PCC says partnership working is key to tackling scammers targeting vulnerable residents

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson has stressed that a joined‑up, partnership‑led approach is essential in the fight against fraudsters and scammers, as rogue traders continue to target vulnerable residents across north Wiltshire.

Rogue traders posing as workmen and claiming to fix “damaged” underground pipes have been operating in the Chippenham, Corsham and Calne areas, conning residents out of thousands of pounds.

In response, the local Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) has been carrying out targeted community engagement across the three towns, working alongside Wiltshire Council’s Trading Standards Team, Fraud Prevention specialists and the Bobby Van Trust. Officers have been proactively visiting key locations with the Mobile Police Station, speaking directly with residents, and providing face to face advice on how to recognise rogue traders, challenge suspicious contact and report concerns safely.

As part of this preventative work, the NPT helped deliver a ‘Stop the Scammers’ initiative designed to increase awareness, share practical crime prevention information and reassure residents, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to exploitation.

This activity follows a series of linked incidents in Box, Chippenham and Calne, where vulnerable victims were called at home and told that a workman would visit the next day. Offenders falsely claimed that underground pipes were cracked and required urgent repairs costing between £3,000 and £7,000. They presented fabricated photographs of supposed damage before taking payment, despite carrying out no work at all.

Two people have been arrested in connection with the incidents. Trading Standards is leading the investigation, which is believed to form part of a wider regional scam. Work is ongoing to establish its full scale.

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said:

“Scammers cause significant and lasting harm, not only by taking people’s money but by damaging their trust, their confidence and their sense of safety in their own homes.

This is why having a strong, coordinated partnership approach is so important. When police, local authorities and community organisations work together, we can respond more effectively, support victims sooner and prevent more people from being exploited.

Our Neighbourhood Policing Teams are central to this effort. Their local knowledge and day‑to‑day visibility mean they can provide vital reassurance, spot emerging issues early and bring agencies together to tackle the crimes that cause the most harm to local residents.”

PC Jess Swanborough, who has been working with partners on preventative activity, said:
“We want people to stay vigilant and I hope our presence in all three towns serves as a reminder to residents of the warning signs to look out for.

“These scammers are often very convincing, but their actions can leave victims feeling upset and embarrassed. Sadly, many people feel reluctant to tell their families that they have fallen victim to a scam because they feel ashamed, so it is important that we get out and about and speak with residents face to face.”

Wiltshire Council’s Trading Standards team is also highlighting its Buy With Confidence approved‑trader scheme, which helps protect consumers and supports reputable local businesses. Members of the scheme are independently vetted to ensure they meet strict legal and customer‑care standards, and only those who pass these checks are permitted to display the Buy With Confidence logo.

Published Friday 13 March 2026