THE financial exploitation of elderly and vulnerable people in bank branches is being tackled by police in Dudley.

PC Sarah Nixon and PC Wayne Trueman have been to branches in Merry Hill to raise awareness amongst staff so they know what to look out for if they see the financial abuse of older and vulnerable people taking place.

Sarah Nixon, the Vulnerability, Early Help & Referral Officer for Dudley, said: “A recent study by Age UK found that over 130,000 over 65s have suffered financial abuse. At the last census almost a quarter of people living here in Dudley were aged 60 or above. Since 2011 that figure has more than likely increased.

“We also know that vulnerable adults are more likely to entrust others with their financial affairs. If that trust is abused, they may suffer a significant financial loss.”

The pair carried out awareness raising, letting staff know what support is out there, and encouraging them to signpost customers to get support in a bid to prevent financial abuse taking place.

Sarah added: “Almost everyone has a bank account so there is a huge opportunity for banks to spot people who may need a little extra support.”

Staff can direct vulnerable people to Dudley-based agencies such as Living Well, Feeling Safe and Dudley Telecare.

In extreme cases staff can submit a referral to the Dudley multi-agency safeguarding hub (MASH) by calling 0300 555 0050.