North Lanarkshire residents are benefiting from a Trading Standards initiative to improve protection against doorstep crime and scams.
Thanks to the installation of telephone call blockers, which prevent scam and nuisance calls, residents say they feel safer.
The call blocking units, fitted to landlines, work by using advanced technology to identify and block unwanted calls, including those from known scam numbers and automated call centre systems.
Trading Standards staff have partnered with sheltered housing complexes and local organisations to support vulnerable residents.
Over the past 10 years, 158 devices have been installed, with 43 units fitted in 2024 alone.
The initiative, supported by the Local Development Programme, has been “an overwhelming success”.
Feedback from participants highlights the significant impact the call blockers have had in giving back control of their landline and making them feel safe.
One resident said: “I feel safer and don’t have to worry about scammers.”
Another added, “It’s bliss; I never get a nuisance call now.”
Many highlighted how the blockers have reduced stress and anxiety, giving them peace of mind.
In one instance, a vulnerable elderly resident had 47 scam calls blocked within just three days.
Research found that residents in the area receive 29 nuisance calls per month compared to the UK average of nine per month.
The project, supported in part by funding from the Community Safety initiative, is part of broader efforts to protect residents from scams and doorstep crime.
Staff from Trading Standards have successfully worked in partnership with Police Scotland to develop proactive approaches to protecting vulnerable residents, including:
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The introduction of No Cold Calling Zones.
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The provision of video doorbells.
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Increased roaming patrols focusing on doorstep crime hotspots.
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The ‘Shut out Scammers’ campaign.
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Awareness-raising activities in supermarkets, post offices and town centres.
Councillor Geraldine Woods, convener of the communities committee, said: “Our overall approach and this latest initiative have made a substantial difference in the lives of North Lanarkshire’s most vulnerable residents.
“The call blockers provide much-needed security and peace of mind.
“They have helped residents feel more secure. One user said they can now answer the phone without fear.
“Another described the blockers as ‘first class’ and praised the team for their support.”
Officers from the council’s Trading Standards Service are committed to this initiative and to sourcing further funding to keep the project going, continuing to make a real and positive difference in people’s lives.
“We are determined to do everything we can to tackle doorstep crime and related scams to protect people in our communities,” added Councillor Helen Loughran, convener of the environment and climate change committee.
“We have designated 40 areas across North Lanarkshire as ‘No Cold Calling Zones’, and this covers all our council-run retirement complexes.
“And we have plans in place to roll this initiative out further in the coming months.”
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