Summit to protect the vulnerable from fraud

Police, local authorities and voluntary organisations will come together this week for a summit on how to protect vulnerable people from fraud.

Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner and interim Mayor Tony Lloyd has called the event for partner agencies across Greater Manchester to share ideas and develop a co-ordinated response to tackling fraud and supporting victims.

Attendees will hear from Greater Manchester Police, Action Fraud, Victim Support and the Co-operative Bank on what is being done to investigate fraud and better signpost victims to help and support.

Tony said: “Fraud can have a devastating impact on people's lives. These criminals often prey on the elderly and vulnerable, exploiting their trust and goodwill to con them out of their life savings. Yet despite this there is still a lack of awareness of how to report fraud and what support is available to those who fall victim to fraudsters, leaving people confused and frustrated.

 “This event brings together all the agencies who have a stake in protecting the most vulnerable in our society and develop a better, more co-ordinated approach to tackling fraud, and, vitally, making sure victims know where to turn to get the right help and support.”

Fraud costs the UK economy an estimated £52bn. In Greater Manchester there were more than 13,000 reports of fraud between October 2014 and March 2015. Many more go unreported.

The impact on victims is often underestimated. Earlier this month, for example, a carer who befriended an 88-year-old woman and defrauded her out of more than £60,000 was jailed for three years. Mandy Jackson abused her position of trust to steal money which the victim relied on to pay for her day-to-day care.

If you have been a victim of fraud, visit www.gmvictims.org.uk for help and advice and to find support services in your area.