Neighbours help defeat bogus callers

A SCHEME designed to prevent bogus callers taking advantage of vulnerable members of the community has been rolled out across East Lothian.

The Nominated Neighbour Scheme was piloted in Haddington last year, and has recently expanded to communities across the area.

The initiative, which has been part-funded by East Lothian Council, allows people to nominate a trusted relative or neighbour to verify the identity of cold callers.

The summer normally sees a rise in bogus caller incidents, and the scheme offers protection to vulnerable members of the community who may otherwise be at risk of being duped by unscrupulous salesmen.

Nominated neighbour packs have been distributed across East Lothian, and are available at post offices, doctors' surgeries, libraries, and other East Lothian Council premises.

In addition, Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service crews who attend fire calls and carry out home safety visits distribute packs.

East Lothian Council's community safety spokesman, Councillor Stuart Currie, said: "Bogus callers pick on vulnerable people in our communities, abusing their trust and stealing their money.

"Nominated Neighbour sends a clear message that our community is standing together to tackle this despicable practice."