At Home Instead Epsom, we’re dedicated to safeguarding our clients and their families from the ever-evolving threat of scams. Our July campaign is focusing on Scam Awareness, offering practical advice and emotional support to help everyone stay safe. Scams can range from being a mild annoyance – a random phone call for example, to a deep fake scam which has the potential for significant financial loss and emotional distress.
Recognising and Responding to Scams
Scams can affect anyone, and we know our clients are particularly vulnerable. It’s crucial to recognise the signs and know how to respond:
- Recognising a Potential Scam
- Is something too good to be true? Is something slashed in price by a huge amount?
- Are you being asked to transfer money or provide personal information unexpectedly?
- Are you feeling rushed or pressured into deciding? There might be a clock countdown for example on an offer, or a rush to buy something by a certain time.
- Immediate Actions if Scammed
- Change Passwords: Update all your passwords immediately and use strong, unique passwords for each account. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
- Inform the Bank: Contact the bank right away to alert them. They can help secure accounts and monitor for suspicious activity.
- Stop Unwanted Mail and Callers: Consider placing a “No Junk Mail” or “No Cold Callers” sign on your door. This might be particularly effective for our clients.
- Get in touch with Citizens Advice if necessary.
Emotional Impact of Being Scammed
Being scammed can take a significant emotional toll. At Home Instead Epsom, we’ve seen first-hand how confusing, distressing and disturbing these experiences can be. Here are some common emotional responses and how we will support our clients should they experience a scam:
- Embarrassment and Shame: It’s deeply upsetting to realise you’ve been misled. We will encourage open conversations to alleviate feelings of shame.
- Trouble Sleeping: Stress and anxiety can disrupt sleep. Our care Professionals will suggest relaxation techniques and a supportive bedtime routine.
- Avoidance of People: Victims may withdraw socially. We have a wealth of local activities in our community which we will keep encouraging our clients to attend.
- Confusion and Disappointment: Feeling disoriented and let down is normal. We will keep up communication with our client’s families and keep them informed with how our client is coping.
Resources for Support
If you or a loved one has been scammed, it’s essential to seek support:
- Citizens Advice: Provides comprehensive advice on how to handle scams.
- Victim Support: Offers emotional and practical support to those affected by scams.
- Home Instead Epsom: Our team is always here to provide support and companionship to ensure our clients feel safe and secure.
Conclusion
Scam awareness is a continuous effort. At Home Instead Epsom, we’re committed to educating and protecting our community from scams. If you have any concerns or need support, please get in touch with us. Together, we can create a safer environment for our loved ones.
For more information and tips, stay tuned to our updates. Let’s protect ourselves and our loved ones from the dangers of scams.