Shouldham Parish Council

  • Update on what the NHS in Norfolk and Waveney is doing to respond to coronavirus (21 December 2020)

    Shouldham Parish Council                                            

    Update on what the NHS in Norfolk and Waveney is doing to respond to coronavirus (21 December 2020)

     

    Open letters to the people of Norfolk and Waveney from local health leaders

    Health leaders across Norfolk and Suffolk published open letters to local people urging them to think carefully about their Christmas plans – just ahead of the government’s revised guidance issued at the weekend.

    The letters acknowledge that the world is facing its biggest health emergency in living memory, and that health and social care colleagues have risen admirably to meet this challenge.

    But with COVID-19 infection rates rising rapidly and families preparing for Christmas, health leaders have taken the unprecedented step of writing open letters urging residents to think carefully about their Christmas plans and to follow the guidelines to stay well.

    The letters state: “The emergence of COVID-19 has confronted our National Health Service and its partners with its biggest challenge for generations. Our health and social care colleagues have risen admirably to meet that challenge and continue to do so, despite the incredible strain the virus has placed upon our staff and resources.

    “However, this is not a quick win situation. Despite this incredible hard work, infection rates continue to rise and this Christmas – let’s be candid – we have a monumental challenge on our hands. A challenge that can only be won by each of us making further sacrifice.

    “Sadly, we no longer have the capacity to lower our guard or lessen our resolve over the festive period. We must continue to live with caution and follow guidance fully.

    “We, therefore, ask that you think carefully about your Christmas plans and to think twice before seeing your elderly or vulnerable relatives. As Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty has told the nation, one of the best ways to fight this virus is to limit contact with other people. This is on top of those things we already do well, such as washing hands, wearing a mask and social distancing.”

    You can read the letter Norfolk residents here and to Suffolk residents here, both published on 18 December prior to the Government’s announcement about changes to the Christmas rules.
    First patients now receiving the COVID-19 vaccine at GP practices across Norfolk and Waveney

    Eight GP practices across Norfolk and Waveney are now vaccinating patients against COVID-19.

    The first practices in our area started delivering the vaccine on Tuesday 15, December, with more sites set to go live in the coming days and weeks.

    The following eight sites are now acting as ‘primary care hubs’; vaccinating patients from their own practice as well as other neighbouring practices:

    •      Fakenham Medical Practice, Fakenham

    •      St James Medical Practice, King’s Lynn

    •      Lionwood Medical Practice, Norwich

    •      Falkland Surgery, Bradwell

    •      Swanton Morley Surgery, Swanton Morley

    •      Thetford Healthy Living Centre, Thetford
    • Kirkley Mill Surgery, Lowestoft
    • Cringleford Surgery, near Norwich

    Those who are most at risk from COVID-19 are being prioritised first; members of the public who are over 80 years-old, care home workers and a small number for at risk frontline NHS staff.

    GP practices work closely together with neighbouring practices in local groups called Primary Care Networks (PCNs).  Each PCN will have a designated vaccination site, providing a good geographical spread of vaccination locations across Norfolk and Waveney.

    Each of these sites will vaccinate patients from across a number of the PCN’s member practices – not just those on their own surgery list.  People in the ‘at risk’ priority groups will be contacted to make an appointment no matter which practice they are registered with.

    Following the go live of the first GP practice vaccination sites, the local NHS is working with

    PCNs to mobilise additional large and small community sites over the coming weeks and months.

    GP practices are working through their lists and booking in the first patients for vaccination appointments at either the hospital hubs based in Norwich and Great Yarmouth or at a local GP surgery site.  All those being vaccinated will be asked to fill in a health screening questionnaire and consent form.

    The COVID-19 vaccination programme has been planned extensively by the NHS so it can be rolled out as quickly and safely as possible. This programme of vaccination is the largest in the history of the NHS.

    Dr Anoop Dhesi, a GP in Stalham and Chair of NHS Norfolk and Waveney Clinical

    Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “People are understandably eager to get vaccinated and colleagues in local NHS services will contact you when it is time for you to get your jab – please don’t contact us, just wait for your invitation.

    “Our GP surgeries in Norfolk and Waveney are supporting local hospitals in the delivery of the vaccine. This is really great news and a cause for optimism but there is still a long way to go.  We can’t afford to be complacent; this is a going to be a huge task and we would like to urge local people to bear with us and to be patient.

    “The best thing we can all do to protect ourselves, our families and our communities is to keep following the guidance; wash hands, cover face, and make space.”

     

     

    Got questions about the COVID-19 vaccination programme?
    We’ve set-up a page with the answers to some frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, which we’re updating regularly – take a look: www.norfolkandwaveneyccg.nhs.uk/covid19–vaccination–programme.
    You’re not alone this Christmas: Mental Health Campaign is launched

    A new mental health campaign, Not Alone, has been launched to help people who will find this Christmas particularly difficult to deal with.

    Norfolk County Council, the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, local mental health charity, Norfolk and Waveney Mind, and the county’s NHS Norfolk and Waveney Clinical Commissioning Group are working in partnership with the support of Archant to encourage people to reach out to those who may be struggling.

    Christmas is often a difficult time of year for people and, with measures in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus, we may not be able to do the things we normally do and to be with friends and family, especially if they are vulnerable and feel they need to be alone to be safe, this year.

    The campaign offers support and advice, via an e-card. This digital card can be sent to people who may be struggling, to show that they are being thought of and to signpost them to a range of services that can give them some extra help and support.

    To send the e-card click here

    One of the available services is the NHS Wellbeing Service, which offers a range of talking therapies, employment support, peer support and social activities by telephone, video call, instant messaging and webinar. The service is for anyone experiencing common mental health and emotional issues, such as low mood, depression or stress. People can self-refer by visiting www.wellbeingnands.co.uk or call: 0300 123 1503.

    Cllr Bill Borrett, Norfolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Board said: “I am very pleased to be working with health colleagues over this festive season to convey this very important message; it’s okay not to be okay.

    “Many people experiencing a mental health problem will speak to their friends and family before they speak to a health professional, so any support you can offer would be really valuable. If someone tells you that they are struggling, it’s common not to know what to do or say, but you

     

    don’t need any special training to show that you care. Just being there and doing little things can make a difference. That’s exactly what this campaign is about – helping us all to be there for others – and telling us all where to find support services should they need them.”

    Diane Hull, Chief Nurse at Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Christmas can be a joyful time of the year, filled with festivities and seeing loved ones. However, for some people, it can also be one of the hardest times of the year – this so more than ever as we have to learn to celebrate differently.

    “If you start to feel unsafe, distressed or worried about your mental health you can call the First Response helpline on 0808 196 3494 – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week all through the festive period.”
    Use your NHS wisely this Christmas

    With Christmas and New Year fast approaching people in Norfolk and Waveney are being reminded to Think 111 First if they need medical care over the festive period and to make sure they request their regular medications early.

    Those who take regular medication should make sure they have ordered enough to last through the holiday period or ask their GP practice for a new prescription.

    Planning ahead is very important to help stay well and it also helps the NHS at a time when services are busy.

    Dr Anoop Dhesi, Chair of the Norfolk and Waveney Clinical Commissioning Group said: “It’s essential to plan ahead at this time of year. If you have a long-term health condition you should make sure you have enough medication for the holiday period, but please don’t attempt to stockpile more than you need.

    “Ordering and collecting new prescriptions can take several days. So, if you or someone you care for needs medicines regularly, please make sure you order and collect repeat prescriptions in good time. If you have elderly relatives or neighbours, ask them if they need help collecting their medications.”

    Winter illnesses such as colds and coughs, sore throats, and upset stomachs can easily be treated at home with medicines available at low cost from your local pharmacy.

    Dr Dhesi added: “Pharmacists are experts in medicines and can give advice about minor illnesses so you can care for yourself at home. They are available on every high street and at some supermarkets, with many open evenings and weekends.”

    Be sure to stock up on winter self-care essentials for your medicine cabinet: take advice from your pharmacist before purchasing if you take other medicines.

    •       pain relief (paracetamol)

    •       cough and sore throat remedies

    •       first aid kit

    •       upset stomach treatment

    •       rehydration treatment

    •       heartburn and indigestion treatment

    Winter is a busy time for health services and patients are being asked to choose services wisely and help ease the pressure on the local NHS.

     

     

     

    For life-threatening emergencies call 999, otherwise:

    NHS 111

    If you have an urgent medical problem and you’re not sure what to do, contact NHS 111 first.

    If you think you need A&E, just contact NHS 111 first. The NHS will help you right away and if you need urgent care, the NHS can book you in to be seen quickly and safely.

    Contacting NHS 111 first will help NHS urgent and emergency care services maintain social distancing and ensure that patients receive the right care in the right place, in a timely and safe way.

    People with life-threatening illnesses or injuries should continue to dial 999 and anyone who arrives at A&E without calling NHS 111 will still receive medical care, with those needing emergency treatment prioritised.

    You can use NHS 111 either by visiting the website https://111.nhs.uk or by calling 111

    The NHS111 Service is free to call and available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week. Your call will be answered by a trained call handler, whose job it is to ensure you can access the most appropriate local service. You can call 111 first if:

    •       you need medical help fast but it’s not a 999 emergency

    •       you think you need to go to A&E or need another NHS urgent care service

    •       you need to see a GP urgently when your practice is closed. NHS 111 can arrange for an emergency out-of-hours doctor to help if necessary

    •       you don’t know who to call or you don’t have a GP to call

    •       you need health information or reassurance about what to do next

    You can call 111 on your telephone/mobile, you can use the online service https://111.nhs.ukor you can use the NHS App on your smartphone or tablet.

    Your GP surgery

    Your GP surgery will be able to offer appointments with different clinicians, including a doctor or nurse, depending on your needs.

    Walk-in Centre and Minor Injuries Unit

    Norwich Practices Health and Walk–in Centre is open seven days-a-week between 7am and 9pm.

    It is based at Rouen House, Rouen Road, Norwich, telephone 01603 677500. The Minor Injuries Unit at Cromer Hospitalis open seven days-a-week between 8am and 7.45pm, in Mill Road, Cromer, telephone 01603 646230.

    Your pharmacy 

    Pharmacy opening times over the holiday period are available here.

    You can find your nearest surgery or pharmacy by visiting https://www.nhs.uk/
    Mental health support available for the public 

    •      It’s important that we look after our mental wellbeing during this time – for tips and advice visit www.everymindmatters.co.uk.

    •      If you are worried about your own mental health and wellbeing call First Response, a free 24/7 helpline offering immediate support, on 0808 196 3494.

     

  • Norfolk Covid Vaccination Roll Out

    Press Release

  • Pre-Christmas News

    Some useful info, guidance and links that may come in handy over the festive period

  • This week’s Consumer scam alerts from Norfolk Trading Standards

    The following is a Police Connect message.

     
     

    Scam Alert – Telephone cold calls claiming to be from ‘Amazon’ – 3 December 2020

    We are again warning residents to be on their guard for telephone cold calls claiming to be from ‘Amazon’.

    We have had several reports from Norfolk residents of recorded message calls claiming to be from Amazon that advise your Amazon Prime subscription ‘is about to renew at the cost of £39.99’. The call then states you can ‘press 1 to speak with someone’.

    Where residents have interacted with the call, they have then been connected to a person who attempts to gather personal, account or financial details.

    These calls are a scam and are not connected with Amazon in any way. If you receive this or a similar call our advice is do not interact with the call and hang up.

    Amazon have put together some helpful tips on how to identify if a phone call is from them. This information can be found on the Amazon UK website.

    If you have received a telephone cold call which you believe to be a scam you can report it to us via our partners the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on freephone 0808 223 1133.

    Scam Alert – Investment scams and fake cryptocurrency exchanges – 2 December 2020

    We have received reports of Norfolk residents falling victim to online investment scams, including fake cryptocurrency exchanges.

    Bitcoin is the most famous cryptocurrency, but there are more than 1,500 cryptocurrencies including other well-known ones such as Ethereum and Litecoin. Cryptocurrencies only exists online and are not controlled by a bank, treasury or country, meaning you can’t get physical notes or coins from the bank.

    If you don’t understand a cryptocurrency or an investment, it is recommended that you avoid handing over any money.

    A cryptocurrency scam can take many forms, this could include:

    • A fake cryptocurrency which doesn’t, or will never, exist
    • A bogus investment which promises to put money in a legitimate cryptocurrency
    • A dangerous website link that then downloads malware onto your computer

    Which? Have put together useful guidance on how to spot an investment scam which can be found on the Which? website

    The Financial Conduct Authority have also produced an interactive warning list where members of the public can check investment or pension opportunities that they have been offered and receive advice about current scams. This is available on the Financial Conduct Authority website.

    If you think you have received an investment offer that you believe is a scam or you have become a victim of a scam, you can report this to us via our partners the Citizens Advice consumer helpline.

    Scam Alert – Text messages claiming to be from ‘Royal Mail’ – 1 December 2020

    We are warning about text messages circulating claiming to be from Royal Mail.

    A Norfolk resident has reported receiving the message pictured above which states, ‘we attempted to deliver your package’ and offering a link to ‘reschedule your package delivery’.

    The link listed then goes to a fake version of the Royal Mail website which has been registered with one small difference which may be hard to spot

    In this case the website has been registered as ‘royaimail’. Anyone accessing it is asked for a range of personal information supposedly to enable them to ‘reschedule the delivery’.

    Our advice is always be wary of claims made in unexpected messages and never click on any links or open attachments contained within them.

    You can see further examples of fake Royal Mail communication and how to report ones received to them on the Royal Mail website.

    You can report suspicious text messages received to us via our partners the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on freephone 0808 223 1133.

    Scam Alert – Telephone cold calls offering cover for washing machines – 1 December 2020

    We are warning Norfolk residents about telephone cold calls from an individual stating that your washing machine warranty has expired and needs extending.

    The cold caller attempts to gather personal and financial details from the call recipient.

    If you receive this or a similar call our advice is do not give or confirm any details and hang up.

    If you want to check on warranty details of any goods within your home, contact the business where you purchased the item directly via their official website or phone number.

    A recent article published by Which? gives further advice on receiving unwanted calls about appliance cover which can be found on the Which? website.

    You can report suspicious telephone cold calls to us via our partners the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on freephone 0808 223 1133.

    Information Alert – Don’t fall prey to loan sharks online – 30 November 2020

    We are proud to support the Stop Loan Sharks Week Campaign #SharkFreeSurfing to raise awareness of the dangers of online loan sharks and help people access advice and support if they have fallen victim to this crime. If you have been a victim of illegal money lending, or are concerned about someone you know, please contact the Stop Loan Sharks 24-hour helpline on 0300 555 2222 or visit the Stop Loan Sharks website.

    How to protect yourself from loan sharks online

    • Know who you’re dealing with. If you’ve only ever met someone online or are unsure of the legitimacy of a lender, take some time to do a bit more research. Check the lender is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). If not, don’t borrow from them and report to the Stop Loan Sharks team
    • Beware of loan adverts with no credit checks. Loan sharks have been known to advertise in community groups and on local selling pages. They may seem friendly and accommodating, but their behaviour can quickly change, and you might be harassed or threatened if you get behind with your repayments. Lenders must carry out credit checks to make sure borrowers can afford to pay back their loans. You should never hand over your bank details to strangers, even if they lure you with attractive offers. Remember, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is
    • Beware of any requests for your details or money. Loan sharks may ask for copies of your passport or pictures of your house, the street and your house number. Never send money or give card details, online account details or copies of personal documents to anyone you don’t know or trust

    If you suspect someone may be a loan shark or they are acting inappropriately, you can report them anonymously to the Stop Loan Sharks website or by calling the Stop Loan Sharks Helpline on 0300 555 2222.

    Alternatively, you can email the team reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk or access support via live chat on the website Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.

    The Stop Loan Sharks App is free to download on both iOS and Android devices from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

  • Shouldham News 2020/21

    Shouldham Newsletter Winter 2020/21

  • New walk-through COVID-19 local testing centre in Kings Lynn

    NEWS RELEASE

    25 November 2020

    New walk-through COVID-19 local testing centre in Kings Lynn

     

    A new COVID-19 local testing centre opened in Kings Lynn on Saturday, November 21 at the Alive Lynnsport Overflow Car Park. Designed to make testing more accessible for the local community, the local appointment only test centre is aimed at those who may only be able to access a test centre by walking locally.

    This new test centre comes as part of the Government’s UK-wide drive to continue to improve the accessibility of Coronavirus testing for local communities.

    Residents must wear a face covering to attend the local testing centre or access may be declined. If you have Covid symptoms or are at high risk, appointments can be booked online through nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119; residents will then receive confirmation of their booking and instructions on the next steps. On arrival at the walk-through centre residents will be asked to present the QR code from their booking confirmation email, which will be linked to their test kit barcode. Once the test is complete residents can leave the centre and await the results, which will be received by text or email within 48hrs.

    The new centre is situated so it is easily accessible without a car. Those being tested will be required to follow public health measures, including social distancing, not travelling by taxi or public transport and wearing a face covering until their test and then after, including while travelling to and from the testing centre.

     

    The walk-through centre is not a drive-through. Parking will be available locally; you can travel by car and then walk into the centre. Once you have had your test you are advised to go home and isolate until you receive your result.

     

    Anyone attending an appointment at the walk-through testing centre will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the testing centre safely, with additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities.

     

    Cllr Stuart Dark, MBE, Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and Public Protection said: “The Borough Council has been working closely behind the scenes with public health over several weeks to identify and develop this site to make it ready.

     

    We are really pleased that we have now reached the point that it is open and West Norfolk has its own static site capable of delivering a larger number of tests.”

    Andrew Proctor, Norfolk County Council leader and Chair of the Local Engagement Board said: “Access to a COVID-19 local test centre is a vital part of county-wide efforts to control the spread of Coronavirus, so we’re delighted that to have the new COVID-19 Kings Lynn Walk-through Testing Centre at Alive Lynnsport Overflow Car Park.

    “We are pleased to have found a location which is accessible for those who live nearby to walk to. The new facility will give residents a longer-term option for getting tested in Kings Lynn.”

    The new local testing centre will be open 8am – 8pm every day.

    Anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should book a test immediately: a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste, must isolate for 10 days from when they started feeling ill and their household should isolate for 14 days.

    ENDS

    For political comment
    For details of cabinet members, committee chairs and agendas, please see: www.norfolk.gov.uk/cabinetandchairs
    Group leaders’ and councillors’ contact details are available at: www.norfolk.gov.uk/countycouncillors

    For further information please contact:
    Communications Team at Norfolk County Council
    Tel: 01603 228888
    Email: pressoffice@norfolk.gov.uk

     

  • Borough Council COVID information update

    Dear all

    I hope this update reaches you and yours well and in as good spirits as the last few months allow.

    What follows is intended to be a helpful overview of the Council’s key Covid 19 activities over the last 7 days (beyond continuing to deliver key services) and emerging issues for next week to inform your conversations with your parishes and residents. As always I would respectfully encourage your pushing out the ‘key’ and ‘support’ information messages through your conduits to ensure that the most possible people see them. I’m happy to go in to more detail and would welcome feedback on local concerns and issues you pick up so we can build them in to the response.

    Media briefing for Protect west Norfolk
    As you will no doubt have read, locally covid-19 cases are on the increase to above the County wide average. We took the decision supported by NCC, Norfolk’s Director of Public Health, the QEH and the police to hold a press briefing to get the media on board with getting key messages out  locally re the new guidance around the current lockdown, rather than relying on the county-wide media briefings. I hope you concur that this was time critical as any activity to ensure greater support of the current guidance now, will have most impact on tomorrow’s figures, next week’s and the week’s following – with the aim of both protecting people now and us coming out of the lockdown on Dec 3rd at the lowest tier level possible to best support our businesses and allow the greatest public interaction safely possible.The accompanying news release and media briefing (including the local statistics etc) recording are here for your information.

    Let’s protect west Norfolk together and link to media briefing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6u0sYs0zEak

    This was picked up widely in the local media and followed up on BBC Radio Norfolk interview on Thurs morning.

    Wherever possible please help us promote the ‘protect ourselves, protect others, protect west Norfolk message’ .

    The key messages of the campaign are:

    Coronavirus is here in west Norfolk – and on the rise
    We’ve all got to play our part: Stay home as much as possible
    Protect ourselves, protect each other, protect west Norfolk

    West Norfolk, let’s keep the people we care about safe
    We’ve all got to play our part: Don’t meet friends or family indoors
    Protect ourselves, protect each other, protect west Norfolk

    West Norfolk: let’s stop Coronavirus spreading
    We’ve all got to play our part: Only meet outdoors with one person from another household
    Protect ourselves, protect each other, protect west Norfolk

    Love West Norfolk? So do we. Let’s keep it safe
    We’ve all got to play our part: Stay safe outdoors
    Protect ourselves, protect each other, protect west Norfolk

    West Norfolk: let’s keep our families, friends, and neighbours safe
    We’ve all got to play our part: Minimise contact with others
    Protect ourselves, protect each other, protect west Norfolk

    We’re in this together west Norfolk
    We’ve all got to play our part: Just buy what you need
    Protect ourselves, protect each other, protect west Norfolk

    Covid cases are on the rise in west Norfolk
    We’ve all got to play our part: Only make essential journeys
    Protect ourselves, protect each other, protect west Norfolk

    Coronavirus cases are increasing in west Norfolk
    We’ve all got to play our part: You must self-isolate at home if you have symptoms / someone close to you tests positive / you test positive
    Protect ourselves, protect each other, protect west Norfolk

    We are currently reinforcing these messages on our social media with slides and the following video and will be repeating them over the coming days:  https://youtu.be/TjI7xoQ30vM

    New help for businesses will be available soon

    A further package of business support measures has been announced by the government to support businesses during the second national lockdown.

    The Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk are being provided with funding from Government to distribute Local Restrictions Support Grants and Additional Restrictions Grants. Some information on the criteria for these grant schemes has now been provided (recently published on the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk website – link below), with further government guidance on the way.

    The initial details for the Local Restrictions Support Grant – the LRSG application form likely available on 16th November 2020 – and Additional Restrictions Grant details with an Expression of Interest Form can now be found on the Business help due to Coronavirus page.

    We are currently working up exact details of how the schemes will operate locally and will provide these next week, however I have every confidence that we learnt significantly from the first support payments delivered proactively, widely and speedily by the Borough’s team during the previous lockdown and will do so again, as soon as practicably possible.

     Promote businesses

    In the interim a number of our great businesses are having to adapt to the new guidance either on opening for essential items or operating ‘delivery’ or ‘click and collect’ for non essential items and it’s important that we help them adapt and support them.

    We are updating the council’s support guidance and have recorded the following to go out on social media along with slides  https://youtu.be/kg8C88hyB60

    With more people shopping ‘online’ it’s imperative that we help local businesses who are operating to stop people just gravitating towards the large chain stores. If you have businesses in your area that are offering a delivery service or ‘click and collect’ – please recommend they submit their details to Asklily@west-norfolk.gov.uk along with a description of the services they provide. If residents are locked down or isolating in your area and need to access a delivery service they can search the Lily directory http://asklily.org.uk/kb5/westnorfolk/cd/service.page?id=iFG4fxGv944.  We are encouraging people to support their local businesses to help them get through this second national lockdown and will continue to do so.

    Covid marshalls support local businesses 

    Additional Covid marshalls are being trained to those already out there helping local business ensure they are operating compliantly under the new regulations.  Many business can remain open if they are able to provide a click and collect or delivery service.  Advice and guidance is being provided.  In some areas across the county there are examples where businesses are saying they are operating click and collect but are just opening their premises to the public and we need to ensure understanding and compliance to reduce the potential for transmission.

    The following media release went out this week and was picked up locally.

    Covid marshalls support local businesses

    If you are concerned about the way business are operating you can report the breach herehttps://www.west-norfolk.gov.uk/info/20231/coronavirus/853/report_a_breach_of_covid-19_safety_rules .  Over the coming weeks this page will be updated so that you can report a breach or share the best practice of a star business.  We hope to circulate a new link next week.

    New winter package to provide further support for children and families

    Children and families will get extra support this winter, with councils given new funding to ensure vulnerable households do not go hungry or without essential items. Full information here:

    https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-winter-package-to-provide-further-support-for-children-and-families.  This funding will go to NCC and guidance will be issued next week and reported back to you.

    Other Government funding

    You may have read that Government funding of £8 per head of population is being allocated to upper tier authorities for their response work to Covid and to cover additional CovidMarshalls.  We anticipate that we will receive around £250k over the next 12 months. Further funding for Extremely Clinically Vulnerable will also be allocated to upper tier authorities.  Of this £600,000 we anticipate receiving around £7.5-£10k for our area.

    Work with schools and young people

    We have started working with the College of West Anglia (CWA), local high schools and primary schools to get the message out that cases are on the increase and everyone can play their part in trying to reduce the spread and I was on a virtual meeting with all local Headteachers, NCC officers and Borough officers yesterday to discuss issues, support and next steps. We are intending to send banners to all schools to be displayed at the school gates reminding students and parents not to gather and chat at drop off and pick up.  We are going to be training some students from CWA on their ‘public service’ course to assist the work of the Covid Marshalls and their increase numbers and are also working with CWA to produce content for TIKTOK aimed at younger people.  Schools are being asked to let us know what else we can do to assist – whether its social media assets, campaign materials or joined up visits from marshalls/Council staff. Many of you are or know parents with children at local schools, so please do share our social media posts with your school acquaintances and let communications@ west-norfolk.gov.uk know if you have any ideas about changing the school gate/school walk/school run behaviour.

    We are likely to be doing positive media with CWA in the coming days re their students great support for the Covid response effort and examples of how hard our schools are working to ensure pupils can study safely.

    Homelessness and the Winter Night Shelter

    The Night Shelter is now open, but that said it is not operating as it has done in the past, and in order to be Covid Secure and comply with specific government guidance on arrangements for rough sleepers it will be managed differently for this winter.

    • It is operating like temporary accommodation where people have their own rooms rather than dormitory style – severely reducing the capacity.
    • There are only six spaces in the new venue at St John’s Vicarage
    • Rather than any direct access to the facility all those staying will have had to contact the council and will have been subject to a referral process. This will have included a clinical assessment by health colleagues

    If you are aware of any rough sleepers please contact us to report them.

    The following information is for you to share with anyone about whom you have a concern:

    Nowhere to stay

    If you’re worried you’ve got nowhere to stay tonight, please let us know. The earlier you let us know during the day, the more likely it is that you’ll be seen by a Housing Options Officer.

    You can:

    Out of hours

    If you need help when our office is closed, you should

    call our emergency out of hours number on 01553 616601

     

    You’re concerned about someone sleeping rough

    If you’re concerned for someone sleeping rough, or are sleeping rough yourself:

    If you’re a public authority specified by the Homelessness Reduction Act, from 1 October 2018 there is a new duty to refer anyone you think may be homeless or threatened with homelessness to the local Council.

    We have received funding to support our activities in this area and will provide further information in next week’s update.  It includes information about some housing in association with broadland housing, flats and other additional accommodation.

    All best wishes

    Cllr Stuart Dark MBE
    Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and Public Protection

  • Op Randall (Rural Policing) Newsletter

    Rural Policing Newsletter

  • Scam Alert

    Please find below the Latest Consumer & Business Scam alerts from Norfolk Trading Standards.

    Many thanks

    PC Pete Davison
    Community Engagement Officer – North Norfolk

     

    Consumer Scam Alerts:

    Information Alert – Covid-19 and Lockdown scams to be aware of – 05 November 2020

    We are reminding residents to continue to be Scam Aware following the new restrictions in England from 05 November.

    Action Fraud have put together a list of scams we should all be aware of regarding Covid-19 and lockdown. These include:

    • Fake Government emails offering grants and tax reductions
    • Emails offering to assist with universal credit applications
    • Fake track and trace emails claiming you have been in contact with someone who has Covid-19
    • Fake adverts for hand sanitizers and face masks
    • Fake emails offering 6 months of free TV License
    • Fake online dating profiles
    • Fake investment opportunities

    More information on these scams and advice should you receive one can be found on the Action Fraud website

    The Friends Against Scams partnership have also created a fact sheet to help raise awareness on coronavirus scams. Friends Against Scams help to protect and prevent people from becoming victims of scams. The fact sheet as well as information about becoming a Friend Against Scams and the free online awareness training available can be found on the Friends Against Scams website.

    Scam Alert – Scam inheritance letter – 4 November 2020

    A Norfolk resident has reported receiving a letter offering them the ‘opportunity’ to receive the inheritance from an estate. The letter claims that the estate comes from an ‘oil magnate’ who ‘tragically lost his life along with his immediate family during this coronavirus pandemic’.

    The letter requests the recipient contacts the sender by email so that the funds can be released to them.

    This letter is a scam and there is no inheritance to claim. It shows how scammers will continually update their approaches and will often tailor the story to reflect current new stories and events.

    Easy ways to spot an inheritance scam letter include:

    • The amount of money on offer and the percentage claimed that is available to you will be extremely large
    • Letters / documents provided by the fraudsters are generally badly written with spelling mistakes and poor grammar
    • Look out for webmail addresses such as @Yahoo or @Hotmail. They are freely available making them easy to set up and equally easy to shut down
    • Fraudsters often claim that the person who has died was the victim of a well-publicised incident, such as plane crashes and natural disasters. To add credibility, they may even use the identity of someone who really did die in the incident.

    If you receive this, or a similar letter, just recycle it after obliterating your details printed on the letter. Do not reply with personal details.

    If you have received a letter which you believe to be a scam you can report it to us via our partners, the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on freephone 0808 223 1133.

    Rogue Trader Alert – Doorstep cold callers offering ‘roofing work’ – 03 November 2020

    We are warning residents to be on their guard following a cold calling incident in Norfolk this week involving roofing work.

    The incident occurred in the Sheringham area and involved a man cold calling a local resident and offering to undertake repairs on their roof.

    We always advise:

    • Never deal with cold callers looking to undertake work on or around your property
    • Never agree to have work done by somebody who is ‘just passing’ or take their word that it needs to be done at all
    • Never allow a cold caller access to your home, roof or garden even if they are offering to do tasks for a small fee or free
    • Never pay for work before it is completed
    • When looking to have work done on or around your property only deal with reputable companies you have researched and chosen yourself and have obtained a written quotation from before commencing the work

    It is possible this doorstep cold caller could move on to other areas around Norfolk.

    If you see cold callers operating in Norfolk contact us through the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 or Norfolk Constabulary via 101.

    If you feel intimidated or are concerned for vulnerable neighbours call 999.

    Looking for a Trader you can Trust? Try a Norfolk Trusted Trader. To search our directory and read feedback from their customers visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/trustedtrader

    Rogue Trader Alert – Cold calling incidents – 3 November 2020

    We are warning residents to be on their guard after two cold calling incidents were reported in the Swaffham area this week.

    In the first incident two men were reported cold calling at properties offering to undertake work on residents’ homes and gardens. They were seen to be using a yellow flatbed van.

    In the second incident a young man cold called at a property claiming he was part of a ‘young offenders programme’ before showing the resident his passport as ID. He then attempted the sell the resident items from a bag he was carrying. Fortunately, the resident declined the offer and asked the cold caller to leave before reporting the incident.

    Never deal with anyone who cold calls at your property offering to sell something or undertake work on your property.

    It is possible these sellers will continue to move onto other locations in Norfolk.

    If you see these cold callers in Norfolk, contact us through the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 or Norfolk Constabulary via 101.

    If you feel intimidated or sight these cold callers and are concerned for vulnerable neighbours call 999

    Scam Alert – Telephone cold calls claiming to be from HMRC – 28 October 2020

    We are receiving reports from Norfolk residents about telephone cold calls claiming to be from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

    Recent reports have included an automated recorded message call informing the call recipient that ‘HMRC have issued a warrant for your arrest due to tax evasion’. These calls are appearing to come from a range of different ‘spoofed’ numbers.

    More information about HMRC related phishing emails and bogus contact 

    We always advise to be very wary of any approach made by a telephone cold call. If you receive this type of call our advice is DO NOT interact with the call and HANG UP immediately.

    You can report suspected scam telephone calls to us via our partners the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

    Scam Alert – Fake adverts for holiday accommodation – 27 October 2020

    A Norfolk resident has reported losing £1165 to an online scam that advertised fake apartments to rent overseas.

    The advert was posted on Craigslist by an individual who stated they were looking to rent out their apartment in Lisbon whilst they worked away. The individual asked the Norfolk resident to provide a copy of their passport before booking and sent the resident a link to process the payment. They stated this link would connect them to Airbnb and that someone from Airbnb would be in touch once the payment had been taken. However, after contacting Airbnb it became clear that this advert was not genuine, and that the resident had fallen victim to a scam.

    Norfolk Trading Standards are advising Norfolk residents to be wary of fake adverts posted online and to stop and question whether it is genuine before parting with money or personal information.

    The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) have a service which allows internet users to report scam ads appearing online.

    Online users have been asked to fill in the form to report any fake ads they find on online platforms such as newspaper websites, paid-for search engines or social media.

    The ASA will then make contact with the relevant platform who can then work to remove the advert and prevent the advertiser publishing further scam ads.

    This reporting mechanism is in response to the ever-increasing number of fake advertisements found online which spread false information and trick internet users into parting with their cash and personal information.

    If you think you have been the victim of an online scam you can report this to Trading Standards via our partners, the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

    Information Alert – Home Repairs or Improvements? Make sure you #CHECK – 26 October 2020

    We have received recent reports of residents losing money after arranging home improvement work on their property, with the trader not returning once they have been paid up front. Norfolk Trading Standards are therefore reminding consumers to think #CHECK when choosing a tradesman or business for the job.

    Scam Alert – Online scammers selling pets – 22 October 2020

    Criminals continue to take advantage of the demand for pets which is pushing the prices of puppies and kittens ever higher.

    Earlier this year, 669 people lost a combined total of £282,686 in March and April, after putting down deposits for pets they have seen advertised online. The adverts that victims have responded to were posted on social media, general online selling platforms, specific pet selling platforms and websites.

    The criminals posting these ads never have any animals to sell and will ask victims to put down a deposit for the pet to secure the purchase. They use the outbreak of COVID-19 and the current lockdown restrictions as a reason why the victim cannot come and see the animal first or pick it up. After the initial payment more and more funds will be requested to cover insurance, vaccinations and even delivery of the pet.

    To help protect yourself from scams like this:

    • Do your research – before purchasing anything online, including pets, look up reviews for the site, or person, you are buying from. If you’re still not sure, ask a trusted friend or family member for their advice
    • Trust your instinct – if you can’t physically go to see the animal in person, ask for a video call. If the seller declines, challenge them on why. If you have any suspicions, don’t go ahead with the purchase
    • Choose your payment method wisely – If you decide to go ahead with the purchase, avoid paying by bank transfer as that offers you little protection if you become a victim of fraud. Instead, use a credit card or a payment service such as PayPal

    Information Alert – Friends Against Scams – 21 October 2020

    It’s been four years since Friends Against Scams launched with the aim of spreading awareness of scams and looking to equip as many people as possible with the knowledge to protect others.

    Friends Against Scams is a National Trading Standards Scams Team initiative, which aims to protect and prevent people from becoming victims of scams by empowering people to take a stand against scams.

    • Scams cost the UK economy £5 – £10 billion a year
    • 53% of people over 65 have been targeted by scams
    • Only 5% of scams are reported
    • Statistics indicate that the average scam victim has lost over £3,000

    Anybody can join Friends Against Scams and make a difference in their own way.

    Every Friend Against Scams makes a difference – so what are you waiting for? Join in. Spread the word. Protect others.

    Go to the Friends Against Scams website to complete their free online training session.

    Scam Alert – Emails claiming to be offering large cash sums – 20 October 2020

    We frequently receive reports about emails circulating claiming to be from people looking to share, move or donate large cash sums.

    These emails will often contain the names of genuine people, either connected to large companies, or people who died in accidents or disasters reported in the news.

    Of course, there is no money. Email offers a free way to spam out these messages to tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of recipients at the press of a button. The scammers that send these emails are only looking for one or two people who respond to try and exploit for personal and financial information and then money in the form of ‘fees’ as part of the process of transferring the alleged money.

    Action Fraud offer the following advice regarding this type of email and how to protect yourself:

    • Don’t respond to any email like this. Delete it straight away
    • Ask yourself ‘why me?’. This person doesn’t know you and has no reason to trust you with such a large amount of money
    • Never travel anywhere if offered, even if it isn’t far to go. You won’t get any money and you’re putting yourself in danger

    You can report suspicious emails received to us via our partners the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on freephone 0808 223 1133.

    Scam Alert – Telephone cold calls claiming to be from ‘Amazon’ – 19 October 2020

    We are continuing to warn residents to be on their guard for telephone cold calls claiming to be from ‘Amazon’.

    In recent weeks we have received a number of reports from residents who are receiving cold calls claiming to be from Amazon. Examples of these calls include:

    • Recorded message calls claiming ‘your Amazon Prime subscription is about to expire, and a payment of £79 will be automatically taken’ the call then states you can ‘press 1 to cancel the payment’
    • Recorded message calls claiming your Amazon account ‘is about to be cancelled unless you update your bank details’. The call then states you can ‘press 1 to speak to customer service’
    • Recorded message calls making similar claims but referencing ‘Amazon Prime Video subscriptions’

    Some residents have reported receiving multiple calls within a day delivering the same message but originating from different numbers.

    In previous reports, where residents have interacted with recorded message calls, they have then been connected to a person who attempts to gather personal, account or financial details.

    These calls are a scam and are not connected with Amazon in any way. If you receive this or a similar call our advice is do not interact with the call, do not give or confirm any information and hang up.

    If you have received a telephone cold call which you believe to be a scam you can report it to us via our partners, the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on their freephone number 0808 223 1133.

    Scam Alert – Emails claiming to be from ‘DVLA’ – 16 October 2020

    We are warning about emails circulating claiming to be from DVLA.

    One recent example reported by a Norfolk resident claimed that ‘Your bank has declined twice the latest Direct Debit payment’ and ‘If you will not Update your Information, your vehicle is no longer taxed’ The email goes on to provide a link to ‘Check Vehicle Status Now’.

    This email is not from the DVLA and any links contained within the message are likely to go to a genuine looking fake version of the DVLA website which will attempt to gather personal and financial details.

    Our advice is always be wary of claims made in unexpected email approaches and never click on links or open attachments if approached in this way.

    DVLA offer the following advice to stay safe online with contacting the DVLA or if you receive something claiming to be from the DVLA:

    • Only use GOV.UK. When looking for information or using our online services, double check that you are using a GOV.UK webpage so that you can be sure that you’re dealing directly with DVLA
    • Scam emails: We never send emails that ask you to confirm your personal details or payment information. If you get anything like this, do not open any links and delete the email immediately
    • Beware of misleading websites. Keep an eye out for potentially misleading third-party websites. These sites will often offer to help you apply for a driving licence or tax your car but are likely to charge additional fees for services that you could get for free or at a lower cost on GOV.UK
    • Look out for premium rate numbers. Look out for websites offering to connect you to our contact centre, as they are usually premium rate numbers. Our contact centre numbers will only ever begin with 0300 – which costs the same as a local call
    • Be mindful of what you share online. Never share images online of your driving licence and vehicle documents. This personal information could be invaluable to those looking to steal the identity of a vehicle or its owner
    • Texts: We never send texts about vehicle tax refunds. Text scams often ask you to follow a link to provide credit card details. Never click on the link and delete the text straight away

    You can report suspicious emails received to us via our partners the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on freephone 0808 223 1133.

     

    Business Scam Alerts:

    Scam Alert – Business advertising cold calls and invoices – 3 November 2020

    Businesses need to watch out for telephone cold calls about payment for advertising.

    A Norfolk business received a call claiming they owed payment for ‘advertising artwork’ which was to be published in a ‘UK business guide’. Despite the business owner stating they knew nothing about the advertising they requested copies of the alleged correspondence. Following this the business was sent a copy of the invoice, a copy of the artwork and the front cover from the guide magazine.

    The businesses then received a further call from the same cold caller again requesting payment. When they questioned the authenticity of the demand for payment and asked for further evidence of the contract the cold caller became verbally aggressive.

    If you receive this type of call or an invoice demanding payment for unknown services, our advice is do not to make any payment unless you have agreed to the advertising and to check any demand for payments carefully.

    Where agreements have been made and the business feels they have been misled over the terms of the advertising and they require further advice, please contact us via our partners the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

    Scam Alert – Telephone cold calls offering ‘advertisement opportunities’ to businesses – 30 October 2020

    We have received a report from a business regarding a telephone cold call from a male claiming to be from the ‘Norfolk Fire Service’.

    The man asked if the business would be interested in advertising with the emergency service for a fee of £90. The business rejected this but received a later phone call offering the service for £80 which was also rejected. This phone call is a scam and similar calls may be attempted on further businesses in Norfolk. We would remind all businesses that Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service do not cold call businesses or authorise third party companies to do so on their behalf looking to sell advertising or sponsorship.

    We always advise to be wary of telephone cold calls and the claims made during them. Businesses can take the following steps to protect themselves against scam calls:

    • Be on your guard for payment requests that are unexpected or irregular, whatever the amount involved
    • Always check the person or organisation calling is genuine. If you receive a suspicious call do not give or confirm any personal or financial details. If the caller is claiming to be from a known organisation you should ask to call them back, hang up, wait five minutes and then contact them using a known contact number or the details displayed on their official website.
    • If in any doubt, do not make the payment, however urgent it may seem or whatever the suggested outcome(s).

    You can report suspicious communication, which could be a scam, received by your business to us via our partners the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

    Rogue Trader Alert – Cold callers targeting businesses – 15 October 2020

    We are reminding businesses to be on their guard for cold callers who visit them attempting to sell services, items or offering to undertake work.

    We have previously issued warning when callers have been operating in Norfolk. These have included cold callers who are:

    • Offering to lay tarmac or gravel, or replace car park markings. They often claim the material is ‘left over from another job’.
    • Selling items like generators, power tools and pressure washers
    • Offering to service or sharpen items in use by the business
    • Selling products to staff, often claiming to be ex-offenders selling as part of a rehabilitation scheme

    Never deal with cold callers who arrive at your business offering to sell items or undertake work.

    If you business is visited by a cold caller, report the incident to us through the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 or Norfolk Police on 101.  Give as much detail as possible, including:

    • A description of the cold caller
    • Why they said they were calling
    • Who they said they were representing
    • Whether they were alone or working with others
    • Whether they called at neighbouring businesses after leaving your premises
    • If they returned to a vehicle, was it sign written?  Did you see the make, model, colour or registration plate?

    If you have CCTV at your premises, did it capture any images of the cold callers?

  • FLU Tool kit

    As if dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic was not we all need to consider, the Flu season is upon us as well. So, we have been asked by Norfolk County Council and the NHS Norfolk and Waveney Clinical Commissioning Group to make the Flu Toolkit as widely available as we can to Town and Parish Councils and to ask them to publicise it as much as possible to their residents and organisations in their patch.

    You can download it here : https://we.tl/t-Bng40v3Bat

    This link will be available for four weeks so please encourage others to download it as well and pass it on to other organisations.
    This is an extract of the key points

    Toolkit to support organisations to deliver key flu messages to target audiences

    This toolkit is designed to help organisations to encourage those to access a free flu vaccination.

    This includes organisations and people who work with:

    •              Those with long term health conditions

    •              Early years setting aged 2-4 years

    •              Parents of children aged 2 – 11 years old

    •              Carers

    •              Those who are pregnant

    •              Over 65 years of age

    This toolkit provides access to bespoke materials aimed at specific target audiences.