At GoodOaks Homecare Richmond and Wandsworth, we believe staying safe isn’t just about physical wellbeing, but emotional and financial security too.
That’s why, during Citizens Advice Scam Awareness Week (20th October – 2nd November), we’re joining others across the country to raise awareness and share practical ways to help families protect themselves and their loved ones.
Why Scammers Target Older Adults
Many scams are designed to exploit trust, fear, or loneliness. Older people, especially those living alone or less familiar with digital technology, can be more vulnerable to these tactics.
But vulnerability isn’t weakness. It’s about awareness and education, because even the most careful person can be caught off guard by a convincing scam.
Some common reasons older adults may be more at risk include:
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Living alone and being open to conversation from strangers.
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Managing finances independently.
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Memory challenges caused by conditions such as dementia.
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Limited experience with online systems or digital banking.
Beyond financial loss, scams can also cause deep emotional distress; including embarrassment, anxiety, and loss of trust in others.
Spotting a Scam: What to Look Out For
Scams are becoming harder to spot, but here are a few we hear about from families we support across Richmond, Wandsworth, and neighbouring areas such as Putney, Sheen, Kew, and Barnes:
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Unexpected calls or emails claiming to be from your bank, HMRC, or the NHS.
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Door-to-door visitors offering repairs or asking for donations.
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Texts about missed deliveries or unpaid bills.
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Online “friends” or “romantic interests” requesting money.
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Investment opportunities promising unusually high returns.
If something feels rushed, secretive, or “too good to be true”, it probably is.
The GoodOaks Golden Rule: Pause. Think. Check.
We encourage our clients, families, and care professionals to remember one simple phrase:
Pause. Think. Check.
Before sharing information, clicking links, or making payments:
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Pause: take a moment to breathe.
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Think: does this message or call make sense?
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Check: contact the company directly using an official number, or ask a trusted friend, family member, or care professional.
A quick chat could stop a scam in its tracks.
How We Support Clients
Our care professionals receive ongoing training to spot early signs of fraud or manipulation, such as unusual phone activity, changes in financial behaviour, or anxiety about “letters from the bank.”
We encourage families to talk openly about money and online safety. Together, we can build confidence and reduce fear, helping older adults feel safe and supported in their own homes.
If You Think You’ve Been Targeted
If you or someone you know has been affected by a scam:
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Contact your bank immediately.
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Report scams to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.
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Forward scam texts to 7726 and phishing emails to report@phishing.gov.uk.
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For guidance, contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.
Your report could protect others too.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
At GoodOaks Homecare Richmond and Wandsworth, we’re proud to help clients live safely and independently with care that protects dignity, promotes wellbeing, and empowers confidence.
If you’d like to know more about how we support older adults at home, including visiting and live-in care across Richmond, Wandsworth, Putney, Sheen, Barnes, Kew, Mortlake, and Roehampton; get in touch with our friendly local team today.
Because safety starts with awareness, and care starts with trust.