The campaign to protect Lincolnshire residents from fraud and scams was strengthened today with Lincolnshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner signing up to a new victims’ charter.
PCC Marc Jones has made it priority to crack down on fraud and scams and has already launched several projects designed to shield communities from these criminals.
Now he has underlined his commitment by adopting the National Trading Standards Scams Team’s victim charter.
The charter recognises the impact that fraud and scams can have and requires organisations to have victims’ best interests as their primary consideration.
In addition to carrying out additional staff training, organisations signing the new charter commit to the following:
- Support and Empathy
- Dignity and Respect
- No Blame and No Shame
- Clear Communication
- Support for your well-being
Over the last 12 months Mr Jones has invested considerable resources in protecting people from falling victim to scammers.
The projects include making 150 call blockers available free to vulnerable residents, a new victims’ website and last year he took the unprecedented step of running a significant awareness campaign across all the counties major media outlets.
“The dangers posed by fraud and scams has always been present but with the growth of the internet and social media it has never been more challenging to combat,” said Mr Jones.
“One of those challenges is the reluctance of some victims to come forward so it is absolutely critical that we make it clear to victims that they can report the crime without any fear or shame. It is the criminals that are to blame not the victims.
“I hope our commitment to this charter sends a clear signal that we are there to support and help the innocent victims at a time when – both emotional and financially – they will be at their most vulnerable.
“In the meantime I will continue to support Lincolnshire Police in their efforts to identify, intercept and prosecute those people responsible for these despicable crimes.”
