Financial Safety

If someone is misusing your money or stealing from you – or you're worried that this is happening to someone else – this could be financial abuse. It might not only affect your bank balance but maybe your everyday health and wellbeing too.

Within this page you can find information about spotting the signs of fraud and financial abuse, alongside links to local and community based activities, campaigns, and opportunities to get involved.

What is financial abuse?

Financial abuse can include having money or other property stolen, being defrauded, being put under pressure in relation to money, financial affairs or other property, and having money, including benefits, or other property misused. If you suspect someone is being financially abused, this should be reported as a safeguarding concern.

Find out more on the Safeguarding Adults page.

Safeguarding Adults

Fraud and scams

Fraud and scams are evolving at an incredible pace, it is important to understand the tactics fraudsters use to steal money and personal information. Fraud and scams can take place online and in person. For more information on how to help stay safe, visit the Staying Safe Online and Staying Safe at Home pages:

Staying Safe Online

Staying Safe at Home

Reporting financial abuse, fraud and scams

If you experience fraud or financial abuse, it’s important that you report the matter to the authorities. You can do this by calling 999 in an emergency, or online via the Lincolnshire Police website and the Report Fraud website.

You also need to tell your bank as soon as possible so they can protect your money. You may prefer to visit your bank in-person or call them on the number on the back of your bank card. Make sure your previous call is properly disconnected before redialling. If you don’t know their number, you can call 159 from your phone and state the bank you wish to be connected to when prompted to do so. This will connect you to your bank's customer service team who will be able to help you.

Accessing help and support

Online resources and local support pathways are available from a range of organisations to ensure you know where and how to seek help:

Help with money

Help and information on a range of money related situations and processes can be found on our Money Talk Lincs pages. Created in partnership with the Lincolnshire Financial Inclusion Partnership (LFIP), these pages provide information on managing money and debt, benefits, tax support, reducing your bills, and borrowing and saving. Visit the Money Talk Lincs pages for more details.

Money Talk Lincs