Junk mail can be a problem and very irritating when we receive it in large volumes. There are several ways we can stop junk mail from being sent to our homes, depending on the specific circumstances.
You could put a sign up on your door forbidding certain types of mail, for example ‘No Junk Mail’. You can also send a door-to-door opt out form to Royal Mail requesting that they stop delivering leaflets and brochures.
This is available through the Royal Mail website. The Direct Marketing Association may also be able to help. To reduce the amount of marketing mail you receive, you can call them on 0207 291 3300.
The Mailing Preference Service may also be able to help you reduce the amount of advertising material being sent to you. You can contact them directly on 0207 291 3310.
Other Options
There are additional options, including contacting your local electoral registration office and asking to be taken off the open register. You can find your local office by visiting the gov.uk website.
These actions do not automatically stop all junk mail, and hand delivered leaflets and promotional material may still be delivered to you.
Prize Draws – Potential Scams
You also mention receiving notification of winning prize draws that you have not entered. These can often be lottery scams, and it is best not to respond to them, no matter how tempting.
Very often they will request payment to be made to release larger sums of money, and once the ‘fee’ is paid, they vanish with your money without paying out, or request further sums. Do not be caught out by these scammers, regardless of how convincing they may seem.
Further Support
You can report suspected scams and suspicious activity using the Quick Reporting Tool at scamwatch.scot, or alternatively, by calling consumeradvice.scot advisers on 0808 164 6000 (Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm).
Taking the steps outlined will help to reduce the number of these unsolicited contacts you receive.
postaladvice.scot provide free, practical advice and information on postal-related matters to the citizens of Scotland. We can provide advice and information if you:
- Experience issues when sending or receiving mail
- Would like more information on Royal Mail services
- Wish to understand Royal Mail’s complaints process
For more information on Royal Mail and post-related topics, visit postaladvice.scot.
I hope you get this resolved!