WE at Help the Aged were heartened to read in your report (September 15) - Dramatic warning for elderly people - that a theatre group is taking a very effective doorstep safety message direct to older people in Bolton.

When dealing with an unexpected visitor, Help the Aged urges older people to follow the simple "Lock, Stop, Chain, Check" doorstep safety advice.

First, make sure all outer doors are LOCKED

Then STOP and think - are you expecting anybody

Always put the door CHAIN on and look out of the window or spy hole to see who is calling before opening the door

Then ensure that you CHECK their identification - do not be afraid to phone the company or organisation the caller says they are from to check their validity (obtaining the number from a separate source, rather than taking it from the proffered ID card).

To provide support in these situations, Help the Aged has a number of free SeniorLink units which it can offer to older people in the Bolton area who meet our criteria.

At the press of a button, the client is immediately connected to the SeniorLink response centre. This operates 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year, to answer any need - whether it is support at the door, emergency assistance, reassurance or a chat. A small, weekly charge for monitoring and maintenance, £1.50, applies for all unit holders.

If anyone is interested in finding out more, or to apply for SeniorLink, may I invite them to call 01255 473 999 for an application pack. It could be of great benefit to your older readers who are worried about maintaining their independence and personal safety at home.

Lysa Ralph

National Senior Safety Manager, Help the Aged

207-221 Pentonville Road

London N1 9UZ