As days shorten and temperatures drop, Age Concern Calderdale & Kirklees are inviting older people in the area to come along to “Crime on your Doorstep Roadshows” to learn simple tips on how to beat the burglar and stay safe in their homes over the coming winter.
Responding to widespread concerns that the recession might fuel a rise in the number of burglaries, the Home Office has funded Age Concern and Help the Aged to launch a campaign to help older people improve their home safety.
Although older people are no more likely to be victims of burglary than other age groups, the sheer fear of this type of crime can seriously affect the quality of life of older people who spend most of their day at home.
By holding 4 awareness events with practical demonstrations by Age Concern’s Handyman we are holding 2 in Kirklees on the 12th January 2010, in the morning 10am – 12 noon at the Taleem & Training Centre in Saville Town. Then 1.30pm -3.30 pm at Sundale House, Keldregate Bradley in the afternoon. The 2 events in Calderdale will be at the Woolshops in Halifax 10.00 until 12.00 then in the afternoon at the Queens Road Neighbourhood Centre Queens Road Halifax 1.30pm – 3.30 pm. The charity will remind older people in the community of simple actions they can take to feel and be safer in their homes.
Just a few simple precautions can make a big difference:
· How to beat bogus callers: use your door chain‚ lock your back door before opening your front door‚ check the caller’s identity carefully.
· Deterring casual thieves: a solid wooden door and adequate locks fitted on both doors and windows can act as deterrents to potential burglars.
· Protecting your belongings: should the worst happen‚ it’s important to know that you’re properly insured.
· Rogue Traders: don’t do business on the doorstep and browse the yellow pages or other directories for recommendations if you need work done.
The Age Concern Calderdale & Kirklees Pink Advice & Information bus will be present at all 4 location, so we will be easy to find!
Tim Swift Chief Executive at Age Concern Calderdale & Kirklees, said:
“Distraction burglary is a heartless crime which can have a devastating impact on older people, both emotionally and financially. Simple actions such as using the door chain or having adequate locks fitted on doors and windows can give older people an edge against burglars and bogus callers.”
For more information on how to be safe at home, people can contact Age Concern Calderdale & Kirklees on Halifax 01422 252040, Cleckheaton on 01274 871328, Huddersfield on 01484 535994 The booklets ‘Your security’ and ‘Bogus callers, How to protect yourself’ are also available at www.ageconcern.org.uk and www.helptheaged.org.uk.
· The initiative is funded by the Home Office.
- Age UK is the new force combining Age Concern and Help the Aged. We will be known by our new name from Spring 2010.
