Care Facilities Alert Public to ‘Polar Express’ Christmas Fraud

A provider of care services has issued a cautionary statement after two of its establishments were targeted by a “Polar Express” Christmas scam. Haughgate House Nursing Home in Woodbridge, Suffolk, and Shipdham Manor in Norfolk, had anticipated the arrival of vehicles at their locations to offer residents an experience inspired by the family film. However, when staff attempted to confirm the arrangements this week, they discovered that the company’s online presence had been deactivated and its telephone lines were no longer operational. Pip Rich, marketing manager for Healthcare Homes, advised other care facilities to be vigilant against the fraud and confirmed that the incidents had been reported to the police. Ms. Rich explained that the homes were approached during the summer with an offer for the “Royal Train Ride” Polar Express Christmas experience. “The Polar Express” is an animated Christmas movie from 2004, starring Tom Hanks, which depicts a young boy’s train journey to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus. Nevertheless, on Wednesday, when Haughgate House staff sought to verify the event’s status, they realized they had been defrauded. “The activities coordinators at the home work so hard and they are devastated by it. It’s incredibly sad; it’s unforgiveable,” Ms Rich said. She added, “At the moment the focus is on making sure that the residents are happy and still having an experience to enjoy.” Ms. Rich further commented, “It’s unforgiveable that they would target care homes so raising awareness and making sure that other people don’t fall foul of this scam is one of our priorities.” Chelsea Mears, the activities co-ordinator at Shipdham Manor, stated that the funds designated for the experience had been donated and “held special significance.” Shipdham Manor incurred a loss of £400 due to the scam, while Haughgate House lost £100, and both teams are working to recover the misappropriated money. Ms. Rich confirmed that law enforcement had been made aware. Suffolk Trading Standards informed the BBC that it was aware of the situation and would be in contact with the care home provider. Suffolk Police and Norfolk Police have been contacted for their comments.