immediately.  
 

Everyone, irrespective of age or gender, should be taking basic precautions anyway, such as keeping their doors locked, using a door chain and ensuring that they know who is at the door before opening it. This scheme should help to deter those aiming to exploit people and give residents increased peace of mind.  
 

Anyone in the Newtownabbey area who is seeking additional information should contact my office on 9332 9980 and I will send them out some information and a convenient sticker with the free quick check  phone number that can be stuck on the back of your telephone. 
 

If this scheme is a success then I would encourage the PSNI and their partners to roll it out across the Province.”