A service protecting people from scams and doorstep crime is celebrating its fourth anniversary. 

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Against Scams Partnership was launched in 2018 to help prevent residents falling foul of unscrupulous schemes that con victims out of thousands of pounds. 

The partnership brings together more than 20 public, private and voluntary organisations from across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough including the police, local councils, Age UK, Citizens Advice and community groups raising awareness about scams and supporting victims. 

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Police and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston, congratulated the organisation and its supporters at CAPASP annual general meeting on December 14. 

He said: “CAPASP provides a vital service across our communities, and I have no doubt the information and advice it shares has protected countless residents from becoming a victim of crime.” 

Darryl also commented on how “unscrupulous criminals are using every trick in the book to cash in and swindle people out of their life’s hard work” amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis.   

“The need for this service has never been more great and I would like to congratulate everyone involved in the scheme for the amazing job they do – keep up the good work!” 

The initiative was set up by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough but is now run by Cambridgeshire County Council 

The network of volunteers supporting the initiative range from businesses and schools to housing associations. 

Together, they share information on the latest scams with their local communities to help keep them aware and safe.  

Alongside charities and public sector organisations, banks and utility providers have also backed the organisation. 

Current members, among more, include Cambridgeshire County Council, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service, Cambridgeshire Constabulary, Cambridge City Council, Age UK Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Anglian Water, Care Network and Citizen’s Advice Peterborough, NatWest Bank, Eastern Region Special Operations Unit and the OPCC. 

CAPASP has a website that offers a variety of resources which include posters and leaflets that help to raise awareness of different scams. 

For more information and a full list of members, please visit: www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/community-protection/against-scams-partnership