Scams Service to Continue to 2027

Age UK Manchester secures further funding to provide scams and fraud support to older people

Age UK Manchester has secured a further two years of funding for their Scams Prevention and Support Programme, enabling the Charity to continue providing this vital service for older people in Manchester until the end of 2027.

The programme, funded through Lloyds Banking Group, helps prevent older people from falling victim to scams by increasing their knowledge and confidence to recognise and report attempted scams. Now in its fifth year, the programme delivers tailored one-to-one support alongside group awareness sessions that explore how different scams work, common warning signs and practical steps older people can take to protect themselves. It also provides dedicated support to those who have already been affected by scams and fraud, helping to rebuild confidence, reduce fear and prevent repeat victimisation.

Fraudulent schemes have evolved dramatically into the most prevalent crime against individuals, accounting for over 40% of all crimes in England and Wales[i]. Older people are especially vulnerable to the harms caused by scams and fraud, which can both have serious consequences beyond just the financial impact, affecting emotional and physical wellbeing and overall quality of life.

Richy Campbell, Business Development Manager at Age UK Manchester said: “We're thrilled to be receiving two more years of funding to deliver dedicated advice and support with scams and fraud to older people in Manchester. We know from speaking to our service users just how devastating the effects of scams can be on older people, often leaving them unsure who to trust, reluctant to use technology and worried about their safety. Two people aged 65+ are scammed every minute in England and Wales, and 110,000 people aged 65+ in the North West were victims of scams in a year[ii] , so it’s vital that we continue to support those at greater risk.

“The programme has played a vital role locally, educating older people on the techniques scammers use, and signposting them to other avenues of support in our area. This additional funding will allow us to keep thousands more older people in Manchester as safe as possible from financial crime."

One client from North Manchester said “I used to be a bit scared of opening emails, unsure of what I might be dealing with. Now, I feel informed and alert. I’m can recognise the warning signs of scams much more easily and feel confident in taking the right steps to protect myself.”

To find out more about the scams support available through Age UK Manchester, please visit www.ageuk.org.uk/manchester, or contact enquiries@ageukmanchester.org.uk.

Age UK Manchester provides services to meet a wide range of need, including care services, Advice, hospital discharge support, counselling and more.