Retired couple say “no more” to scammers

When the team was asked to investigate why a disproportionate amount of customers in this age range were falling into rent arrears, they discovered one couple had taken out more than 55 separate insurances for things like white goods and plumbing emergencies, and they also had lots of duplicate policies. Their bank account was being emptied by direct debits as soon as money went in.

Cold callers and scammers had set up these payments, convincing them that the items required insurance, but the couple had no idea what they were paying for, or what was covered.

Their support officer cancelled all of the direct debits they didn’t need. She also discovered there were 29 payments taken from their bank account for food deliveries over a two-month period; even though they’d never ordered them and wouldn’t have known how to! She contacted the bank and £935 was immediately repaid into their account, which as you can imagine the couple are delighted with.

We’re pleased to report that the following month they were in credit by £1,700 after paying all of their essential bills. Not only are they now safe from eviction, they have extra income which they didn’t even know was possible.

If you suspect you may be overpaying on direct debits or have signed up to policies you don’t need, then we can help investigate. Contact the Moneywise team on moneywise@ravenht.org.uk or 0300 123 3399.