Beware of Medequip cold callers

The bogus callers have been calling at houses over the last two weeks offering to service medical equipment and then asking for payment.

Medequip is a genuine company which provides an equipment loan service throughout Derbyshire – but never charges clients for servicing or repairing any equipment.

The company does not make unsolicited visits as everyone who receives equipment is referred because of their disability or being unfit through illness.

Medequip employees visit in vans with ‘Medequip Community Equipment Services’ clearly displayed, always carry identification and wear uniforms featuring the Medequip logo.

Clients are always contacted by telephone to arrange deliveries, collections, servicing and maintenance visits. If contact can’t be made after two attempts staff leave a card asking the client to contact them.

Derbyshire County Council Deputy Cabinet Member for Health and Communities Councillor Ellie Wilcox said: “It’s shocking that these bogus callers are trading on the name of a reputable and respected company – particularly one that specialises in supporting older and vulnerable people in their own homes.

“I would urge people to be very wary of anyone calling at their house unannounced. Legitimate companies like Medequip do not conduct business in this way and should be reported to the police.”

Residents who receive an unexpected home visit from a representative claiming to be from Medequip should call Derbyshire police on 101.

Existing Medequip clients who have any concerns about their home visit can call the company’s Derbyshire area office on 01773 604426 before allowing entry.

Meanwhile, residents concerned about any unwelcome sales callers to their home can call the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 08454 04 05 06.

* Residents looking for products or services are reminded to check out the county council’s Trusted Trader scheme to find a reputable local firm. Everyone joining the scheme is approved by the council’s trading standards and they agree not to cold-call. Find a list of Trusted Traders at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/tt