Warning over bogus smoking calls

The service was established in Cornwall in 1999

People in Cornwall are being warned about bogus callers asking for money to help them give up smoking, when the service is available free on the NHS.

Callers, posing as official NHS advisors, have been knocking on doors and asking for money for treatments.

On one occasion a bogus agent called at the house of an official advisor and fled when challenged.

The Stop Smoking Service said its advisors never arrived without an appointment and carried identification.

Challenge callers

Lynda Quee, manager of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Stop Smoking Service, said she was very concerned about the incidents.

She said: "The NHS Stop Smoking Service has a fantastic reputation for providing friendly, free advice to anyone who wants help to give up smoking and it is very unfair that people are trying to trade off the back this success for their own personal gain."

Anyone who is approached on their doorstep is advised to challenge the person involved just as they would if someone falsely claimed to be from a utility company or council.

People should ask to see NHS identification or call the NHS Stop Smoking Service on 01209 215666 to check callers out.

Since being established in 1999, the service has helped more than 30,000 people stop smoking in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.