An essential resource for anyone going to the games or trying to avoid the congestion and road changes that will take place
The Community Right to Build gives communities new powers to build local housing, shops and community facilities.
It allows communities to create the buildings they want to see without going through the normal planning application process.
It came into effect in April 2012.
http://communityrights.communities.gov.uk/what-are-community-rights/community-right-to-build/
or the short link
For 5 to 9 year olds:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJ7N0nCymWo&feature=youtu.be
For all children:
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents/Yourchildshealthandsafety/WorriedAbout/DG_10015786
A public ballot has opened today for UK residents to apply to be at the heart of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations on Tuesday 5 June.
Ten thousand members of the public will get the opportunity to enjoy the day’s events from free seats facing Buckingham Palace.
The day will be the culmination of the Diamond Jubilee weekend and will include a lunch at Westminster Hall, a carriage procession to Buckingham Palace and a balcony appearance and flypast.
Details of how to apply and other information about the ballot is available online.
The ballot will close at 23:59 BST on Friday 20 April 2012.
Rate and comment on NHS services
You can share your experiences of almost any NHS service. Just search for the service below and give your feedback
or the short link
The State Pension profiler uses information you provide to quickly estimate how much basic State Pension you may get. This is based on your National Insurance contributions to date. It will also tell you the earliest you may get it.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Pensionsandretirementplanning/StatePension/DG_184319
The e-marketplaces campaign is for people who are trading online through an online marketplace, sometimes referred to as an online auction or online market to sell goods and services as a trade or as a business but aren't paying the right amount of tax.
Dentistry is one of very few NHS services you have to pay for. This section explains what you will have to pay for and when you may not have to pay.
http://www.nhs.uk/nhsengland/aboutnhsservices/dentists/pages/nhs-dental-charges.aspx
This maintenenace work will trigger the RSS Feed to list all the pages on the website and will cause temporary corruption of the "Last Page Updated" list for which we apologise.
The "Last Page Updated" list will regenerate as soon as new pages and documents are uploaded to the site.
After two years of very low winter rainfall, parts of England are officially in drought. As a result, a number of water companies have announced temporary restrictions in water use from 5 April 2012.
Some packs in one batch of co-codamol 8mg/500mg strength tablets manufactured by Wockhardt UK Ltd have been found to contain the higher strength co-codamol 30mg/500mg product. The issue seems to have been a result of a manufacturing error but this is still being looked into.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/Budget/Budget2012/DG_WP201339
“Taking a low dose of aspirin every day can prevent and possibly even treat cancer,” BBC News today reported.
http://www.nhs.uk/news/2012/03march/Pages/daily-aspirin-cuts-cancer-risk.aspx
Here is a list of frauds claiming to be linked with London 2012
http://www.london2012.com/about-this-website/stay-safe-online.php
Women concerned about French-made PIP breast implants can find all the latest NHS information about the issue on these pages.
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Breast-implants/Pages/PIP-introduction.aspx
This consultation sets out the government's proposals to enable same-sex couples to have a civil marriage.
The key proposals of the consultation are:
to enable same-sex couples to have a civil marriage i.e. only civil ceremonies in a register office or approved premises (like a hotel)
to make no changes to religious marriages. This will continue to only be legally possible between a man and a woman
to retain civil partnerships for same-sex couples and allow couples already in a civil partnership to convert this into a marriage
civil partnership registrations on religious premises will continue as is currently possible i.e. on a voluntary basis for faith groups and with no religious content
individuals will, for the first time, be able legally to change their gender without having to end their marriage
Current legislation allows same-sex couples to enter into a civil partnership, but not civil marriage.
The full details of the consultation are included in the pdf version of the consultation document, which is available to download below.
Respond online
Please send us your comments by using our online form (Opens in a new window).
The consultation closes on 14 June 2012.
Protect yourself against online fraud:
http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/TDIYD-your-personal-information-is-valuable-so-protect-it-Mar12
Housing Minister Grant Shapps declared the NewBuy Guarantee open for business - a scheme that will enable an estimated 100,000 prospective and existing homeowners to buy their dream home with much smaller deposits than currently required.
Driving licence rules will be changing from 19 January 2013. There will be many new rules for motorcycles, cars towing trailers, buses and lorries. Find out more about these changes and how they could affect you as an existing or new driver.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/DriverLicensing/DG_201187
Magistrates, also known as Justices of the Peace or JPs, are volunteers who hear cases in courts. They deal with around 95 per cent of criminal cases in England and Wales. Find out more about what magistrates do and how to become one.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/Gettinginvolvedinyourcommunity/Volunteering/DG_195453
or the short link
THINK BIKER car window sticker
http://shop.dft.gov.uk/THINKShop/product.aspx?ProductID=04cc108e-573c-43b8-bb46-21b1d27294d8
or the short link
Everyone has a story. So what’s yours?
Last year more than 8,000 young people took their story in a new direction with National Citizen Service. This year, you can too.
Developing reading, writing and spelling for five to 11 year olds
Reading with your child and helping them with writing and spelling can help boost their achievement. Certain skills, like reading and counting, are worth really practising at home because they're fundamental to your child's progress later on.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents/Schoolslearninganddevelopment/HelpingYourChildToLearn/DG_4016579
or the short link
Consumers have been warned to steer clear of pension offers that claim to be able to provide loans or release tax-free cash from people’s pension pots before they reach age 55.
Buying a used vehicle is serious business. By making you aware of the following advice, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) can help you reduce the risk of buying a stolen vehicle.
or the short link
If you are being contacted about fines or charges for which you are not responsible it may be because someone is using your registration mark. It is possible that your vehicle may have been cloned. Find out what to do if you think your vehicle has been cloned.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/VehicleCrime/DG_10020050
We have seen a dip in our blood stocks and are looking for more O- B- and O+ donors. If you're eligible please call 0300 123 23 23
What you can earn & the taxes you pay
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/Privaterenting/RentingOutYourProperty/index.htm
or the short link:
The New Enterprise Allowance may help you if you want to start your own business. If you've been getting Jobseeker's Allowance for at least six months you could get a mentor and financial support to help set up your business. Find out more, including how to take part.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Jobseekers/programmesandservices/DG_198864
http://www.set4sport.com/
Tuesday 5 June 2012
more details at
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/Features/DG_WP200687
Are you paying too much for your broadband, phone or TV? Find out on Ofcom-approved price comparison sites
Find out about benefits and tax credits
https://www.dwpe-services.direct.gov.uk/portal/page/portal/ba/lp
or the short link
If you’ve got a good idea of where you want to go with your career and like the idea of earning while you learn, an Apprenticeship could be for you. You’ll get top quality training, developing skills and gaining qualifications on the job.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/14To19/OptionsAt16/DG_4001327
or the short link:
Directgov's Journey Planner offers a full range of information and route planning services for every journey. The Highways Agency offers live traffic updates, feeds and alerts, and information on weather conditions and planned roadworks on England's motorways and trunk roads. Get the information you need before you set off.
or the short link:
UK consumers are achieving 22 per cent faster broadband speeds at home than they were 12 months ago, new Ofcom research reveals.
or the short link
There is to be a working party in readiness for tree planting on the next 2 Sundays , at 10 AM at the Allotments
THIS WILL BE A VALUBLE ASSET TO THE COMMUNITY of T&GE
Please bring a Fork or Spade and wear boots and warm clothes- Tea will be served!
THIS WILL BE A VALUBLE ASSET TO THE COMMUNITY of T&GE
Please bring a Fork or Spade and wear boots and warm clothes- Tea will be served!
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.
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.
or the short link:
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.
Check the radon map and see what you can do about it
NHS PIP breast implants to be removed for free.
or the short link:
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
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.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/38289.aspx
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
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
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.
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.
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:
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.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://www.direct.gov.uk/en/CaringForSomeone/index.htm
or the short link
The allotmenteers have been working hard to produce a woodland walk and glade. Feel free to walk through and enjoy this peaceful haven for wildlife.
The sticks and logs that have been left are to form a habitat for insects and small mammals and also mark the border for the footpath.
Tit and bat boxes have been installed to encourage wildlife. At both ends of the path are Old English Hornbeam trees...a rarity in this area.
Go on...take a walk!
Fixtures for December 2011.
League match.
Away v Bures Reserves. K.O 2.00pm
League match.
Away v Helions Bumpstead. K.O 2.00pm
League match.
Home v Pebmarsh. K.O 2.00pm
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
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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
Find out what your rights are when buying a car, including when you can claim for a repair, replacement or refund
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Would you know if your child was in a gang?
Learn to spot the signs and find out how to keep them safe
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
Share this with friends and loved ones to remind them.
Time to Test
http://talesoftheroad.direct.gov.uk/
or the short link
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
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
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.
or the short link
A BUCKS hypnotherapist has hit out at internet giant Google after she was left 'helpless' when her email account was hijacked.
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.
or the short link
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
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.
To celebrate Walk4Life Day a national database of walks has been published:
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
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.
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.
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.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/Planning/index.htm
or the short link
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
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.
or the short link
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
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
Our group is made up of women of all ages living in Toppesfield, Gainsford End and surrounding villages. The diversity of interests of individual members results in some lively evenings. In addition we have speakers which, this year, have ranged from cider making to bra fitting to local government. We also have a variety of different social events, including meals together and outings to places of local interest and fund raising events.
We support a number of local organisations through donations and are part of the wider W.I. community through links with neighbouring groups.
Please come and visit us at one of our meetings which are on the 1st Tuesday of every month.
You will be made very welcome.
Contact- The President, Sue Clark.
Telephone 01787 237145
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.
or the short link
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://www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Publictransport/RailTravel/index.htm
or the short link
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/
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:
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:
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
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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
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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.direct.gov.uk/en/Pensionsandretirementplanning/Companyandpersonalpensions/index.htm
1000 each year will die waiting as there are not enough organs available.
Register NOW!
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
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.
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.
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://taxcreditsvideos.direct.gov.uk/index.html
or use the short link.
For further information please vist :
http://thebigtreeplant.direct.gov.uk/funding.html
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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
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
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
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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
The exceptions are:
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As a juror you can't discuss the case on Twitter or Facebook.
Find out about jury service and your responsibilities
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.
The Village is in the process of forming an oil syndicate to benefit from bulk buying, giving individuals the chance to buy heating oil at cheaper prices. If you want to sign up then send email your address, telephone number and email address to toppesfieldoil@gmail.com.
Come along and make your views heard!
The government has revealed plans for a zerowaste economy which includes the scrapping of bin fines and tackling illegal fly-tippers
The Food Standards Agency have issued advice on the E. Coli outbreak in Germany.
http://www.food.gov.uk/news/newsarchive/2011/june/outbreak
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The Toppesfield race day stayed dry which added to the great atmosphere of this inaugural event. The field of runners came from as far away as Southend to bolster the already well represented village. Local sports club included Halstead R.F.C. , Braintree R.F.C. and the Essex Fire and Rescue service entered a team even though they had been up through the night fighting a large fire. This was a well organised event by the Red Barrows and raised in excess of £700 for Breakthrough, the working for Breast cancer charity, with more donations to come. Spokesperson Bernie Stevenson said “ this was a splendid effort by everyone involved and we will try to double the numbers next year “The Toppesfield race day stayed dry which added to the great atmosphere of this inaugural event. The field of runners came from as far away as Southend to bolster the already well represented village. Local sports club included Halstead R.F.C. , Braintree R.F.C. and the Essex Fire and Rescue service entered a team even though they had been up through the night fighting a large fire. This was a well organised event by the Red Barrows and raised in excess of £700 for Breakthrough, the working for Breast cancer charity, with more donations to come. Spokesperson Bernie Stevenson said “ this was a splendid effort by everyone involved and we will try to double the numbers next year “
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.
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.
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
The government, following an EU directive and through the Information Commissioners Office, has issued a new law governing the use of cookies.
All of the latest web browsers have the facility for the user to control cookies through the options menu but in a large number of cases refusing cookies can have a detrimental affect on the performance of the website.
You can read about the new law at http://bit.ly/law-cookie
You can read what our Webmaster and Statcounter (who manage the cookies on this website) have to say about this new legislation at http://www.mh-p.info/?p=274
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
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The Adult Learning Free Taster Week runs from May 14th to 20th.
Why not see what's available in your area?
Visit http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_187560
or use the short link
You're never too old to learn!
The Government has launched a new website which explains the new student finance system which takes effect from 2012
This month’s Royal Wedding is a great occasion for national celebration, and street parties are a traditional way of doing this. Over the last few months rules have been relaxed and red tape cut to make it easier for people to organise a street party or fete.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/Features/DG_WP196814
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Every few weeks the government will publish all the regulations affecting one specific sector or industry.
You tell them what’s working and what’s not, what can be simplified and what can be scrapped.
Based on your feedback, they will start getting rid of unnecessary red tape.
http://www.redtapechallenge.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/home/index/
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The Coalition Government has today launched the first stage of plans to give members of the public the right to comment on every aspect of new legislation, putting people at the heart of the legislative process.
New approach to handling complaints of antisocial behaviour will be trialled by eight police forces.