Victims of fraud left devastated
TSHOEUYP’RKEITHCEHLEPNINQGUPEEEONPILCEOWLYITNHINSO‘INOSNPEIRELASTEIOTNOATLU’ RN TO
WHEN you walk into Steven Swales’ office at the Beverley Cherry Tree Community Centre, the first thing you notice is the sea of thank-you cards.
They are a fraction of the hundreds of grateful notes he has received over the years.
Steven is the senior adviser at the centre’s Advice Service, in charge of a team of mostly retired volunteers who help others using their knowledge and experience.
They provide a free confidential advice service to people in Beverley and East Yorkshire. They focus on debt and bankruptcy, and also help with employment issues.
“Unfortunately, by the time many people come and see me, they are at the end of their tether and don’t know what to do or where to turn,” says Steven. Some people are struggling after losing a job, or through a change in circumstances such as illness, bereavement, or a relationship ending.
“When we get a plan in place people tend to feel so relieved, like a huge burden has been lifted from them,” adds Steven. BANK manager Simon Peleszok has seen the devastating impact fraud can have on its victim – and is determined to help as many people as possible stay safe from scams. He says: “I had a customer come in recently, who had been phoned by someone claiming to be from BT. When they told her she was about to get disconnected she panicked as the phone was her access to the outside world. “She fell for the con and they managed to download software on her computer that allowed them to access her online banking and transfer funds across accounts. “It is a horrible conversation to have when someone realises they have become a victim of fraud. I can help them get the money back through the TSB Fraud Refund Guarantee but the emotional impact can be devastating.” Simon (left) is the manager at TSB’s Ellesmere branch, and the bank’s Community Ambassador for Shropshire. He also runs workshops giving advice to help people of all ages avoid fraud. So far this year Simon, 39, has given 15 talks to groups including Age UK and the Women’s Institute. * Full details of the TSB Fraud Refund Guarantee, including the terms and conditions that apply, can be found at tsb.co.uk/fraud-refund-guarantee