New help to protect OAPs

Mar 4 2010 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

A NEW joint approach has been drawn up to help protect West Lothian’s pensioners from crime in their own homes and on their own doorsteps.

Lothian and Borders Police, Lothian Fire and Rescue Service and West Lothian Council along with a host of other organisations are joining forces to deliver a series of events aimed at preventing doorstep crime against older people.

The first event takes place at the Lanthorn Centre, Dedridge, next Thursday, March 11, from 11am to 1pm with tea, coffee and soup and a sandwich provided.

Those attending the event will learn how to deal with bogus callers and rogue traders with a special written show from the Baldy Bane Theatre Group called 'One foot in the door'.

There will also be an opportunity to obtain police advice and a chance to speak to representatives from the other agencies involved.

Agencies at the meeting will include West Lothian Credit Union, Department for Work and Pensions, the MOOD Project and West Lothian Council's Housing Services, Consumer Advice and Health Improvement teams.

Superintendent Jeanette McDiarmid from Lothian and Borders Police, said that the police are placing a lot of importance on these meetings.

She said that it is very important they make pensioners aware of how they can protect themselves.

She said: “Our aim is to provide those who attend the events with the skills and knowledge to protect them from the unscrupulous criminals who commit doorstep crimes against older people.

“These events allow us to highlight the important issues by directly addressing older people and working to empower them to prevent them becoming victims.”

West Lothian Council Leader Peter Johnston added: "We hope these events will be successful and look forward to working with the police and the other partner organisations."

There will be two further events taking place on Wednesday, March 17, at Craigsfarm in Dedridge, and March 24, at the Regal Theatre, Bathgate.

Further details on events are available from Safer Communities Department on 01506 445671.