Meals on Wheels to issue scam advice

As well as dishing out meals, the Royal Voluntary Service (formerly known as WRVS) – which delivers the Meals on Wheels service to residents in the county – will also be delivering leaflets to raise awareness of the issue.

The leaflets have been produced jointly by the Trading Standards Institute and the Citizens Advice Bureaux and provide guidance on how to spot a scam and how residents can protect themselves against scams.

Peter Catchpole, West Sussex County Council cabinet member for adult social care and health, said: “The Meals on Wheels service is a good way to assist those living at home.

“As well as delivering daily meals to vulnerable older people, the Royal Voluntary Service volunteers also carry out a check to make sure those who use the service are safe and well – including whether they are at risk of falling prey to ‘scammers’ or rogue doorstep callers.

“We hope that providing this information will make residents feel more secure and contribute to maintaining their independence for longer.”

Information, guidance and support about scams and cold-calling is also available by calling 08454 040506.