Older people in Sheffield will be warned about the cruel techniques used by bogus callers in a play to be performed on Tuesday 11 October 2005

Older people are the most at risk of falling victim to doorstep thieves and the average age of victims is 78.* However‚ in general older people are the least likely to be victims of crimes.

The performance of ‘Distraction Burglaries’ is part of an innovative project called ‘Sure At Your Door ’ from Age Concern Sheffield and National Grid to ensure older people’s homes in Sheffield are more secure and older people are better equipped to beat bogus callers. 

Sylvia Ward‚ Assistant Director‚ Age Concern Sheffield said

“Bogus callers cause emotional and financial stress to their victims many of whom do not report the crime because they feel unnecessarily embarrassed. These criminals are cunning and cruel. By working with National Grid to deliver ‘Sure At Your Door’ we hope to help older people feel safe in their own homes.”

Jon Butterworth‚ National Operations Director‚ National Grid said:

“We are delighted to be working with Age Concern Sheffield to help people distinguish genuine callers from bogus callers. This initiative will give people the knowledge and the tools to beat the distraction burglar. It is important that older people protect themselves by fitting a spy hole and door chain and check that every caller is genuine.”
 
Brian Steele‚ former Chief Superintendent‚ said:

“This is a distressing crime‚ yet by wising up to the techniques bogus callers use older people can beat them. The National Grid and Age Concern Sure At Your Door Project is an exciting project and sets a wonderful example of the importance of working together to build safer‚ happier communities."

As part of the project National Grid and Age Concern will be providing older people with a free handyperson service to carry out home improvements‚ giving information and one-to-one sessions to people‚ as well as performing the play‚ all to raise awareness of the techniques distraction burglars use.

Notes to editors:

* Home Office Good Practice Guide 2002

• The performance will be performed by a cast of older actors from The Feeling Good Theatre Group.
• For more information about the project please contact Age Concern Sheffield on 0114 250 2857/ 2854.
• Age Concern Sheffield is an independent‚ local organisation dedicated to supporting older people in Sheffield‚ particularly those who are vulnerable or isolated. It works to help older people in Sheffield to retain their independence and get the most out of life. It does this through a range of services including day services‚ one-to-one support in people's homes‚ information and advice and lifelong learning. As a local organisation it is best placed to understand and respond to the needs of the people it exists to help but is also part of a national federation of over 400 organisations who together can have a real impact on the national issues that affect everyone.

Media contact:

Zena Ambrose
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020 8765 7516