North East Lincolnshire Carelink is warning customers to be aware of a telephone scam currently targeting users in the region, which involves companies calling vulnerable people in the North East Lincolnshire and advising them that their equipment will not work due to digital changes.
“This is not true,” says Vickie Fisher, CEO of North East Lincolnshire Carelink. “They are also asking for payments over the phone, which is not Carelink’s policy as, in most cases, payments have already been set up.
“The scam is particularly despicable as it is targeting people who are already in vulnerable situations due to ill health, and who rely on the Carelink service for vital support.”
Her advice to Carelink users is, if in doubt, hang up and press their Carelink pendant to check who is ringing you. “We will answer your call 24/7 or call 01472 312312,” she added.
NEL Carelink is a charity based in Grimsby, covering North East Lincolnshire and surrounding areas, and supporting more than 3,000 people to remain in their homes and retain their independence. NELC and partners formed the charity in 1995 to provide telecare equipment and a monitoring centre to support them.
Carelink has private customers who pay directly for their alarms, as well as specific contracts with NELC, health and housing providers to support people in the area.
Cllr Stan Shreeve, Portfolio Holder for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, said Carelink users should be on their guard,
“The Carelink service provides invaluable support to people who are suffering from ill health and who want to remain in their own homes. It provides peace of mind to residents and their loved ones that if anything was to happen then help is closely at hand.
“These appalling scams are targeting some of our most vulnerable residents and we urge everyone to be on their guard and to follow Carelink’s advice and guidance if they receive any of these calls.”
