THREE Cumbrian building societies have joined forces to combat cruel fraudsters who prey on the elderly and vulnerable.

The Penrith, Furness and Cumberland Building Societies have signed up to a code of conduct making it more difficult for itinerant bogus callers to dupe pensioners into handing over cash to pay for shoddy work.

The “Doorstep Crime – Cash Withdrawal Protocol” – believed to be the first of its type in the country – was signed at The Keswick Country House Hotel.

Under the protocol cashiers have been briefed to do the following, preferably in a private area, when an elderly or vulnerable customer attends their branch to make a withdrawal that is outside their normal routine.

l Tactfully inquire why the cash is needed l Point out the dangers of carrying large cash amounts l Discourage the customer from drawing out cash, especially by pointing out the other means of payment available.

If the cashier suspects that the person is a potential victim, the customer’s consent is then sought to inform the police or Cumbria County Council’s Trading Standards Department.

Where suspicious circumstances arise, every effort will be made to record the customer and anyone accompanying them on any security system and, if possible, an attempt should be made by building society staff to identify any vehicle being used by the customer.

The protocol has been drawn up between the three building societies and the county council’s Trading Standards Department. Phil Ashcroft, head of trading standards, said: “I believe in Cumbria that there are more than 100 instances every year of elderly people having to withdraw large sums of cash to pay doorstep conmen.

“We all have a duty to protect the elderly and vulnerable members of society. This protocol will be an invaluable tool in the battle against doorstep conmen.” Inspector Colin Davies of Cumbria Police said: “We support any initiative that helps combat crime targeted at the vulnerable and elderly. It is our aim to reduce not only crime but the fear of crime and we welcome the opportunity to work with others to achieve this.” Mark Robinson, Cumberland General Manager, said: “We always want to behave as good neighbours to our customers and are pleased to play our part in the scheme.”