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HOUSE FOR SALE BURGLARIES

Following a series of distraction burglaries across the East Midlands where sellers have had cash and property stolen after allowing cold callers to view their properties, a request has been made to the National Association of Estate Agents and the Association of Home Information Pack Providers, asking both organisations to notify their members of such practices.

They have been requested to remind clients not to let anyone into their home they do not know. If they choose to allow an uninvited caller to view their property they should as a minimum, take the callers name, phone number and vehicle registration number and not leave that person unattended. If property is found to be missing after the visit, they are to call the police as a matter of urgency. Options available to ensure the solution can be delivered include

· Consider operating an appointments only system – preferably in writing · Notify clients of the appointment and the name of the potential buyer · Consider escorting potential buyers to viewings · Encourage clients not to open the door to uninvited callers · Ensure the above is included in the clients information pack

Leaflets available free of charge from the Home Office (Via your local crime prevention officer) include

· Peace of mind while you move house

· A guide to home security

· How to beat the bogus caller

Best practice regarding uninvited callers at the door (remembering to use your door chain first) is to re-direct them to the agent and not allow any unvetted personnel into your home. If they are genuinely interested they will not object to this.

If a caller says that they have an appointment and you have not been notified check with your agent before letting them in, again using your door chain to prevent unwanted entry.

 

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HOUSE FOR SALE BURGLARIES

Following a series of distraction burglaries across the East Midlands where sellers have had cash and property stolen after allowing cold callers to view their properties sellers should not let anyone into their home they do not know. If you choose to allow an uninvited caller to view the property you should as a minimum, take the callers name, phone number and vehicle registration number and not leave that person unattended.

News release, 15th June 2009  World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

Newsflash PR 4009

When I am an old woman I shall wear purple….

poetry unites Suffolk's homes in a stand against the abuse of older people
For the first time ever, residential homes across Suffolk are uniting as one to raise awareness of abuse of older people. Residents and staff will show their support and strength in a county wide event co-ordinated for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (15 June). Suffolk County Council's residential homes will be marking the day with staff and residents wearing something purple. There will be public readings of the internationally known poem "Warning" by Jenny Jones which starts "When I am an old woman I shall wear purple.....
Speaking before the day Bill Nicol, Head of Suffolk’s Adult Safeguarding Services, said:
" The abuse of older people is something which we want to eradicate. However, to make that happen we need to empower people to spot the signs and then to report it. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a key date when we, no matter what our age, can show everyone in the county that we want to end elder abuse and neglect forever.”
He continued:
“The wearing of purple today sends out a message that being older does not mean you are powerless, it is a sign of strength and solidarity against mistreatment and neglect. You only have to imagine what your own feelings would be, and the devastating knock-on effects, if abuse was to affect someone close to you. Remember, secrecy and 'turning a blind eye' is the ally of abuse. We all have a responsibility to voice concerns if we have them. Only then can we take action to tackle it. Today is about giving the power back to people to recognise the signs of abuse and not to tolerate it."    Read the rest

Suffolk County Council News Release

 

For immediate release

10 March 2009

 

Adults are abused too!

Suffolk gives a voice to those reporting abuse

 

Not many people think of grown adults as needing help or protection but in many cases they are as vulnerable to abuse as children, and crucially, it can be just as difficult for them to have their voice heard.

 

Whether it is older people with dementia, any adult with sensory, mobility or learning difficulties, or people who are socially isolated, they can all be equally vulnerable. Adult Safeguarding Services in Suffolk have put in place this week a whole raft of help and support for people wanting to report suspected cases of abuse and to find out more about how to report any abusive practice or behaviour. The new form can be found on their website along with Suffolk’s new adult safeguarding policy and operational guidance for whenever there is a concern or allegation that abuse has occurred. The website at www.suffolkas.org also contains information booklets about how to spot abuse and advice on who to tell.

 

Bill Nicol, Head of Suffolk’s Adult Safeguarding Services said:

“Abuse of vulnerable adults is something we don’t like to think happens, but it does. When it does, it can tear families apart and compound feelings of isolation, fear and guilt in vulnerable people. This is often complicated when confusion or memory loss are a factor too. If you are a family member, neighbour or friend and you have concerns about someone you know then it is important that you can get up to date, helpful and comprehensive information in one place. This will help put your mind at rest and shape what steps to take next. The new forms, help and website are there for everyone who suspects abuse of a vulnerable person and doesn’t know where to go for help and advice. Abuse thrives on secrecy. It’s therefore important that we listen to what vulnerable people have to say and take immediate steps to protect them from further harm. “

 

Suffolk County Council’s Portfolio holder for adult and community services, Councillor Graham Newman added:

 

“The reality is that many of our experienced adult care staff, particularly carers, will be the most likely to encounter the signs of suspected abuse. However all Suffolk County Council staff have a responsibility and a duty to report concerns they have. I am pleased that we have combined this new electronic reporting with increased training and information for staff.  Read the rest