Older people

Older people may feel more vulnerable to some crimes, although they are actually less likely to become victims.

• Get a personal alarm to use in emergencies, e.g. if you trip over at home
• Don't keep large amounts of cash at home, use a bank account instead
• Look after your pension book carefully
• Fit door chains and spy holes. Ask your landlord or your local council. Some other organisations, such as Age Concern, may also be able to help you fit security devices
• Many councils have security schemes that are aimed at older and more vulnerable people – try asking them for some advice
• Be aware about the risk of bogus callers and learn how to spot them

Resources

Organisations who help older people:

Age UK

Age Concern England and Help the Aged have joined together to form Age UK, a single charity dedicated to improving the lives of older people.

You can call Age UK's Information Line on 0800 00 99 66.

Both the Help the Aged and Age Concern websites still operate. These are www.helptheaged.org.uk and www.ageconcern.org.uk .

Age UK has a range of services, many of them free, designed to help older people remain independent and feel safe in their own homes. They provide practical information and advice to older people and their families and factsheets on a range of issues that affect older people in the UK.

Help the Aged have produced a brochure, Your security - personal safety at home and in the street, that contains useful information for older people about bogus callers, securing your house, protecting belongings and personal safety. (Adobe PDF document, 216kb)

Foundations
Telephone: 01457 891 909
Website: www.foundations.uk.com
Foundations is the national coordinating body for Home Improvement Agencies (HIAs) in England. HIAs are not-for-profit, locally-based organisations that assist older, disabled and vulnerable people to live independently within their own homes by helping with repairs, adaptations and maintenance to their homes.

To find your local council, go to Direct Gov's Council A-Z webpage