Help available with heating bills

More support is now available to vulnerable adults below pension-age　in Cumbria who may be struggling with heating bills.
Cumbria County Council has set aside £47,000 (forty-seven thousand pounds) this winter to help low income families wi...th children aged under-5 years, disabled people and people with long-term health conditions that are made worse by cold.
One-off grants of £125 will be available to vulnerable households which meet the criteria, from　December 2013 until end the end of February 2014.
The funding comes from the council’s Ways to Welfare programme which provides support and advice to working-age people throughout the year who are experiencing severe hardship.
The winter help will compliment support already available for pensioners in Cumbria through Cumbria Community Foundation’s Winter Warmth Fund and other government schemes.
Families with children under-5 years can apply for Cumbria County Council’s new cold weather grants through the following organisations:
• For Barrow, Millom Keswick, Workington Cockermouth and surrounding areas, contact Action for Children on: 01900 325251
• For Maryport, Aspatria, Wigton, Silloth, Carlisle, Brampton, Penrith, South Lakes, Kendal and surrounding areas, contact Barnados on: 01900 898040 or email debbie.young@barnardos.org.uk
• For Whitehaven Cleator Moor, Egremont, Seascale and surrounding areas, contact the Howgill Children’s Centre on 01946 62681 or email Diane.kenmare@howgill-centre.co.uk
Adults below pension-age with disabilities, or a long-term health condition made worse by cold, can apply for support by contacting Thelma Waite at　DACE on 01228 674882.
For all other enquiries, people should contact Cumbria County Council’s Ways to Welfare programme on 01228 221100 or email communitysupport@cumbria.gov.uk
Councillor Beth Furneaux, Cumbria County Council’s cabinet member for Adult and Local Services, said: "This is one-off funding of £47,000 which the county council is making available to help vulnerable people stay warm this winter.
"The latest figures show that that there are around 190 more deaths in Cumbria in winter compared to non-winter months.
"Keeping warm is a basic human need and this one-off help is there to help vulnerable working-age adults to stay safe and well this winter.
"Although times are tough for local government, we are determined to make sure that the vulnerable receive the help they need."
Information on other forms of support and advice available to Cumbrians this winter, can be viewed online at: http://www.cumbria.gov.uk/brrr/

Police warn public not to let their night-out end up with them behind bars

With ‘Festive Friday’ fast approaching, Cumbria Police are reminding members of the public to stay safe when out partying over the festive period.

Pubs and clubs in the town centres become busier over the Christmas period and with only a few days to go, officers will be out on patrol focusing on defusing incidents before they escalate into violence.

Extra officers will be out on patrol on key dates, including ‘Festive Friday’- the last Friday before Christmas, which has traditionally been a popular night out in towns across Cumbria, and can experience a corresponding rise in alcohol fuelled violence and disorder.

This year we are promoting our ‘One punch can change two lives’ campaign which reminds party-goers of the consequences of losing control through alcohol consumption. This is part of our on-going ‘Think before you drink’ force-wide campaign.

Officers will be working with licensed premises to try and prevent people who are already drunk being served further alcohol. Pubwatch will also continue to inform local licensees about those who have been banned, especially for violent disorder.

Chief Superintendent Steve Johnson said: “Our personal safety campaign was launched at the end of November to encourage everyone to enjoy themselves safely. This is even more important as the Christmas holidays approach, with more people being off work and spending more time socialising with friends and family.

“Our aim is to provide a safe environment for everyone to enjoy themselves over the Christmas period. It is only a minority who become involved in violence or disorder and by providing extra officers, we are able to monitor situations and intervene before they escalate.

“We will not tolerate people who put others at risk of harm by engaging in violent behaviour. Everyone in Cumbria has a right to socialise with friends and family without fear of intimidation or violence.

“At this time of year police officers do come into contact with people who normally don’t get into trouble. They may have over indulged and in a situation which has escalated quickly, before they know it are in trouble with the police.

“We want everyone to enjoy the festive season in a safe and responsible manner. Don’t end up with a Christmas of regret.

Cumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Richard Rhodes said: “It is important to enjoy Christmas responsibly whether it is the amount you drink to your own personal safety.  This is a busy time of year for police officers, PCSOs and police staff and I am looking forward to going out on patrol on Friday.”

With the party season in full-flow Police are issuing this advice:

• Know your limits and always stay in control
• Avoid drinking in rounds, it’s easy to have too much when trying to keep up with others
• Recognise the signs that it’s time to slow down, consider alternating between alcoholic and soft drinks
• Stick with your friends and look out for each other
• Walk away from arguments and confrontation, a drunken argument or fight could end up someone getting seriously hurt and / or arrested. This could possibly cost you your career, your relationship and your freedom.
• If confrontation arises, be responsible seek out security staff or a Police Officer and make them aware of the issue
• Have fun and enjoy your night out

Posters displaying this advice are displayed in local shops and bars to prompt Christmas shoppers and revellers. Short adverts are being played throughout December on CFM.

In South Cumbria, all the Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) will be deploying officers to known hotspots throughout the South Cumbria area so if situations arise, Police are nearby to deal with it.

Inspector Mike O’Hagan, Barrow NPT, said: “We want people to act in a responsible manner and enjoy the festivities.

“We will be working to prevent and detect all offences that are committed.  I would like to think that the public will help us by encouraging their friends to behave sensibly and refrain from consuming too much alcoholic drink. Please do not spoil your own and other people’s Christmas.”

All three NPTs (Barrow, Kendal & Ulverston and Lakes) have been working with licensees in their areas throughout the year in a bid to decrease the amount of alcohol-related incidents that officers have to deal with and Christmas is no exception.

Police in South Cumbria will also be issuing out Section 27 banning orders to those who Police feel need to be taken away from the town centres. 

Inspector O’Hagan added: “Early intervention remains the key, if we can prevent an incident from happening than less trouble and we feel we have to use Section 27 banning orders then that is what officers will do.”

Kendal NPT as a member of the Barwatch scheme will be issuing out Christmas card reminders to the worst offenders who are on Barwatch.

Inspector Paul Latham, Kendal NPT said: “The cards are there to remind those that are on Barwatch that they will be recognised by officers and security staff and will be refused entry. An attempt to gain entry to licensed premises on the Barwatch scheme can see their ban being extended.”

Anyone who is a victim of a crime or sees suspicious activity is asked to report this to Cumbria Police on 101.

People can also follow Cumbria Police on Facebook and Twitter (@CumbriaPolice) where up-to-date safety advice and information will be shared.

Thought for the Week

"Live so that when your children think of fairness, caring and integrity, they think of you." H Jackson Brown, Jr.

Cumbria police warn of domestic violence rise at Christmas

Cumbria Police are working with partner agencies to help support domestic violence victims at this time of year.

Statistics show that during the Christmas and New Year period, domestic violence dramatically rises, with 1^st January 2013 seeing the average number of incidents rising to 48.

Cumbria Police strive to increase reporting of domestic abuse so that the appropriate support can be given to victims and their families. For the last three years there has been an increase in the number of incidents reported, which can be a good indication that victims want help and are prepared to contact the police.

This warning follows the Police and Crime Commissioner’s conference on Friday (6^th November) which launched his further commitment to tackling domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Work continues throughout the year to ensure that any victim is given the help and support they need to break the cycle of violence. Essential partners such as Let GO provide services which can help people build their confidence to get out of an abusive relationship or situation.

The Probation Service works closely with offenders to provide them with counselling and support to enable them to control their anger and prevent them from hitting out at someone, especially a loved one.

Detective Superintendent Mike Forrester said:

“Our aim is to help those people who are subject of domestic violence. It is so important that when victims find the strength to report their abuse to us that we have the right people to provide the necessary support and advice.

“Some people struggle to understand domestic abuse and have the perception that the victim should just leave on the first occasion when they are abused. However, it is not that easy for some. Victims are often emotionally abused to the extent that they believe that their abuser is the only person there for them, they can be manipulated to cut themselves off from friends and family and left feeling that they are on their own.

“Our focus this week is to bring to everyone’s attention that there are groups out there who can help and support any victim.”

Police and Crime Commissioner, Richard Rhodes said:

“Domestic abuse cannot and will not be tolerated.  It is important that everyone from family, friends and partner agencies work together to give the victims the support that they need to come forward.”

Mark Barrow, Divisional Manager Cumbria & Lancashire for Victim Support, said:

“Never forget that it is a crime for someone you know to attack you in your own home or elsewhere – whether they are your partner, a family member or someone you share your home with. Whatever the abuser might say, violence like this is never your fault. Nobody has the right to abuse you in this way.

“You do not have to suffer in silence. You can contact us in confidence and we can help you by talking with you, giving you emotional support and helping you to see and understand the choices that you can make to help stop the abuse.  Whatever you chose to do, we know that your safety is the most important thing.  The decision to take action against your abuser may be difficult. But if you do decide, at any time, that you want to report the abuse to the police, we can provide information and support. We can also support you if you choose to go to court.”

Alcohol does have a major impact on domestic violence. At this time of year more people are out socialising and consuming alcohol, which impacts on their mood and behaviour.

As part of the continued Alcohol Harm Awareness campaign, launched earlier this year, Cumbria Police are appealing for everyone to drink within their limits and not to lose control.

Chief Inspector Terry Bathgate said:

“Police officers are often the first on the scene at a domestic violent incident, with a number of incidents being as a result of too much alcohol.

“It can be a difficult situation to control, with emotions running high and, on occasion, children can be present – witnessing the harm and destruction that domestic violence causes.

“We all aim for a happy and peaceful Christmas. If you are a victim of domestic violence, seek help. Do not spend another Christmas in fear.

“If you are going out drinking, keep within you limits, do not lose control and do not spoil Christmas for your family.”

Anyone with any concerns should call Cumbria Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Victim Support can be reached on 0845 3030900.

Barrow Police warn public to lock it or lose it this Christmas

Police in Barrow are warning everyone to lock it or lose it this Christmas in a bid to ensure that Santa Claus is the only unannounced visitor this festive season.

Crime does not stop for Christmas and Police are hoping that everyone follows some simple precautionary measures to help avoid a Christmas of despair.

Police are asking members of the public to lock windows and doors to their homes and vehicles as well as make sure all sheds and garages are secure. Criminals are often opportunistic and Police do not want members of the public to inadvertently encourage this behaviour by carelessness.

Inspector Mike O’Hagan, Barrow Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Criminals do not need an invitation and that is why we would ask that everyone makes sure that doors and windows of your home and vehicles are locked as well as making sure outhouses and sheds are secure.

“If you are purchasing or receive electrical or high-value gifts, contact Police for advice on how and where they can security mark them. I’d also ask those that have a home that is fitted with an alarm to ensure it works and to use it.

“For those who are away over the festive period ask someone you trust to keep an eye on your home. For those who are at home please look after your neighbours this Christmas and if you see any suspicious activity please call Cumbria Police on 101.”

Another message Police want people to be wary of is that anyone who uses social media needs  to be mindful of what they post. People often update Facebook and Twitter with their activities, keeping their friends and family informed of what they have been up to. However, not all keep up-to-date with their security settings on their social media pages and can unknowingly have open pages for everyone to see.

Inspector O’Hagan added: “Telling people what you are doing is not a bad thing but we are encouraging people to make sure they know who they are telling.

“Simple steps by checking security settings on social media site such as Facebook or Twitter to ensure that only friends and family can see your posts, but not share them to a wider audience, can be one way to prevent your posts being seen by everyone.

“If you want an open page, then be careful about what you post, don’t advertise the fact that you have been Christmas shopping and bought all your presents and then will be out with the family that night. You are basically just telling everyone that your house is empty and full of presents.”

Further information about staying safe online is available on our website at www.cumbria.police.uk/onlinesafety.

Thought for the Week

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” Nelson Mandela

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Police launch child sexual exploitation campaign

Today (9^th December) Cumbria Constabulary, along with partner agencies, have launched a campaign around child sexual exploitation (CSE).

For the next three days key information will be circulated on the Cumbria Police website and social media accounts, giving advice on how to prevent CSE and how to spot when it may be happening.

Today is focused on how everyone in Cumbria has a role to play in spotting and reporting CSE, regardless of their profession or knowledge of children.

The campaign follows the Police and Crime Commissioner’s conference on Friday (6^th November) which launched his further commitment to tackling domestic abuse and sexual violence.

A webchat will be taking place tomorrow (10^th December), which will allow anyone to ask any questions they may have around CSE. A number of different agencies will be taking part in the webchat, and will be offering advice and signposting to the best places to get support.

The webchat will take place between 6:30pm to 8pm here: www.cumbria.police.uk/csechat

DCI Nick Coughlan, from the Public Protection Unit for Cumbria Constabulary, said:

“We work very hard to bring CSE offenders to justice, as Operation Chiefton showed last week. However, it is crucial that we uncover any exploitation as quickly as possible and protect children in Cumbria.

“CSE is a crime that can affect any child, anytime, anywhere. That is why I am urging everyone in Cumbria to be vigilant against exploitation and report any suspicions to the police. This includes people who work in people-orientated professions, such as taxi drivers and hairdressers, who may see things signs that are hidden from close friends and family.

“CSE can take many forms – whether it is through a seemingly ‘consensual’ relationship with an older boyfriend, or a young person having sex in return for attention, gifts, alcohol or cigarettes.

“Child exploitation is thankfully rare but if you have any concerns please call Cumbria Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Protecting children is everyone’s responsibility.”

Police and Crime Commissioner, Richard Rhodes said:

“I welcome the Child Sexual Exploitation campaign by the Constabulary supported by operational policing activity which is a key priority from the Police and Crime Plan.  I hosted last week a good conference looking at the next steps to try and ensure that what is presently a rare crime in Cumbria doesn’t become accepted or established.”

Iain McKay, Service Manager for the NSPCC in Cumbria said:

“I commend Cumbria Police for the campaign they are running on Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) as this issue is sometimes seen as an issue only for inner cities but the real situation is that children and young people in every city, town and village, no matter how small, can be at risk of sexual exploitation.  CSE is an issue that everybody needs to take seriously and we have a responsibility as parents, carers, professionals and members of the wider community to be vigilant about children and young people who maybe or at risk of being sexually exploited.”        

Cllr Anne Burns, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:

“When we discover abuse we do everything we can to protect children from further harm and help them recover. But it's vital to prevent abuse from happening to children in the first place.

“We have to solve this problem together, so we’ll be working hard with the Police to help raise awareness on how to protect against child sexual exploitation. Parents and professionals coming into contact with children must be able to spot possible signs of sexual abuse or exploitation, and be confident of what they need to do to protect that child.”

Caroline Ledward, Contract Lead at Inspira, said:

“Online and face to face relationships can sometimes be exploitative so it is important that young people are aware of the danger signs.

“Our advice to young people is that if you or your friends have concerns about staying safe at home, on the street or online speak to someone you can trust. We have advisers who are trained to help based at our Advice Services centres – these are located in Barrow, Carlisle, Workington and Whitehaven.

“The child sexual exploitation campaign is really important as it highlights how online and face to face relationships can end up being exploitative. Inspira will often conduct the ‘Return to Home’ interview for a young person once the Police have completed a ‘Safe and Well Check’.

“We encourage young people and parents/carers who are concerned to talk to someone they trust. Inspira advisers can be contacted in one of our four Advice Services centres around the county or by calling 0800 435 709.”

Heather McFarlane, Children’s Service’s Lead for Safeguarding and Protection for Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“Keeping children safe is the responsibility of everyone which is why it is so important for organisations to work together to raise awareness. Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust is proud to be part of this campaign and hope that by highlighting some of these children’s stories more parents, relatives and friends will know the signs of this kind of abuse and contact the police. We also hope it will give children the confidence to speak up if they think they are being abused and to know that help is available.”

What are the signs you need to know?

• Repeatedly going missing-particularly overnight
• Coming home with unaccounted gifts, i.e. clothes, money, food, jewellery, drugs or mobile phone
• Having a relationship with an older partner with whom there may or may not be concerns
• Mood swings and changes in behaviour
• Excessive and secret use of internet and /or mobile phone (potential grooming)
• Spending more time in their room and was accessing their computer late at night
• Having several SIM cards, frequent mobile phone top ups
• Being unusually secretive
• Losing contact with family and friends of their own age and associating with an older age group
• Unrecognised cars arriving at the home, especially at strange times
• Alcohol/Substance misuse
• Unexplained injuries
• Lacking self-esteem, leading to a change in personal appearance
• Excessive Washing or bathing particularly when returning from missing episodes

And what makes a child more at risk?

• If they come from a chaotic or dysfunctional household
• A lack of friends in the same age group
• Confused about their sexuality
• History of domestic abuse or neglect
• Learning disabilities
• Have come into contact with other exploited youngsters, e.g. at school
• Have suffered a recent bereavement or loss
• Are homeless or living in residential care, a hostel or bed and breakfast
• Have low self-esteem or confidence
• Young carer

 Advice on child sexual exploitation can be found here: www.cumbria.police.uk/cse

Visit Missing People website here: www.missingpeople.org

Don’t send an advertisement to thieves this Christmas

Cumbria Police are advising everyone who uses social media to be mindful of what they post.

People often update Facebook and Twitter with their activities, keeping their friends and family informed of what they have been up to. However, not all keep up-to-date with their security settings on their social media pages and can unknowingly have open pages for everyone to see.

Also, people do accept friend requests to give their following numbers a boost, without really knowing who the person is.

By putting all of your activities onto an open page, you are advertising when you have been Christmas shopping, when you are going out and when your house is empty. This is an open invitation to thieves who could be following you.

David Thompson, a Crime Prevention Officer in Cumbria Constabulary, said: “Telling people what you are doing is not a bad thing but we are encouraging people to make sure they know who they are telling.

“Simple steps by checking security settings on social media site such as Facebook or Twitter to ensure that only friends and family can see your posts, but not share them to a wider audience, can be one way to prevent your posts being seen by everyone.

“If you want an open page, then be careful about what you post, don’t advertise the fact that you have been Christmas shopping and bought all your presents and then will be out with the family that night. You are basically just telling everyone that your house is empty and full of presents.

“Have a think about who could see what you are saying and make a few simple adjustments to ensure that you are safe and secure this Christmas.”

Further information about staying safe online is available on our website at www.cumbria.police.uk/onlinesafety

Thought for the Week

“The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, or even touched, they must be felt with the heart.” Helen Keller

One punch can ruin two lives ...

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