Call blockers and video doorbell systems protect East Renfrewshire residents from scams

Published: 18 February 2025

Now in its 13^th year, more than 1,000 trueCall call blocking devices have been installed across the authority, blocking over one million nuisance and scam calls in East Renfrewshire. These units are estimated to have prevented almost 1,800 scams with 99% of potential scam calls blocked. Evidence suggests that the equipment can increase the confidence of those living with dementia by avoiding unwanted and scam calls.

Smart video doorbell systems, such as the popular Ring doorbell, are also being provided to East Renfrewshire residents. 208 doorbells have been installed to date, with an estimated average saving of £42 for every £1 spent.

The trueCall call blocking device plugs in between the landline and wall socket and is designed to screen incoming phone calls with the resident giving Trading Standards a list of 'trusted callers' to connect as normal.

All other UK callers receive the following message: 'We don't accept sales, marketing and other cold calls. If you are a friend, family member or other important caller family press 5 now. Otherwise hang up now.' Typically, most cold callers are computer dialled and will be automatically disconnected.

Family calling internationally are given a secure code to enter and other international calls are blocked.

There is no cost for the unit and it may be installed free of charge dependent on the applicants circumstances. Residents who have a community alarm are likely to qualify, subject to availability.

Upon successful referral for a smart video doorbell system, Trading Standards and Care and Repair would visit the property to install the device. An app would be installed on the resident's phone or tablet and Trading Standards would discuss any other measures which can be put in place to help potential vulnerabilities. This includes supporting residents to ensure the correct privacy settings are in place when the system is set up.

Residents who meet the criteria receiving the unit free of charge. This also includes free fitting via Care and Repair.

Councillor Danny Devlin, Convener for Environment and Housing, said: 'The call blocker and video doorbell systems are an absolutely vital resource for our most vulnerable residents. The rise in cost of living has resulted in an increase in scams, with many becoming more sophisticated, so the work the Council is doing with this project is key to combat this and stop residents falling victim to scams, whether over the phone or at their door.

'If you know of anyone who would benefit from having one of these devices installed I would encourage you to get in touch with Trading Standards for more details.'

A family member of a resident who praised the project, said: 'My mother, who was living with dementia, was able to maintain independent living for an additional 4 years thanks to the support of Trading Standards and the installation of the call blocker. Before it was fitted she was susceptible to cold callers and was falling victim to numerous telephone scams.'

Another added: 'My parents are loving the doorbell. It makes them feel more secure, especially when answering the door as they can see who it is first. It also makes me feel better knowing they have it and not answering the door to people they don't know. I get an alert on my phone when someone calls at their door and can speak to the caller if necessary. It's a very worthwhile project to protect residents facing vulnerability due to their personal circumstances.'

All equipment within this programme has been funded externally with no cost to the Council thanks to funders such as The Life Changes Trust.

If you or a family member are receiving high numbers of scam calls or cold callers, apply for a free call blocker or video doorbell by phoning 0141 577 8487 or emailing preventionteam@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk to discuss the range of bespoke support available.

Read our self-help financial harm toolkit guide to avoid scams. It includes a scams risk checklist individuals can complete to protect themselves or someone they care about, as well as useful information on many areas including living with dementia and scams, doorstep crime and email scams.

Residents can say no to uninvited doorstep callers by picking up a 'No cold calling' sticker and displaying it on their door. Stickers are available to pick up in Council buildings at Eastwood HQ or Barrhead and from local libraries.