Liberal Democrat MP for Leeds North West, Greg Mulholland has been leading efforts in Parliament to stop the practice of irresponsible lending by companies with excessive typical annual percentage interest rates of as much as 2,689%.
Companies offering such extreme rates have begun advertising on television and Greg Mulholland has expressed concern that customers could be fooled into taking out loans without realising the full extent of repayments.
Commenting Greg Mulholland said: "These companies are tricking people into thinking that they offer a convenient solution to bridging the gap before pay day, when in reality they are charging extortionate rates.
"I think the public need to be made aware that such extremely expensive credit represents the migration of loan shark style lending from the doorstep to the internet browser."
2356 percent campaign organiser, Ian Thomas thanked Greg Mulholland for his support. He said: "We are delighted that Greg has taken the time to draw attention to the issue of excessive annual percentage rates (APRs) that are being charged by 'payday' lenders in the UK by tabling the Early Day Motion in the House of Commons.
"As a nation we are continuing to pay the price for irresponsible lending practices that encourage inappropriate sub-prime borrowing. No matter what their claims, businesses like Wonga.com, Quickquid.co.uk and Skint.com should not be able to lend even the smallest amount of money at such high costs to consumers. Borrowers should be afforded the kind of regulatory safeguards that savers and investors enjoy, and that means product terms should be fair to consumers.
"The 2356percent campaign is just six weeks old but is growing all the time. The more people take part in the campaign through our Facebook Group the more chance we will be able to shape the future of 'payday' lending in the UK."
Wednesday, 31 March 2010
SMUG AS A BUG CAMPAIGN
Community team members from the Care Trust Plus older people’s health and wellbeing collaborative recently descended on Victoria Street market, Cleethorpes, to promote the ‘Snug as a Bug’ campaign.
The Snug as a Bug campaign launched in August 2009 and is due to finish at the end of March. During this time the team have been able to help countless members of the public keep well and keep warm during the winter weather by informing them of local agencies that can help them.
Through the hotspot cards system promoted by the campaign (which links in with Citizens Advice Bureau, the pension services, Humberside Fire and Rescue and the North East Lincolnshire Council home energy team) older people can access free checks including home energy checks, fire safety checks and pension and benefit checks.
The team handed out thermal mugs and room thermometers (keeping a room at a certain temperature not only saves money saving but is healthy too).
Martin Wakefield, project manger for the older people’s collaborative, said: “The campaign aimed to bring together relevant organisations that can offer services to older people. By using the hotspot card system, people only needed to sign up once to receive all the free checks rather than having to approach each organisation individually.
“The event was extremely successful with 60 people asking for further information and 20 completing a hotspot card, all of whom will now receive the free checks that can really make a difference.”
The Snug as a Bug campaign launched in August 2009 and is due to finish at the end of March. During this time the team have been able to help countless members of the public keep well and keep warm during the winter weather by informing them of local agencies that can help them.
Through the hotspot cards system promoted by the campaign (which links in with Citizens Advice Bureau, the pension services, Humberside Fire and Rescue and the North East Lincolnshire Council home energy team) older people can access free checks including home energy checks, fire safety checks and pension and benefit checks.
The team handed out thermal mugs and room thermometers (keeping a room at a certain temperature not only saves money saving but is healthy too).
Martin Wakefield, project manger for the older people’s collaborative, said: “The campaign aimed to bring together relevant organisations that can offer services to older people. By using the hotspot card system, people only needed to sign up once to receive all the free checks rather than having to approach each organisation individually.
“The event was extremely successful with 60 people asking for further information and 20 completing a hotspot card, all of whom will now receive the free checks that can really make a difference.”
LABOUR’S POST OFFICE BETRAYAL OVERSHADOWS PEOPLE’S BANK SAYS JOHN THURSO
“This is a very small step in the right direction towards keeping Post Offices open and giving this vital network a sustainable future," said the Liberal Democrat Shadow Business Secretary, John Thurso.
Commenting on the Government’s proposals to launch a People’s Bank through the Post Office network, John Thurso said: “The case for a Post Bank is compelling after years of neglect and Post Office closures by Labour.
“The Government’s apparent deathbed conversion will be greeted with a large dose of scepticism by local campaigners whose views have long been ignored.
“The idea of a Post Bank has been around for years now and many of these proposals were already under development.
“This is a very small step in the right direction towards keeping Post Offices open and giving this vital network a sustainable future.”
Commenting on the Government’s proposals to launch a People’s Bank through the Post Office network, John Thurso said: “The case for a Post Bank is compelling after years of neglect and Post Office closures by Labour.
“The Government’s apparent deathbed conversion will be greeted with a large dose of scepticism by local campaigners whose views have long been ignored.
“The idea of a Post Bank has been around for years now and many of these proposals were already under development.
“This is a very small step in the right direction towards keeping Post Offices open and giving this vital network a sustainable future.”
NEW EXPENSES RULES WELCOMED SAYS DAVID HEATH
“Nick Clegg was the only party leader who suggested a year ago that MPs should be taken out of the property game altogether, and I’m glad this has been taken up," said the Liberal Democrat Shadow Leader of the House, David Heath.
Commenting on the new expenses rules announced by Sir Ian Kennedy’s Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (Ipsa), David Heath said: “I welcome what Ipsa has published today. They’ve worked very hard to get a workable scheme up and available for the start of the new Parliament.
“Nick Clegg was the only party leader who suggested a year ago that MPs should be taken out of the property game altogether, and I’m glad this has been taken up.
“I hope the proposals will now be put in place and we can start the new Parliament with much greater public confidence in a system that is transparent and fair.”
Commenting on the new expenses rules announced by Sir Ian Kennedy’s Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (Ipsa), David Heath said: “I welcome what Ipsa has published today. They’ve worked very hard to get a workable scheme up and available for the start of the new Parliament.
“Nick Clegg was the only party leader who suggested a year ago that MPs should be taken out of the property game altogether, and I’m glad this has been taken up.
“I hope the proposals will now be put in place and we can start the new Parliament with much greater public confidence in a system that is transparent and fair.”
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO HOPE STREET!
To celebrate the 70th anniversary of Hope Street clinic, and the fifth anniversary of the falls prevention collaborative, people are invited to join them for an open afternoon at Hope Street clinic in Grimsby on Thursday, April 1, between 1pm and 4pm.
Hope Street clinic first opened to patients on April 1, 1940, as an infant welfare and dental clinic and 70 years on it is still serving the local community, now as home to the award-winning Hope specialist service, which provides patient centred, individually tailored assessment, treatment and education for people with chronic respiratory disease and elderly people at risk of falls.
During the afternoon people will be able to explore the clinic, speak to health professionals and volunteers and learn more about the services provided. There will also be a variety of stalls, displays, activities and demonstrations on the day, including:
Hope Street clinic first opened to patients on April 1, 1940, as an infant welfare and dental clinic and 70 years on it is still serving the local community, now as home to the award-winning Hope specialist service, which provides patient centred, individually tailored assessment, treatment and education for people with chronic respiratory disease and elderly people at risk of falls.
During the afternoon people will be able to explore the clinic, speak to health professionals and volunteers and learn more about the services provided. There will also be a variety of stalls, displays, activities and demonstrations on the day, including:
- smoothie making demonstrations
- tai chi demonstrations
- promotional stands (including the Osteoporosis Society, Franklin College, falls prevention collaborative, piscatorial codgers and grouchy old men’s club)
- Hope Street history
- cake stall
- old-fashioned sweet stall
- book stall
- Refreshments will be available from Hope Street’s educating eater café throughout the afternoon.
Kylie Farbrace, falls lead, said: “We are thrilled to be celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Hope Street Clinic and the fifth anniversary of the falls prevention collaborative.
“This open afternoon will provide the perfect opportunity for people to find out more about the services we can offer.”
People wanting more information about the open afternoon and the services provided by the hope specialist service can call the clinic on (01472) 313400.
SHOUT: SEXUAL HEALTH OUTREACH TEAM; A NEW SERVICE IN NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE
A new service aimed at vulnerable and hard to reach young people launches in North East Lincolnshire this week.
Shout (sexual health outreach team) will be working alongside the existing young people’s service Choices to provide sexual health advice, contraception and chlamydia screening for young people who have difficulty accessing mainstream services.
Shout will work closely with and support existing services as the Care Trust Plus aims to build on the success of reducing teenage pregnancy rates locally. Statistics released last month indicate that conception rates in young girls aged 15 to 17 have dropped in the borough by a significant 17.6 per cent since 1998. This compares to a 10.9 per cent reduction in the Yorkshire and Humber region and a 13.3 per cent reduction nationally.
Paul Watson, Coast/ Choices team coordinator, said: “There are a significant number of young people who for many reasons find it difficult to access services, either because of where they live or their personal circumstances.
“Shout will provide targeted services to a number of agencies working with vulnerable young people, in addition to providing a rapid response to young people individually.
“In planning Shout, we have carefully listened to young people and involved four young people in the interview process to select our nurse clinicians.
“While young people overwhelmingly rate our Choices service highly, there are a number who need further intensive one-to-one work. I am confident the Shout team will make a real difference in supporting partner agencies and those vulnerable young people who need increased support.”
The service, based at Weelsby View Medical Centre, in Grimsby’s Ladysmith Road, will be delivered by two experienced nurse clinicians, supported by an administrator. The Shout team have received funding for two years during which time they will evaluate their impact.
Anyone who would like to find out more about the new service should ring Paul Watson on (01472) 255216.
Shout (sexual health outreach team) will be working alongside the existing young people’s service Choices to provide sexual health advice, contraception and chlamydia screening for young people who have difficulty accessing mainstream services.
Shout will work closely with and support existing services as the Care Trust Plus aims to build on the success of reducing teenage pregnancy rates locally. Statistics released last month indicate that conception rates in young girls aged 15 to 17 have dropped in the borough by a significant 17.6 per cent since 1998. This compares to a 10.9 per cent reduction in the Yorkshire and Humber region and a 13.3 per cent reduction nationally.
Paul Watson, Coast/ Choices team coordinator, said: “There are a significant number of young people who for many reasons find it difficult to access services, either because of where they live or their personal circumstances.
“Shout will provide targeted services to a number of agencies working with vulnerable young people, in addition to providing a rapid response to young people individually.
“In planning Shout, we have carefully listened to young people and involved four young people in the interview process to select our nurse clinicians.
“While young people overwhelmingly rate our Choices service highly, there are a number who need further intensive one-to-one work. I am confident the Shout team will make a real difference in supporting partner agencies and those vulnerable young people who need increased support.”
The service, based at Weelsby View Medical Centre, in Grimsby’s Ladysmith Road, will be delivered by two experienced nurse clinicians, supported by an administrator. The Shout team have received funding for two years during which time they will evaluate their impact.
Anyone who would like to find out more about the new service should ring Paul Watson on (01472) 255216.
Monday, 29 March 2010
7 OUT OF 10 HOSPITALS FAILING TO HELP POLICE TACKLE KNIFE CRIME SAYS CHRIS HUHNE
70% of NHS hospitals in England are still failing to provide police forces with information that has been proven to significantly cut knife crime, according to research by the Liberal Democrats.
This is a marginal improvement on last year, when 80% of hospitals were not sharing this information.
In the ‘Cardiff Model’, A&E wards in the city have collected information about the precise locations and times of violent incidents and shared it anonymously with the police since 2002. This led to a 40% fall in violent assaults in the first five years.
The research, collected through Freedom of Information requests, shows:
This is a marginal improvement on last year, when 80% of hospitals were not sharing this information.
In the ‘Cardiff Model’, A&E wards in the city have collected information about the precise locations and times of violent incidents and shared it anonymously with the police since 2002. This led to a 40% fall in violent assaults in the first five years.
The research, collected through Freedom of Information requests, shows:
- Only 44 of the 143 hospital trusts (31%) in England that have replied to the request are following the Cardiff Model
- The situation is no better in the nine areas in England taking part in the Tackling Knives Action Programme (TKAP), where only 18 out of 55 trusts (32%) are following the Cardiff Model. Essex had no trusts using the model
- Violence actually increased during the first year of the TKAP. Hospital admissions for violence increased by 3% in TKAP areas and by 3.1% in other areas between 2008 and 2009
Commenting, Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary, Chris Huhne said: “It is shameful that a year after we first brought this issue to the Government’s attention, seven out of 10 hospital trusts are still not sharing this vital data with the police.
“It beggars belief why anyone would ignore best practice of this kind which drastically reduces woundings.
“There is no point Labour and the Tories posturing on penalties when they won’t even endorse a proven method of what works to cut knife crime.
“Labour is missing an open goal to reduce the damage caused by the Booze Britain they have created.
“Ministers claim to be tackling knife crime but they’re not even following the Cardiff Model in their flagship TKAP areas, where violence is actually on the increase.
“Heads at the Department of Health and the Home Office must be knocked together to ensure that the Cardiff Model is used in every emergency ward in the country.”
LIB DEMS WILL WAIVE THE BACKDATED PORT RATES
According to the Grimsby Telegraph there is increased opposition against the Government's continued stance on the collection of backdated port rates, with the Liberal Democrats now stating they too would scrap them.
Labour is now isolated on the issue, with dissent from local MPs too. And should a hung parliament be the outcome of the election, widely tipped to take place on May 6, Liberal Democrat Shadow Chancellor, Vince Cable has been highlighted as a potential Chancellor of the Exchequer, overseeing the Treasury which holds the key to the ruinous situation.
Councillor Andrew De Freitas, Leader of the Liberal Democrat-led North East Lincolnshire Council, and prospective parliamentary candidate for Great Grimsby for the party, said: "This is a significant development. The party is saying there should be a moratorium, and that backdated rates should not be collected. This really isolates the Labour Party and puts more pressure on them.
"In the past I have been in touch with Vince Cable, speaking to him about the issue last year, and also the Cabinet. When they visited Leeds I spoke to Alistair Darling and Geoff Hoon. I honestly thought at the time they would give this serious consideration. I don't think they see the importance of it.
"As a local authority leader I am just hoping at the 11th hour the Government will ease off and say 'let's have another look at it'. The law is the law and if we are told we have to make steps to collect we will have to do that. I have to be careful, and we are bending over backwards to assist the businesses affected by this."
A policy brief from Liberal Democrat central office said: "We will scrap backdated business rates charged to port-based companies so that they are not unfairly penalised by the Government's mistakes. This will save valuable jobs and businesses in the UK's ports.
"We will waive backdated business rate bills to port occupiers relating to periods before April 2008. This is on the basis that backdated rates bills began to be issued from September 2008 and therefore it is fair to expect port occupiers to settle business rates for the 2008-09 year and subsequent years, but it is not reasonable to backdate bills before this date when port occupiers could not reasonably have anticipated the massive increases in rates bills."
Labour is now isolated on the issue, with dissent from local MPs too. And should a hung parliament be the outcome of the election, widely tipped to take place on May 6, Liberal Democrat Shadow Chancellor, Vince Cable has been highlighted as a potential Chancellor of the Exchequer, overseeing the Treasury which holds the key to the ruinous situation.
Councillor Andrew De Freitas, Leader of the Liberal Democrat-led North East Lincolnshire Council, and prospective parliamentary candidate for Great Grimsby for the party, said: "This is a significant development. The party is saying there should be a moratorium, and that backdated rates should not be collected. This really isolates the Labour Party and puts more pressure on them.
"In the past I have been in touch with Vince Cable, speaking to him about the issue last year, and also the Cabinet. When they visited Leeds I spoke to Alistair Darling and Geoff Hoon. I honestly thought at the time they would give this serious consideration. I don't think they see the importance of it.
"As a local authority leader I am just hoping at the 11th hour the Government will ease off and say 'let's have another look at it'. The law is the law and if we are told we have to make steps to collect we will have to do that. I have to be careful, and we are bending over backwards to assist the businesses affected by this."
A policy brief from Liberal Democrat central office said: "We will scrap backdated business rates charged to port-based companies so that they are not unfairly penalised by the Government's mistakes. This will save valuable jobs and businesses in the UK's ports.
"We will waive backdated business rate bills to port occupiers relating to periods before April 2008. This is on the basis that backdated rates bills began to be issued from September 2008 and therefore it is fair to expect port occupiers to settle business rates for the 2008-09 year and subsequent years, but it is not reasonable to backdate bills before this date when port occupiers could not reasonably have anticipated the massive increases in rates bills."
Wednesday, 10 February 2010
NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL TO LAUNCH NEW WEBSITE THIS MONTH
NORTH East Lincolnshire Council will be launching a brand new website this month, marking the beginning of a new era in providing local services and information online.
The website has been developed using feedback from customers and employees. It looks cleaner and brighter and will be much easier for people to find the information they want. It is simple to use and it will bring many benefits to the council, local residents and partner organisations. As more and more services become available online, it will be easier and cheaper for customers as they will need to make fewer telephone calls and personal visits to council offices.
The council has been developing the new site over the past year with internet firm Web-Labs, and the first phase of the development is expected to go live on February 16. The new site is part of one of a number of projects in the council’s improvement programme, Towards Top Performance.
The project is an ongoing one. This first phase will see all the important information that the council must provide online, but many more functions will appear on the website as the project is rolled out throughout the year. Some of the other features that will become available include opportunities for people to get involved with polls, forums and blogs. Information will be available on maps so customers will be able to see at a glance the services near to where they live. There will be an events facility, to which community groups can contribute, and a photo gallery allowing people to share their photos of the region.
Rob Walsh, executive director of business services, said: “When the council’s original website was launched in 2003, it was considered at the forefront of local government websites in terms of design and content. But online technology has evolved radically since then, and the functionality we had has become ever-more restrictive. It has also fallen behind the times in terms of accessibility – a shortfall which the council has an obligation to correct.
“This new website gives us the ability to exploit new ways of communicating and delivering services to local people.”
Councillor Steve Beasant who is the cabinet member with responsibility for customer services said: “This new website should prove to be much more successful than the old, outdated site. Technology in recent years as moved forward rapidly. In the coming months more features will be added and this will mean that local residents will be able to take advantage of new ways of accessing services and information.
“We expect they will have a much better customer experience and be able to find their way around the site much easier.”
The council chose to work with Web-Labs because they have a proven track record of providing local councils with high quality websites and functions tailored to the needs of councils and their customers.
The website has been developed using feedback from customers and employees. It looks cleaner and brighter and will be much easier for people to find the information they want. It is simple to use and it will bring many benefits to the council, local residents and partner organisations. As more and more services become available online, it will be easier and cheaper for customers as they will need to make fewer telephone calls and personal visits to council offices.
The council has been developing the new site over the past year with internet firm Web-Labs, and the first phase of the development is expected to go live on February 16. The new site is part of one of a number of projects in the council’s improvement programme, Towards Top Performance.
The project is an ongoing one. This first phase will see all the important information that the council must provide online, but many more functions will appear on the website as the project is rolled out throughout the year. Some of the other features that will become available include opportunities for people to get involved with polls, forums and blogs. Information will be available on maps so customers will be able to see at a glance the services near to where they live. There will be an events facility, to which community groups can contribute, and a photo gallery allowing people to share their photos of the region.
Rob Walsh, executive director of business services, said: “When the council’s original website was launched in 2003, it was considered at the forefront of local government websites in terms of design and content. But online technology has evolved radically since then, and the functionality we had has become ever-more restrictive. It has also fallen behind the times in terms of accessibility – a shortfall which the council has an obligation to correct.
“This new website gives us the ability to exploit new ways of communicating and delivering services to local people.”
Councillor Steve Beasant who is the cabinet member with responsibility for customer services said: “This new website should prove to be much more successful than the old, outdated site. Technology in recent years as moved forward rapidly. In the coming months more features will be added and this will mean that local residents will be able to take advantage of new ways of accessing services and information.
“We expect they will have a much better customer experience and be able to find their way around the site much easier.”
The council chose to work with Web-Labs because they have a proven track record of providing local councils with high quality websites and functions tailored to the needs of councils and their customers.
USE ST VALENTINE’S SEASON TO HELP MAINTAIN A HEALTHY HEART!
MANY people do not realise that allotments are not only good for growing your own fresh fruit and vegetables but they can also be a great way to help you maintain a healthy heart.
On Friday, February 12, 2010 the North East Lincolnshire Council Allotment Team is having a Valentine’s Day information stall giving you the opportunity to go along and learn more about allotments and ways they can help your health.
Working alongside the Allotment Team will be Hospitality students from the Grimsby Institute of Further and Higher Education who are cooking some fresh soup for you to try. The ingredients that will be used in the soup will consist of seasonal vegetables that can easily be grown on an allotment plot. There will also be a competition with the chance to win some Grimsby Market Vouchers.
Maintaining an allotment plot can provide several health benefits to your heart. It can help you work towards eating the Governments recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables a day by growing your own fresh produce. Tending to a plot is an excellent form of exercise for people of all ages and building friendships can have a positive effect on stress levels.
If you are interested in renting and cultivating an allotment please come and visit us and we will be able to answer any questions you may have and also give you any further details on allotments.
The information stall will be in the Freshney Place Shopping Centre on Friday 12th January from 9.30am-1.30pm at the Freshney Place Flottergate entrance to Grimsby Market.
If you would like any further details about allotments please visit: www.nelincs.gov.uk/leisure/allotments or call Lesley Smith, Allotment Officer on 01472 323394.
On Friday, February 12, 2010 the North East Lincolnshire Council Allotment Team is having a Valentine’s Day information stall giving you the opportunity to go along and learn more about allotments and ways they can help your health.
Working alongside the Allotment Team will be Hospitality students from the Grimsby Institute of Further and Higher Education who are cooking some fresh soup for you to try. The ingredients that will be used in the soup will consist of seasonal vegetables that can easily be grown on an allotment plot. There will also be a competition with the chance to win some Grimsby Market Vouchers.
Maintaining an allotment plot can provide several health benefits to your heart. It can help you work towards eating the Governments recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables a day by growing your own fresh produce. Tending to a plot is an excellent form of exercise for people of all ages and building friendships can have a positive effect on stress levels.
If you are interested in renting and cultivating an allotment please come and visit us and we will be able to answer any questions you may have and also give you any further details on allotments.
The information stall will be in the Freshney Place Shopping Centre on Friday 12th January from 9.30am-1.30pm at the Freshney Place Flottergate entrance to Grimsby Market.
If you would like any further details about allotments please visit: www.nelincs.gov.uk/leisure/allotments or call Lesley Smith, Allotment Officer on 01472 323394.
EAST MARSH NEIGHBOURHOOD PRIORITIES - ACTION TAKEN
Priority 1: Anti Social Behaviour - Stanley Street/ Weelsby Street and Duke Street.
Residents have reported that youths are congregating in the area causing criminal damage and anti social behaviour.
This priority was set by East Marsh Involve for the fifth month. Patrols have been carried out in this area; the problem has also been discussed with local residents together with landlords who have responsibility for premises which has attracted anti social behaviour. Two families have been referred to Support Agencies and support has commenced. The activities undertaken have already resulted in fewer problems. Patrols will continue to focus on the area to maintain this improvement.
This month there have been no calls for service!
Priority 2: Castle Street/ Harold Street - Anti Social Behaviour and Criminal Damage.
This priority was set by East Marsh Involve for the third month. Patrols have been deployed to this area to try and identify youths or families that are causing anti social behaviour and criminal damage.
The activities undertaken have already resulted in fewer problems. Patrols will continue to focus on the area to maintain this improvement.
Priority 3:Guildford Street- Arson
This priority has been raised by East Marsh Involve after having some large fires down the street in the empty properties. Patrols will continue in the area and checks are to be made on the properties together with Shoreline to make sure that they are secure. This is aimed at reducing the risk of arson attacks. There is a reduction in fly tipping in the area but arson still remains a risk.
The Local Authority is exploring options of CCTV to cover Guildford Street, Grimsby.
Priority 4: Parking Issues- Oxford Street, Grimsby
This has been raised by East Marsh Involve for the second month.
Oxford Street is a major carriageway which is heavily used by local traffic meaning that parking issues impact on road safety when cars are parking on double yellows. Cars are also parking on the footpaths which can result in people not been able to walk on the footpaths and having to go onto the road.
Patrols have been deployed in the area and tickets have been issued to divers committing parking offences. Road safety advice has been given to motorists and pedestrians.
Also a letter drop has been carried out on Oxford Street and local businesses have been warned and given a poster to display for customers.
Residents have reported that youths are congregating in the area causing criminal damage and anti social behaviour.
This priority was set by East Marsh Involve for the fifth month. Patrols have been carried out in this area; the problem has also been discussed with local residents together with landlords who have responsibility for premises which has attracted anti social behaviour. Two families have been referred to Support Agencies and support has commenced. The activities undertaken have already resulted in fewer problems. Patrols will continue to focus on the area to maintain this improvement.
This month there have been no calls for service!
Priority 2: Castle Street/ Harold Street - Anti Social Behaviour and Criminal Damage.
This priority was set by East Marsh Involve for the third month. Patrols have been deployed to this area to try and identify youths or families that are causing anti social behaviour and criminal damage.
The activities undertaken have already resulted in fewer problems. Patrols will continue to focus on the area to maintain this improvement.
Priority 3:Guildford Street- Arson
This priority has been raised by East Marsh Involve after having some large fires down the street in the empty properties. Patrols will continue in the area and checks are to be made on the properties together with Shoreline to make sure that they are secure. This is aimed at reducing the risk of arson attacks. There is a reduction in fly tipping in the area but arson still remains a risk.
The Local Authority is exploring options of CCTV to cover Guildford Street, Grimsby.
Priority 4: Parking Issues- Oxford Street, Grimsby
This has been raised by East Marsh Involve for the second month.
Oxford Street is a major carriageway which is heavily used by local traffic meaning that parking issues impact on road safety when cars are parking on double yellows. Cars are also parking on the footpaths which can result in people not been able to walk on the footpaths and having to go onto the road.
Patrols have been deployed in the area and tickets have been issued to divers committing parking offences. Road safety advice has been given to motorists and pedestrians.
Also a letter drop has been carried out on Oxford Street and local businesses have been warned and given a poster to display for customers.
FREE 'POWER DOWNS' AVAILABLE TO HELP YOU SAVE ELECTRICITY AND MONEY
THE Energy Saving Trust will be visiting our Customer Access points in the week commencing February 22 to give general energy saving advice and free Power Downs to the members of the public.
The link below gives details of the Power downs. There is no charge for this and it can help people save up to £25 per year on their energy bills. Each day, 80 of these will be given away based on a first come, first served basis.
For further information; click
HEREThe trust will visit the following locations from 10am to 4pm on the given day:
- Municipal Offices, Grimsby - Feb 22
- Civic Offices, Cleethorpes - Feb 23
- Kennedy Way, Immingham - Feb 26
UNSOLICITED SECURITY SERVICES WORKING IN NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE
Recently, a large number of readers have reported receiving telephone calls from companies making out they are connected with Government Schemes to perform security checks with the offer of free or reduced price burglar alarm systems.
Safelinks advises that if you where to consider the installation of a burglar alarm you should engage the services of a local burglar alarm installer recommended by relatives, friends or neighbours. In any case before allowing anyone into your home you should check with the local trading standards department at council offices.
Humberside Police in North East Lincolnshire provide a free home security check and upgrade by trained fitters. Please telephone Jane Taylor on 01472 324988/324987 for appointment for this very useful service. The Police fitters are experienced in the methods used by burglars in this area and so will help you to avoid a nasty experience.
Any problem contact Safelinks; click HERE
Safelinks advises that if you where to consider the installation of a burglar alarm you should engage the services of a local burglar alarm installer recommended by relatives, friends or neighbours. In any case before allowing anyone into your home you should check with the local trading standards department at council offices.
Humberside Police in North East Lincolnshire provide a free home security check and upgrade by trained fitters. Please telephone Jane Taylor on 01472 324988/324987 for appointment for this very useful service. The Police fitters are experienced in the methods used by burglars in this area and so will help you to avoid a nasty experience.
Any problem contact Safelinks; click HERE
BY THE END OF THIS WINTER THE KEEP WARM, EAT WELL PROJECT WILL HAVE SECURED £1 MILLION IN UNCLAIMED BENEFITS
A project to help the elderly to keep their homes warm this winter and eat properly is starting to make a difference to people’s lives.
The Keep Warm, Eat Well Project is funded by the North East Lincolnshire Care Trust Plus (CTP) and is estimated that by the end of the winter more than £1 million will have been secured in unclaimed benefits for the elderly residents of North East Lincolnshire.
Last winter the CTP highlighted some alarming facts: that many older people living in the borough could not afford to pay their fuel bills and eat properly, which could have been a factor leading to the increased admissions to hospital and higher mortality rates among the elderly population.
The CTP is working in partnership with the Citizens Advice Bureau, Community Advice Service and Home Efficiency Team to provide welfare benefits advice designed to raise the income of the elderly population and to help them keep their home warm this winter.
Sarah Avery, CTP Transforming Care communications project manager, said: “Keep Ward, Eat Well is actively working to tackle poverty and reduce the impact of problems related to low incomes.
The project is successfully increasing older people’s incomes, with vital information and advice to help them access welfare benefit entitlements, pension credit take-up, advice on how to heat their homes economically and how to eat well to stay healthy.”
The campaign focuses on three main contact numbers (01472) 232203 or (01472) 871383 for benefits and council tax advice and (01472) 324782 for heating and insulation advice.
An over-60s drop-in session is now held by the Community Advice Service every Tuesday at the Home Shop, 31 Freeman Street, from 1pm to 4pm; no appointment is needed.
Home visits are also available too by calling (01472) 871383. Older people can help with form filling, Attendance Allowance, Pension Credit and get a full benefit check.
Tony Gaskins, Citizens Advice Bureau Chief Executive, said: “Keep Warm, Eat Well Project is really beginning to make difference in elderly people’s lives. More than £113,000 in additional benefit income has been secured for people who have used the project. Community Advice Service has secured similar benefits for people aged 60 or over.
“While some older people are enjoying more sociable, active and wealthier lifestyles, others remain isolated, poor and relatively powerless.
“Many older people heat one room in the house, buy the cheapest food, and never spend money on holidays or clothes.”
Annmarie Webster, Service Manager at the Community Advice Service, said: “As the recession continues to bite, pensioner poverty is growing. This is why the Keep Warm, Eat Well Project is vital at this time to assist those most in need.”
People aged 60 or over who are worried that their heating bills have increased, or are worried that their homes are not warm enough, should contact the Keep Warm, Eat Well Project to make sure they are receiving their full entitlement to benefits and that they can keep their homes warm.
The Keep Warm, Eat Well Project is funded by the North East Lincolnshire Care Trust Plus (CTP) and is estimated that by the end of the winter more than £1 million will have been secured in unclaimed benefits for the elderly residents of North East Lincolnshire.
Last winter the CTP highlighted some alarming facts: that many older people living in the borough could not afford to pay their fuel bills and eat properly, which could have been a factor leading to the increased admissions to hospital and higher mortality rates among the elderly population.
The CTP is working in partnership with the Citizens Advice Bureau, Community Advice Service and Home Efficiency Team to provide welfare benefits advice designed to raise the income of the elderly population and to help them keep their home warm this winter.
Sarah Avery, CTP Transforming Care communications project manager, said: “Keep Ward, Eat Well is actively working to tackle poverty and reduce the impact of problems related to low incomes.
The project is successfully increasing older people’s incomes, with vital information and advice to help them access welfare benefit entitlements, pension credit take-up, advice on how to heat their homes economically and how to eat well to stay healthy.”
The campaign focuses on three main contact numbers (01472) 232203 or (01472) 871383 for benefits and council tax advice and (01472) 324782 for heating and insulation advice.
An over-60s drop-in session is now held by the Community Advice Service every Tuesday at the Home Shop, 31 Freeman Street, from 1pm to 4pm; no appointment is needed.
Home visits are also available too by calling (01472) 871383. Older people can help with form filling, Attendance Allowance, Pension Credit and get a full benefit check.
Tony Gaskins, Citizens Advice Bureau Chief Executive, said: “Keep Warm, Eat Well Project is really beginning to make difference in elderly people’s lives. More than £113,000 in additional benefit income has been secured for people who have used the project. Community Advice Service has secured similar benefits for people aged 60 or over.
“While some older people are enjoying more sociable, active and wealthier lifestyles, others remain isolated, poor and relatively powerless.
“Many older people heat one room in the house, buy the cheapest food, and never spend money on holidays or clothes.”
Annmarie Webster, Service Manager at the Community Advice Service, said: “As the recession continues to bite, pensioner poverty is growing. This is why the Keep Warm, Eat Well Project is vital at this time to assist those most in need.”
People aged 60 or over who are worried that their heating bills have increased, or are worried that their homes are not warm enough, should contact the Keep Warm, Eat Well Project to make sure they are receiving their full entitlement to benefits and that they can keep their homes warm.
BEST MONTH EVER FOR RECORDED CRIME IN NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE
SMARTER APPROACHES LEAD TO BEST CRIME MONTH EVER
JANUARY 2010 has seen the lowest number of monthly recorded crimes across the North East Lincolnshire region since records began, in 1996, meaning 57 fewer victims of crime in our area compared to the highest recorded crime figure of 3069 in March 2004.
It is no secret that national targets are tight and changes have been made to the way in which the police work alongside the multitude of communities that make up North East Lincolnshire.
These have been made in order to improve the quality service delivered to residents and businesses across the region.
They have led to ongoing reductions in area's such as burglary and night time economy related violence which can have a lasting impact on victims.
It shows that the division is moving in the right direction but we are striving to achieve further reductions and build on public confidence in the future.
To put these reductions into perspective, January 1997 saw a total of 2071 recorded crimes which actually rose to a peak of 2879 in January 2004 however this year January 2010 has seen just 1309 crimes being recorded across the division.
Detective Chief Insp Bob Clark said: "It is pleasing to see the ongoing hard work throughout the division is starting to bear fruit however there will be members of public out there who still feel we could do more to improve on the service we deliver and that is what we intend to do.
"Along with our partners, we are constantly looking at new ways to tackle crime and disorder issues that cause the most concern throughout the area and how to encourage members of public to work with us in order to make North East Lincolnshire a safer place to live, work or visit.
"For example, making residents aware of emerging issues as soon as we identify them and advising on how to reduce the chances of being targeted has seen significant reductions in burglary in area's traditionally targeted by criminals. This is just one example of how we are looking at involving our communities more in order make life harder for those looking to commit crime.
"Although we feel there are still further improvements to be made in areas such as satisfaction and in particular the perceptions of crime and disorder across the area these figures certainly show that we are moving in the right direction and it is to be hoped that residents will look at what they can do to support our work in the future to continue reducing the number of crimes and victims across North East Lincolnshire."
JANUARY 2010 has seen the lowest number of monthly recorded crimes across the North East Lincolnshire region since records began, in 1996, meaning 57 fewer victims of crime in our area compared to the highest recorded crime figure of 3069 in March 2004.
It is no secret that national targets are tight and changes have been made to the way in which the police work alongside the multitude of communities that make up North East Lincolnshire.
These have been made in order to improve the quality service delivered to residents and businesses across the region.
They have led to ongoing reductions in area's such as burglary and night time economy related violence which can have a lasting impact on victims.
It shows that the division is moving in the right direction but we are striving to achieve further reductions and build on public confidence in the future.
To put these reductions into perspective, January 1997 saw a total of 2071 recorded crimes which actually rose to a peak of 2879 in January 2004 however this year January 2010 has seen just 1309 crimes being recorded across the division.
Detective Chief Insp Bob Clark said: "It is pleasing to see the ongoing hard work throughout the division is starting to bear fruit however there will be members of public out there who still feel we could do more to improve on the service we deliver and that is what we intend to do.
"Along with our partners, we are constantly looking at new ways to tackle crime and disorder issues that cause the most concern throughout the area and how to encourage members of public to work with us in order to make North East Lincolnshire a safer place to live, work or visit.
"For example, making residents aware of emerging issues as soon as we identify them and advising on how to reduce the chances of being targeted has seen significant reductions in burglary in area's traditionally targeted by criminals. This is just one example of how we are looking at involving our communities more in order make life harder for those looking to commit crime.
"Although we feel there are still further improvements to be made in areas such as satisfaction and in particular the perceptions of crime and disorder across the area these figures certainly show that we are moving in the right direction and it is to be hoped that residents will look at what they can do to support our work in the future to continue reducing the number of crimes and victims across North East Lincolnshire."
“COUNTDOWN TO A NEW START”; AND A “FRESH START FOR THE EAST MARSH”
The Grimsby Evening Telegraph are reporting today, that the “Countdown to A New Start” for the East Marsh as now commenced; it is a positive step forward which will result in the demolition of one hundred houses on Guildford Street.
The remaining houses will be radically revamped, and it is hoped that as soon as the Guildford Street site is cleared new low density housing will be built which will radically transform the area; giving a “Fresh Start to the “East Marsh”. It is a one in life-time opportunity, in these difficult time and we need to make the best of the situation.
As reported in the Grimsby Evening Telegraph and on this website, the residents have been consulted on number proposals for the Guildford Street area, which would include a new street layout, home zone, and new low density housing to replace the existing housing; along with plans to revamp the housing that will not be part of the demolition.
The latest move in the development has been met with joy from councillors and the East Marsh Community Group, which wants to see new “aspirational” housing on the site.
Councillor Tony McCabe (Liberal Democrat, East Marsh) said the work is likely to begin in March, with work crews dismantling house interiors on half the closed off area.
He said: “We identified with the public just how far things had gone in terms of dereliction and boarded up properties and decided something practical needed doing. We got external funding from the Homes and Communities Agency, and we added money to that – which totalled £7.9 million. We used this to buy up the properties, and to cover the costs of people moving to new accommodation.”
Councillor Steve Beasant (Liberal Democrat, East Marsh) said: “It’s absolutely fantastic that we have moved a step closer to the demolition of Guildford Street.
“We are over the moon”
He said it would eliminate anti-social behaviour in the area. As reported, the boarded up homes had been a target of arsonist in recent months, which had been a cause of concern.
He added the next step would be the development of the site, full details of which have not yet been revealed.
“It’s a great opportunity to see what can then be developed on that area,” he added.
“This will be determined by what residents want to see put into place.
“But it will based on low density housing, aspirational housing – and build up people’s life chances – rather than a mish mash.”
John Harrison, Chair of East Marsh Involve said: “Everybody I have spoken to has seen the demolition as a way forward. It’s a start of a wider development of the East Marsh, which is definitely overdue.
“I have lived here since 1979, and back then it was quiet nice, respectable street, made up of families from the fishing industry.
“In the last in the last twenty years it has been in decline – although this will see the area climb back.
“I would like to see good affordable housing here; be it for the first-time buyer or the elderly.”
Alan Burley is the community development worker in the East Marsh. He said: “At the beginning of the process the residents didn’t trust anyone. They had heard it all before, and been consulted before, and had lost faith.
“Now residents are seeing things happen, they are happy to be part of the process.”
The remaining houses will be radically revamped, and it is hoped that as soon as the Guildford Street site is cleared new low density housing will be built which will radically transform the area; giving a “Fresh Start to the “East Marsh”. It is a one in life-time opportunity, in these difficult time and we need to make the best of the situation.
As reported in the Grimsby Evening Telegraph and on this website, the residents have been consulted on number proposals for the Guildford Street area, which would include a new street layout, home zone, and new low density housing to replace the existing housing; along with plans to revamp the housing that will not be part of the demolition.
The latest move in the development has been met with joy from councillors and the East Marsh Community Group, which wants to see new “aspirational” housing on the site.
Councillor Tony McCabe (Liberal Democrat, East Marsh) said the work is likely to begin in March, with work crews dismantling house interiors on half the closed off area.
He said: “We identified with the public just how far things had gone in terms of dereliction and boarded up properties and decided something practical needed doing. We got external funding from the Homes and Communities Agency, and we added money to that – which totalled £7.9 million. We used this to buy up the properties, and to cover the costs of people moving to new accommodation.”
Councillor Steve Beasant (Liberal Democrat, East Marsh) said: “It’s absolutely fantastic that we have moved a step closer to the demolition of Guildford Street.
“We are over the moon”
He said it would eliminate anti-social behaviour in the area. As reported, the boarded up homes had been a target of arsonist in recent months, which had been a cause of concern.
He added the next step would be the development of the site, full details of which have not yet been revealed.
“It’s a great opportunity to see what can then be developed on that area,” he added.
“This will be determined by what residents want to see put into place.
“But it will based on low density housing, aspirational housing – and build up people’s life chances – rather than a mish mash.”
John Harrison, Chair of East Marsh Involve said: “Everybody I have spoken to has seen the demolition as a way forward. It’s a start of a wider development of the East Marsh, which is definitely overdue.
“I have lived here since 1979, and back then it was quiet nice, respectable street, made up of families from the fishing industry.
“In the last in the last twenty years it has been in decline – although this will see the area climb back.
“I would like to see good affordable housing here; be it for the first-time buyer or the elderly.”
Alan Burley is the community development worker in the East Marsh. He said: “At the beginning of the process the residents didn’t trust anyone. They had heard it all before, and been consulted before, and had lost faith.
“Now residents are seeing things happen, they are happy to be part of the process.”
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