Deputy Commissioner Lends Support to Age Cymru Campaign

2il Hydref 2013

The campaign focuses on a wide range of methods criminals regularly use including; fake lotteries, psychics, online fraud and rogue traders/ builders who actively target vulnerable individuals and routinely and deliberately overcharge for unsatisfactory services or goods, charge for unnecessary work, damage property to obtain money or leave work unfinished.

Officers in Gwent have already established several No Cold Caller zones in areas across the Force which are densely populated by older people in an effort to reduce this area of crime. Cold callers introduce themselves as representatives from organisations such as power companies or public bodies, many are genuine but some aren't. Bogus callers prey on the vulnerable and the elderly to persuade and distract them into getting what they want.

Paul Harris said: "We are delighted to support this very worthy campaign. There is a great deal of work ongoing in Gwent to protect older people and raise awareness of steps that they, their families and friends can take to ensure that they do not become victim to these unscrupulous individuals. We will only build on this."

Age Cymru's Campaigns Co-ordinator Gerry Keighley said: "The support of Gwent Police and the other Welsh forces is vital to this campaign, especially in dealing with unwanted cold callers at the door. If we are to generate the changes we need to protect older people from rogue traders and scammers the influence of police leads like Paul Harris is vital in persuading politicians they need to act decisively."

If you have concerns about your own safety, or that of others, or would just like some tips on staying protected please call 101 to get in touch with your local Neighbourhood Policing Team. You can also find their direct contact details on the Force website:

You can find out more about the Age Cymru campaign by visiting:

www.gwent.police.ukwww.agecymru.org.uk/scamsandswindles