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Topic:  Junk Mail

What are the objectives and desired outcomes of the review

·         What do we define as junk mail?;

·         What type and level of ‘junk mail’ is considered appropriate by residents?;

·         Is there evidence of the effectiveness of junk mail as an advertising tool?;

·         What alternatives to junk mail are available to local businesses as a cost-effective method of advertising?;

·         Establish whether any local authorities have had any success dealing with unwanted junk mail and make recommendations as appropriate;

·         Determine how junk mail is distributed nationally and locally;

·         Identify methods to prevent unauthorised mailings and make recommendations as appropriate; and

·         Explore the feasibility of a ‘no junk mail sticker’ endorsed by the Council and whether a 'code of conduct' can legally be agreed with distributors.

What equality issues will need to be considered as part of the review – giving consideration to the 6 strands:

Age Gender Race Sexual orientation Faith Disability

• Consider whether junk mail is targeted at some sectors over others, and look at ways to address this; and
• Consider whether the impact of scams is greater across any sectors, and look at ways to address this.

Which witnesses are required?

·         Royal Mail

• Direct Marketing Association
• Federation of Small Businesses
• Town Centre Management
• Maidstone Borough Council’s Communications team
• ‘Stop Junk Mail’ campaigners
• Citizen Advice Bureau

Other ways to seek evidence? E.g. site visits, involving members of the public

·         BBC Radio Kent interviews on 16/2/10

• Unauthorised Mailings literature in Maidstone
• Research on scams
• Request feedback from residents  using the local press
• Informal workshop style meeting
• Interviews with company managers at their outlets (those outlets that have leafleted in the local area)

What information/training is needed?

Suggested time for review and report completion date

• 1-2 meetings

How does the review link to council priorities?

·         A place that is clean and green

How does this item deliver CfPS effective scrutiny principles?

Enables the voice and concerns of the public

Any co-optees or expert witnesses?