WEST Sussex Trading Standards have joined forces as part of a nationwide attempt to protect people from scams.

Friends Against Scams has been set up by the National Trading Standards Scams Team to:–

• Help highlight the issue of scams

• Change perceptions of why people become victims

• Provide more support to victims and encourage people to join the fight against scams

Everyone can become a Friend Against Scams by completing an online awareness session or by attending an awareness course.

Richard Sargeant, West Sussex Trading Standards team manager, said: “We are always looking for ways to further protect people from rogue traders and scammers.

“Scams affect a significant number of people and often those who are lonely or isolated, and this scheme should help to stop this from happening.”

For more information on the scheme visit www. friendsagainstscams.org.uk.

To report a rogue trader or any suspicious activity contact Trading Standards online at www.west sussex.gov.uk/tsreport or via Citizens’ Advice on 03454 040506.