What UK organisations provide support to scam victims?
Several UK organisations provide free support to scam victims — including Action Fraud for reporting, Victim Support and Citizens Advice for practical help, and specialist services like Mind and the Samaritans for emotional and mental health support.
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Explanation
Navigating the aftermath of a scam is easier with access to the right organisations. UK scam victims have access to a range of free, non-judgemental services spanning financial recovery, practical advice, and emotional support.
For reporting and crime reference numbers: Action Fraud (actionfraud.police.uk) is the national fraud reporting centre. For practical recovery advice: Citizens Advice (citizensadvice.org.uk) provides free guidance on consumer rights, bank disputes, debt, and ombudsman processes. For victim support: Victim Support (victimsupport.org.uk) provides free, confidential support for people affected by crime including fraud. For mental health: Mind (mind.org.uk) and the Samaritans (116 123) provide emotional support and signposting. For financial difficulty: StepChange (stepchange.org) provides free debt advice.
Specialist fraud organisations include the Take Five campaign (co-ordinated by UK Finance) for prevention resources, and the Stop Scams UK coalition for reporting and awareness. For elderly victims, Age UK (ageuk.org.uk) and Friends Against Scams provide tailored support.
This list is not exhaustive and availability of services may change. Using official .gov.uk or well-established charity websites to find services ensures you are reaching genuine organisations rather than further scam sites.
Common red flags
- You found a 'scam recovery service' through a search engine that charges for help — legitimate organisations listed here are free
- You are reluctant to seek help because you believe your case is too small or too embarrassing
What to do now
- Report to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk to create an official record
- Contact Citizens Advice for practical consumer rights and recovery advice
- Contact Victim Support for emotional and practical support specific to your needs
- Call the Samaritans on 116 123 if you are experiencing acute distress
- Contact StepChange if the scam has caused financial hardship and debt
Frequently asked questions
Is Citizens Advice completely free?
Yes. Citizens Advice provides free, independent advice on a wide range of issues including consumer rights, debt, employment, and benefits. You can access advice by phone, in person at local offices, or online through their website.
Does Victim Support help with financial scams, or only violent crime?
Victim Support assists victims of all crimes including fraud. They provide emotional support, practical information, and can help you navigate the criminal justice system regardless of the type of crime you experienced.