Learning to stay safe
Elderly victims of crime and attempted fraud have been given tips on keeping safe.
Police constable Ian Peebles, of the Lanarkshire Safer Communities team, attended Eastcroft Gardens sheltered housing home to give a talk on personal and online safety.
Members of the Rutherglen Seniors Forum heard how police operated in deterring and identifying bogus workman and fraudsters.
And several residents, who had been victims of attempted fraud and break-ins in the past, were able to quiz PC Peebles about how to keep themselves and others safe.
The constable told the Reformer: “With the advancement of technology there are those in the community who are more susceptible to people taking advantage of them.
“These surgeries raise awareness of something we have seen an increase in nationwide. What we ask is for people to become aware of how to keep both their details and their financial information secure.”
Group secretary Sarah Carrick revealed she had been the victim of attempted fraud via mobile phone but was wise enough to spot the dangers.
She said: “I think Ian’s talk was helpful.
“It [attempted fraud] has happened twice to me but I’m one of the younger ones.
“It can be very easy to get conned. And that’s why we wanted to speak with Ian because a couple of people are a wee bit wary and don’t want to use the internet.
“Whereas the internet can be really beneficial, especially if you are getting a wee bit older, when you use it wisely.”
Rutherglen Seniors Forum promotes the rights and welfare of local seniors who work to raise awareness of issues affecting older people.
They can reach more than 600 people in the Rutherglen area to get news and advice out to senior citizens who may be involved in other community groups.
PC Peebles, who regularly liaises with community organisers and events in rasing awareness of social and crime safety prevention, hailed the group for their hard work.
He said: “This organisation is made of up of local residents who meet on a regular basis and not only socially engage with each other, but approach issues that are affecting the community.
“Although it is a small group it is of importance because it reaches a community of a certain age and a certain ability as well.
“It gives them a chance to engage with other organisations.
“It’s also a small group and the members do tremendous work supporting others in their communities and Safer Communities are here today to provide information and advice regarding personal safety and online safety.”