NATIONAL statistics show that East Renfrewshire is one of the top three areas in Scotland where adults are more likely to be victims of financial harm. To protect vulnerable adults in Barrhead, East Renfrewshire Community Health and Care Partnership and East Renfrewshire Adult Protection Committee has teamed up with the council's trading standards team, and local community police to help keep people safe from financial harm.

Councillor Lafferty, East Renfrewshire's convener for health and social care said: "Everyone thinks being an adult means being able to look after yourself, but adults can become frail, they can suffer from mental illness, loneliness, and alcohol or drugs can take their toll. Unfortunately, there is often someone who is willing to take advantage of the vulnerable. We are committed to supporting and protecting those adults in East Renfrewshire who are at risk of harm and in need of support."

John Paterson, chair of East Renfrewshire Adult Protection Committee, added "We're working to safeguard vulnerable adults from financial harm. This means raising awareness of the issues some adults face, and working together with partners to share expertise and knowledge. If you have any concerns about someone you know, please call freephone number 0300 777 6520 to get help or to report concerns about friends, relatives or neighbours."