Do you know the signs someone could be involved with county line activity? Take a look at them here: https://www.fearless.org/en/campaigns/county-lines
Concerns can be reported completely confidentially and anonymously to Crimestoppers or Fearless.
New data from UK Finance reveals a 20 per cent increase in bank transfer romance fraud between January – November 2020 compared to the previous year, with the total value of these scams rising by 12 per cent to £18.5 million. The average loss per victim reported to UK Finance members was £7,850, highlighting the significant impact this type of fraud can have on victims’ finances.
But criminals can trick victims into sending them money in many ways, not just via a bank transfer. Action Fraud has also seen a rise in reports made by members of the public who have fallen victim to romance fraud in 2020, with total reported losses equating to over £68 million. In these reports, victims have lost money via bank transfer, money transfer, sending fraudsters gift cards and vouchers or presents such as phones and laptops, and providing them with access to their bank account or card.
Romance scams involve people being duped into sending money to criminals who go to great lengths to gain their trust and convince them that they are in a genuine relationship. They use language to manipulate, persuade and exploit so that requests for money do not raise alarm bells. These requests might be highly emotive, such as criminals claiming they need money for emergency medical care, or to pay for transport costs to visit the victim if they are overseas.
The rise in romance scams comes as more people have turned to online dating during 2020 due to social distancing restrictions. Figures from the Online Dating Association (ODA) estimate that over 2.3 million Brits used dating apps during the first lockdown, with 64 per cent of people surveyed seeing dating apps as a lifeline for those living alone. While the internet can be a great way to meet people and form new relationships, the growth in popularity of online dating is giving criminals more opportunities to exploit and coerce people into parting with their money.
Scammers will often build a relationship with their victims over time, the ODA’s data shows that half (53 per cent) of people surveyed are having longer conversations on dating services during lockdown. UK Finance is therefore calling on people to look out for their friends and family this Valentine’s Day. Dating app users should also speak to their friends and family for advice, and follow the advice of the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign to keep themselves safe from scams.
West Mercia Police Detective Inspector Emma Wright from the Economic Crime Unit said: “We are committed to safeguarding vulnerable people and disrupting criminality that preys on victims and causing them significant financial losses. We work in collaboration with the City of London Police to investigate reports and develop intelligence leads to disrupt romance fraudsters, whilst also safeguarding, supporting and offering protection advice to the victims.
“Romance scams are both emotionally and financially damaging for victims. The increasing popularity of online dating services has made it easier for criminals to target victims, so we urge everyone to be cautious and follow the advice of the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign, which offers straight-forward and impartial advice to help people spot scams and protect themselves against fraud.
“Although banks are always looking out for suspicious activity, customers must be on their guard and protect themselves too. Always be wary of requests for money from someone you’ve never met in person. If you think you’ve been the victim of a romance scam, contact your bank immediately, report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call us on 101.”
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “I am committed to protecting vulnerable people and supporting victims of crime. Romance fraud is a horrible crime that can leave victims devastated, both financially and emotionally.
“Providing the right support for victims is central to my role as commissioner, and I would urge anyone that has been a victim of this very personal crime to reach out to the support that is available.”
If you’ve been affected by romance fraud or know someone who has, then support is available from the West Mercia Victim Advice Line.
The Victim Advice Line is a free and confidential service offering advice, practical help and emotional support to people affected by crime, regardless of whether it has been reported to the police.
Support is available by telephone on 0800 9523000, via email at info@victimadviceline.org.uk and through live chat on victimadviceline.org.uk
How users can stay safe from romance scams:
If you think you have been a victim of a romance scam, do not feel ashamed or embarrassed – you are not alone. Contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk.
It is important that no matter how long you’ve been speaking to someone online and how much you think you trust them, if you have not met them in person it’s important that you do not:
Preparations for the laying of fibre is complete and contractors, on behalf of Openreach, have started laying the fibre optic cables that will bring Ultrafast Broadband to properties that are connected to the Mount Road junction.
Once underground cables are laid, work will commence connecting properties. It is hoped that Fibre to the Properties will be “live” by early Spring.
Shrove Tuesday, or Pancake Day as it is sometimes known, is a traditional feast day before the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday, this year Shrove Tuesday falls on 16th February.
Lent – the 40 days leading up to Easter – was traditionally a time of fasting, and Shrove Tuesday was the last opportunity to use up eggs and fats before embarking on the fast, and pancakes are the perfect way of using up these ingredients. As well as eating pancakes it is traditional to have pancake races and toss pancakes!
There will be no community pancake races due to Covid restriction, but there is still something that we can do as a community to mark the occasion:
Challenge
On a dinner plate size circular piece of paper (your pancake), create something that depicts part of our community, e.g. your pancake could have a church (St. Marks), or trees (Pepperwood) or football field (Recreation Ground) – you can use pens, crayons or craft materials. Take a photo of your creation and email to admin@fvca.org.uk where will share on a social media streams & website. Please state name to be quoted and, if created by a child, age.
LENT GROUP 2021
For the people of Belbroughton, Blakedown, Broome, Churchill and Fairfield
On Zoom
on The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis
Starting Wednesday 24th February 2pm, lasting till 3.15/30 pm
For 6 sessions
The only thing you will need is a Bible.
Session 1: Following Jesus. Matthew 4: 18-22; 8: 18-27
Session 2: The Path of Grace. Mathew 5: 1-12
Session 3: The Path of Humility. John 13: 1-17
Session 4: The Path of Suffering: Matthew 10: 1-33
Session 5: The Path of Peace. Matthew 7: 1-12
Session 6: Following to the End. John 11:1-44
Not everyone agrees, but the majority think that Thomas a Kempis, an Augustinian monk of the 1400’s, is the author of a book that for years was second only to the Bible in sales. The Imitation of Christ has never been out of print and copies have been in circulation since 1418.
Revered by Protestants and Catholics alike, you might like to get your own copy. You can get the Penguin Classics translation by Robert Jeffery, the Dean of Worcester Cathedral before the present one, for under £10. But you do not need to have your own copy. You might already have one!
If you indicate you want to join this Zoom Group, along with the Zoom details, each week you will get a “Handout” with some text from the Imitation and the questions we shall discuss/think about.
Do join us!
Email sueoliver778@gmail.com
Canon Sue
Members of the community put pen to paper and shared their love poems to mark Valentine’s Day 2021.
By Arthur Wilson
In Shakespeare’s time
Love poems would rhyme
With “hast” and “thee”
And “thou” and “me”.
As time progressed
The rhyme grew less
The words less formal
The tone more normal.
So, in love poems now
We will allow
Love to be shown
In any way known.
Just say
I
Love
You
by A Bournheath Resident
I loved you as a baby
Even when changing your nappy.
Your wonderful beautiful smile
Would always make me happy.
I loved you as a child
Thriving at Fairfield First School.
Your imaginative stories
Always seemed so cool.
I loved you as a teenager
When you communicated in grunts,
Even though sometimes
You barely spoke for months.
I loved you as a student
Despite the vast expense,
The late nights and the alcohol.
My love must be immense!
Now you’re living miles away
With one job, then another.
But wherever you are, my love is still there.
From your embarrassing mother.
By Becky Wood
Every day
Regardless of the weather,
An elderly couple
Walks past my house.
She walks with a stick;
He walks at her pace.
Every day
They smile and chat.
Every day
They are synchronised.
Their paces match.
Their hats match.
Is this perfect love?
by A Bournheath Resident
“The capacity
To love
Is infinite.”
So said
The mother
Giving birth
To her fourteenth child
And loving him
Just as much
As numbers
One to thirteen.
By Nalgar
I was young,
On my own,
Minding my own business,
When he walked in.
What would have been
Had he not been there,
Where would my life have taken me,
Had our eyes not met?
Was it love at first sight?
I do not know.
He held me in his arms,
I felt warm and secure.
At times he was commanding,
Always gentle and kind,
But I pulled the strings,
A relationship was born.
We’ve been together
Four years and more,
He lies down beside me,
And I give him a doggy yawn.
It will be soon be Valentine’s Day (14th February), an occasion when when lovers express their affection with greetings and gifts.
This year, let share the love a bit further:
Roses are Red
Violet are Blue
Write us a Poem
That says I love You.
Email your poem to admin@fvca.org.uk and we will add to our special Valentine’s webpage. Your poem could be serious or funny, it can be about a person, animal or whatever you like.
No prizes, just the satisfaction that you have shared your love.
To read the Poems for Valentine’s that we have received CLICK HERE
Contractors have nearly completed preparatory work that will see ultrafast broadband rolled out to properties connected to Mount Road junction. Indications are that BT OpenReach will be laying fibre optic cables in early spring.
At this stage we are not aware of any timetable that will see properties in our community that are not connected to the Mount Road junction also enjoy the benefits of Fibre To The Property.
Neighbourhood Watch are delighted to announce our exciting new partnership with Universal Studios and the Co-op in the launch of The Croods 2: A New Age in the UK. The film (also known as The Croods 2) is a computer-animated adventure comedy film produced by DreamWorks Animation and distributed by Universal Pictures.
The film centres around values of community, neighbourliness, inclusivity, and working together. These are values that are close to the heart of all Neighbourhood Watch supporters, and as part of our initiative to reach more young families and to add to the positive and approachable perceptions of Neighbourhood Watch, the opportunity presented by this partnership was too good to pass up!
The Croods and The Bettermans are thrown together, two very different families who have to learn to live with one another when an evil tribe of monkeys threaten their homes. Once safe from this threat, the Croods and the Bettermans realise that home is not a place, it’s people, and together they create history’s first neighbourhood!
Neighbourhood Watch’s partnership with the film provides the opportunity to reach young families and to promote the importance of neighbourliness and community spirit to new audiences and across diverse communities. We know many young people and their families believe in the values which we stand for and this partnership gives them the introduction to becoming Neighbourhood Watch supporters for life.
WIN! Design a Croods 2 inspired treehouse and win it for your local Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve
In partnership with ‘The Croods 2: A New Age’ and Co-op, we want children up to the age of 16 to design their very own Croods 2 inspired treehouse for their local community. What’s more, the winning entry will be brought to life and built within a nearby Wildlife Trust location to be enjoyed by the public for years to come!
What do you need to do to enter?
West Mercia Police are aware that criminals pretending to be police officers are again attempting to defraud people in Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire, in a scam known as ‘Courier Fraud’. Some jewellery shops are also being taking advantage of as part of the scam.
Detective Inspector Emma Wright said: “This type of fraud traditionally targets older, vulnerable people however cases reported in the last 24 hours would suggest the criminals are targeting a broader range of ages.
West Mercia Police Economic Crime Unit is also making all jewellery shops aware of the Courier Fraud scam that can see their businesses used by criminals as part of the fraud.
Detective Inspector Emma Wright said: “Courier Fraud is an especially cruel type of fraud that sees vulnerable people prayed on by criminals.
“Victims are telephoned by a person, pretending to be a police officer. The bogus police officer explains that the victim’s bank accounts are under threat from fraudsters. He or she convinces the victim to participate in a fictitious undercover police operation to catch the fraudsters and safeguard their funds. They are told not to inform anyone, including their bank, as bank staff are equally under suspicion. Often the bogus Police officer discloses private financial information about the victim, which is used to encourage the victim to trust them.
“Where the jewellery shops may come into this, is that victims are sometimes instructed to either buy gold bullion or high valued watches. These items are handed to a courier who confirms a password given to the victim over the phone by the suspect.
“While this may seem hard to believe and that nobody would fall for this con, we have had recent cases where one victim was convinced over several long and very detailed calls to buy £250,000 in gold which once delivered to their home, was handed to ‘investigating officers’ and another where a victim who had already withdrawn more than £25,000 in cash was tricked into purchasing a £35,000 designer watch as part of a fake investigation, which was then handed to waiting criminals pretending to police officers.
“These people are operating as part of organised crime gangs. They are ruthless, extremely convincing and extremely successful and these scams net millions of pounds a year for them.
“So my message to everyone is simple: no police officer, bank security staff or government agency, will ever ask you for your bank details over the phone or by text and email. They will never tell you to withdraw money as part of a criminal investigation, nor ask you to buy goods like watches or gold, nor request that you transfer funds to another account. The police and security teams for banks simply do not work in this way. I would ask you to please let elderly and vulnerable people know never to believe anyone who claims to be from the police and who then asks for their money, even if they know some of your financial and personal details.
“We are contacting all jewellery shops across West Mercia to encourage them to be aware of the scam and what to look for if they are approached by a customer who may be a victim of this fraud and we are working in conjunction with the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau to combat this type of crime.”
“If you are concerned you have been targeted, because for example, you have recently provided bank details, handed over cards/cash/valuables, you are going to visit your bank/a jewellers, or the caller has arranged for someone to visit your address to collect items; you should call the police to report this on 101. In an emergency dial 999.”
| Over the past couple of days residents have sent in some fantastic images recording our village under a blanket of snow. To view the photo album CLICK HERE |
| Please continue to send in photographs throughout the year so that we can capture our community for our pictorial archive. |
Due to popular demand, our community egg stall will return this Friday (29th Jan) from 10am-2pm and all proceeds will continue to go to Parkinson’s UK. A tray of 30 Free Range eggs will still be £2.50.
Dependant on the weather, eggs will continue to be sold outside the main Bumble Hole gates (David Hewston Way, Rocky Lane, Bromsgrove, B61 9HU) or from inside the hut which is just inside the main Bumble Hole gates.
The Egg stall will only continue on a week to week basis if the demand to carry on is there.
As the Fairfield Wombles are having to isolate and shield due to lockdown restriction, we need you to help keep our roads, ditches and open spaces clear of litter.
When out for your daily exercise please help keep your community tidy and safe for wildlife by picking up litter – take with you a pair of gloves and a bag. Only pick up with your hands items that are not sharp.
Along some of our roads and in the hedges grot can be found, please help pick this litter up before the vegetation grow back.
If you would like to borrow one of out litter pick stick do drop us a message admin@fvca.org.uk
Parish Council invites you to have your say next Monday
http://www.belbroughtonandfairfield-pc.info/
Now more than ever we will all be spending more time at home which may mean purchasing games console, computers, tablets, games and other expensive items to keep everyone occupied at home. This means there are even more items to keep safe. The best way to do this is to follow our tips for keeping your home secure this festive period.
Inspector Ram Aston said: “Burglars often target homes specifically and although we will still be patrolling and are here to help you, we urge you to take these steps to protect your home.
“This year has been difficult enough for all of us without coming home or waking up to find someone has stolen some of you valuables. Crime prevention is absolutely crucial and anything residents can do to help protect their home can help make a difference.
“If you leave you home for the day make sure the house is locked up before you go and the burglar alarm is set. Right now the advice during the pandemic is to keep a window open for ventilation but it is really important you take a couple of minutes to check these are closed before leaving your house. Hide any valuable items from view from the outside and don’t leave anything in the garden that could potentially be used to gain entry into your home. Be mindful of where you store your wheelie bin too and consider if it could be used for someone to climb on and access an upstairs window or used to climb over into the garden. If you’re leaving the car at home and have a garage, park it in the garage while you’re away rather than on the drive and if you’ve got gates close and lock them with a good quality lock.
“If you are victim of a burglary and your property is stolen, if the items are Smart Water marked we can ensure they are returned to you if they are found. This is particularly important with high value items such as games consoles, computers and bikes. It is also incredibly useful to take photos of your valuables so if they are taken you can supply us with an accurate image, This is particularly helpful with jewellery and family heirlooms.”
For more advice on keeping your home safe from burglars visit the West Mercia Police website here and for more ways to secure your home visit Secure By Design here.
Criminals will use every opportunity they can to defraud innocent people. They will continue to exploit every angle of the Covid-19 pandemic as more people shop online this festive season.
Detective Sergeant Jon Cooper said: “I’m sure most of us will be ordering items online this month and we simply want people to be aware of the very simple steps they can take to protect themselves from handing over their money or personal details to criminals. I would ask the public to talk to each other; especially elderly and vulnerable friends and family and warn them of the risks and how they can protect themselves.
“Law enforcement, government and industry are working together to protect people, raise awareness, take down fraudulent websites and email addresses, and ultimately bring those responsible to justice.
“If you think you’ve been a victim of a scam, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk.
Action Fraud is the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime where you should report fraud if you have been scammed, defrauded or experienced cybercrime.
They provide a central point of contact for information about fraud and financially motivated internet crime.
When you report to Action Fraud you will receive a police crime reference number. Reports taken are passed to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau.
Steps you can take to prevent yourself from cyber crime
Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police. They spend hours researching you hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment.
They can contact you by phone, email, text, on social media, or in person.
They will try to trick you into parting with your money, personal information, or buying goods or services that don’t exist.
If you are approached unexpectedly remember to:
To keep yourself secure online, ensure you are using the latest software, apps and operating systems on your phones, tablets and laptops. Update these regularly or set your devices to automatically update so you don’t have to worry.
More advice on how to keep prevent cybercrime is available here from the National Cyber Security Centre also here from Take Five to Stop Fraud
It’s been a year like no other for all of us and our Christmas celebrations are also not going to be anything like the sort we normally enjoy.
As usual, however, there will be memorable moments created and a chance to enjoy some time and relaxation with our nearest and dearest.
But in amongst all the changes we have to make to our usual routines, one thing remains the same and that’s the need to remember to take extra care and think about fire safety in our homes at this special time. Simple things such as not leaving candles and cooking unattended and turning off Christmas lights can make the difference between enjoying a memorable festive time and suffering a devastating house fire.
Statistics show that an accidental fire in the home is more likely to happen in December than in any other month and so if the worst were to happen, it’s worth remembering that smoke alarms can buy you vital time to escape. Please consider fitting one on every level of your home.
Giving some thought to having an escape plan in the event of fire could save your life and so it’s worth making sure that all of your house guests are made aware of yours.
There is plenty more good advice on fire safety in the home on our website www.hwfire.org.uk so please check it out.
As always, our crews and fire control staff will maintain their around-the-clock cover across our two counties to help to keep you safe during this festive time.
So on behalf of everyone at Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, I would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas in the hope that 2021 will be a more normal year for us all.
West Mercia Police, working closely with colleagues in the Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU) is pleased to be bring you The Little Book of Big Scams. This book has been reproduced with the kind permission of the Metropolitan Police Service’s Cyber Crime Unit.
The Regional Organised Crime Unit West Midlands Team leads the response for Serious and Organised Crime across the region, which includes Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire. The goal of the team is to reduce the impact of the most dangerous offenders and criminal groups in order to make our communities safer.
Detective Inspector Emma Wright who leads the fight against fraud for the Economic Crime Unit said: “Fraud has evolved over recent years and The Little Book of Big Scams seeks to address the challenges both the public and the police face in deterring and preventing these crimes.
“The book covers everything from fraud enablers, types of fraud and what to do if you get scammed. Many of the traditional frauds remain a threat to us all however the prevalence of the digital world now has opened the door to new types of online fraud and new types of risk.
“With organised criminals finding new ways to access our personal details and new ways to exploit most people’s inherent trust in other people and what they tell them, it is more important than ever that we all arm ourselves with the best and most up to date knowledge available. It is only through doing this and working together that we will combat fraud in all it’s forms.”
You can download the booklet by clicking here.
Present-wrapping, decorating your home and dinner with all the trimmings will hopefully take our minds off other concerns this yuletide, especially now that the Government has given the go-ahead for the Christmas break.
But Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and the national Fire Kills campaign are reminding people that fire safety always needs to stay high on their Christmas lists.
While fire safety is vital throughout the year, the extra distractions of Christmas make it especially important to be vigilant, so HWFRS is asking people to take extra care over the festive season to ensure that their families and loved ones are protected from fire.
In recent years, excessive alcohol consumption has been a major contributor to fire-related casualties, so if you are having some festive drinks, please don’t drop your guard.
Last Christmas, between 24 December 2019 and 1 January 2020, there were more than 120 incidents in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, more than 30 of which were fires.
Over the Christmas period, more than half of the fires were accidental, including 14 accidental dwelling fires in which cooking was the most common cause. The kitchen was the most common start place for fires to occur.
15% of non-fire related callouts were for road traffic collisions and other vehicle incidents.
There were also more than 50 false alarms throughout the period.
HWFRS Community Risk Manager Emma Roberts said: “Christmas is a time for festive cheer with family. But fairy lights, candles and decorations mean it is also a time to take extra care to keep our loved ones safe from fire.
“Make sure you place candles in suitable holders and away from curtains and, at this time of year, from Christmas decorations, never leave cooking unattended, especially with so much more food than usual on the go, and of course, test your smoke alarms.
“The colder weather brings its own menaces, too. Take care when using portable heaters or open fires to keep warm.”
Here are some simple tips from the Fire Kills campaign to help you and your family enjoy the joys of Christmas safely:
Check your Christmas tree lights carry this British Safety Standard sign
“From everyone at HWFRS, we wish you all a very happy and safe Christmas.”
Still shopping online for those last minute gifts?
🛍 Remember to research retailers before making your purchase
🏆 If an offer seems too good to be true it probably is
💳 Consider paying with a credit card or PayPal for greater buyer protection
💻 Keep your anti-virus software up-to-date
🔐 Use strong passwords that differ across websites
Visit www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberaware/home for more advice on how to stay safe online this Christmas.
Due to the increase in dog walkers visiting Pepper Wood, a second bin has been installed in the car park.
Procured and sited by the Pepper Wood volunteers with the help of Fairfield Village Community Association, the bin will be emptied as part of the Parish Council current “dog waste” contract.
In response to a need the Parish Council have agreed to a Community Association request to procure, site and maintain a dog waste bin on Woodcote Lane, on the side of the road where the footpath leads into Nutnells Wood.
Our thanks to the Pepper Wood Volunteers and Parish Council.
PC’s Bolton & Trowman from the We Don’t Buy Crime team highlight cycle security and how quick and easy it is to take your bike.
Mark your bicycle with SmartWater (Free kits available to properties in Fairfield, Wildmoor & Stoneybridge – email admin@fvca.org.uk) and use a secure, sturdy lock.
Lawful owners of certain weapons can begin to surrender them to the police from today as part of a three month scheme launched by the Home Office.
The weapon surrender scheme runs from today, Thursday 10 December 2020 until Tuesday 9 March 2021, where those owning particular weapons can hand them over to police and submit a compensation claim from the Home Office.
The Offensive Weapons Act 2019 contains measures to make it unlawful to possess certain offensive weapons– including rapid firing rifles and specific types of knives such as flick knives and zombie knives.
West Mercia Police will be accepting offensive weapons – those detailed in the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 – at front counters at the following police stations; Kidderminster, Redditch, Worcester, Hereford, Telford and Shrewsbury.
Those with legally held firearms that are affected are being contacted directly by the Firearms licencing unit with specific instruction on surrender and compensation.
Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Jones said: “Supporting this Home Office initiative is part of our commitment to tackling violence together with our partners and the public. It is only by working together that we will reduce violence including street violence and domestic abuse.
“For those weapons that are not detailed in the Offensive Weapons Act, there will also be knife bins at every station so they can be deposited safely.”
If you have information about someone you suspect to be in possession of an illegal weapon, you can contact West Mercia Police through the 101 number or via our website. Any information received is always dealt with in the strictest confidence.
If you have information but don’t want to speak to police, then you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website Crimestoppers-UK.org They are 100% anonymous and totally independent of the police. They never ask your name, they cannot trace your call or I.P address and no one ever knows that you’ve passed on information.
Young people can find advice by visiting Fearless.Org Full details on the Home Office surrender scheme can be found here.
More and more people are moving over to online and phone banking due to the current pandemic. Criminals have become wise to this and are sending out thousands of scam text messages every month to extract important personal information designed to access their potential victim’s finances.
To spot these fraudulent text messages, take a good look at them. Most are designed to instil a sense of panic (‘request was created from an unrecognised device’). After the sense of panic, the text message gives you way to solve the problem (‘Cancel this request via:’). The solution will lead you to a fake website, which looks a lot like your bank’s website, and instruct you to enter your details. Once this is done, they can now access your bank account.
You can report these text messages to your network provider by forwarding them to 7726. If you think you have been scammed, contact your bank immediately and report to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
Are you living with chronic back pain? Does it restrict your daily life?
The District Council’s Escape-Pain for back programme is designed to help reduce pain, improve your physical function and improve the psychosocial consequences of pain.
Click here for more info – https://www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/things-to-do/exercise-and-health/community-exercise-sessions/escape-pain-for-backs.aspx
Criminals can be articulate and financially knowledgeable, with credible websites, testimonials and materials that are hard to distinguish from the real thing. They design attractive offers to persuade you to transfer your pension pot to them or to release funds from it. It is then invested in unusual and high-risk investments like overseas property, renewable energy bonds, forestry, storage units, or simply stolen outright.
If you suspect a scam, report it.
• Report to Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) at www.fca.org.uk or by calling 0800 111 6768
• Report to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040
• If you’re in the middle of a transfer, contact your provider immediately the get in touch with the Pensions Advisory Service at www.thepensionadvisoryservice.org.uk
Due to coronavirus, more people will be doing their festive shopping online this year.
This means more opportunities for hackers to carry out cyber attacks. They often do this by targeting people and businesses using:
* email and website scams
* malware – software that can damage your device or let a hacker in
* If hackers get into your device or accounts, they could access your money, your personal information, or information about your business.
You can improve your cyber security by taking six actions:
1 – Use a strong and separate password for your email
If a hacker gets into your email, they could:
* reset your other account passwords
* access information you have saved about yourself or your business
* Your email password should be strong and different to all your other passwords. This will make it harder to crack or guess.
2 – Create strong passwords using 3 random words
When you use different passwords for your important accounts, it can be hard to remember them all.
A good way to create strong, memorable passwords is by using 3 random words.
Do not use words that can be guessed (like your pet’s name). You can include numbers and symbols if you need to. For example, “RedPantsTree4!”
3 – Save your passwords in your browser
Saving your password in your browser means letting your web browser (such as Chrome, Safari or Edge) remember your password for you.
This can help:
* make sure you do not lose or forget your passwords
* protect you against some cyber crime, such as fake websites
It is safer than using weak passwords, or using the same password in more than one place.
4 – Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) helps to stop hackers from getting into your accounts, even if they have your password.
5 – Update your devices
Out-of-date software, apps, and operating systems contain weaknesses. This makes them easier to hack.
Companies fix the weaknesses by releasing updates. When you update your devices and software, this helps to keep hackers out.
6 – Back up your data
Backing up means creating a copy of your information and saving it to another device or to cloud storage (online).
Backing up regularly means you will always have a recent version of your information saved. This will help you recover quicker if your data is lost or stolen.
For more information, and step-by-step instructions, please visit cyberaware.gov.uk
PCC John Campion is inviting Worcestershire residents to raise their concerns and learn how they can protect themselves from crime.
At a time where traditional public engagement isn’t possible, the PCC is bringing the town hall to Zoom. During the online session, which is taking place on Wednesday 9th December from 6-7pm, the PCC will be joined by the West Mercia Police We Don’t Buy Crime team, the Rural and Business Officer for Worcestershire and a representative from the Road Safety team.
A key part of the Commissioner’s commitment to the communities of Worcestershire is to ensure their voices are heard and they have the opportunity to highlight issues that matter to them most. He also wants to make sure that communities have the opportunity to receive valuable crime prevention advice so they can keep themselves safe.
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “As Commissioner, part of my commitment is to engage with the communities of Worcestershire and sadly, due to these extraordinary times, many events I would usually be attending have been cancelled. Yet thanks to the wonders of modern technology we are able to do things a little differently.
“Whilst virtual sessions are no substitute for face to face events, they are a great and safe alternative that allow communities to get involved and ask the questions that matter to them most. I enjoy hearing directly from residents, and I would encourage as many people as possible to join me and my panel.”
You can sign up to the event here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/worcestershire-what-matters-to-you-tickets-131173721131
Operation Snap is the online dashcam reporting initiative where members of the public submit footage of moving road traffic offences directly via a secure portal on the internet.
Since mid 2018 the Op Snap Team at West Mercia Police alone have dealt with over 5100 submissions and around 91% of these reports have resulted in a ‘positive action’ result.
This doesn’t mean that 91% of drivers reported have been prosecuted, as in many case, an alternative means of dealing with the matter may have been used, such as warning letters or driver improvement courses. However, approximately 40% of reports have ended with a prosecution.
Around 5% are repeat offenders and those who are deemed to cause the most harm on our roads, for example drink/drug drivers, speeders, those using mobile phones whilst driving so the initiative has a huge part to play in ensuring these motorists are removed from the roads.
In approximately 9% of cases, no further action is taken – this may be because no offences can be confirmed from the footage, or the vehicle cannot be identified as the registration number or other unique markings are not visible.
West Mercia Police are very grateful to both our residents and visitors to the force area who take the time to submit Op Snap reports and by doing so, are helping to make our roads a safer place for everyone.
The work of Op Snap is contributing to helping us make the roads in West Mercia safer for all.
Anyone who captures what they believe to be a moving traffic offence is encouraged to upload it via the Op Snap portal at www.westmercia.police.uk/operationsnap
Your elderly neighbours are vulnerable and can easily become a victim of a scam, please help them by making them aware of the different types of scams and what they should do if they receive a scam call, letter or visit.
Recently the Community Association has been contacted by several older residents regarding scam telephone calls, which they have found frightening as the automated message is threatening legal action.
The Community Association have acquired some literature that you can give to or post through the letter boxes of elderly neighbours. The booklet, “Scamwise”, which has been produced by Independent Age, explains in simple language how to spot a scam, how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud and action to be taken if you think you have been scammed. The booklet can be picked up from Fairfield Cafe.
Be Winter Wise
When delivering the “Scamwise” booklet to your neighbours, please also drop off a copy of the booklet “Winter Wise”, useful tips that help the elderly look after themselves during winter months.
Latest fire statistics reveal that one smoke alarm may not be enough to provide you with the best chance of escaping a fire in the home.
Most people know a working smoke alarm can save lives by providing those vital few seconds needed to escape a house fire. Despite the majority of homes (95%) having at least one working smoke alarm, smoke alarms only alerted householders to just one in every three fires in the home in England. The most common reason a smoke alarm failed to activate was because the fire was outside its range.
For this reason, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) are encouraging people across the two counties to have a think about the number of smoke alarms in their home.
Group Commander Stuart Crebbin, Community Risk department said: “We all must make sure that we have enough smoke alarms in our homes and that they are in the right places. If your whole home isn’t covered, you could be leaving it to chance and, in a fire, you might not get the early warning that you need.
“The vast majority of us now have at least one working smoke alarm in our home, but early detection and warning is vital to reduce the devastation a fire can cause. That’s why it’s so important that you have enough smoke alarms and that they are in the right places. That will give them the best chance of alerting you and your loved ones to a fire.”
He continued: “You should make sure you have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home, preferably in hallways and landings. Placing smoke alarms near to sleeping areas and in rooms where there are electrical appliances could give you the extra warning you need.
“It’s also important to remember that smoke alarms don’t last forever. The power might work, but the mechanism deteriorates with time, so whether they are battery operated or wired to the mains, to work at their best they should be replaced every ten years.”
HWFRS offered these smoke alarm top tips:
Group Commander Crebbin also urged carers and people who keep a close eye on less able relatives to check that these homes have enough smoke alarms in the right places too.
“Finally, if you want to see if you would qualify for a free Home Fire Safety Check or would like any fire safety advice, please call 0800 032 1155,” added Group Commander Crebbin.
Action Fraud is reminding everyone that a chain email circulating warning about a postal scam that could leave you £315 out of pocket – is a hoax.
The hoax email reads:
“Can you circulate this around especially as Xmas is fast approaching – it has been confirmed by Royal Mail. The Trading Standards Office are making people aware of the following scam:
A card is posted through your door from a company called PDS (Parcel Delivery Service) suggesting that they were unable to deliver a parcel and that you need to contact them on 0906 6611911 (a Premium rate number).
DO NOT call this number, as this is a mail scam originating from Belize. If you call the number and you start to hear a recorded message you will already have been billed £315 for the phone call.
If you do receive a card with these details, then please contact Royal Mail Fraud on 020 7239 6655.”
PhonepayPlus, is aware that a chain e-mail about an alleged postal scam is being circulated on the internet. The email refers to the Royal Mail, Trading Standards and ICSTIS (PhonepayPlus’ former name).
PhonepayPlus appreciates that recipients of the email may want to find out more information about the alleged scam and has therefore issued the following statement:
For more detailed information about PhonepayPlus’ work, please visit www.phonepayplus.org.uk.
Please note: Action Fraud is not responsible for the content on external websites.
To report a fraud, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use their online fraud reporting tool.
If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, report it to Action Fraud at http://actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Reports of online shopping fraud have surged by 30% over the pandemic as many of us continue to shop online in light of current restrictions.
Figures from Action Fraud show that criminals conned 17,407 shoppers out of almost £13.5 million over the Christmas period last year, an increase of over 20% when compared to the same period in 2018.
Action Fraud is warning the public to take extra care when shopping online, ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, as shoppers search for bargains and gifts for loved ones in the run up to Christmas.
Top tips to shop online securely this festive season:
Where to shop:
Making a purchase from an online store you haven’t used before? Carry out some research first, or ask a friend or family member if they’ve used the site and about their experiences before completing the purchase.
Your information:
Only create an account if necessary or to save you effort if you’re going to use that site a lot in the future. Be cautious if the website asks you for details that are not required for your purchase, such as your mother’s maiden name or the name of your primary school.
Payments:
If you decide to go ahead with the purchase, ensure that the webpage where you enter your payment details is secure (website address starts with “https”). Using a credit card to pay online also means that should the worst happen and your payment details are compromised, your main bank account won’t be directly affected.
Phishing:
Some of the messages you receive about amazing offers may contain links to fake websites. Not all links are bad, but if you’re unsure, don’t use the link – go separately to the website. Report any suspicious emails you receive by forwarding them to: report@phishing.gov.uk You can also report suspicious text messages by forwarding them to 7726.
For more information about how to shop online securely, please visit:
actionfraud.police.uk/shoponlinesafely
It’s beginning to look a lot like the time of year when statistically accidental fires in the home are more likely to occur! As many of us are ‘going early’ with putting the decorations up check your smoke alarms are working properly, and ensure that everyone in the house knows how to escape in the event of an emergency!
Make a diary note to regularly check #TestItTuesday
This morning (24th November), the emergency services attended a road traffic collision, involving two vehicles, on Sandy Lane.
2 people received precautionary checks from paramedics, an appliance from Bromsgrove Fire Station was also in attendance.
This morning (24th November), the owners of Brookfield Nursery on Quantry Lane found that they been broken into; items stolen include power tools, shop float and the Finn the Fabulous charity box.
To provide safety to horse, rider and motorist, please follow these four simple steps when passing horse riders along our country roads;
Preparations continue to deliver Fibre To The Premises, across our community.
Contractors are preparing the underground ducts for the fibre optic cables that will connect telegraph poles to local junctions boxes, which are in turn connected to the telephone exchange.
Once cables are laid and connected to telegraph poles, residents & businesses will be contacted. OpenReach have produced a video that explains the procedure of connecting telegraph poles to your property.
The Woodland Trust is looking at an exciting opportunity to double the size of Pepper Wood, acquiring 120 acres of adjacent land, thereby achieve some 100 hectares of resilient continuous native woodland.
Pepper Wood is an ancient woodland site, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, the aim of the Woodland Trust is to blend opportunities for natural regeneration/ colonisation with sympathetic tree planting, and this will create a significant locally distinctive and accessible landscape asset promoting nature recovery and climate resilience.
To deliver this vision, the Wood land Trust needs to raise £1.5 million to secure the extension of Pepper Wood. A national appeal has been launched, which members of the community may wish top donate to.
This is an exciting project that will have many benefits for our community.
For further information and to make a donation CLICK HERE
Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police. They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment. Stop and think. It could protect you and your money. Read more CLICK HERE
Do you know an individual, community group or voluntary organisation that goes above and beyond to improve the lives of others in our county? Perhaps it’s a small group that doesn’t get any publicity or a person who deserves recognition for everything they do.
Winners will be celebrated in spring 2021 either in person or remotely!
Please submit nominations before the 15th January 2021.
https://www.highsheriffofworcestershire.org.uk/high-sheriff-awards
Action Fraud is warning people selling items online to be on the lookout for criminals sending fake PayPal emails.
How does it happen?
Criminals have been targeting people selling items online, by sending them emails purporting to be from PayPal. The emails trick victims into believing they have received payment for the items they’re selling on the platform.
Typically, after receiving these emails, victims will ship the item to the criminal. This leaves them at a further disadvantage having not received any payment for the item and also no longer being in possession of it.
How can you protect yourself?
If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, report it to Action Fraud online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Responding to the recent break-in at Fairfield First School, the PTFA have arranged a fundraising page to replace the stolen I-Pads. Pease visit their fundraising website page, your donation will be appreciated. Thank you. https://www.gofundme.com/f/fairfield-first-school-ipad-fund
Overnight Monday 2nd – Tuesday 3rd November, there was a break-in at Fairfield First School, which resulted in criminal damage and the theft of items, including iPads.
Did you see or hear anything suspicious? Please report to 101
Please continue to support by buying milk, bread, cakes and take-away meals
Following yesterdays lockdown announcement, Fairfield Cafe WILL be remaining open.
Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday of this week the Cafe will be open to dine in but from Thursday 5th November it will be takeaway only.
📱 Please preorder for collection wherever possible to avoid waiting around.⌚
🍰🥖 The Cafe will continue to offer fresh bread and fresh cream cakes but to avoid disappointment please order the day before you’d like to collect to avoid disappointment as we will only be holding a small amount from now on as we are in such an unsure time.🍰🥖
As we will not be gathering on the 8th November, the following suggestion has been received: “lets show our gratitude with poppies.”
It could be door wreath, a vase of poppies in the window or a coloured in poppy, it’s up to you.
If you are unable to buy a poppy and wish to make a donation to the Royal British Legion visit https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/ways-to-give/donate
FVCA have been chasing Worcestershire County Council regarding the ongoing outstanding work on Swan Lane.
The Council have provided the following responses:
Blocked Gully at bottom of Swan Lane, near gas pipeline
“This has been placed on a list for ditch digging. The drains on the plan do not work just not as efficiently as they should until the ditch is dug out.”
Blocked gully grids
“The drainage team have advised that they have broken connections along this road and that there are few broken lids, as well as the pot holes that have been marked up for repair.
Having inspected the lane, there are a lot of the gullies are covered in mud. In order to get all of the above addressed, the team are looking to put in place a road closure . At present there is not an advised timeframe for this.”
Unsuitable for HGVs sign
“As for the additional sign- we are looking into it. The consideration is for a sign to be in place when coming out of farm.” [FVCA have asked for clarification regarding sign location]
Weight Limit
“It is advised there is no reason for weight limit to be implemented, as these have to be associated with a weak structure.”
Speed Limit Reduction
“Finally, with regards to the consideration of a speed limit reduction, I have been advised that this is not feasible. The location is derestricted, meaning that drivers should be driving at the appropriate speed to the road, and not at the drivers discretion.”
FVCA have responded as follows “According to the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 section 82 traffic authorities have the powers to remove restricted road status – a restricted road being where “there is provided on it a system of street lighting furnished by means of lamps placed not more than 200 yards apart”, Swan Lane has no street lighting.
Swan Lane is a narrow, winding, low light road, that is regularly used by pedestrians, horse riders as well as motorists; pedestrians are mainly older people. According to Department of Transport guidance Setting local speed limits paragraph 127 it suggests that Swan Lane can be considered for a 40 mph speed limit, due to, and not exclusively to, the bends, landscaping (that provide low light) and vulnerable road users. We, therefore, request a reduction in speed limit, in accordance with Department for Transport guidelines.”
FVCA have been provided with following update: there “is a broken connection and with the drainage team to programme for the appropriate repair”.
There has been an attempted shed break-in in Pepperwood Close. It is though that the attempted break-in took place on Sunday 1st November, sometime after midnight.
Please review you shed and outbuilding security, reporting criminal & suspicious activity to the police, tel. 101 or Online
For Garden, Shed And Allotment Security advice CLICK HERE