Scams
Fraudsters can target anyone, and the shame of being deceived—or simply not knowing—often stops people from asking for help. Here are some warning signs to watch for that might indicate fraud:
- Unexplained lack of funds.
- Strange or unnecessary money transfers.
- Letters piling up around the house.
- Family members feeling anxious or upset.
- Unusual or repetitive phone calls.
Share and discuss our guide to help everyone stay alert to potential scams.
How to Reduce the Risk of Scam Calls
Step 1: Register with the Telephone Preference Service
Register your home and mobile numbers with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to opt out of unsolicited sales and marketing calls. It's free!
Step 2: Activate Call Blocking
Most landline providers offer free call-blocking services to reduce nuisance calls. Here's what's available:
- BT: Call Protect
- Sky: Talk Shield
- TalkTalk: Callsafe
- Virgin Media: Call rejection (about £3/month).
Step 3: Use a Call Blocking Device
If your provider doesn't offer call blocking, you can purchase a device like the CPR V5000 to block unwanted calls.
Step 4: Mobile Phones
For mobile phones, you can block numbers, reject unknown callers, or enable "Do Not Disturb" to allow calls only from specific contacts. Check out our resource library for step-by-step instructions.
Step 5: Register for Priority Services
Ask your energy provider to add you (or a loved one) to their Priority Services Register. This free service prioritizes older or vulnerable customers during power outages and emergencies. You can also set up a password or use picture cards to verify technicians, so you always know who's at the door. Simply call your gas and electricity provider to sign up.
What to Do If a Scam Happens
Recover the Money
Contact the bank immediately to check if the account has fraud protection. If the bank refuses to refund the money, contact the Financial Ombudsman Service to escalate the matter:
Consumer helpline: 0800 023 4 567. (Mon–Fri, 8 am–8 pm; Sat, 9 am–1 pm).
Report the Scam
You can report fraud to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud reporting centre. They also provide advice and assistance.
Telephone: 0300 123 2040. (Mon–Fri, 8 am–8 pm).
Falls
Falls are the leading cause of emergency room visits for older adults. In fact, 30% of people aged 65 and over experience at least one fall each year, and that number rises to 50% for those aged 80 and above. A fall can quickly lead to the need for more intensive care, but there are steps you can take to reduce the risk.
Here are 8 ways to help prevent falls:
- Exercise daily to improve strength and balance – even gentle movement makes a difference.
- Get regular vision and hearing checks – both can affect your balance. Update your glasses or hearing aids as needed.
- Wear properly fitting shoes or slippers to provide stable support.
- Address foot health issues by visiting a chiropodist or GP.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any medications that cause dizziness.
- Spend time outdoors to boost vitamin D, which helps maintain bone health.
- Eat a calcium-rich diet to support strong bones.
- Remove hazards from your home – simple changes can greatly improve safety.
Download our trip hazards checklist and share it with your family. Adjustments, like installing a stairlift or home lift, can make a significant difference. Learn more about home adaptations here.
Monitoring Devices
Monitoring services can provide peace of mind, ensuring help is available in an emergency. Some devices are worn on the body, while others work remotely. These systems are especially helpful for those who live alone or spend some time at home by themselves. Affordable and easy to install, monitoring devices are a great option for added safety.