PCC supports scam victims with Citizens Advice grant
Last Wednesday, 1 November, Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Barber, met with representatives from Citizens Advice Oxfordshire South & Vale to find out how £1000 of funding from the PCC’s Community Fund has helped to expand outreach efforts and provide support to individuals living in South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse who have fallen victim to scams.
Matthew said: “The growing use of technology in our everyday lives has immeasurable benefits but also creates new opportunities for criminals with our most vulnerable residents often most at risk. Citizens Advice do fantastic work in promoting scam awareness in addition to supporting those who have sadly fallen victim to fraud be that online or through a doorstep or phone scam.
“I was pleased to meet Debbie and the team to hear first-hand how £1000 of funding from my Community Fund is working to support victims of scams.”
Debbie Watts, Chief Officer of Citizens Advice Oxfordshire South & Vale, said: “We extend our gratitude to Matthew Barber for his recent visit to our offices in Abingdon at Citizens Advice Oxfordshire South & Vale.
“It was enlightening to understand the initiatives undertaken by the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office, in particular the work of Victims First, in supporting victims of crime. As dedicated advocates for scam prevention, we remain committed to collaborating closely with the Police and Crime Commissioner’s office to further amplify awareness regarding scams and the negative impact of this crime on communities.”
Citizens Advice Oxfordshire South & Vale offer free, confidential and impartial advice on a wide range of issues including debt, benefits, housing, employment, as well as support for victims of scams. They operate from 4 advice centres in Abingdon, Didcot, Henley and Thame and 3 outreach hubs in Faringdon, RAF Benson and Wallingford helping 11,000 clients each year.
