Volunteers Week: Helping victims of fraud

As part of Volunteers Week we spoke to Christine Taylor. Christine is one of our Fraud Protect Volunteers in Op REVIVE , providing support and advice to those who have been a victim of financial crime, such as fraud.

 

Christine Taylor says it is a “privilege” to help those affected by financial crime.

Approaching retirement at her previous role with Marks & Spencer, Christine became a volunteer with Lincolnshire Police.

Referrals are made by Police staff and following an initial joint meeting, Christine continues to provide support and advice to victims.

“In these situations people like to talk so you have to be a good listener,” says Christine.

“We have had victims of romance scams, and frauds. In one instance a victim had been constantly contacted by phone to take out numerous insurances for white goods so we installed a call blocker for free. The call blockers ensure that only trusted callers can get through, therefore giving the person the confidence that when their phone rings it is someone they know and want to speak to.

“And in some of the romance scams, victims sometimes don’t even realise they have been scammed. I always find that they are the worst examples because victims really do believe that the other person is genuine, and this can have a devastating impact on them.

“We give out advice such as suggesting that people install video doorbells to help identify cold callers, and we also strongly suggest that you never buy anything from a doorstep seller.

“I’d always advise to ensure you are buying from reputable sites online, too.”

Christine says the most rewarding element of the role is the impact she can have on other people.

“The best bit is helping people and knowing you have made a difference,” she says.

“We can refer them to appropriate agencies too, such as Citizens’ Advice or Age UK.

“Victims often just want to know that someone cares – and I do care about them.”