PCC visits community hub after funding sessions to tackle online fraud

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner is investing in community run groups to help tackle fraud through raising awareness of online scams. 

Last week Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson paid a visit to the Chippenham Community Hub which runs a drop-in information service to help local people avoid online scams with the support of DC Rachel Davies, Wiltshire Police’s Fraud Prevention Officer. 

The hub recently received £3,000 from the PCC’s Community Action Fund to contribute towards running costs including staff and buildings, as well as publicity costs for developing increased support for people at risk of becoming a victim of fraud. 

Mr Wilkinson said: “As a crime that matters most to communities, fraud is a priority in my Police and Crime Plan. However, as technology advances there are unfortunately more opportunities for scammers to commit fraud, whether that be through online banking, phishing emails or fake social media advertisements, to name just a few. 

“That’s why it’s so important that we work with partners to ensure there are preventative measures in place, such as the drop-in sessions at Chippenham Community Hub to increase public and business awareness of how to stay safe online to prevent fraud and scams – and I’m keen to continue to support the ongoing fraud protection efforts of Wiltshire Police and DC Rachel Davies.” 

Sandie Webb, Founder of the Chippenham Community Hub said: “We really appreciated the response from the Community Action Fund and are very excited that it will enable us to do some great work to support what we are already doing with DC Rachel Davies. 

“A high percentage of crime within our community relates to fraud, and that means within our town of Chippenham. Which is why we put the scheme together which with the Police’s support is working so well, and now with the added support from the Police and Crime Commissioner we can produce some fantastic results to help reduce crime.” 

Find out more about the community groups funded by the PCC’s Community Action Fund, the eligibility criteria and how to apply for future funding here. 

Published Wednesday 13 September 2023