WEST Dunbartonshire Council’s trading standards team are offering free call blocking devices to residents who suffer from dementia.

The initiative aims to combat the problem of nuisance and scam phone calls, which are often targeted at elderly and vulnerable members of the community.

Devices were installed in 45 homes across the area last year and results show that, since then, of 6,744 unwanted calls attempted, a total of 6,651 - nearly 99 per cent - were stopped from ringing through to the residents’ telephone.

Sarah Young received hers last year, and said she no longer gets unwanted calls.

She added: “I was having problems with calls from a catalogue company, and even though I’d asked them repeatedly to stop, they kept phoning me. They were phoning all hours of the day, starting from 8am.

“Since I have had my call blocker, I’m not getting any. I have it set with a list of trusted numbers, so my family and friends can get through, but most people need to leave me a voicemail. It really helps me filter out the calls I don’t want.

“I’m glad these are being given to more elderly residents because it just gives an extra peace of mind.”

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Councillor Ian Dickson and Councillor Iain McLaren visited Sarah’s home to hear about how the device has helped her.

Councillor Dickson, convener of corporate services, said: “The statistics on the number of calls being blocked by these units speak for themselves and I am delighted that we are now able to assist some of our most vulnerable residents in this way.

“It’s great to hear first-hand how effective this initiative has been for Sarah. Not having to deal with cold callers and potential scammers has saved her stress, upset and possible financial harm.”

Residents with the device can choose who gets through by banning unrecognised callers or asking them to identify themselves before being connected.

Councillor Iain McLaren, vice convener of corporate services, added: “For many elderly residents, the phone is their only link to the outside world.

“The call blocker equipment will enable them to make sure that only calls from friends, family and other known and trusted callers get through.”