‘Any one of us could become a target’ – housing association takes on scammers

A housing association is working to prevent local people of all ages from becoming victims of scams.

Broadacres’ Money Advice Team has planned a series of workshops across North Yorkshire in partnership with Natwest bank.

The workshops are open to everyone and aim to raise awareness about the different types of scams, how to recognise them and how to keep your information and money safe and secure.

They will cover postal scams, as well as telephone, online and doorstep scams.

The first sessions took place this week at Broadacre’s Rockliffe Court sheltered housing scheme in Hurworth, Lascelles Court in Northallerton and Kirkwood Hall extra care scheme in Leyburn.

Following the first three workshops, Broadacres will be running a further session at The Orchards extra care scheme in Brompton at 1.30pm on Wednesday, January 16.

The association is also planning future events at Town Close in Stokesley, Rivendale in Northallerton, Gillings Court in Thirsk and Kirk House in Northallerton. An information session will also be held at Broadacres’ head office in Northallerton.

Broadacres’ money advisor Janet Meikle said: “There’s a common misconception that it’s only the old and vulnerable who are the victims of scams.

“Whilst scammers inevitably do try to target people they consider to be easy prey, in reality any one of us could become a target at any time, so through the workshops we want to get this message across and try to ensure that people’s money remains in their pockets and bank accounts, and not handed over to the scammers.”

People interested in attending any of the confirmed or planned workshops can contact Janet Meikle on 01609-531326 or email; janet.meikle@broadacres.org.uk