THE idea that anyone would target an older person to defraud them is appalling, but it does unfortunately happen and the problem is getting worse as the opportunities for fraudsters are increasing. There are a several reasons for this, including a rising number of older people living with dementia and the fact that older people are going online.

Age UK Gloucestershire, along with support and funding from Gloucestershire Police and Crime Commissioner, has produced a useful, straightforward booklet which contains lots of tips and practical advice on how people can protect themselves and their possessions. The internet is a boon for older people but unfortunately it also opens up new possibilities for fraud. This publication includes guidelines on how to access it safely.

It provides information on how to reduce the risk of becoming a victim when going about the daily routine, sorting out wills and powers of attorney, plus what people should do if they, or someone they know become a victim of financial abuse.

Age UK Gloucestershire CEO Rob Fountain commented: “We’ve all heard shocking stories of older people being targeted by fraudsters or even members of their own family and Age UK Gloucestershire take this issue very seriously. We believe this booklet offers great advice for older people and the wider audience too.”

“One of our clients, struggling financially after the loss of her husband, came to us for help in claiming any benefits she may be entitled to. We discovered that a close relative had taken her bank card and had been withdrawing money from her account for his own purposes.”

“Being financial abused can be extremely detrimental to the health and wellbeing of an older person. It can affect relationships, resulting in a loss of confidence so victims are less likely to get out and about, leading to more isolation and loneliness.”

“We are delighted that the Gloucestershire Police and Crime Commissioner is supporting this initiative to educate people across the county about this important issue.

Gloucestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Martin Surl said, “It’s unfortunate that many of the financial services that are designed to make life easier for most of us, can make others feel insecure and vulnerable. Older people, in particular, are often ill at ease with computers and the internet.

“Age UK Gloucestershire’s ‘Stay Smart, Stay Safe’ booklet has lots of tips that will not only help keep them safe and avoid being ripped-off but will also give them valuable advice of what to do if they have been conned.

“It’s important we do all we can to ensure that older members of our communities feel safe in their own homes and are able to be independent for as long as they want to”

Age UK Gloucestershire is distributing 30,000 booklets throughout the county. You can pick up a copy at your local library, council office, police headquarters or Age UK shop. Alternatively you can contact the Age UK Gloucestershire office on 01452 422660.