NEWS IN FULL

http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions

UK consumers are achieving 22 per cent faster broadband speeds at home than they were 12 months ago, new Ofcom research reveals.

http://consumers.ofcom.org.uk/2012/02/jump-in-uk-broadband-speeds/?utm_source=DirectgovTwitter&utm_medium=Tweet&utm_campaign=bbspeedfeb

or the short link

http://t.co/Qdf8DWjy

Water regulator Ofwat publishes details of estimated rises in water & sewerage charges by region in Eng. & Wales

http://www.ofwat.gov.uk/mediacentre/pressnotices2008/prs_pn0112bills

This website provides you with helpful information about crime and policing in your area.

And from May, maps will show action taken after a crime has occurred.

www.police.uk

Neighbour disputes and nuisances

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/WhereYouLive/NoiseNuisanceAndLitter/index.htm

See what's planned for June 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/Features/DG_WP200687

If you have an emergency situation; crime in progress, car accident with injured parties etc please ring 999, otherwise, call 101

Seen a dog that's dangerously out of control in England? Use Directgov to report it to your local dog warden.

http://local.direct.gov.uk/LDGRedirect/index.jsp?LGSL=432&LGIL=8&ServiceName=Find%20out%20about%20the%20dog%20warden%20service

or the short link:

http://t.co/gFmjOLG4
 

Van buyers will be able to receive 20% - up to £8000 - off the cost of a plug-in van, Transport Minister Norman Baker and Business Minister Mark Prisk announced today.

This is an extension of the Plug-In Car Grant which offers 25% - up to £5000 – to motorists buying a new plug-in car. Ministers have also re-confirmed there is funding secured for this grant until 2015.

http://www.dft.gov.uk/news/press-releases/dft-news-20120117

Check the radon map and see what you can do about it

http://www.ukradon.org/

NHS PIP breast implants to be removed for free.

http://www.nhs.uk/news/2012/01January/Pages/government-review-advises-on-french-pip-breast-implants.aspx

or the short link:

http://t.co/lfwriwZp

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/Timeoffandholidays/DG_073741

The current scams involve telephone calls from people pretending to be from the OFT (Office of Fair Trading) offering a refund on bank charges and emails pretending to be from the HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs) offering a tax rebate.

DO NOT GET CAUGHT

http://www.oft.gov.uk/consumer-advice/

Please don't leave it to someone else.

If you’re generally healthy and aged between 17 and 65, do something amazing.... Give blood.

http://www.blood.co.uk/

http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/38289.aspx

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200712

http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2011/12/30/new-rules-will-make-it-easier-to-travel-with-pets/

Become a digital champion!

http://champions.go-on.co.uk/ways-to-be-a-digital-champion/inspire

A forced marriage is a marriage in which one or both spouses do not (or, in the case of some vulnerable adults, cannot) consent to the marriage, but are coerced into it. The coercion can include physical, psychological, financial, sexual and emotional pressure.

The Home Office are seeking views on whether making forcing someone to marry should be a criminal offence or whether current arrangements provide adequate protection. We are also interested in views on what more could be done to prevent forced marriage from happening. There are clear arguments both for and against making forced marriage a criminal offence. These arguments are presented in the consultation document.

http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/about-us/consultations/forced-marriage/

or the short link

http://t.co/DLguwnGj

A specialist environmental crime taskforce which will blitz illegal waste sites in England and Wales over the next two years has been set up by the Environment Agency, it was announced today.

http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/news/135590.aspx?month=12&year=2011

or the short link

http://t.co/W8sfze20

You should only call this number if you have questions about your tax credits.

The exact cost of calling this number can be checked by calling your telephone service provider.

If you have hearing or speech impairments, the new textphone number is 0345 300 3909.

You will still also be able to use the old numbers (with the 0845 code), for about the next 18 months.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200423

Suzy Lamplugh Trust was founded in 1986 following the disappearance
of the young estate agent. The aim of the Trust is to raise awareness of the importance of personal safety and to help people to avoid violence and aggression and live safer, more confident lives.

They have created a special christmas safety list at http://www.suzylamplugh.org/personal-safety/personal-safety-tips/safety-over-the-festive-season/

and their website is full of useful and practical advice on personal safety for people from all walks of life.

www.suzylamplugh.org

Staying warm in winter

Keeping warm over the winter months can help prevent colds, flu or more serious health problems like pneumonia. Find out some simple things you can do to keep warm, stay healthy and make the best use of your heating at home.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/InYourHome/KeepingSafeAtHome/DG_10027755

or the short link:

http://t.co/4ogYn0hM

http://think.direct.gov.uk/video-drink-driving.html

Almost £1 billion will be spent over the next three years to provide unemployed young people with extra help as part of a new 'Youth Contract'.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200235

http://www.london2012.com/games/ceremonies/get-involved/casting-information.php

https://online.businesslink.gov.uk/hub/action/render?pageId=mynewbusiness&site=1000

or the short link

http://t.co/hYfd4LTS

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/CaringForSomeone/index.htm

or the short link

http://t.co/Cf10XAIX

A study commissioned for consumer advice site knowthenet.org.uk suggests that, on average, only 44% of people were able to correctly identify illegal activities online.

Knowthenet.org.uk has now launched a free online test - which lets consumers test their own understanding of how the law applies online and check out advice on how to stay out of trouble.

http://accidentaloutlaw.knowthenet.org.uk/

Only 8% of women aged 26 to 35 have up-to-date anti-virus software on their computers, putting them at higher risk of fraud and computer crimes this festive shopping season.

http://www.actionfraud.org.uk/women-face-higher-online-fraud-risk-this-christmas-nov11

or the short link

http://t.co/OIQGk3ru

This document describes the main measures of the Localism Act under four headings:

new freedoms and flexibilities for local government

new rights and powers for communities and individuals

reform to make the planning system more democratic and more effective

reform to ensure that decisions about housing are taken locally

The document Decentralisation and the Localism Act: an essential guide also gives further background. It explains how the principles that underpin the Localism Act also inform other government policies.

http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/localgovernment/localismplainenglishupdate

You can read the Act and its explanatory notes in full, on the parliament website at:

http://services.parliament.uk/bills/2010-11/localism/documents.html
 

http://customs.hmrc.gov.uk/channelsPortalWebApp/downloadFile?contentID=HMCE_PROD1_031736

An ambitious new strategy to tackle the housing shortage, boost the economy, create jobs and give people the opportunity to get on the housing ladder was announced today (21 November 2011) by the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister.

http://www.communities.gov.uk/news/corporate/2033724

An era of Whitehall control has ended with a historic shift in power back to local people, as the Localism Bill becomes law.

The Localism Act will trigger the biggest transfer of power in a generation, releasing councils and communities from the grip of central government.

The flagship legislation, which late yesterday afternoon received Royal Assent, puts a raft of new rights and powers at the disposal of local people to take charge of their future, delivering on more than 30 coalition agreement commitments.

http://www.communities.gov.uk/news/newsroom/2030130

or the short link

http://t.co/reaH0ogr

The government has launched this consultation to ask for views on how we can protect victims of stalking more effectively. The consultation incorporates a number of issues, including current legislation, the effect of police information notices, search powers, the work of existing organisations and alternative measures to tackle stalking.

http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/about-us/consultations/stalking-consultation/

or the short link

http://t.co/FUBClSsz

Thames Valley Police has gone live today (14/11/2011) with 101, the new national single non-emergency number, which will replace the 0845 8 505 505 number.

http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/news/general/14nov11-thames-valley-goes-live-with-101.aspx

or the short link

http://t.co/qJ4GZkBU

Certain transsexual people can now apply for equal treatment rights for social security purposes. This could mean getting the State Pension paid early, or having some National Insurance contributions refunded.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200047

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has now started sending out tax calculations (on form P800) to show taxpayers if they have paid too little PAYE tax for 2010-11. The calculation will show the total income and personal allowances that are due. HMRC sends notes with the calculation to explain what it all means.

If you get a calculation you should check it to make sure you agree with the information included.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200065

If your child is eligible for free school meals, it's worth registering them even if they're not going to have the school lunch. This is because schools receive a 'Pupil Premium' - an extra payment for each eligible child which they can spend on useful services. Registering might also get you extra help for things like music lessons or school trips.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200057

or use the short link

http://t.co/t5nPCwGv

Find out what your rights are when buying a car, including when you can claim for a repair, replacement or refund

http://bit.ly/buy-a-car

Buying a car - your rights
 

Struggling with your mortgage payments?

Put together a simple action plan to help you keep your home.

There are several things you can do to make sure your home isn’t repossessed. It’s never too late to get advice, so don’t walk away or hand over your keys to your lender. Find out how to get help to keep your home if you are facing repossession.

What you can do to avoid repossession - a guide

Get Safe on Line has worked closely with the Rough Guide team to produce this downloadable useful guide to staying safe on line

Simply click on the link below for Your copy of “The Rough Guide to Staying Safe On Line”

Rough Guide (1,930KB, PDF)

Anyone who has served in the UK Armed Forces may be entitled to financial support. This also includes the widows, widowers and dependants of those who have served.

Find out what pensions or other payments may be available.

http://bit.ly/VeteranBenefits

The threat of scam apps is very real. Some users have been landed with bills of hundreds of pounds after inadvertently downloading a scam app.

http://bit.ly/scam-apps

If you are due to work, volunteer or compete at the Olympic or Paralympic Games, or are attending in another official capacity, it's likely you will need an accreditation pass to give you special access to London 2012 venues and sites. Find out what the process involves.

http://bit.ly/GamesPass

Google has started to index Ajax/JavaScript content, so comments made on sites that use services such as the Facebook Comment Box or Disqus will now be discoverable via Google search.

http://bit.ly/rQzhqp

Would you know if your child was in a gang?

Learn to spot the signs and find out how to keep them safe

http://bit.ly/ParentsAndGangs

Find out what you're allowed to do to protect yourself.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and Chief Constables have produced a summary of what people can do when faced with an intruder and the support offered by the law when householders defend themselves. The following is taken from that statement.

http://bit.ly/home-defence

The right to peaceful protest is a vital part of democracy, and it has a long, distinguished history in the UK. Here’s some basic information about protests, as well as a few other ways in which you can make your voice heard.

http://bit.ly/protest-rights

With the clocks going back on 30 October everyone gets an extra hour. How you spend it is up to you, but that one hour could make a real difference to someone’s life. Why not spend it helping someone get online?

http://bit.ly/Give-an-hour

Is Britain beset by binge boozers? Will wine help you lose weight? Could six cans of lager help you live longer? The media pose questions like these on an almost daily basis, often using and abusing the findings of medical research to back up their headlines.

In this special report, Behind the Headlines analyses the media's relationship with research on alcohol, the science behind it, and what all this means for us when we consider raising a glass.

What's your poison: A sober analysis of alcohol and health in the media (PDF, 3Mb) is a must-read for anyone who wants the facts on whether the headlines are true.

Firework safety and the law

Fireworks often play a big part in celebrations – like Bonfire Night, Diwali and Chinese New Year. However, fireworks are explosives and burn at high temperatures, so they need careful handling and storage. Find out about firework safety and the law about their use.

http://bit.ly/firework_safety

Transport for Buckinghamshire are holding workshops across the county this
November to help prepare motorists for the challenge of winter driving.

Last year over 200 people attended either an evening workshop or a winter
driving event hosted by their employer.

Each workshop starts with a winter driving presentation on how to drive
safely in challenging conditions. The garage technicians will then take
attendees through the most common faults and basic vehicle maintenance
checks.

Peter Hardy, Buckinghamshire County Council Cabinet Member for Planning and
Transport, said "We have experienced some severe weather over the last
couple of winters so these workshops could be beneficial to those who are
not experienced at driving in these conditions."

Whether you're an experienced motorist, older driver or have just passed
your driving test, a winter driving workshop will help you understand how to
conduct basic vehicle checks to reduce the possibility of the vehicle
breaking down.

"I spoke to employees who went to the Winter Driving Workshop and all have
said how valuable it was. The comments included that much of it was down to
common sense and they would think more about their driving and vehicle
safety." Peter Gannaway, Health and Safety Manager Paradigm Housing Group.

"I went on the course with a limited knowledge of the effects the winter can
have on my vehicle, but two hours later I was up to speed. It's not rocket
science, but what you do learn is common sense that could keep your car on
the road in the cold and should make you a safer driver. I've still got my
sleeping bag in the boot, I've never used it, but it's great to know it's
there!!" Andy Holmes, Buckinghamshire County Council.

The evening workshops start at 7 pm and are held on the following dates:

STS Tyres Aylesbury on 8th November 2011

STS Tyres High Wycombe on 15th November 2011

Buckingham Ford on 17th November 2011

STS Tyres Chesham on 22nd November 2011 

To find out more about winter driving and to book a place on a workshop,
visit our web site
http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/bcc/transport/winter_driving_workshops.page

Alternatively if you would like to host a workplace workshop please
telephone 01296 382450 or email roadsafety@buckscc.gov.uk

There is a new easy way for you to tell Ofsted how you think your child's school is performing.

Ofsted has launched Parent View, a 12-question online survey that lets you give your views on your child's school at any time.

http://bit.ly/ParentView

Share this with friends and loved ones to remind them.

Time to Test

http://bit.ly/firekillsclock

http://www.london2012.com/get-involved/jobs/

http://talesoftheroad.direct.gov.uk/

or the short link

http://bit.ly/TalesOfTheRoad

Changes to tenancy and deposit laws

Tenancies with rents between £25,000 and £100,000 per year can now be assured and assured shorthold tenancies

Find out about changes to the annual rental threshold

Types of tenancies - private renting

Store the word "ICE" in your mobile phone address book, and against it enter the number of the person you would want to be contacted "In Case of Emergency".

In an emergency situation, the police, ambulance and hospital staff will then be able to quickly find out who your next of kin are and be able to contact them. It's as simple as that, and for more than one contact name you can use ICE1, ICE2, ICE3 etc.

all NHS hospitals have a complaints process.

http://www.nhs.uk/choiceintheNHS/Rightsandpledges/complaints/Pages/NHScomplaints.aspx

Care homes are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The CQC is responsible for monitoring the standards of most private, voluntary and local council care services. Learn more about standards of care and who to contact to make a complaint if you're not happy.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/CaringForSomeone/CareHomes/DG_10031520

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is reminding consumers to follow good hygiene practices when storing and preparing vegetables, following two recent E.coli outbreaks.

http://www.food.gov.uk/news/newsarchive/2011/sep/washveg

or the short link

http://bit.ly/nZX7th

Responsibility for sewers is changing on 1 October 2011.

Find out the difference between drains and sewers, and who is responsible for repairing and maintaining them.

Also, learn how to prevent a blocked drain and what to do if a blockage happens.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/WhereYouLive/Streetcleaninglitterandillegaldumping/DG_10026174

or the short link

http://bit.ly/sewer-pipes

A BUCKS hypnotherapist has hit out at internet giant Google after she was left 'helpless' when her email account was hijacked.

http://bit.ly/qSwyqv

Free services like gmail, Hotmail, Yahoo etc. are not secure use them at your own risk!

Facebook is making sharing even easier by automatically sharing what you’re doing on Facebook-connected apps. Instead of having to "Like” something to share it, you’ll just need to click “Add to Timeline” on any website or app, and that app will have permission to share your activity with your Facebook friends.

What activity, you ask?

It could be the news articles you read online, the videos you watch, the photos you view, the music you listen to, or any other action within the site or app. Facebook calls this auto-sharing "Gestures".

http://mashable.com/2011/09/28/new-facebook-feature/

I'm sure many people all over the world are begining to question whether Facebook is worth all the hassle?

Child maintenance is financial support towards a child's everyday living costs.

Separated parents can arrange child maintenance between themselves by making a family-based arrangement.

They can also ask the CSA or courts to get involved.

Find out about child maintenance and how to make an arrangement that works for you.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents/ChildMaintenance/Arrangingchildmaintenance/DG_199174

Adoption is where a child legally becomes a member of a new family and has one or two new parents.

If you are at least 21 years old and can provide a permanent, stable and caring home, your application to adopt will be welcomed.

There is no upper age limit.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents/Adoptionfosteringandchildrenincare/AdoptionAndFostering/DG_4019657

or the short link

http://bit.ly/ukadoption

It’s pretty amazing how Facebook can suggest friends for you based on the most ephemeral of connections. Or how about when you log in and see ads for services you were just searching for on Google? Or what about when Facebook synced all of your cell phone contacts to the site without you realizing you’d allowed it? What about the new API that allows apps to post items on your timeline without you even doing anything. Not to mention the frequent design changes that put your privacy settings under different menus and submenus.

Read the article/solution and comment at www.mh-p.info

Based on information supplied by www.securitymanagement.com

The National Minimum Wage (NMW) is a minimum amount per hour that most workers in the UK are entitled to be paid.

Find out what the current rates are and where to get help if you think you are being paid below the minimum wage rate.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/TheNationalMinimumWage/DG_10027201

or the short link

http://bit.ly/nmw-rates

When you buy something the law gives you certain rights that protect you if it’s faulty. You may also have extra rights depending on where you buy the item and how you pay for it. Find out what your rights are and who can help if things go wrong.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizensandrights/Consumerrights/index.htm

Tax-free children's savings accounts, known as 'Junior ISAs', will be available from 1 November 2011.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_192028

To celebrate Walk4Life Day a national database of walks has been published:

http://www.walk4life.info/

The independent Boundary Commission for England (BCE) today launches a 12-week consultation on its initial proposals for new Parliamentary constituency boundaries in England.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_199450

or the short link

http://bit.ly/constituencies

Trustees are the people in charge of a charity. They play a vital role, volunteering their time and working together to make important decisions about the charity's work.

Trustees' Week is an annual event to showcase the great work that trustees do and highlight opportunities for people from all walks of life to get involved and make a difference.

Trustees’ Week 2011 is 31 October – 6 November and this website will be regularly updated with news and information in the run up to the week.

http://www.trusteesweek.org.uk/

The government has announced that it will ban the payment of referral fees in personal injury cases. The current arrangements have led to high costs, encouraged a compensation culture and led to the growth of an industry which pursues claimants for profit.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_199404?

The aim of Get Safe Online is to provide computer users and small businesses with free, independent, user-friendly advice that will allow them to use the internet confidently, safely and securely.

http://www.getsafeonline.org/

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/Planning/index.htm

or the short link

http://bit.ly/planning-guide

Charity 20/20 cricket match in aid of Wycombe Hospital at High Wycombe Cricket Club this Sunday, 11 September.

Gates open for a BBQ at Noon and the match starts at 1.00pm.

Former Pakistan test cricketer Shakil Ahmed, will be playing along with former county players and rising young stars.

Tickets cost £5 for adults and £3 for children and include a prize draw ticket with the chance to win a children's coaching session with a former England test player.

Tickets are available on line at www.scannappeal.org.uk or by telephone at 01491 734 161.

All proceeds will go to Scannappeal’s HeartScan Appeal for Wycombe Hospital. This Appeal is for £125,000 for a state of the art 3D heart scanner to diagnose and treat patients with heart complications and to monitor the heart function of breast cancer patients, so helping many local patients including those in your area.
 

A leaflet has been produced for winter 2011/12 explaining how you can protect yourself against flu this coming winter and why it’s very important that people who are at risk have their free seasonal flu vaccination every year

http://www.dh.gov.uk/health/2011/09/seasonal-flu-vaccinations/

or the short link

http://bit.ly/oLhF0f

Postgraduate study offers a way of retraining as a teacher or social worker, or starting a career in healthcare. The application process is often different from that used for other postgraduate courses – and there may be alternative sources of financial help on offer.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/UniversityAndHigherEducation/ChoicesAfterYouGraduate/DG_10012475

or the short link

http://bit.ly/teachtraining

Initial Teacher Training (ITT) undergraduate and postgraduate students can apply for the same student loans, grants and bursaries as other undergraduate students. Find out what full-time or part-time courses you may get finance for and what finance is available.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/UniversityAndHigherEducation/StudentFinance/Typesoffinance/DG_171531

or the short link

http://bit.ly/teachingfinance

Agency workers will be entitled to new employment rights from 1 October 2011 when new regulations come into force. When on an assignment you will get some of these rights from day one and some after 12 weeks in the same job.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_199272

Relationship abuse can happen to anyone. It involves more than physical violence, it can be when someone puts you down, threatens you or forces you to do something you don't want to. Find out more about how to spot the signs, have your say on the issue and seek help here.

http://thisisabuse.direct.gov.uk/

or the short link

http://bit.ly/thisisabuse

Find out why, and read about the #energyefficient alternatives

One of the ways you can save energy in your home is to use energy saving light bulbs. These can last up to 10 times longer than traditional bulbs and can save you money on your electricity bills. Find out how these bulbs work and how to recycle them.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Environmentandgreenerliving/Energyandwatersaving/Energyandwaterefficiencyinyourhome/DG_179919

or the short link

http://bit.ly/light_bulbs

Businesses up and down the country are being invited to contribute ideas on how the Government can cut red tape and regulatory burdens without affecting its responsibilities to protect the environment.

http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2011/09/01/red-tape-spotlight/

or the short link

http://bit.ly/rd9jGI

The warning, which the MHRA says is "precautionary" comes after reports that the anti-psychotic drug Seroquel XL has been found within some Nurofen Plus packets. Three defective packs have been found in pharmacies in London, but the affected batches may have been distributed across the UK.

The blister packs of the two different drugs look different, and should be easily spotted. The Seroquel XL 50mg tablets are large and capsule shaped and can be identified by their gold and black packaging; Nurofen Plus tablets are smaller and have silver and black packaging.

http://www.nhs.uk/news/2011/08August/Pages/nurofen-plus-mhra-warning.aspx

Flooding can cause widespread damage to your home and belongings. Making plans in advance can reduce the chances of your home being flooded and also save your life. Find out how you can prepare for flooding and protect your home from flood damage.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/WhereYouLive/FloodingInYourArea/DG_10014599

or the short link

http://bit.ly/floodwarning

You have a right under the Data Protection Act to see information about your results. Having access to information - such as a breakdown of their overall mark and examiners’ comments – may not lead to your grades being altered but it could help you make decisions that impact on your future, such as deciding to re-sit an exam or pursue a particular subject at college or university.

http://www.ico.gov.uk/news/latest_news/2011/students_can_request_examiners_comments_under_data_protection_laws_18082011.aspx

or the short link

http://bit.ly/nsObg1

Cooling your home without air conditioning and checking your risk of flooding are just two ways to get ready.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Environmentandgreenerliving/Thewiderenvironment/Climatechange/DG_179147

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Publictransport/index.htm

or the short link

http://bit.ly/qSqkdM

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Publictransport/RailTravel/index.htm

or the short link

http://bit.ly/UKrail

e-petitions is the best way for individuals to make themselves heard.

It only takes 100,000 signatures to get a petition debated in parliament and if your topic is not listed you can start your own petition.

One petition already has over 150,000 signatures.

http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/

Following small outbreaks of disorder in parts of the force area, Thames Valley Police has set up the following Twitter feeds to keep communities updated:

www.twitter.com/TVP_Slough

www.twitter.com/TVP_Reading

www.twitter.com/TVP_Oxford

www.twitter.com/TVP_MK

www.twitter.com/TVP_Aylesbury

www.twitter.com/TVP_Wycombe

You can also follow us on the main Thames Valley Police Twitter site:

www.twitter.com/thamesvp

If you have information about groups gathering or behaving suspiciously, please contact Thames Valley Police on 0845 8 505 505.

Alternatively, if you do not want to speak to police, or leave your name, please contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

Thousands more police officers will be deployed on the streets of London tonight to help contain rioting that has affected parts of the city. Parents are advised to ensure their children stay off the streets as police move to tackle any signs of disturbance.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198958

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/uk_riots

A 'demo' map showing 180,000 assets owned by public sector bodies has been published.

These include restaurants, pubs, an airport and even Swindon Town’s football stadium!

It is hoped that by publishing a national asset map billions of pounds of potential savings will be identified.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198888

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/asset_map

We have received a number of calls from concerned residents across the District who have reported suspicious phone calls from people claiming to be completing a crime survey and acting on behalf of Thames Valley Police.

Thames Valley Police have no knowledge of this survey and would advise anyone who receives such a phone call to advise them you are not interested and to not give them any personal information.

Please do let us know if you receive a call like this, including what was said, time and date of call, any phone number obtained, together with any other information you may obtain.

If you have any information in relation to this message, please contact Thames Valley Police on 08458 505 505

To find out more about Thames Valley Police in your area - please go to our website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk.

Persistent 'neighbours from hell' will be evicted from their homes more quickly, under new plans to tackle anti-social behaviour.

While eviction will always be the last resort, the rights of victims to a peaceful life will be prioritised over the rights of offenders.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198838

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/neighboursfromhell

You are more than twice as likely to die in a fire at home if you haven't got a working smoke alarm.

A smoke alarm is the easiest way to alert you to the danger of fire, giving you time to escape.

They are cheap, easy to get hold of and easy to fit.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/InYourHome/FireSafety/DG_071751

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/edFzws

Enhanced rider scheme

Get more out of your riding and motorcycle by taking the enhanced rider scheme. You'll get your own trainer to help you make your riding more enjoyable. You can also get insurance discounts with most motorcycle insurance brokers. Find out how to find a trainer and get started.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/LearnerAndNewDrivers/RidingMotorcyclesAndMopeds/DG_4022666

http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/media-centre/news-releases/2011/campaign-to-hunt-some-of-the-uks-most-wanted-fraudsters-launched-by-crimestoppers-45132985

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Pensionsandretirementplanning/Companyandpersonalpensions/index.htm

1000 each year will die waiting as there are not enough organs available.

Register NOW!

http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Aboutus/Features/DH_128851

Telephone scammers claiming to represent the OFT

We are aware of consumers being contacted by people claiming to represent the OFT. Consumers are told that the OFT can reclaim bank or other charges for them, and that this service requires an upfront fee to be paid by money transfer. Some consumers have been asked to pay between £100 and £200.

The OFT is warning people not to pay money to bogus telephone callers claiming to be from the OFT. These callers have no connection with the OFT. The OFT do not ask people for money over the telephone.

If you receive a telephone call from the OFT asking for money, this is a scam and you should not pay.

For further advice contact Consumer Direct using the Directgov online form

http://www.oft.gov.uk/consumer-advice/

From 1 August 2011, householders could get government funding to help install renewable heating systems such as biomass boilers and solar thermal panels. Money will be available for up to 25,000 installations over the next year, with grants being awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198244

Home improvements continue to top the list of complaints about doorstep rogue traders, according to new figures from the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). Complaints about home maintenance peak during the summer, so find out what to do if an uninvited trader calls at your door this summer.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198600

Millions of homes and businesses in rural parts of the UK could receive better value broadband services by the end of this year. This follows Ofcom’s decision to reduce significantly the prices that BT Wholesale can charge internet service providers (ISPs) in primarily rural, less densely populated areas.

http://media.ofcom.org.uk/2011/07/20/better-value-rural-broadband/

The First

"Can I speak to the BT Account Holder" is generally how the first starts and although they are a competitor of BT they keep saying "BT" to instill in your mind that they are from BT.  They talk about saving you money when infact they're trying to move you to their service.

The way to test to tell if they are from BT is to ask them to tell you your account number (it's at the top of your phone bill) - they can't because they don't know it. Terminate the call.

The Second

This is more serious.

Again they claim to be a representative of BT.  He will tell you that he is about to disconnect you because of an unpaid bill and will demand a sum of money, probably about £30 or you will have to pay £118 to be re-connected.

He's not after your cash - he wants your credit card details.

If he thinks you're suspicious he will so offer to demonstrate that he was from BT by disconnecting your phone.  He will tell you to hang up and phoning someone - he would dis-connect my phone to prevent this call.

Your phone will be dead - no dialling tone, no engaged tone, nothing.

You hang up and then he calls you again.

The cutting off of the line is very simple, he stays on the line with the mute button on and you can't dial out - but he can hear you trying (This is because the person who initiates a call is the one to terminate it). When you stop trying he cuts off and immediately calls back.

Don't get caught by this scam!

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has opened an investigation into websites that charge people for government services that are available directly from government, either at no cost or for a lower fee.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198585

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/do-it-online

Information collected by the British Trust for Ornithology shows that the number of swifts breeding in Britain has declined considerably - by 44% in the South East between 1995 and 2008. Much of this decline is caused by the loss of nesting sites, due to building repairs or even simple re-pointing of brickwork, which means that swifts can no longer access a traditional site.

Your help in completing the questionnaire will be appreciated.

Swift Nesting Site Questionnaire 2011

.

http://taxcreditsvideos.direct.gov.uk/index.html

or use the short link.

http://bit.ly/isNS61

http://highspeedrail.dft.gov.uk/sites/highspeedrail.dft.gov.uk/files/hsr-consultation-response-form.pdf

or call 0300 321 1010 for a consultation pack

For further information please vist :

http://thebigtreeplant.direct.gov.uk/funding.html

or the short link:

bit.ly/g1LTIY

Residents are asked to keep a close eye on their local playground following an attack on the Winchmore Hill play area.  The equipment, which was installed 13 months ago,  will now have to be replaced at a cost of £25,000, after it was wrecked by offenders trying to steal the metalwork.

The value of scrap metal and cabling is at a record high so please be vigilent.

It is now cheaper to use your mobile phone on holiday in Europe after new Eurotariff charges came into force on 1 July 2011.

The Eurotariff is an EU regulated price limit for call charges within Europe. The rules also cover charges to send a text message.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_188961

or the short link

http://bit.ly/mob-hols

From this date the UK's pet movement rules will be harmonised with the rest of the European Union (EU), making it cheaper and easier for owners to travel abroad with their pets.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198187

or the short link

http://bit.ly/pet-rules

The proposals to extend the Air Travel Operators' Licence (ATOL) scheme would mean that up to 6 million extra holidays a year could be covered by the consumer protection scheme.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198011

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/atol-changes

Search by your postcode

http://highspeedrail.dft.gov.uk/in-your-area

First-time buyers struggling to build up a large enough deposit to get on the property ladder are being urged to register their interest in the FirstBuy scheme.

Under the new scheme, the government and housebuilders will lend you the money for a deposit, with loans repaid when you sell the property.

For more information and to register for the FirstBuy scheme visit:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_197938

or the short link

http://bit.ly/FirstBuy

The exceptions are:

• if you have made a SORN for the vehicle
• if your vehicle has been kept off-road since before SORN came into force on 31 January 1998 – unless it was brought back into use
• if your vehicle is recorded as stolen, passed or sold to the motor trade or between registered keepers
• if your vehicle is recorded scrapped or permanently exported by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing (DVLA)
  
   

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/OwningAVehicle/Motorinsurance/DG_186696?CID=Continuous_Insurance&PLA=DM&CRE=Furl

or the short link

http://bit.ly/m3xt85

As a juror you can't discuss the case on Twitter or Facebook.

Find out about jury service and your responsibilities

http://bit.ly/juror_uk

 

Fines will be introduced for people who don’t take care that information on their benefit claim is correct or don't tell the Department for Work and Pensions quickly about a change in their circumstances. These will be civil penalties, not criminal convictions.

http://bit.ly/claim_fine
 

The government has revealed plans for a zerowaste economy which includes the scrapping of bin fines and tackling illegal fly-tippers

http://bit.ly/0-waste

Please find below, a link to the ‘Your Neighbourhood’ page of the Thames Valley Police website, where you will find the latest updates for your area.

http://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/

This link will allow you to enter your Post Code in the ‘Postcode Search’ box on the right of the page.

Once entered, click on ‘SHOW’, and you will be taken to the page which will give details of your local Neighbourhood Team, your local priorities, issues being tackled by the Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) - made up of local residents and partner organisations, together with links to Neighbourhood updates, upcoming Neighbourhood meetings and Crime Statistics.

The Neighbourhood updates are produced on a monthly basis by your local Neighbourhood officers and give an overview of recent events, and Police related matters they have been involved with.

From the link you will also be able to access other areas of the Thames Valley Police website.

The Food Standards Agency have issued advice on the E. Coli outbreak in Germany.

http://www.food.gov.uk/news/newsarchive/2011/june/outbreak

or the short link

http://bit.ly/lDCQ3H
 

The main programme will take place from Saturday 2nd June to Tuesday 5th June with celebratory activities throughout the United Kingdom and across the Commonwealth. Further details of these events and of other national and regional Diamond Jubilee events will be announced in due course.

http://www.royal.gov.uk/LatestNewsandDiary/Pressreleases/2011/AnnouncementofplansforthecentralDiamondJubileeweek.aspx

or the short link: http://bit.ly/jnpmLe

The Government have released further information including details of Bank Holidays, exhibitions, projects, school holidays and term dates.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_197517

or the short link: http://bitly.com/dj-2012

Following the EU Directive and new UK Law we are pleased to offer advice through our Webmaster on how to manage cookies on your computer.

http://www.mh-p.info/?p=284

If you have a comment or question on this article or any others please leave a reply on the page.

Ofcom has published research into mobile broadband speeds.

Read the report and find out about 3G speeds across the UK

http://bit.ly/m-bb-s

Direct.gov and the Police have issued these tips to avoid becoming a victim of cash machine crime.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_197477

or the short link

http://bit.ly/cm-crime

New approach to handling complaints of antisocial behaviour will be trialled by eight police forces.

http://tinyurl.com/39rbqcn

Clearing Snow and Ice - New Guidance

If you don't know the difference between a website built in a Content Management System (dynamic website) and a hand-coded static website you should read the pros and cons at http://www.parishcouncilwebsite.co.uk/how-to-get-online.html

We asked our clients if they would be kind enough to provide a testimonial and we were totally overwhelmed by the responses we received.

We thought we were doing a good job but these responses have made us very proud of what we've been able to achieve.

Visit our Testimonials page.

If you are using Internet Explorer 6 you should upgrade to any other current browser.  Internet Explorer 6 is nearly ten years old and is riddled with bugs and holes.

If you are using Internet Explorer 7 then you should upgrade to Internet Explorer 8 or the latest version of  Firefox, Safari or Chrome.

The Freedom of Information Act is a good starting point and we explain the requirements in this area before suggesting other pages which will provide a vehicle for the council to promote itself as well as providing information on matters specific to the individual council.

If you would like a copy of our BHC Quotation Document which explains the process please contact us or use our Instant Quotation Service.

Beaconsfield Town Council are the first to secure a free installation of "Last Page Updated" for their new website.

If you'd like to save £150.00 all you need to do is to place an order with us before March 31st 2010

Use our News System to keep your visitors up to date with long term road conditions, local outbreaks of crime, what\'s on and forthcoming events.

It's a two minute job to put up an item of news or details of forthcoming events but once people realise that you're a source of reliable information they'll come back time and time again or sign up for your RSS Feed

RSS feeds are available from many sites all over the internet and you can use your browser or an RSS reader (recommended) to manage your feeds.

If you don't already have an RSS reader we recommend you download and install FeedReader onto your computer. It's free and very easy to use.

If you need help in downloading and setting up Feedreader we have produced an instruction sheet which takes you through the whole process from download to completion and you can download it here

Once you have Feedreader running on your computer all you need to do is to copy and paste the address (URL) below, not the speech marks, into the reader to add the feed.

" http://www.parishcouncilwebsite.co.uk/blog/newspublisher_rss.php "

If you order a new website before 31st March 2010 we will provide our "Last Page Updated" application completely free of charge which represents a saving of £150.00

The Office of Fair Trading has published a report about mass marketing scams and phishing which, according to the report, claims some 3.2 million adults who collectively lose £3.5 billion pounds every year.

What's interesting to note is that it's not just internet novices that get caught but also experienced surfers.

Reading the report at www.tinyurl.com/lqfqqq will help you to understand the different types of scam and how to avoid falling victim to these crimes.

In addition there is further information at Directgov on www.tinyurl.com/57a445 which details your rights as a consumer

Probably one of the most difficult thing to find in any town or parish is information on local groups.  Many areas have groups or organisations you can join which provide the facility to participate in everything from Aardvark Keeping to Zebra Training.

Providing the contact details for these groups together with places to eat, places to visit, schools, doctors, vets, chemists etc etc can provide a valuable resource.

With our Planning Service everyone knows whose doing what!

Every week we check your District Council website and we add to your Planning Page all the applications that apply to your town or parish with shotcuts to take you straight to the application itself.

Regularly updating your site to provide new content will keep visitors coming back for more, but if the content is buried deep within the site they'll never find it.  "Last Page Updated" is the solution.  Wherever content changes and/or pages are updated a list will appear on the homepage so people can see what's new.

"Last Page Updated" also includes an RSS Feed so people can have the new/updated content delivered straight to their desktop.

You can find out more about "Last Page Updated" by visiting our Development Page.