Neighbourhood Watch

Todwick Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter

September 2013

Welcome to all those villagers who have signed up to the Todwick Neighbourhood Watch since our last newsletter in June 2013. We hope that you find these newsletters informative and useful and we always value your information and feedback. We do not publish anyone’s name, address or any other private details.

Unwanted Telephone Calls

If you are receiving unwanted telephone calls, there are some precautions you can take to help yourself. Firstly register with the Telephone Preference Service. It is a free service and can help to reduce unwanted calls. By going ex-directory, your phone number will not be in any telephone directory. When it comes round to completing the Electoral Roll form, select the option to have your personal details with-held from the copy that is sold to the general public. Often personal information is requested for things such as registering product guarantees. Before giving out your personal details make sure that your personal details are not going to be sold or passed on. There is a telephone called the BT6500 where you can block certain types of call. I have just bought one and now have a surplus twin phone system which has a display panel to show the caller’s number. It is free to the first person who contacts me.

Handyperson Services

We have come across 2 independent services run in the locality for those odd jobs that need doing about the house. Routine repairs, like dripping taps, small jobs like fixing security lights, fitting door chains, decorating rooms, gardening, changing light bulbs, fitting key safes, grab-rails etc. But if you can’t do them yourself, they are not routine or small jobs. So, if you are over 55, or maybe with mobility issues or feel vulnerable then perhaps we can put you in touch with someone “who can do”. If you need help, please contact Norman for further information & telephone numbers.

No Cold Calling

The no cold calling zones currently in Todwick are increasing, but very slowly. Despite notices in the zones, some residents are still experiencing cold calling from sales people. Should this happen to you, the best advice is to point out the No Cold Calling notice and ask the person to leave. If the person becomes aggressive or abusive, we advise you to close and lock the door, and then contact the Police immediately on telephone number 101 or 999 if you feel physically threatened .

Scam Letters

It has come to our attention that scam letters are yet again circulating in the village. They purport to come from Spain and will contain reference to a “deceased person” not surprisingly with the same surname as yourself. The words “TOP SECRET” appear as the heading!! Best advice is put the letter in the recycling blue bag. Please do not reply to it.

Phishing Trips

I am reliably informed by one of the major high street banks that there is a new angle to trying to get people to pass on their banking details. Fraudsters have been calling people on the telephone and posing as someone from a bank’s fraud investigation team, the police, a telephone or internet provider, a utility company etc. The scammers try to get your credit or debit card details, internet security codes, bank account details or other personal information. Please remember that banks will never ask you for your sensitive information over the phone or in an email. If you are called in this manner, please tell your bank immediately.

Dark Nights

As the dark nights are approaching please consider using timers for your indoor plug in lights. They are cheap to buy & easy to use for energy saving bulbs. Also if you have a garage, we strongly recommend that the family car is put in there at night.

And Finally

If you have any issues that are bothering you about our village of Todwick, and are not sure who to contact, please contact me at the address below.

Contact Information

S.Y. Police non-emergency calls to report crime or give information dial 101

Crimestoppers to give information about crime (you do not have to give your name) dial 0800 555 111 open Mon – Fri 8 am to 10 pm & Sunday 10 am to 4 pm

Action Fraud this is the government run reporting centre for fraud. Calls can be made on 0300 123 2040 anonymously or text on 0300 123 2050

Streetpride part of Rotherham Borough Council. For most general problems with bin emptying, damaged bins, street lighting, potholes & other problems associated with roads & pavements 01709 336003

Crime Statistics

The crime statistics for Todwick for June, July & August 2013 inclusive, kindly provided by South Yorkshire Police are as follows:

Theft of motor vehicle	1
Theft from motor vehicle	1
Criminal damage to motor vehicle	1
Assault occasioning actual bodily harm	1
Other miscellaneous theft	1
Burglary (non dwelling)	2
Dangerous dog injure person (non public place)	1
Antisocial behaviour
Vehicle nuisance	1

Thanks to all the villagers who have provided details of incidents and issues.

Thanks also to Sheila Pantry for ensuring that our village website www.todwick.org.uk shows our newsletters.

Norman Anderson (chair)