Gwent Police is holding a ‘Cheese and Crime’ event next week for residents aged over 50 to get crime prevention advice.
The free event, which has been funded by the Van and Graig-Y-Rhacca Communities First Partnerships and BTM Community Council, will be held at Bedwas Workingman’s Hall on Tuesday July 17 from 1pm until 4pm.
Gwent Police, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Community Safety Wardens and Trading Standards and various other organisations will be on-hand to offer advice on crime and safety.
Pupils from Bedwas High School will also perform short plays on the effects of antisocial behaviour, doorstep crime and scams.
There will also be helpful tips and advice about how to prevent becoming the victim of a rogue trader or bogus caller. There will be a free buffet, followed by a game of bingo – with a safety message themed twist.
PCSO Steve Davies, from Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen, said: “We’ve held a Cheese and Crime event in previous years and it was really well received by the local residents who attended. This year we will be focusing on how to prevent becoming the victim of a scam with practical tips and advice. We’ll also be reinforcing the importance of home security and personal safety.”
Istvan Racz, Van and Graig-Y-Rhacca Communities First Manger, said: “There’s a lot of issues linked to providing crime prevention advice to older generations – primarily, they haven’t got the information easily to hand. An event like this helps the elderly in the community, it’s a fun afternoon where residents can come and meet new people. Some people might think they are the only one that has a certain problem but when they talk to others, they soon realise they’re not on their own.
“A wide range of organisations will be offering advice on the day, including: South Wales Fire & Rescue and Age Cymru Gwent. Other organisations have also donated to the event, including Tower Print, Castle Bingo – Nantgarw and James Travel. The day really will have something for everyone.”