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| ADVICE | INFORMATION | WEST SUSSEX TRADING STANDARDS |
| B-Bogus callers | D-Deputy Chief Constable | B-Buy with Confidence Scheme |
| C-Credit card Scam | F-Farmwatch | C-Cold Callers |
| D-Data protection Register | Message from Fire Brigade |
D-Doorstep sellers |
| I-Internet Sales | L-Local Policing | E-Message from Energywatch |
| O-On display | M-Memorial Award | L- Spanish Lottery |
| U-Urban Legend | Messages | P-Press Releases |
| O-Operation Coppice | S-Scams | |
| S-Safety | ||
| Southwater Community Office | ||
| Sussex Crime Figures |
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ADVICE B BOGUS CALLERS - HOW TO CHECKSTOP Think before you open the door. Are you expecting anyone? CHAIN Secure the door chain before opening the door. CHECK Use a door viewer if you have one, ask for proof of identity. Keep the chain on. If the caller does not have an appointment use the phone book to phone their office. If you have any suspicions do not let the caller into your home. If you think you may be at risk ring the Police on 999. Some service companies operate a password system. Contact your local Water/Gas/Electricity company to find out more. hello C Credit Card Scam The scam involves a person calling you from VISA & MASTERCARD. The person calling gives a name and says they are from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. This person gives a badge number. The caller says they are calling to verify the purchase of an Anti-Telemarketing Device amounting to several hundred pounds. When your answer is no, you haven't, the caller states they will be issuing a credit to your account and that the company is one they have been watching for some time and the charges range from £297 to £497, just under the £500 purchase pattern that flags up most cards. The caller quotes your address and asks 'is that correct?' You say yes. the caller then says they will be starting a fraud investigation. The caller asks you to quote the numbers on the reverse of your card specificaly the last 3 numbers which are security numbers. On NO account give any details over the phone. VISA have reinforced that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already have those details. If you do receive such a call please ring the police on 0845 60 70 999. D Data Protection Registration This type of approach will normally be via the postal services and involves an official looking form and letter which states that 'you do not appear to be registered on our database in respect of the Data Protection Act'. If you, as a company or individual, have a requirement to register under this Act then this statement is quite true. What it means is that you are not on this companies database, not that you have failed to register with the Information Commissioner. These companies are offering a service to register you with a cost in addition to that charged by the Commissioner. This is an interesting legal loophole in that the scheme appears to be totally lawful although misleading. The proposed new fraud bill may capture such activities but in the meantime they are free to operate. The Information Commissioners Office together with the Serious Fraud Office are currently looking at the problem but until any conclusions are reached the letters and forms will continue to arrive in their thousands across the country. I Internet Sales In the main sales through Internet versions of classified advertisements carry no greater risk than their paper equivalents but would you expect a reply from Africa to the sale of your 1989 Metro? Do not be fooled. There is no International Dealer \who is willing to pay 34000 for your vehicle and then have it shipped back to Africa. If you become embroiled in one of these then you will receive a cheque for more than the item is worth with the request that you refund the remainder. The remainder, which is your money , will be the only real part of this process as the original cheque is either stolen , altered or a total forgery. Fraudsters trying this method with Sussex residents have so far been interested in buying items ranging from computer parts to horses , snakes, lizards and diesel engines. O ON DISPLAY - EASY PREY. Horsham Police are increasingly concerned about a spate of vehicle crime spread throughout the Horsham distict where valuable items are being stolen overnight from parked and unattended vehicles. Crime Prevention Officer Alan Haffenden says that items being stolen include laptop computers , Ipods and mobile phones. Items on display are easy prey for the opportunist thief, even an old coat on the back seat is a target for some one to smash a window and grab it. Never leave your vehicle unattended with valuable items left in it. Always lock your car and keep the keys safe when you leave it and if you have an older car buy an immobiliser. Our General Fraud Advice Remember - if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is If you are the recipient of any such approach then the most commonly asked question is 1how did they get my details? Some of the methods are the same as used by legitimate companies through sources such as Voters Registers or other mailing lists. The difference is that while the legitimate companies have to pay for these lists and abide by codes of conduct in their use the fraudsters simply steal them . In the case of email addresses there are various electronic ways of trawling the internet and gathering this information. No one will ever be 100% safe from receiving some sort of unwanted mail. Whilst the following advice may seem that we are unwilling to investigate these attempted deceptions the reality is that in most instances we do not have the powers to do so. In particular the fraudsters who work from outside the United Kingdom are, in the main, beyond the jurisdiction of the Sussex Police. Our priority is, therefore , one of prevention. What should you do if you receive any approach similar to the ones mentioned here? If you are approached by letter then do what you would with any other junk mail and throw it in the bin. If you receive an email then under no circumstances should you reply. Do not think that by replying in the terms that you have no interest in their scheme or that you have notified the police will have any effect. Any reply means that the fraudster will know they have hit a live email address. Forward a copy to the abuse address of the Internet Service Provider from where the email originated. These addresses usually take the form of for example abuse@hotmail.com or abuse@tiscali.co.uk. These service providers are keen to shut down any email address that not only contravenes their service agreements but which is also being used in an attempt to commit fraud. You can also activate the spam blocker within your own email account to prevent further approaches from that email address. Finally delete the email from your system. Please remember that you have not been targeted personally. These letters and emails are sent out in their thousands daily to individuals and companies worldwide. Investigations of one recent email forwarded to us showed that it had been sent to over 1,500 addresses and that each one was being asked in the text to treat the matter with the utmost secrecy. The only circumstances where we would ask you to forward either a letter, fax or email to the Sussex Police is if it contains details of a United Kingdom bank account, postal address or telephone number. Equally although we appreciate the annoyance element we cannot at the moment accept or investigate any Data Protection Registration schemes despite the fact that they originate from within the United Kingdom unless the return address is situated in Sussex. If you have become a victim of one of these schemes or simply want to seek advice then please contact Sussex Police. The Metropolitan Police Service has an excellent Fraud Alert service on its website which can be found at www.met.police.uk/fraudalert. This website also contains details of current trends in fraud. U Urban Legends These are sometimes known as SCAM EMAILS. To check for yourself if the email you have reveived is True. It is more likely to be FLASE. If you are on the internet go to, www.snopes.com/crime/warnings/carjack.asp and check for yourself. Identity Theft. Don't Become A Victim!! Useful websites:- news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business www.crimereduction.gov.uk/theft.htm Card Fraud www;.apacs.org.uk If you think you are a victim send off for your credit reference files from Experian and Equifax. Cost £2.00p www.uk.experian.com |
INFORMATIOND Geoff Williams appointed new Deputy Chief Constable Geoff Williams has been appointed the new Deputy Chief Constable of Sussex Police. He takes over from Joe Edwards on February 17, when he becomes Chief Constable. Mr Williams said: "I am delighted to be offered the post by the Sussex Police Authority and look forward to building on existing good work and supporting the new Chief Constable Joe Edwards. "Sussex Police is in a strong position, with a sound bedrock of local policing, good critical incident structures and enhanced performance. Feedback from the public shows that we are providing a continually improving service responsive to local concerns and we are keen to build on this". Mr Williams joined Sussex Police in December 2002 having previously served with Nottinghamshire Police and Her Majesty''s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC). Within Sussex he has been responsible for territorial policing and specialist operations . Sussex Police Authority chairman Peter Jones said: " We are very pleased to make such a good appointment. We are entering a crucial stage with the consideration of the future structure of police forces nationally. Geoff can make a real contribution in supporting Joe and ensuring that we maintain performance for the people of Sussex." F Sussex Police Farmwatch Farm and Countryside Watch is a partnership between the rural community and the police in the Horsham District. The scheme encourages vigilance and communication between individual members and Sussex Police. Membership is sought from the farming community, rural landowners and equestrians throughout the District. Membership is at no cost. Aims of the scheme.
Priority information supplied to Sussex Police is broadcast out to members on an early warning basis. Messages are sent out via text, e-mail and fax and can also be accessed via web and freefone number A message from the Fire Brigade A national campaign was started to raise peoples awarenessof the necessity to not only own a smoke alarm but also to maintain it. Latest statistics indicate that people are twice as likely to die in a fire at home if they haven't got a working smoke alarm. The campaign is high profile with television ads, radio ads, internet ads, in store media on shopping trolleys and next customer bars, Camalot tv lottery outlets and press releases. Smoke Alarms Save Lives - There's no excuse for not having one. Once a week - test the battery. Press the test button until the alarm sounds. Once a year - change the battery. (Unless it's a ten year alarm) Twice a year - Open the case & gently vacuum the inside to remove dust from the sensors. If it doesn't open, vacuum through the holes. After 10 years - It is best to replace your alarm with a whole new unit. The campaign is set to run until December. L Local Policing goes Live I have recently begun a regular weekly article in the West Sussex County Times entitled ‘The Crime Scene’. The first two items have concentrated on who your local officers are and efforts to combat anti social behaviour. The purpose of this message is to reinforce these articles by giving further details of your local bobbies on the beat. Since February your local officers have worked hard to develop the Sussex Police Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) model on the district. The recent Government White Paper on Police Reform makes mention of the NPT model and it is very likely that this system will be developed across other Police services. The model is based on teams of local officers who are responsible for problem solving within small clusters of parishes and wards. I have received much favourable feedback from communities and individuals regarding this and see it as vital in reducing crime and improving feelings of public safety. Although each parish/ward has a team of police officers, special constables and police community safety officers supporting it, there are within this model three key roles which I would like to explain to you. Police
Sergeant Lead
Officer (Police Constable) Police
Community Support Officer M John Bartlett Memorial Award for Sussex Police Specials Following the highly successful inaugural presentation of the 2005 John Bartlett Memorial Award for Sussex Police Specials to SC. Malcolm Ferris for his contribution to neighbourhood Policing in Arun District it is now appropriate to invite nominations for the 2006 award. When Chief Divisional Officer John Bartlett died in April 2004 the Chief Constable awarded him a posthumous Award for Meritorious Service. This was in recognition of the 18 years service John completed with the Specials and the manner in which he developed their recruitment, training and integration with local divisions . He brought the Specials to a level where they became a highly valued resource bringing many skills to local policing enhancing the relevance of the community to policing. The DCC has agreed that to promote the ethos John had and all the outstanding work which has continued since he retired an annual award should be made to the member of Sussex Police Specials who has provided an outstanding contribution to Neighbourhood Policing. Members of the Sussex Police Specials can be nominated for this annual award by police officers and staff and, for the first time this year, by partners. Nominations should include evidence of; how the nominee has demonstrated their ability to undertake policing initiatives relevant to their district or neighbourhood policing team; their ability Restructuring Message from Sussex Police Today was the deadline for both Sussex and Surrey to respond to the HomeSecretary 's proposal to join forces to form a strategic police service. Sussex Police Authority and their Surrey counterparts have agreed that they will not volunteer to merge stating that there are important funding issues that need to be resolved . A four month consultation period will run from May until September but it is highly likely that the Home Secretary's decision on policing t structures in the south east will remain the same. We put forward a number of options to improve strategic capacity and most of the permutations included a future with Surrey Police. We have a great deal in common with our neighbour including our shared commitment to deliver excellence in local policing. We recognise that the resilience of local policing is directly affected by operational resilience in tackling the higher risk business of policing , such as counter terrorism and serious and organised crime. We are in the process of setting up a team with people from Sussex and Surrey,to start looking at the opportunities for combined working and developing protective services. This whole process is about improving our overall service to the people of Sussex and we remain dedicated to local, accountable policing. Message from Chief Constable Joe Edwards I' m honoured to have been appointed the new Chief Constable of Sussex and l recognise the responsibility and privilege of leading such a committed workforce . The people of Sussex, quite rightly, have high expectations as to what their police service should be doing about crime and disorder in their towns. Public survey results after recent high visibility campaigns have shown improved satisfaction and awareness of police activity and effectiveness in dealing with anti social behaviour.The prospects of change presents an opportunity for designing a police service capable of meeting 21st century challenges. In doing that we have got to protect all that is best public confidence, local identity and community-based policing. My big challenge this year is to make sure that I continue thedevelopment of that local neighbourhood commitment, which is a feature of our police service and to protect as much as possible that which is best done locally. But there are undoubtedly operational and public benefits from rethinking the way in which we tackle high cost, low volume, premium end of the business such as major crime and the prevention of terrorism.In the months ahead we will be building on the foundations of our successful Neighbourhood Policing Teams by engaging at the most local of levels to assess what people priorities are and how we, and you, can address their concerns. Policing Sussex is a team effort and I look to you and other partners to play their part in making Sussex safer. Joe Edwards Chief Constable 17 February 2006 'Enough is Enough'' - Chief Constable''s warning CHIEF Constable Ken Jones today announced plans for a four-month campaign to target yobbish behaviour in Sussex. And he put ''on notice'' the irresponsible elements of the drinks and entertainments industry, including the major supermarkets, with the warning that those who sell alcohol illegally to young people WILL be prosecuted. "The people of Sussex have had enough," said the Chief Constable. "And so haveI." From now until the New Year, every division and district of Sussex Police will mount operations to target yob behaviour and its causes. He explained : "Sussex Police is now on top of most of our targets and key objectives . Neighbourhood policing has been introduced across the Force. Arrests and detections are increasing and, in key areas, including the serious end of recorded violent crime, crime numbers are falling. "But lower -level crime - yobbish behaviour, usually fuelled by alcohol - is not, and I am determined to do something about it. In our Policing Plan for this year , I said that Sussex Police would lead on tackling yob crime, but that we expect others to play their part too. "Irresponsible elements within the drinks and entertainment industry are only interested in making a quick buck and see the rest of the community pick up the pieces. The consequences of their greed are plain for all to see. The character of some of our towns, cities and villages changes at night. Binge drinking,drunken boorish behaviour, vomit and litter on our streets, wasting the time of police, ambulance and hospital staff who have better things to do. "Enough is enough. We are going to work with our partners across Sussex and will bear down on bars, clubs and supermarkets who are breaking the law. We will be actively looking to prosecute and make examples of those in the industry who fail to heed my warning today. This warning particularly applies to the large companies who own theme pubs and bars. I am also fed up with the failure of some major supermarkets to get their houses in order. All too often it is badly run supermarkets that are at the heart of the problem by selling alcohol to underage kids. Many have good policies which they fail to enforce.The picture is not universally bad across Sussex. There are many areas with vibrant night -time economies which are thriving and profitable; but there are others where this is not the case.We are going to increase our operations over the coming months, with increased targeted patrols, video evidence gathering, and high profile local campaigns to community concerns. Those who sell alcohol to under-18s will be prosecuted, and we will apply to have their licences revoked. Message from Alan Chambers, District Commander, Horsham 2005 has seen some significant reductions in Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour. This has come about through determined and focussed effort from your local police who have received tremendous support from our partners in the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership. This has been particularly the case when overcoming the potential threat of the change in licensing law. However, such sustained success will only continue with the continued active support of the community. There are excellent examples across the district of individual parish councils who have joined with the CDRP in constructive and supportive partnerships. These areas have (and I believe will continue to see), such success . Crime and disorder reduction is not the sole responsibility of a single agency and solutions fall within the remit of many organisations. As well as playing a determined and central role in ongoing crime and disorder reduction initiatives, your local police will continue to focus on several other important areas during 2006. In particular, police-public contact together with arresting offenders and detecting crime. These are core aspects of our role that we will always strive to improve. I hope that you have an enjoyable Xmas and a prosperous New Year. Alan Chambers District Commander O Operation Coppice Farm and CountrySide Watch members in Horsham are invited to have light agricultural vehicles and equipment marked with a special solution which possesses a unique identity. The Sussex Police crime prevention team are offering free of charge the opportunity to have such property as quad bikes, trailers, horse boxezs, rideon mowers and small domestic tractors marked with Smartwear. Small amounts of this clear liquid will be painted onto the items to be marked, it's presence can be identified because it fluoresces yellow under ultra violet light. It has a specific chemical composition that is unique to Operation Coppice. The initiative follows hot-on-the-heels of a recent court case from Broadbridge Heath where police executed a search warrant in December 2002, over 200 items were seized from the premises, including saddles and some agricultural machinery. Most of this property still lies unclaimed on the Virtual Bumblebee website because it cannot be identified. Horsham and Mid Sussex districts will become the first in Sussex to be offered the smartwear property marking. This marking scheme is totally free and we will come to you by appointment. All you have to do is phone to book a time. Horsham District North - CPO Alan Haffenden 01243 520287 S A very good idea for your safety Following the disaster in London . . . East Anglian Ambulance Service have launched national "In case of Emergency ( ICE ) " campaign with the support of Falklands war hero Simon Weston. The idea is that you store the word " I C E " 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 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 so simple that everyone can do it. Sussex Crime Figures Burglary is down again, by 13.5% in the last year. The number of recorded burglaries from people’s homes in Sussex has declined by 37% over the past six years – that’s more than 4,000 fewer victims in a single year. Robbery is down too – by the same percentage (13.5%). That’s 75 fewer victims of personal robbery, and 117 fewer robberies from businesses. Car crime has reduced by 19.1% - a 40.3% decrease over six years – with 10,250 fewer victims of auto crime each year. And the more serious types of violent crime – homicide, attempted murder and serious woundings – are down from 310 to 287. That’s fewer than one a day among a population of one and a half million in Sussex. Deputy Chief Constable Joe Edwards said: "We have had real success in effectively tackling crimes such as burglary, robbery and property theft. This has been achieved by sustained and relentless targeting of known, prolific offenders coupled with crime prevention initiatives and intelligence led policing." Locally as well as nationally, crime statistics are now capturing much more anti-social behaviour – scuffles and rowdiness in the street, for instance. Offences where no-one is injured now account for 40% of this Force’s recorded ''violent crime''. In Sussex the number of incidents reported to police is stable, but crime recording practices here and across the country have changed. The numbers of murders and life-threatening crimes are not affected, and comparative figures for property crime are quite robust. They too are largely unaffected by changed recording practices and offences are normally reported to the police for insurance claims. But before-and-after comparisons for yobbery and the like are no longer valid. The British Crime Survey, which deals with individuals’ actual experience of crime, finds no change in the percentage of people in Sussex who say they have been victims of ''personal crime'' since last year. Mr Edwards said: "Whatever the statistics say, we know that the perception of disorder and the fear of being a victim can itself be very damaging. That is why Sussex Police is working hard this year, with our partners and with the licensing trade, to continue to make Sussex safer, and for it to feel safer too." Change Of Premises.8/11/05 THIS IS A MESSAGE TO NHW IN SOUTHWATER. The Southwater Community office has moved to temporary premises at Southwater Leisure Centre , Pevensy Road, where it will remain pending the completion of a brand new office in Summer 2006. The office will be open Monday to Friday between 9.30am to 1230 lunchtime and then from 2.30pm to 5.30pm. to report incidents outside of these times please call 0845 60 70 999 or in an emergency 999. |
INFORMATION from West Sussex Tradings Standards Burglaries Horsham Area 26/4/07 Police report that there have been several burglaries and attempted burglaries in and around the Horsham area. On Thursday 26 April in Finnians Field, Barns Green an offender entered a property via an insecure front door and was seen to go to a handbag, but was disturbed. Fortunately nothing was stolen. He is described as white, 5ft 6" tall, thin build, 19-20 years old and wearing a black Reebok hooded top and grey tracksuit bottoms. Chesworth Crescent, Horsham entry was gained via an insecure door (patio) whilst the occupant was upstairs. A purse was stolen. The offender was seen fleeing and is described as a white male of 15 years old. Another offence took place at in Hillside, Horsham. The kitchen window was forced and cash and jewellery were stolen. There were also two attempted burglaries in Clarence Road, Horsham and Winterpit Close, Mannings Heath. Two of these burglaries were a result of insecurities. The warmer weather has meant that we are all opening our doors and windows. Please consider only keeping the doors and windows open in your home when you are in the room to ensure that you are not vulnerable to any intruders. Trading Standards advise that if you have suspicions with regard to any strange vehicles or persons in your area you should call the Police on 0845 6070999 or Trading Standards on 01243 642125. Please keep a special eye on elderly residents. 28 April2007 Distraction Burglaries, Cold Calling The Police warn residents to be aware that distraction burglaries have taken place in the following areas Saxon Crescent and St. Johns Crescent. In St Johns Crescent, Broadbridge Heath a male called at a residents home claiming that he was working on a property down the road where there was a lot of flooding and needed to come in and test the water. Whilst he went upstairs to the bathroom to run the taps it appears that another male went into the bedroom. The man who called at the door is described as white, youngish, stocky, short dark hair and wearing a navy blue padded anorak. In Saxon Crescent, Horsham, a male called at a residents home and said he needed to come into the house because they were repairing the water nearby. He asked the resident to turn on all the taps and then said he needed to go upstairs to check. Two savings books have been stolen. The man is described as white, with fair hair, in his mid 20's wearing a long dark blue coat . Residents are reminded not to engage with any "cold callers" on the doorstep. Always keep the chain on your door, ask for ID and telephone the company the caller is representing by using a telephone number from the telephone book. If any work is required in or around your home only employ traders who have been recommended to you through friends or family. If in any doubt keep them out and call the police on 0845 607099 or call Trading Standards on 01243 642125. Trading Standards have a Buy with Confidence Scheme, for contact details for a particular trade please call 01243 642125. 24 April 2007 HORSHAM AND SLINFOLD The Police advise that over the last few days there have been reported incidents of burglaries taking place in the Horsham area. In Orchard Road, Horsham it is reported that a man entered a property claiming to be a Police Officer. He is described as white, 20-25 years old, short light brown hair and is described as having a speech impediment. After his visit it was discovered that a cash tin containing £60 had gone missing. In Bennetts Road, Horsham two men purporting to be gas men entered a property where £150 was stolen. The men are described as being in their late twenties, wearing shabby clothing, one had swept back dark hair, the other had a slight moustache. In Ghyll Crescent, Horsham at some point during 8.30am and 5.30pm a house was entered into through forcing a rear dining room window, an antique clock, cash and jewellery were stolen. During a similar timeframe in Hayes Lane, Slinfold, a house was entered into through an insecure patio door, tools were taken from a shed and used to force entry into a wall safe - jewellery and cash were stolen. Trading Standards advise that if you have suspicions with regard to any strange vehicles or persons in your area you should call the Police on 0845 6070999 or Trading Standards on 01243 642125. Please keep a special eye on elderly residents. Residents are reminded not to engage with any "cold callers" on the doorstep. Always keep the chain on your door, and always ask for ID. Double check the ID by using the telephone number for the company from the telephone book. B
Launch of "Buy With Confidence" - Good Trader Scheme We keep bringing you news of members of the public who have been cold called, subjected to high pressure selling or have received a poor service. We thought therefore it was time to let you know of the good traders out in West Sussex. We have now officially launched our good trader scheme called "Buy With Confidence". Member businesses will have undergone a strict vetting and auditing process to make sure they are committed to giving you the customer a good service, and comply with both the spirit and the letter of the law. So if you need a reliable roofer or want your car serviced by a reputable garage, why not contact us on 01243 642124 or go to our website www.westsussex.gov.uk/tradingstandards for our list of approved traders . If you know of a reliable businesses who is committed to fair and honest trading let them know about the scheme. We are always on the look out for new members. For more information follow the link below or ring us on 01243 642124. What is Trading Standards Buy With Confidence? The Buy with Confidence scheme is an initiative by the Trading Standards Service in West Sussex , in conjunction with other services in the South East to help businesses comply with the law, while improving consumer protection through a partnership approach . It will be open to any business with premises within the area covered by West Sussex County Council providing they meet the criteria. Benefits to the Consumer Do you want to use a business that :-
Then use a business that displays the Buy with Confidence logo. Before being accepted as a member the business has demonstrated a high level of commitment to operate in a fair and honest way and has been audited by Trading Standards personnel , including a Criminal Records Bureau check. Limitations of the Buy with Confidence scheme. West Sussex Trading Standards Service does not vouch for the financial stability of any company listed on this site, nor for their health and safety procedures. Background checks and audits are performed on businesses to ensure that, as far as is possible, they have not engaged in behaviour, criminal or otherwise, which has caused detriment to consumers. These checks do not imply that a company does not have employees with a criminal history nor that the company itself has never been subject to having outstanding court judgements against it. All information provided is to assist consumers in exercising their own best judgement and is provided in good faith, but no guarantee is given or implied as to the accuracy of the information provided.Please note Buy with Confidence approved traders are 'approved' by West Sussex County Council Trading Standards Service for their dealings with consumers. This status neither implies or confirms that the trader is an approved supplier or contractor to West Sussex County Council. C Trading Standards have just put out the press release below about cold calling traders - Can I just remind everyone that if they have any concerns about traders cold calling or neighbours that might be victims of Cold Calling Rogue Traders to call Trading Standards straight away - If the trader is still on site in some instances we can intervene - and prevent the consumer being ripped off. If they have gone it is often (but by no means always) too late. But we really appreciate the intelligence anyway. Standard advice to residents is not to engage with any "cold callers" on the doorstep. Always keep the chain on your door, ask for ID and telephone the company the caller is representing by using a telephone number from the telephone book. Please remind all your residents that if any work is required in or around their home only to employ traders who have been recommended to them through friends or family. If in any doubt keep them out and call the police on 0845 607099 or call Trading Standards on 01243 642125. Trading Standards have a Buy with Confidence Scheme, for contact details for a particular trade please call 01243 642125. D
Advice on Doorstep Sellers Take care when opening the door to anyone. ALWAYS ask for identification that you can verify by telephoning the callers office. Do not agree for anyone to carry out work in your house until you get a second opinion as to whether you actually need the work done. If you agree to buy any goods or services from a doorstoep seller, and you did not invite them to your home, then you MAY have a short period of time to cancel the contract after it has been signed. If you are in doubt seek advice from your local Trading Standards immediately. If the contract is to be enforcable, the trader must serve you a notice of your cancellation rights. This will be in the form of a printed document giving you details of how to cancel the contract. Generally goods or services must be over £35 in value in order to cancel the contract. There are other circumstances where you have no rights of cancellation. Contact your local Trading Standards for furthur advice. Keep all paperwork, guarantees etc. in a safe place. E MESSAGE FROM ENERGYWATCH Free Password Protection Scheme with your Gas and Electricity Supplier. If you are a domestic consumer and one or more of the following applies to you: a) Pensionable Age b) Have a disability c) Have long term ill health or d) Are blind or visually impaired Then you can register with energywatch under the "Priority Services Register" to join the free "Password Protection Scheme" with your gas and electricity provider. You can agree a unique password with your gas and electricity supplier that will be used whenever their staff visit your home. This will protect you against "bogus callers ". For more information and to register with this scheme please contact Energywatch: By Phone - 0845 906 07080 Typetalk: 18001 0845 9060708 Online: www .energywatch.org.uk/help_and_advice/freeservices L SPANISH LOTTERIES Trading Standards are continuing to receive numerous reports from across West Sussex of Spanish Lottery Scams and warn residents to be on the look out for Scam Lotteries, particularly those from Spain. Last month Trading Standards received a report about a West Sussex pensioner who fell for the Spanish Lottery scam and lost his life savings The pensioner received a letter claiming to be from a firm of attorneys in Madrid saying he had won over 850,000 Euros on the Spanish Lottery. When he contacted them he was told to pay for administration costs before the money could be released. He was then asked for: Money for Spanish tax - European tax - Money laundering certificate - Spanish surtax - Security clearance and stamp duty In all, he was given 14 different reasons to part with his life savings before he could receive the winnings . As is usual in these sorts of scams he was also told not to tell anyone . But when his funds were exhausted he sought advice from Consumer Direct.This scam displays some of the key sophisticated methods used to hook consumers, including Slick, professional leaflets suggesting you have won a prize (without entering the competition). telling you not to tell anyone. Sending money up front. Please warn people to look out for scams and never pay any money in order to receive future winnings. It will always} be a scam. If you are aware of anyone who has lost money or been tempted by these devious mailings please ask them to call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.
Press Release November 2006 The latest scam to hit local residents is in the form of a threatening letter from a Prague debt collection agency called AstraDelph International Debt Collection, West Sussex County Council Trading Standards Service warned today. The letter headlined "NOTICE OF ISSUE OF LITIGATION PROCEEDINGS" claims a substantial debt is owed. It threatens County Court legal proceedings and says the subsequent judgement would have a detrimental effect on your credit rating for at least six years.Residents are urged to contact the company by phoning one of three international dialled numbers. "Don't phone them they're expensive international numbers that will add a considerable sum to your next phone bill. In other words, ignore this correspondence and throw it in the bin," said Alison Wheeler, Principal Trading Standards Officer. Trading Standards is also concerned about the steady trickle of West Sussex Consumers who have lost thousands of pounds after receiving 'official notification' they have 'won' the Spanish lottery. "This may be an old con but older people who can ill afford it are still being fooled into sending large sums to unscrupulous con artists. "The con artists 'reel in' the victim by requesting evidence of identification for the 'claim' by Fax. "Follow up phone calls assure the victim the money is sitting there waiting. The victim is then asked for a sum of money to pay to release the money this will generally be via Western Union, sometimes a transfer to a foreign bank. "This will then be followed by further requests until the victim realises they have been swindled and no prize money will ever be paid. "Take our word for it: any prize 'win' that asks you to send money in order to receive it will be worth less than you send. We are still waiting for an exception to this!" said Ms Wheeler. She said consumers should never send money via Western Union except to people known personally to the sender. "This is because the money is completely untraceable and no genuine company or lottery would ask for cash to be sent in this manner," said Ms Wheeler. Lionel Barnard, County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: "Our Trading Standards watchdogs are committed to being constantly on the lookout for criminal schemes designed to part people from their hard-earned money. "I urge all residents to follow their advice: if in doubt throw it out" Trading Standards warn residents in West Sussex to be aware of a possible telephone scam. Residents are receiving telephone calls where upon answering the caller says "hello" then hangs up. When residents then dial 1471 to obtain the number, the number is 08712 409000. When they ring this number they are told they have won money and to ring another number - 09066 333886.Trading Standards advise that if you do not recognise the number left, then don't dial it. If someone needs to contact you they will call again. S SCAMS AGAIN! CHARITY OR CON ? Trading Standards are continuing to receive a lot of enquires from consumers who get " Clothing Collection leaflets" through their door inviting them to donate unwanted clothes. These leaflets state that they are collecting clothing to help people in various poor or disaster struck countries. They often give a misleading impression that the donated goods are for charity. Close examination of the leaflets usually reveals that the number quoted is a company registration number, not a charity number, and that the goods are resold to people thus creating jobs and providing cheap clothes. These leaflets do not necessarily breach the law, although in some instances they may do. (for example if they actually state they are for charity and are not) On investigation , some of the company registrations on these leaflets belong to dissolved companies . Please advise consumers that if they wish to make sure unwanted goods go to charity they should donate goods to a nationally recognised charity that offers a collection service . If consumers are unsure as to whether an organisation is a genuine charity they can contact the Charity Collection Commission help line on 0845 300 0218 |
INDEX - MORE ADVICE & INFORMATION
| Datalink | How safe is your home | Sussex Police NHW Search Team |
| Mobile Telephones | How Safe are your Antiques | Nuisance Motor Cycles |
| Use of Force | ||
| Anti-social behaviour | Horsham District Mediation Service | Car Crime |
| Horsham District Community Van | Free BT Caller ID |
| DATALINK The Information kept inside
Datalink could SAVE YOUR LIFE .
Background Datalink was originated in Australia and Canada. Bottles were ut in the fridge as it was the one item you could almost guarantee would be i every home and the contents were the last thing to burn in a fire. Sue Yoxhall (NNWA) brought the idea ot England. The idea was presented to the Emergency Services in Sussex to establish their thoughts in 1999 and they decided to go ahead and use 35mm film canisters. The scheme was launched in March 2000 in Littlehampton. How does the scheme work? Your details are stored in a clearly labelled plastic container which is kept in your fridge. Two matching labels known to the Emergency Services and other care agencies are displayed in your house, one on the outside of your fridge door and the other on the inside of your front door (so it is not visible from the outside.) What is Datalink? Data Link is a voluntary
scheme for anyone living at home, who might be reassured
to know that essential information would be readily Fill in the Datalink form with a ball point pen. Each member of the house will have to fill in a form. Photocopy the original if necessary. Each form must have a passport photograph so you can be recognised. If you have any difficulty filling in the form please do not hesitate to contact your local police community officer Fold the form length ways in
half and then in half again. Turn and continue to fold
concertina style and place in the Place the Datalink bottle into a fridge door compartment so it acan be easily found by the emergency services. Placing the bottle in the fridge will also prevent it from being damaged in a fire. Place the Data link sticker
onto the frdge door so the emergency services know that
you are a member. You will also need to stick a label to
the inside of the front door so it is clearly visible but
cannot be seen from the outside. |
Mobile Telephones From 27th February 2007the penalty for using a mobilephone whilst driving doubles to a £60 fine and also becomes an endorsable offence carrying three penalty points. Employers may also be prosecuted if they require their employees to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving. Drivers using hand-free devices still risk prosecution if they fail to maintain full control of their vechicle or if they drive carelessly or dangerously. Interesting Fact You are 4 times more likely to have a crash when you are using a mobile phone. This is because you are unable to concentrate fully on 2 things at the same time and you are not in full control, of your vechicle. To drive safely you must focus your full attention on the road. 13 road deaths each year are directly attrituable to theuse of mobile phones by drivers.
Immobilise Phone Crime WHAT'S HAPPENING? Every year in the UK hundreds of thousands of phones are stolen. In 2000/01 the estimated number of mobile phone thefts was 710,000. Over the same period, 28% of all robberies involved a mobile phone. To tackle this growing crime wave, a new, national mobile phone database has been created that will block stolen and lost mobile phones so that they will not work on any UK network. This will now make a stolen phone worthless and stealing it pointless. So if your mobile phone has been stolen or lost even a pre-pay handset, call your network, service provider or 08701 123 123 to get your phone blocked across every network. WHO'S INVOLVED? The police, mobile phone industry, government and you. The police and mobile phone industry have invested nearly £2,000,000 to run a publicity campaign to highlight the need to "immobilse phone crime". HOW DOES IT WORK? Call your network, service provider or 08701 123 123 and they wil deactivate your SIM card and handset. Your network will also identify a recent phonecall made by you on your phone to determine your mobile's International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI). This unique IMEI number is then entered onto the network's central database. Once its been reported the handset will be immobilised, deactivating it across every network. Even if your SIM card has been changed, your lost or stolen handset will no longer work. WHAT SHOULD I DO? Make a note of your IMEI number in a safe place separate from your phone. The IMEI is located on a strip normally located behind the battery of the handsets. On most handsets, press the keys *#06# and it will be displayed in the handset window. You should contact your local police station or the police station nearest to wear the theft or loss took place. WHO SHOULD I CONTACT? To report a stolen or lost mobile phone call your network operator. ----------------------------------------------------- Orange Contract ~~~~~~~ 07973 100150 Pre-pay ~~~~~~~ 07973 100451 ----------------------------------------------------- Vodaphone Contract ~~~~~~~ 07836 191191 Pre-pay ~~~~~~~~ 008700 776655 ----------------------------------------------------- 02 Contract ~~~~~~~ 08705 214000 Pre-pay ~~~~~~~ 08705 678678 ----------------------------------------------------- T-Mobile ~~~~~ 0845 412 5000 ----------------------------------------------------- Virgin Mobile ~~ 0845 6000 789 ----------------------------------------------------- 3 ~~~~~~~~~~~ 07782 333 333 ----------------------------------------------------- |
Householders and the use of force against intruders A joint public statement from the Crown Prosecution Service and the Association of Chief Police OfficersIt is a rare and frightening prospect to be confronted by an intruder in your own home. What is reasonable force? Anyone can use reasonable force to protect themselves or others. As long as you do what you honestly believe is necessary in the heat of the moment, that would be the strongest evidence of you acting lawfuly and in self defence. This would still be the case if you use something to hand such as a weapon. As a general rule, the more extreme the circumstances and the fear felt, the more force you can lawfully use in self defence. Do I have to wait to be attacked? No, not if you are in your own home and in fear for yourself or others. What if the intruder dies? If you have acted in reasonable self-defence, and the intruder dies you will still have acted lawfully. What if I chase them off? This situation is different as you are no longer acting in self-defence. You are however still allowed to use reasonable force to recover your property and make a citizen's arrest. Will you believe the intruder rather than me ? The police weigh all the facts when investigating an incident. This includes the fact that the intruder casued the situation to arise in the first place. How would the police and CPS handle the investigation and treat me? In considering these cases Chief Constables and the Director of Public Prosecutions are determined that they must be investigated as swiftly and as sympathetically as possible. To do this the police and CPS take special measures: 1. An experienced investigator will oversee the case. 2. If it goes as far as CPS considering the evidecnce , the case will be prioritised to ensure a senior lawyer makes a quick decision. It is a fact that very few householders have ever beeen prosecuted for actions resulting from the use of force against intruders. |
Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour in Horsham District
The Situation Anti-social Behaviour (ASB) covers a range of thoughtless, inconsiderate activity, including criminal damage and public place violent crime, which has the potential to blight the quality of community life for all who live and work in Horsham District. When repeated over a peroiod of time ASB can depress people's pride and confidence in their community, contributing to a sense of fear and vulneralility and if left unchecked can lead to more serious offences. Sussex Police is constantly monitoring the levels off ASB and has noticed an alarming increase in recent months, causing distress to many residents, costing thousands of pounds in repair work and absorbing a dispropoprtionated amount of Police Resources. ASB will no longer be tolerated. The appointment of the District's first ASB Co-ordinator provides a good opportunity for the development of a multi-agency, solutions focussed approach. There are no excuses for ASB, but in many circumstances there are ways to prevent it happening. Responsible parenting, a broad range of local social and leisure facilities, respect for others and good community police support work must provide the background upon which progress can be made. Who is responsible? Research indicates that the vast majority of ASB incidents are as a result of a small number of individuls, in fact, a recent Home Office survey found that 3% of persistent offenders commit 22% of all crimes, ranging from ASB to more serious offences. There is no one type of person who participates in behaviour regarded as anti-social, and it is very important not to label everyone under the age of 18 as being responsible.The following identifies that there are a number of risk factors which if present in any person's life can increase the likelihood of them becoming involved in ASB Family/ domestic Situation Lack of parental supervisopn/discipline Low family income/social isolation Family conflict/unsettled homelife. School Lack of commitment to school Low achievement Low activity engagement School disorganisation Disruptive behaviour Individual/Peer Lack of social commitment Early involvement in problem behaviour Peer involvement in problem behaviour Much unsupervised time spent with peers Early adulthood Lack of suitable skills Unemployment Lack of motivaton Community Availibility of drugs/alcohol Opportunity of crime Lack of respect for other people/property Legislation The Crime and Disorder Act 1998 introduce the ASBO's to protect the public from behaviour that cause harrassment, alarm or distress and their use was steamlined in the Police Reform Act 2002. ASBO's contain conditions which prohibit the offender from specific behaviour or entering defined zones for a minimum of 2 years. If breached it can mean the offender is sent to prison for 5 years. An order will often be the last stage of a structerd process. The aim is to take early intervention in cases where it is felt that a person can improve with careful monitioring and support, without the need for court proceedings. Addressing the problem. Better provision of leisure facilites and greater involvement is the key to success. Recent years have seen the development of new facilities such as the Pavilions in the Park and Horsham Skatepark. Other projects include the 'snack wagon' and the 'purple bus' run by the Youth service. Community Wardens are another example of community development work. They provide a reassuring patrolling force in the isolated rural villages. The district has 14 PCSO's. Working alongside regular Police Officers they each have a targeted patrol area.They act as the 'eyes and ears' of the community. Preventing Ant-social Behaviour Residents, the District and Parish councils, victims, police,schools and business are just some of the organsiations who have a part to play. If you are a parent or guardian of a child under 18 years of age you also have a responsibility for their behaviour. Take responibility and be aware of where your child is, who they are with and what they are doing at all times. Promptly reporting ASB can reduce problems. Please ensure you report the incident to Sussex Police immediately. Without your call we will not be able to assess and deal with the situation. USEFUL CONTACT INFORMATION Sussex Police 0845 60 70 999 ASB Co-ordinator e-mail; greg.charman@sussex.pnn.police.uk or 0845 60 70 999 EXT 30233 Council's Community Development Team e-mail; community.development@horsham.gov.uk or 01403 215385 Goverment Website www.together.gov.uk |
Horsham District Community Handy Van FOR many people, the Horsham District Handy Van service provides invaluable assistance around the home and its popularity continues to grow. Launched just over a year ago, the service offers low cost help for small repair and minor adaptation works in eligible residents homes, as well as helping to increase household safety and security. "Whilst the Horsham District is a low crime zone, certain groups of people can have more fear of crime than others", comments Cllr Vivien Lyth, Cabinet Member for Community Partnerships and Housing Services at Horsham District Council. "These groups can include the elderly, previous victims of crime and vulnerable people. Many people within these groups appreciate the opportunity to get low cost maintenance and repair works carried out around their homes, by people they can trust" The Handy Van Service, which is a partnership between Horsham District Council, Saxon Weald and the Horsham Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, aims to tackle these diverse requirements quickly, effectively and affordably. The work that the Handy Van service can undertake includes fitting security chains and window locks, adding spy holes to doors and even a speaker system that can remind homeowners to put a chain on before opening the door to callers. \par \par Additionally, the friendly Handy Van team is able to fit smoke detectors, stair gates and various minor repair works such as putting up curtain rails, fitting lever taps and hand rails or unblocking guttering. " Since its launch in January 2004, the Handy Van service has completed nearly 800 jobs", explains Cathy Holloway at Saxon Weald. "As the service costs just £18 (from 1 April 2005), which covers the call out and up to two hours work (some materials are charged separately), the Handy Van service is easily affordable to all residents in the District who fall into the one of the above categories.When you consider the prompt response times and high quality of workmanship produced, this service is the most cost effective way of maintaining and securing homes." The two Handy Van operatives carry official ID cards and the van itself is distinctively branded with logos so that residents know who has pulled up outside their property. As part of each visit, the Handy Van service offers a free ten point crime prevention and fire safety check to customers. If additional door chains, smoke alarms or additional locks are needed they are provided free of charge by the Horsham District Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership. To make a booking for the Handy Van service, those residents who are eligible (this includes the elderly, previous victims of crime and vulnerable people) should call 01403 226005. Richard
Morris, Communications Manager (Extension 5549) Park
North, North Street, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1RL
(01403) 215100 Fax: (0140262985 |
How Safe is Your Home? A Guide to Beating the Burglars Top Tips from Horsham Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership Burglary is a despicable crime. It's bad enough when a thief robs you of your valuable possessions but the emotional shock of having your property invaded can be deeply upsetting, often scaring victims for life. Most burglaries are committed by opportunist thieves, who do not make elaborate plans, they look for a weakness and strike. In 2 out of every 10 burglaries no force is used, they simply enter through an open door or window! A thief will look for easy-to-burgle telltale signs which, to the untrained eye can often go unnoticed. The enemies of the burglar are noise and time, so with this in mind what can you do to make your home safer? Why not use the following guide, which might highlight some precautions that could be easily taken, discouraging burglars and preventing you from being another statistic. 1. Sounds obvious, but are your doors and windows locked when you leave the home. Even the smallest bathroom window, provides a thief with an opportunity. 2. Do you leave a light or radio on in the evenings if you go out? Be selective as if you really were in the house, ask yourself which lights would be left on and consider an automatic timer. 3. Do you open your curtains, take newspapers, post and milk inside before you leave you home in the morning? 4. Do you have visible locks on all downstairs doors and windows and those which might be vulnerable upstairs? 5. Do you leave your house keys and car keys hanging by a door or an area which is visible from a window? This is the most obvious place for a burglar to look. 6. Can your valuable possessions, such as your TV or stereo be seen by somebody looking through a window? 7. If you go away do you ensure that your house looks lived in? Examples of ways to achieve this include: asking a neighbour to park a car on your driveway, cancelling newspapers, milk and other deliveries, cutting the grass and hedges before departing. 8. Is your shed or outbuilding safe? An open door or weak windows make access to garden tools and other objects easy pickings. These items can then be used to force entry. 9. Are your external doors fitted with a "five-lever mortice deadlock" You can buy these in most DIY shops, but be sure to look at the facing plate (that's the bit in the door where the bolt pops out when the key is turned) and for extra piece of mind, you should see a "kite mark" showing the British Standard 3621 and the words five-lever, or similar. 10. Do you have a restrictor fitted to the inside of your letterbox to stop anyone reaching through to release any locks and bolts? 11. Do you have a peephole fitted, otherwise known as a "viewer", so you can see who's knocking before opening the door? 12. Do you have any of the following 3 main types of external lighting fitted a. Static Lighting - This is a lamp or garden lights which will be controlled with a switch, normally from inside your home. b. Passive Infra Red/Motion detectors - this will give the impression that it is a darkened area and will only come on once someone has made the decision to enter your property. Care should be taken when positioning these lights as they can be accidentally set off by small animals or birds at night causing false alarms and annoyance not only to you but also your neighbours. c. Photosensitive lights - these will come on as darkness falls. They are controlled by a switch in your home or by solar energy. They are normally low power. 13. Have you photographed expensive or precious possessions and marked them with your postcode and house name or number in an ultra-violet permanent marker? 14. Are you giving thieves an easy opportunity by leaving large objects like a bin or ladders in a place which can be found and used to enter your home? 15. Are you a member of Neighbourhood Watch? To find out more telephone 01293 583832 (Horsham North) or 01444 445965 (Horsham South) for an information pack. Hopefully you were able to answer Yes to most of the above questions. If not, then you MUSTtake steps to make your home safer. If you fall into one of the following categories then you are entitled to call upon the services of the Handy Van Scheme to help with the installation of certain crime reduction devices. Aged over 60 A Victim of Burglary Registered disabled or in receipt of disability benefit A member of another vulnerable group Call 01403 226005 to find out more about this low-cost, not-for-profit service. You will also receive a free 10 point home health and safety check. REMEMBER, IF YOU SPOT ANYTHING SUSPICSIOUS IN YOUR AREA CALL CRIMESTOPPERS IMMEDIATELY ON: 0800 555 111} |
How safe are your antiques?
TV pprogrammes and reference books assist thieves, as well as owners, to appreciate the value of many collectable items, works of art, furnitures and porcelain. Photographic/ Videos These are the best possible means of identification.
Where the objects form part of a set, take individual photographs to show fine detail. Keep the photograph or the video cassette and the negatives in a secure place, together with an inventory. Silverware Make a note of identifiable features, including intials, damage and any repair. Free literature is available from the London ASSAY office telephone 0171 6068975. Make a note of the maker's initials or any engraving. Fine Art. Paintings are one of the easiest items to recover as they are unique and usually signed by the artist. Ensure you record
Clocks and Watches Make a note of the maker, the type of face and numerals, the material and decoration of the clock. Jewellery Ensure you record
A jeweller may help with this for a modest fee, will provide a written description and valuation which will also assist with insurance purposes. Poastcoding Write your postcode with an ultraviolet security marker pen. Use the pen on parts of the item which are not cleaned. If the item is exposed yo sunlight, renew the postcode every eighteen months . Valuations Professional valuations and descriptions can assist identification. Keep the document safe and insurance values updated. Dealers Use established companies to give valuations. Security Do not deal with doorstep callers. Never give your name and address at antique roadshows. Do not loan out valuables for exhibitions unless you are satsified with the bone fides of the person borowing the item. If valuables are to be left in your home, consider the use of a wall safe together with the insallation of an intruder alarm system.
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Horsham & District Community Mediation Service Reg Charity no 1084592 Alphacom House 8a Oakhill Road Horsham West Sussex RH1Z 1RA Tel/Fax 01403 258900 Email: coordinator@horshammediation.org.uk The office is normally staffed between 9.00am and 2.00pm Monday to Thursday. If you wish to contact us at any other time please leave a message on the aswer phone and the Co-ordinator will get back to you as soon as possible. The Mediation Service is :
Referrals can be made to the Mediation Service by individuals, the parties themselves or by organisations such as the Local Authority, Police, Solicitors, Doctors, Social Services, Housing associations or the Citizen's advice bureau. What is Mediation? Eve |
available
to the Emergency Services, should they suffer an accident
or sudden illness. The scheme ensures that vital
information is available not only to identify you but
also to advise of relevant illnesses, allergies,
medication and contact addresses. 
container.
A maximum of four sheets will fit into a Datalink bottle.
