Working together for a safer, cleaner and stronger neighbourhood.
Monday, 30 June 2014
Tuesday, 24 June 2014
Monday, 23 June 2014
Barrow Man Wins Top National Neighbourhood and Home Watch Award
Pete Thomas, a Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator from Barrow, has been voted the Outstanding Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator in England and Wales England and Wales were recognised at a prestigious ceremony in London
Pete was presented with the award by Michael O’Toole, the Crown Representative for the Voluntary and Community Sector in the Cabinet Office.
On receiving the award Pete paid tribute to the local police for their support and especially to the local PCSO’s. He also wanted to point out that the award wasn’t just for himself. It recognised the contribution of all his colleagues who worked alongside of him to promote community safety and neighbourliness in Barrow and the South Lakes
In the 12 years since the Fife Street, Barrow, Neighbourhood Watch scheme has been running, Pete and the group have provided CCTV for a local store, dropped curbs for the benefit of residents with disabilities and the emergency services, a bicycle for the local Police Community Support Officer, security lights and property marking for residents.
He has encouraged young people to work alongside older residents – they put together a visual audit of problems in the area, which encouraged respect between generations. Young people were also invited to the police station to learn how officers tackle crime and disorder.
Pete worked with the Fire & Rescue Service to arrange fire checks and the installation of smoke alarms for some residents. He takes part in multi-agency Streetsafe Operations, providing reassurance and help to people in the community.
He has been instrumental in the formation of the ‘Bringing Communities Together Scheme’, inviting schemes to share problems and solutions. This is now being rolled out more widely.
Barrow PCSO Iain Richards says ‘Partnership working in Barrow is essential to getting things done. A crucial element of that is involvement of the public. Pete cares deeply about his community, knows it very well, and has immense energy and enthusiasm. On top of all that, he’s easy to get along with and has helped the Police and the community for many years. He is very generous and has helped set up many Neighbourhood Watch Groups in this area. He helps the groups to start and then provides continual support for as long as the residents need him. He is willing to help others throughout the Borough – he always finds time to support others. Pete uses the skills he has amounted with his own group to pass on to others and help build their success. We are so pleased for him, and all the members of Fife Street Neighbourhood Watch, and think that he fully deserved to win the award’.
David Farmer, Chair of the Cumbria Neighbourhood Watch Association added ‘this is recognition of all the hard work Pete has put in over many years to keep his community safer. It is also recognition that when people are willing to get involved in neighbourhood watch schemes they can help make their communities safer and nicer places to live and to work. The Association and the Constabulary are always ready to support people who may wish to start a scheme in their area’.
Grieving mother helps launch new water safety pack for schools
Grieving mother helps launch new water safety pack for schools
The mother of a teenage drowning victim has joined forces with water company United Utilities in a bid to save lives.
Beckie Ramsay has recorded a sobering interview about the loss of her son Dylan as part of a new reservoir safety information pack for schools.
The launch of the initiative comes during Drowning Prevention Week 2014, which runs from June 21-29.
Beckie, from Chorley, Lancashire, lost her 13-year-old son Dylan three years ago when he got into difficulties while playing with friends in a quarry lake. Despite being a strong swimmer, the cold water on a hot summer day proved fatal.
Now on a mission to educate young people about the dangers associated with swimming in reservoirs, quarry lakes and other bodies of outside water, Beckie is supporting United Utilities’ water safety awareness packs for schools with her emotional film, Dylan’s Story, in which she remembers her son and the day he died.
Beckie said: “It was hard doing the interview for the film, it always will be. But if hearing about Dylan’s death means that one less young person will be tempted to go into the water this summer, then it’s worth it.
“I’m pleased the film is going to be used as a teaching aid as part of this pack. People need to be aware of the danger.”
The resource pack, which is available online, includes:
· Three videos: ‘Not A Game’, ‘A Cold That Can Kill’ and ‘Dylan’s Story’ which cover the theory, medical facts and real life impact of reservoir danger
· A discussion guide based around each film to highlight learning points
· Additional learning activities and information sources
Schools or community groups can download their water safety resource pack from www.unitedutilities.com/reservoir-safety.
The fire service is often called to tragic incidents involving people swimming in water and Brigade Manager Dawn Whittaker, Lead on Water Safety for the Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA), said: “Rebecca is an inspiration. This video is a powerful tool.
“It conveys the heartache that the Ramsay family has been through: but even more than that, hopefully people that watch it will heed the messages in it.”
Mark Byard, United Utilities’ Head of Health and Safety, said: “Every year, particularly during summer, young people are often tempted to take a dip in what appear to be safe places to swim.
“Unfortunately, reservoirs and quarry lakes are far from safe. Cold water, hidden debris, and underwater currents from pipework, mean that they are extremely dangerous.”
He added: “It’s important to get this message out there from an early age. We hope this new pack will be invaluable for anyone looking to warn young people about the dangers of water.”
For more information on water safety, visit www.unitedutilities.com/reservoir-safety. For updates on Beckie Ramsay’s own campaign ‘Doing it for Dylan’, visit www.facebook.com/DoingItForDylan.
Thursday, 19 June 2014
Police warn public to be aware of Microsoft fraudsters
Cumbria police are warning the public to be aware of bogus telephone calls from people claiming they are from Microsoft or Windows, in order to gain access to computers.
Police have received complaints from members of the public, particularly from the Kendal area, who have received a telephone call from people claiming to be from Microsoft. They are being advised during the call that there is a virus or programme problem on their personal computer and are then talked through how to allow the caller to have remote access to their computer.
Sometimes money is asked for, but not always. Either way once people have access to your computer they can find passwords and bank details.
Microsoft has a built in system which will report any fault automatically and they will only contact you on request.
Community Safety Officer for south Cumbria Terry Belshaw, said:
“It is important to make people aware of this type of bogus call. These fraudsters can be very convincing to people who may not know a lot about computers. Don’t allow anyone you don’t trust access, remotely or otherwise, to your computer.
“I would like to take this opportunity to remind people that they should be cautious of anyone who makes contact with them – whether it is in relation to computers, financial accounts, charities, or offers to buy/sell. No reputable company, including Microsoft, will contact you asking for your personal, financial, or technical details.
“Bogus callers can have details which may make people think that they are genuine. The only way to remain completely safe is to not engage at all. My advice is to shut down, hang up, or close the door, to anyone you do not know. It isn’t rude – it is a sensible way to keep safe.
“Anyone with any concerns should contact Cumbria Police, Trading Standards, or Action Fraud, as appropriate. If you are unsure who to contact call Cumbria Police on 101 and we can give you advice.”
If you have not reported any fault to Microsoft, then do not allow anyone to have remote access to your computer. If you are suspicious, then hang up.
Anyone who has any concerns or would like further advice can contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team or visit www.actionfraud.org.uk
Tuesday, 17 June 2014
Thought for the Week
"When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That's my religion." Abraham Lincoln
Monday, 16 June 2014
POLICE LAUNCH NEW SCHEME TO BE MORE VISIBLE IN LOCAL COMMUNITIES
Cumbria Police will launch a new initiative on Wednesday which will see officers at a set location each week offering local people advice and information.
In each Neighbourhood Policing Team area in Cumbria a location in the community has been chosen, from supermarkets to community centres, where one day a week a police officer or police community support officer will be available to speak to local people.
Police are encouraging people to come visit a Police Desk to:
· Tell us of a crime or road traffic collision
· Arrange to make a statement
· Get some crime prevention advice
· Get some personal safety advice
· Find out more about your local policing team
· Find out details of partner organisations that could help you
· Let us know what you think of policing in your area and what concerns you
DCC Jeremy Graham, from Cumbria Constabulary said:
"I think these Police Desks will be a brilliant way of engaging with local people as they go about their daily lives. People often don't have time to pop into a police station to ask a simple question, or are not aware of some simple steps they can take to help prevent themselves becoming a victim of crime.
"Having a Police Desk in the same location at the same time will allow people to become familiar with local officers, and rely on them as a regular point of contact."
Cumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Richard Rhodes said:
“I am delighted to see the launch of this initiative. One of the issued raised with me most frequently when I meet people is that they want to see more visible policing in their communities, and this will go some way to addressing this need. I would urge people to make full use of the facility in their area.”
To find out where your local Police Desk will be and when please visit: www.cumbria.police.uk/policedesks
Friday, 13 June 2014
Start of Neighbourhood Watch and Home Watch week
Tomorrow, 14th June 2014 see’s the start of Neighbourhood Watch & Home Watch week.
The focus will be on ‘fraud and cybercrime’ and with most households having access to the internet, Cumbria Police are getting involved in promoting the message that anyone can be a target.
People often don’t want to admit that they have been defrauded- they can feel embarrassed or just put it down to one of those things and never report it, particularly if they didn’t lose a large amount of money.
Neighbourhood Watch and Home Watch are promoting the message that no one should suffer in silence and there is plenty of information and support available to those who have been a victim of any form of fraud or cybercrime.
Andy Baines, the Safer Stronger Communities manager for Cumbria Constabulary, said: “The Neighbourhood Watch and Home Watch are traditionally about helping people to feel safe where they live.
“We recognise the Neighbourhood Watch and Home Watch schemes play a vital role in crime detection, prevention and community safety.
“However, the way in which we interact online now means that we have ‘online neighbours’ too and they form a big part of our community and social life. By making sure we are all security conscious of our homes and when we are online, we can all help to keep each other safe.”
The week also sees the national awards being given and with Cumbria having a finalist in contention.
Pete Thomas, a Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator in Barrow, was nominated by PCSOs Iain Richards, Gail O’Neil, and Zoe Anderson and has been shortlisted for the “Watch Co-ordinator – Outstanding Achievement” award.
Andy Baines continued: “It is great that Pete has been recognised and shortlisted for the Outstanding Achievement award and we wish him well at the awards ceremony in London on June 20th”.
“We work hard to support the scheme and believe that it helps to maintain community spirit and communication between all local residents which helps build up good relations.”
Police and Crime Commissioner, Richard Rhodes said; “Tackling crime is about us all working together and Neighbourhood Watch is an excellent example which works really well in the County. Good luck to the coordinator and PCSOs in Barrow for the national awards I have seen first-hand their hard work and dedication.”
If you are concerned about fraud, visit www.actionfraud.police.uk for lots more information about different types of fraud and how you can protect yourself. You can also report fraud on their website, or call 0300 123 2040 to report it.
For more information about staying safe on-line, please visit http://www.cumbria.police.uk/online-safety
More can be learnt about Neighbourhood Watch by visiting Cumbria Police website here.
You can also visit the National Neighbourhood Watch website. You can also find out more about your local area by clicking here and entering your postcode.
You can also join Cumbria Community Messaging by clicking here and receive information about your area.
Thursday, 12 June 2014
Police remind World Cup fans not to risk lives by drink driving
Cumbria Police are urging football fans to steer clear of driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs as the World Cup begins.
The tournament which runs from the 12th June to the 13th July will see the county’s bars and pubs filled with football fans watching the games. Police would like to take the opportunity to remind those who intend to celebrate with a few drinks to avoid getting behind the wheel and find alternative routes home.
On Saturday 14th June at 11pm England face Italy in their opening match and Police expect to see many people out in the county’s main nightlife areas watching the game with a few drinks.
Superintendent Mark Pannone said: “We want to remind those watching the game to not drive home after the match if they have been drinking alcohol. If you do have a drink please arrange for a lift or book a taxi. We hope that the people of Cumbria work with us to make sure the World Cup is an enjoyable experience for everybody.”
Superintendent Mark Pannone said: “We want to remind those watching the game to not drive home after the match if they have been drinking alcohol. If you do have a drink please arrange for a lift or book a taxi. We hope that the people of Cumbria work with us to make sure the World Cup is an enjoyable experience for everybody.”
Throughout June, the Force are targeting those who drive under the influence as part of the Summer Drink & Drug Drive Campaign.
Sergeant Paul Brown, who is leading the Summer Drink & Drug Drive Campaign, said: “The campaign focuses on preventing danger to road users through stopping those who feel it is safe to drive under the influence and bringing offenders to justice. It is simple, alcohol and drugs affect your ability to drive and no-one should ever drive if not fit to do so.
“We really hope that people enjoy the tournament and that there is a reason to celebrate. However we ask that this is done responsibly and not at the risk of your own or other people’s lives.”
Police & Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes said: “I can only echo the advice of the Constabulary on this. We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable World Cup, and ensure that they do not risk their own safety, and the safety of others, by driving under the influence of drink or drugs.”
If you suspect that a person is driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs please contact Police immediately.
Thought for the Week
"The essence of philosophy - man should so live that his happiness shall depend as little as possible on external things.” Epictetus
Monday, 9 June 2014
Police urge fans to enjoy the World Cup responsibly
Police urge fans to enjoy the World Cup responsibly
Police are encouraging football fans to make this World Cup the best yet and to enjoy it responsibly.
The last three major football tournaments have seen decreasing amounts of arrests, anti-social behaviour (ASB), and violent crimes in Cumbria (during the overall time period of each tournament):
Arrests per day
|
ASB incidents per day
|
Violent crimes per day
| |
Euro 2008
|
59.9
|
125.3
|
15.6
|
World Cup 2010
|
48.2
|
110.9
|
12.9
|
Euro 2012
|
38.2
|
68.0
|
12.8
|
Each tournament has also generally seen less arrests, ASB, and violent crimes, compared to the same time period the year before.
Superintendent Mark Pannone said:
“I am pleased to see that each major football tournament seems to be attracting less trouble in Cumbria, and I hope that this year’s World Cup is the best yet.
“We have plans in place to ensure that the World Cup is a safe and enjoyable time for football and non-football fans alike. We will have increased patrols during key games, and will be working closely with licensees to minimise the likelihood and impact of excessive drinking.
“We will be issuing advice over the coming weeks around not drinking to excess, not risking drink-driving the night of (or morning after) key matches, and raising awareness about domestic violence. Violence and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, and will be dealt with appropriately.
“We are looking forward to a really positive and enjoyable month, and I hope that the people of Cumbria will work with us to make the World Cup a great experience for everyone.”
Police across Cumbria will:
· be on the streets early during key matches to meet and greet people and set the tone for the evening
· be looking to intervene early to prevent drunken behaviour
· ensure that police officers, special constables and PCSOs, are working in partnership with licensees
Dispersal orders will also be used where appropriate:
· Section 27 (dispersal order for alcohol related disorder) will be used if necessary to ban people from a particular area for 48 hours
Friday, 6 June 2014
Tuesday, 3 June 2014
Thought for the Week
“Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you’ll look back and realise they were big things.” Kurt Vonnegut
