The PSNI, working with the Commissioner for Older People have launched the 'Nominated Neighbour' scheme. This is an initiative that if an unrecognised caller comes to the address of an older person when they are alone in the house, the caller will be handed a card instructing them to contact their 'Nominated Neighbour', who will then try and check the caller's identity.
Speaking at the launch, Evelyn Hoy, Chief Executive, The Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland said:
"Crime against older people is universally condemned across our society and although the level of burglary against older people is relatively low in Northern Ireland, each incident is traumatic for the victim and causes fear amongst the wider population.
The Commissioner welcomes the PSNI campaign and is encouraging neighbours and relatives to get involved with the 'Nominated Neighbour' scheme and assist older members of the community to feel safe from unwanted callers in their homes. The Commissioner hopes that it will increase older people's confidence in their neighbours and communities, and so reducing opportunities for bogus callers to prey on older people.
We must all do everything we can to reduce crime and the fear of crime so that older people can live safe, confident and content lives in their own homes and communities."
For more information on the Nominated Neighbour Scheme, or to receive a copy of the Nominated Neighbour card for yourself or a neighbour, contact communications@copni.org or call 028 9089 0899.
