Remember me? I did some work on your House…..

Does this sound familiar? Between December 2007 and mid April, 19 elderly and vulnerable people across Portsmouth paid men for work on their properties that was never actually done.

Police and Portsmouth City Council are Working to catch the people responsible. You can help ensure that you or someone you know does not become the next victim,

• If you are approached in the street or at home and asked to pay for work on your house, NEVER hand over any cash. If the person is genuine they will be able to post you an invoice.
• Have a chain or spy hole fitted to your front door to see visitors, and if you are not expecting  them always ask to see identification.
• If someone asks you for payment for work done on your house, report them to police as soon as possible and give as many details as you can.
• If you have a neighbour, friend or relative who is elderly or vulnerable keep an eye out for them and report any suspicious visitors to their address
• Do not assume that any trades people approaching you or coming to your door are genuine. If they do not have ID and you are not comfortable speaking to them shut the door or walk away.

If you, a relative or neighbour has someone at your property requesting money for work call 999 immediately, or if you have any information which may assist in identifying offenders please call the Burglary Unit at Southsea police station on

0845 045 45 45.

Safer Portsmouth Parnership