Powys care firm in appeal over trick or treat
Trick or treating should be banned because it leaves elderly people frightened in their own homes, it was claimed today.
Bosses at care home firm Abacare spoke out as both West Mercia Police and Dyfed-Powys Police launch their annual warning for those planning on trick or treating to behave.
Peter Angelides, chief executive officer of Abacare, which delivers care on behalf of Powys County Council, said the annual festival was a worrying time for elderly people in the region.
He added: "Halloween is a very child-orientated holiday and while we encourage youngsters to have fun, we also urge them to think about any elderly relatives or neighbours they might have as the celebrations can cause fear in them.
"It can be especially frightening for any elderly people living alone who may not want to open their doors to strangers on a cold winter evening.
"Not opening the door can result in a nasty trick being played, which is equally distressing for older people.
"We want people to be more aware of the elderly and vulnerable this Halloween and instead of trick or treating on them, perhaps people can check they are warm and doing okay."
Feelings of anxiety around Halloween is known as Samhainophobia, Mr Angelides said. "People with the phobia can feel panic and huge amounts of stress throughout the Halloween period," he added.
"The thought of what the people at the door might do if they don't answer it can be particularly worrying, as people have been known to throw eggs, flour, throw fireworks and start fires.
"We will be providing our service users with slips to display in their window to deter potential trick or treaters from knocking on their doors."
West Mercia Police said it had released guidelines for people to follow during the next few weeks. They include adults always accompanying children, keeping away from homes with a 'no trick or treating' sign, and avoid areas where elderly people live.
Chief Inspector Ross Evans, of Dyfed-Powys Police, added: "The force will be working with colleagues in the fire service and local authority to offer advice and guidance on the dos and donts around this event."
