Fake health worker targets vulnerable residents as East Lothian council issues warning

Vulnerable residents in East Lothian are being targeted by a fake community health worker who claims to be helping them with medical alert equipment.

East Lothian Council has issued a warning to people about the scammer who has been making phone calls to homes as well as advice on what to do if targeted.

A spokesperson for the council said: “We have received reports of some local residents receiving cold call phone calls from a person claiming to be a ‘Community Health Worker’.

“The caller has advised that the resident requires a medical pendant or medical alert device, and that they may be entitled to a free device or at a low cost.

These calls are not from representatives of East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership.

The Partnership/East Lothian Council does not operate such a scheme and would not approach individuals in this manner.”

They added if anyone needs medical alert devices or community alarms they will be referred by the health and social care team or can self refer.

The spokesperson said: “Health and social care staff will always identify themselves and their role. And financial details will never be requested. Options to check identity can be provided.”

The council issued advice for residents including being wary of cold callers at the door and on the phone and not being afraid to say ‘no thanks’ and close the door, hang up and to never agree to pay for goods or services on the spot from an unsolicited trader.

It added people should always verify the identity of the caller by phoning the company number listed on an official website or phone director and can use local authority government-approved Trusted Trader schemes.

And it said: “There’s no reason to let anyone enter your home against your wishes – never be afraid to shut the door on a cold caller.”