01
Warning signs
Be cautious about unexpected calls using government branding, payment to apply, guaranteed eligibility, threats that funding ends today, requests for banking credentials or pressure to sign finance.
02
Verify independently
Do not use contact details supplied only by the caller. Find the council or programme website yourself and ask whether the approach and company are authorised.
03
Separate support from sales
A free assessment, a funded measure and a commercial quotation are different things. Ask which one is being offered and what happens to your details.