TRADING Standards officers are warning people not to be caught out by schemes which promise big earnings for working at home.

The schemes, which often involve re-addressing envelopes of making up kits of some kind, are often advertised in shop windows or newspaper small ads. Sometimes individuals are targeted through mailshots.

Chris Allen of Blackburn with Darwen Trading Standards said while some schemes were legitimate, many were not and his department received many complaints about them.

He said: "Most of these schemes use Post Office Box numbers. If you are dissatisfied this makes it impossible for you to contact them after you have sent off your money.

"Usually they prey on the more financially disadvantaged members of society; maybe people who are housebound or single parents who cannot go out to work. "Unfortunately the cost of getting involved in such schemes often outweighs any payments you receive."

Mr Allen said schemes offering cash for making up kits often involved payment up front with little or no chance of any return.

"Invariably faults are found with the work done. It might have taken you several hours but you receive nothing in return," he said.

Mr Allen advised anyone considering signing up for a homeworking scheme to think carefully.

"The advice we would give people is never, ever send money in advance. If they are requesting money up front, don't get involved.

"If not, by all means send off for details but don't engage in any business activities until you have sought professional advice from an accountant or solicitor."

Trading Standards can supply copies of homeworking guidelines produced by campaign group the National Group on Homeworking.

Postcards with advice are also available to shop owners to display next to any adverts they might be asked to put in their windows. More details from 01254 585904.

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