Age UK statement on scams

Helena Herklotts, Services Director at Age UK, said:

'Although crime against older people is less likely than other age groups, people in later life can be an attractive target for scammers. Fortunately, a lot of scams can be avoided, provided that people have the right information and advice, and we would encourage people with older relatives or neighbours to help ensure they're aware of the risks, so they can protect themselves.

'Anyone who has concerns that they could be being scammed should not hesitate to ask a close relative or friend for their advice. It's important to remember that a reputable company will never pressure a customer into making an instant decision without talking things through with a friend or family member first.

'Age UK has produced two free information guides ‘Avoiding Scams' and ‘Staying Safe' which warn people of the most common scams and provide practical steps to ensure older people are able to protect themselves against this type of crime in the home and on the doorstep. The guides are available free of charge from Age UK Advice on 0800 169 65 65 or by visiting www.ageuk.org.uk/scams

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Notes to Editors

Age UK Age UK works in partnership with Age Scotland, Age Cymru and Age NI. For media enquiries relating to Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland please contact the appropriate national office: Age Scotland on 0131 668 8055, Age Cymru on 029 2043 1562 and Age NI on 028 9024 5729.

Age UK is inspired by the belief that it can improve the lives of people in later life. It celebrates ageing and believes it presents unprecedented opportunities and challenges at home and abroad. Age UK will challenge ageist prejudice in society, provide services that address market failures and support the public and private sectors to design age-friendly products and services. It will support people to remain in their own homes through campaigning and practical services and its Information and Advice service will offer millions of people support on a range of issues from claiming benefits to staying fit and healthy.

Age UK will fund biomedical research that helps tackle the ill health and poor quality of life that are too common as people age. Working with over 350 partners across the country, Age UK helps influence local decisions and delivers the most appropriate services. Its network of over 475 shops will act as a focal point for the local community, providing information and help with local services. Age UK works across the globe as well as in the UK, with its international partner, Help Age International, championing older people's rights and needs and as an active member of the DEC.

Media contact: Lizzie Webster
Tel: 020 8765 7516
Out of hours: 07071 243 243