A LOCAL charity is providing a special session that will help people avoid being scammed and defrauded of their money.

Take A Stand Against Scams, organised by the Ilkley and District Good Neighbours project Moving On, will provide vital information on the growing number of sophisticated methods employed by scammers, and offer advice on how people can help protect themselves against them.

Scams currently affect the lives of millions of people within the UK and those who are unfortunate enough to be tricked often experience feelings of shame and isolation as a result. According to the National Trading Standards Scam Team a surprising total of 53 per cent of over 65s have been targeted by scammers, using various methods such as postal scams, phone scams and doorstep crime.

“Education is protection,” said Ilkley and District Good Neighbours Trustee Anita Dunford. “With increased knowledge and awareness people can make scams part of everyday conversation with friends, family and neighbours enabling them to protect themselves and others.

“Scamming is on the increase and we welcome anyone who feels they, or an older relative, might benefit from a session like this.

“The event is free to attend but as we anticipate a great deal of interest we would ask people to register their place by phoning the Ilkley and District Good Neighbours office on 01943 603348 or sending an email to movingon@goodneighboursilkley.org.uk”

The Take A Stand Against Scams event will be held at the Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Road, Ilkley on Thursday, November 22nd, between 11.30am and 1pm.

Ilkley and District Good Neighbours Moving On group meet each Thursday morning at the Clarke Foley centre in a relaxed environment where people can chat with someone who has time to listen, where they can make new friends, and discover things to do locally.

The charity operates a range of practical and social schemes to support independent living within the community, including Befriending, Shop Assist, Moving On, the Over 90s’ Party, and the Christmas Parcels Scheme. For further information on their projects or volunteering opportunities contact

www.goodneighboursilkley.org,uk or phone 01943 603348.