ESF News

27th September 2016

3VA e-Newsletter Issue 276

The latest 3VA e-Newsletter is now available to download from the 3VA website.

3VA provides a range of practical support to charities and community groups in Wealden, Eastbourne and the Lewes District - including start-up support, funding advice, help with governance, training and getting involved in local policy and decision making. For more information, or to download previous issues, visit www.3va.org.uk

23rd September 2016

News and appeals

Sussex Police donates £250 to Eastbourne First Girls' Brigade

Sussex Police has donated £250 to The Girls' Brigade in Eastbourne, a group that has helped inspire many young girls to achieve their personal and developmental goals for many years.

More information > >

Police boost for Eastbourne Heritage

Heritage Eastbourne has received a £350 boost from Sussex Police thanks to heritage crime officer and police community support officer Daryl Holter.

PCSO Holter was able to secure the grant from the Police Property Act Fund, made up of monies received by the police from property confiscated by order of the court and then sold.

More information > >

Police release CCTV images of Eastbourne assault suspect

Police are seeking to identify the man in connection with an assault in Eastbourne.

More information > >

Operation Blitz

Operation Blitz will be running 6pm until Midnight on Saturday, please call 07785 372050 to report Anti-Social Behaviour.

Help us keep Sussex safe

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

22nd September 2016

Seafront Team Step Up Lifesaving Equipment

Eastbourne Borough Council’s Seafront team have added extra lifesaving measures to the seafront this summer, with two new defibrillators on hand for emergencies.

The lifesaving devices, which help restart the heart in the case of cardiac arrest have been installed in two busy locations at the Lifeguard station and Seafront Office.

Defibrillators are an essential first aid tool in cases of cardiac arrest, keeping patients alive until paramedics arrive on site. Giving a high energy electric shock to the heart through the chest wall, they should only be used after dialling 999.

Eastbourne Borough Council Lead Cabinet Member for Tourism and Enterprise, Cllr Margaret Bannister said “We take safety and first aid very seriously on Eastbourne seafront and have an excellent team of trained lifeguards on hand to assist in any first aid or lifesaving situation. They are trained in using defibrillators and have already been commended by SECamb for their lifesaving CPR and defibrillation efforts this summer.”

Anyone can access the defibrillators and in an emergency cardiac arrest situation, members of the public should dial 999 and start CPR. The 999 call handler will provide a code to open the nearest defibrillator and give step by step guidance until paramedics arrive.

Extra measures this year also include free sun cream available in lotion dispensers at the Lifeguard Station. With a minimum of SPF 30, the free sun cream is essential for those days of unexpected sunshine which occur so frequently in Eastbourne.

Beach visitors may have also spotted an expanded sandpit, which has proved extremely popular with increasing numbers of families visiting the beach this year. The new sandpit in front of the Lifeguard station is maintained with fresh sand by the lifeguard team and is part of ongoing child-friendly measures which include free kids wristbands and Tyro lifeguard courses in school holidays.

The lifeguard station opens from 1 May to 30 September. For more information on visiting Eastbourne beach visit www.visiteastbourne.com or telephone the Seafront Office on 01323 410611.

20th September 2016

Community Safety Partnership Relaunches
e-Newsletter

Since 2005 crime in Eastbourne has fallen by over 40% and the ECSP continues to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour by working in partnership with statutory and voluntary agencies, along with local community groups.

The relaunched newsletter provides information on what the Partnership is doing to make Eastbourne an even safer place to live, work and visit.

In this issue:

Diversionary Sports 2016
Operation Wagon Wheel

Download the newsletter > >

You can find out more about the Partnership here.

13th September 2016

Phishing E-mail

There is a phishing email currently in circulation that claims to be from the City of London Police. The departments that it claims to represent include the ‘Fraud Intelligence Unit’ and the ‘National Fraud Intelligence Bureau’. The email is titled ‘compensation fund’ and has a letter attachment that claims to be offering financial compensation to victims of fraud. The letter uses the City of London Police logo.

The letter states that in order for compensation to be arranged, the receiver of the email should reply disclosing personal information. It states that HSBC and the South African Reserve Bank have been chosen to handle the compensation claims. All of these claims are false.

The email and letter are fraudulent and should not be replied to.

Protect Yourself

Opening attachments or clicking links contained within emails from unknown sources could result in your device being infected with malware or a virus.
The City of London Police and the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau will never email you asking for you to disclose personal information.
If you believe you have become a victim of this fraudulent email get your device checked by a professional and make a report to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cyber crime reporting centre

10th September 2016

Sussex Police Fraud Newsletter

Sussex Police has published the August issue of its Fraud Newsletter.

In this issue:

Are you wise to computer service fraud?
Students should be wary of accommodation fraud and ‘money mules’
Fraudulent cold callers offering government payments
Warning of bogus council tax refund fraud

Download the newsletter > >

8th September 2016

Arrests Made After Police Chase

Yesterday afternoon Police on routine patrol saw a Vauxhall Corsa acting suspiciously in the Crumbles area. The marked Police car attempted to stop the vehicle however the vehicle failed to stop for Police and drove off along Pevensey Bay Road, Princes Road, Wallis Avenue, Seaside, and then coming to a stop in Lottbridge Drove colliding with another unrelated vehicle.

The vehicle, at times, drove on the wrong side of the road, and also mounted the pavement on occasion too. Police acted quickly to ensure that the follow was conducted safely with minimal risk to road users and pedestrians, including deploying a “stop stick” to disable the vehicles tyres to safely bring the follow to a conclusion.

No person was injured in the incident, however two males were arrested in relation to drugs offences, and standard of driving matters. They have been released on Police bail pending further enquiries into the matter.

Given the time of day there would have been many people around those areas, especially with the Tollgate School being nearby and children heading home with their parents.

If anyone witnessed the incident they are asked to contact Police on 101 quoting reference 961 7/9/16, alternatively emailing:
101@sussex.pnn.police.uk

7th September 2016

Call 105 for Power Cut Information

UK Power Network has launched 105, a new national power cut phone line, to help people contact the company that looks after their electricity network. This would be UK Power Networks for London, the East and South East of England.

The number, which is available to electricity customers in England, Scotland and Wales, will enable people to report, or get information about, power cuts as well as report damage to electricity power lines and substations that could put themselves, or someone else, in danger.

105 is funded and delivered by the electricity network operators, and is a first for the UK’s energy industry. As well as calling 105, you can find more information on the website: http://www.powercut105.com/

5th September 2016

Police Warning to Women Driving Alone

Sussex Police have issued this warning to drivers, in particular women driving alone, across Wealden and Lewes districts.

They have been getting reports over the last two weeks of a dark haired man in his 50's, appearing to be in distress and in need of help, who is flagging down cars. He is described as being of a fairly heavy build, of either Asian or European appearance and he speaks with an Eastern European-sounding accent.

He offers various reasons for stopping cars but in all cases he is asking for money and it seems he has so far only approached women. He has told different drivers alternative versions e.g. that he has run out of petrol, has no money to feed his children, or that he has problems with his credit card. In all cases, he tries to interest the driver in buying one of his gold rings for the money which he tries to remove from his finger.

The incidents have been reported on roads near Uckfield, Nutley, Crowborough, on the A27 just outside Kingston and Lewes, on the A26 going towards Newhaven and apparently also in locations around Rother district. In all cases, a silver coloured Ford Galaxy, which we also understand is one of the older models, has been seen parked nearby.

Please circulate this warning to make friends and relatives aware. If anybody has information about this man or thinks they have also been stopped by him, please contact Sussex Police on 101 by phone, or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk and quote reference 435 of 11/08.

4th September 2016

Warning From Neighbourhood Watch

Sussex Neighbourhood Watch wishes to alert residents to two ongoing types of crime attempts in parts of Sussex. Be aware that it could spread, so you need to be ready.

Firstly, one of its coordinators was telephoned this morning by a lady who told her that her bank wanted to return an amount of interest owing to her. The caller quoted our coordinator's name and address and it all sounded very plausible. Our coordinator then asked the caller which bank or building society this returned interest would be coming from. The caller said she didn't have that information. When our coordinator started to ask more questions the line went dead. It all sounded so convincing.

Please be very cautious about giving personal information if somebody phones you.

Secondly, keep your car keys safe. There is a recognised type of burglary where offenders will enter your home purely to steal your keys in order to take your car.

Please remember to hide your keys and handbag, and do not leave them or other valuables by or in sight of the front door or windows.

2nd September 2016

Seasonal Rental Fraud

Seasonal rental fraud is an emerging trend with students looking for suitable accommodation around August, before the start of the new term. Fraudsters use a variety of websites to advertise available properties to rent, often at attractive rates and convenient locations. Adverts will seem genuine, accompanied by a number of photos and contact information to discuss your interest.

Due to demand, students will often agree to pay upfront fees to secure the property quickly, without viewing the property, only to discover that the fraudster posing as the landlord does not have ownership of the property, or often there are already tenants living there.

Protect Yourself

Only use reputable letting companies.
Do some online research such as using Google maps to check the property does exist.
Make an appointment to view the property in person.
Always view the property prior to paying any advance fees.
Look out for warning signs, such as landlords requesting a ‘holding deposit’ due to the property being in high demand.
A landlord will usually conduct some due diligence on any successful applicant. Be wary of handing over cash without the landlord requesting employment or character references.

If you, or anyone you know, have been affected by this fraud or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk

31st August 2016

Eastbourne Gets Tough on Street Drinking

Police are launching a crackdown on street drinking and alcohol-fuelled anti-social behaviour in Eastbourne town centre following a rise in reports during the warmer weather.

Sussex Police is introducing extra patrols to check on hotspots across the town, liaise with local businesses and remove alcohol from anyone who is found drinking and causing a nuisance.

Inspector Rachel Barrow, of the Eastbourne Neighbourhood Policing Team, said, “We recognise that whilst this is an issue and concern at any time of the year, the warmer months tend to see an increase in this type of complaint. We will be making use of our local officers and staff and, when needed, we have planned for support from neighbouring districts such as Lewes and Wealden to help police this operation. Enforcement is only part of the solution to an increasing problem across the country and certainly not unique to Eastbourne as a bustling and vibrant seaside town. We continue to work closely with other services to try and tackle the root cause of alcohol related crime and disorder.”

The operation is part of a wider strategy to tackle street drinking involving Sussex Police, Eastbourne Borough Council and Eastbourne Community Safety Partnership, and includes the setting up of Eastbourne HUB to support the local street community.

Councillor Alan Shuttleworth, Lead Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said, “The Community Safety Partnership is totally committed to combating anti-social behaviour across the town to improve the quality of life for residents, businesses and visitors to Eastbourne. It continues to work closely with the police and its other partners to tackle alcohol related anti-social behaviour.

Inspector Barrow added, "We hope to do our very best in responding to calls and complaints from people about this type of behaviour and encourage that if an incident is taking place to report it by using 101 or 999 in an emergency.”

Help us keep Sussex safe

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

27th August 2016

Joy riding stolen cars in Eastbourne

There has been a recent increase in the number of vehicles that have been stolen in Eastbourne, as thieves are breaking into residents’ homes and taking the car keys.

A burglary in your own home is a devastating experience but to also steal your car can mess with your head. Sussex Police has received numerous reports from the Hastings, Peacehaven and Eastbourne area, where thieves are specifically targeting vehicle owners homes in order to joy ride various cars.

Detective Constable Sheila Bonell said “We are asking the public to be extra vigilant with regards to the security of their homes and vehicles by locking all downstairs windows and doors either when not at home or when they retire to bed. Also to make sure that any car keys are well hidden to prevent the theft and subsequent risk that this could pose to the community.

Majority of burglars are opportunistic as they will look for properties where they think they can enter unobserved and work undisturbed. By following the crime prevention tips below you can deter this crime from happening to you.

Keep your front and back doors shut and locked – even when you are at home.
Close and lock all downstairs windows.
Never leave car keys, door keys or other valuables in view of a letterbox or window.
If possible keep your car and door keys in a secure place where thieves are unlikely to look.
Secure your garage and shed too – equipment kept in a garage or shed can be just as tempting for a burglar.
If you can, install a burglar alarm and set it every time you leave home.

Operation Blitz

There will be no dedicated contact telephone number for Operation Blitz this weekend, as policing resources have been delegated to operational need areas in Eastbourne. However, should you need to report any anti-social behaviour please visit our website www.sussex.police.uk or call 101. In an emergency always dial 999. Thank you.

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

20th August 2016

Anti-Social Driving

Police are receiving a number of calls in relation to anti-social driving around the Crumbles area of Eastbourne. Please be reassured that Officers are responding to these calls and are using powers of Section 59 to target street racers, seize vehicles and stop this behaviour from occurring.

Even though this area is an open road, it does not give street racers the right to abuse this road for speeding and disturb the community. Police powers are also enforceable within the car parks and have been used to prosecute drivers using their vehicles in an anti-social manner.

Sussex Police regularly review this area regularly on patrol. In the past vehicles have been sized by Officers and individuals have had to pay fines to recover their vehicle and pay for the time these vehicles have been storage.

Help keep Sussex safe

If you saw or heard anything, or have any information about any incident in this message please:

contact Sussex Police online
email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk
call 101, quoting the reference number provided.

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

18th August 2016

Barriers to Employment for Those 50+

With unemployment a high priority in the local area and recognising the changing demographics, partners have come together to conduct a research study to capture the local labour market barriers to employment for those aged 50 plus living in Eastbourne and Wealden.

The data will inform local recommendations to build on effective partnership working in delivering support to this age group as well as providing an evidence base to open more funding opportunities and to influence provision and decision making.

Partners recognise that the commonalities between those in this age group are their age but not necessarily their aspirations, needs or barriers.

Download the report > >

18th August 2016

15th August 2016

The Future of ESF

In June at our AGM our Chairman, Steve Thornett, retired and Beryl Newson took over. Also, new members joined our Committee. As a start to the new era Beryl would like you to help her shape the future direction and activities for ESF,

Please take a couple of minutes to complete our survey.

Thank you

3th August 2016

Drone Fraud

Online shopping websites are being utilised by fraudsters to advertise non-existent drones of various specifications for competitive prices.

Drones are personal flying devices that often carry cameras and can be navigated remotely by smartphones or hand-held controllers. Fraudsters are capitalising on their recent popularity and advertising non-existent drones at a lower value than their recommended retail price to tempt buyers.

After victims agree to purchase the drone, the fraudsters request payment to be paid via bank transfer saying that it will quicken the delivery process. After transferring the money the buyers never receive the drone and the fraudster blocks the victim to prevent further conversation.

How to protect yourself:

Check the validity of the post.
Avoid paying by bank transfer and instead use an online payment option such as PayPal, which helps to protect you.
Check feedback online by searching the associated phone numbers or email addresses of the seller. Feedback will give you useful information about recent transactions other buyers may have made.
If the item is below market value consider whether this is an opportunity too good to be true.
If you have been affected by this, or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or visiting:
www.actionfraud.police.uk

News and appeals

Police seek dangerous van driver, Seaside, Eastbourne
Motorists in a busy Eastbourne thoroughfare may have been confronted by a van being driven at speed. Officers would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident.

More information > >

Witness appeal following theft from vehicles in Eastbourne
Police are keen to hear from witnesses after a number of vehicles were believed to have been broken into in Carlisle Road, Eastbourne sometime overnight between Wednesday, 3 August and Thursday, 4 August.

More information > >

'Why Not'? - because It's illegal! - Drug smugglers caught on yacht of that name in Eastbourne

Two drug smugglers who tried to use the yacht 'Why Not' to arrive in Eastbourne as their gateway to Britain have been sentenced.

More information > >

Operation Blitz

Wristbands aim to help locate lost children at Airbourne

Airbourne is now upon us and this is a perfect event for all ages to enjoy and best of all its free. However, as many people come to see the spectacular air displays please be mindful of yours and your children’s safety. Losing a child at a busy event is very stressful experience for both parent and child therefore putting a plan in place is vital.

When you arrive at Airbourne make a plan with your child of what to do if you become separated. For older children find a suitable location or landmark and arrange to meet there.
The Police Cadets will be handing out wrist bands free of charge. These wristbands will have space for the parents or guardians phone numbers written on the wristband so that stewards or emergency services can contact the child’s parents if the child becomes lost or becomes separated from their group.

However, if you are unfortunate to loose anyone the Lost Person’s marquee and meeting point will be located on Wilmington Square.

For more information please speak to your Local Policing Team on our non –emergency number 101 or email:
district.eastbourne@sussex.pnn.police.uk

Help us keep Sussex safe

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at:
www.crimestoppers-uk.org

11th August 2016

Courier Scam

People selling their items on online platforms are falling victim to a new type of advance fee fraud. This involves a fraudster, posing as a buyer, sending an email to the seller (victim), agreeing to the full asking price of the item. They state that they are unable to collect the item themselves and will arrange for a courier to pick it up instead.

The fraudster then sends a fake payment confirmation email from a different email address, one which falsely purports to be from a payment platform. In the course of the email exchange, the seller/victim is requested to pay the courier fee. Once the payment is made the contact is broken, the item is not picked up and the money paid for the ‘courier’ is gone.

An example of the most recent emails received by the victim/seller, from the ‘Buyer’, read:

“I want you to consider this deal as I am willing to pay your full asking price! I actually want to buy it for a family member who is urgently in need of it, I have checked through your posting and I’m fully satisfied with it. Unfortunately, I would not be able to come personally to view/collect, I work offshore as an instructor on an oil rig so I don’t have time at all, but like I said I am 100% OK with the advert”

Protect Yourself:

Be wary when buyers wish to purchase items at the full asking price without viewing them.
Check the validity of the payment receipt confirmation
Avoid paying an advanced fee if you are a seller; should you choose to use a courier, arrange your own.
Check feedback online by searching the associated phone numbers or email addresses of the seller/buyer. Feedback will give you useful information about recent transactions other buyers/sellers have made.

If you, or anyone you know, have been affected by this fraud or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.

10th August 2016

Safety and security are police priorities for the Airbourne 2016 aviation event in Eastbourne

Sussex Police is set to play its part in helping to ensure safety and security at Airbourne, the annual four-day festival of flight in Eastbourne that begins this week.

It takes place from Thursday 11 August to Sunday 14 August, from 10am until 6pm each day, with live music each evening and fireworks on Sunday.

As in previous years, the force's priority is the well-being of all concerned, be they visitors to the show and seaside resort, or members of the local community.

Eastbourne district police commander, Chief Insp Emma Brice, said: "For several months now we've been working closely with the organisers and partner agencies to ensure a safe and enjoyable Airbourne for all.”

"In terms of security, where public safety has been significantly compromised as seen in recent events abroad, we've looked at lessons to be learned and reviewed our own plans to keep Airbourne as safe as we can. While the nationally assessed terrorist threat to Airbourne is unchanged from 2015, we will have some additional security measures in place. For instance, this year we will be using some concrete barriers.”

“Most people are unlikely to notice any difference from previous years and none of the changes we have made should affect the enjoyment of people attending the event.”

Airbourne organisers Eastbourne Borough Council added : “We’re pleased to have had the opportunity to work with Sussex Police on key aspects of this popular event. We will have in place reasonable and proportionate measures to ensure that all attending feel confident they are visiting a safe environment.”

Chief Insp Brice said that while stewards and security staff have been thoroughly trained to recognise and respond to any incidents that may arise, and officers and resources are being carefully deployed, visitors and residents can also play their part in keeping things safe.
She said: "For example, we'd ask people to take care of their belongings, follow personal safety advice and immediately report any issues or suspicious behaviour to event staff or police. In an emergency, always dial 999.

To help safeguard children in particular it's suggested that parents and guardians make plans with their youngsters about what to do if they become separated. Police cadets will be handing out free wristbands on which responsible adults can write a contact phone number should a child go astray. There will also be a lost people marquee and rendezvous at Wilmington Square, opposite the Wish Tower, on Eastbourne seafront.

People arriving by car are asked to allow extra time for their journeys and to follow the advice of stewards and police officers to try to minimise any disruption or delays.

For more information about policing aspects of Airbourne, please call the force's non-emergency number 101 or email:
district.eastbourne@sussex.pnn.police.uk

6th August 2016

Community Involvement Newsletter

Eastbourne Borough Council has issued its first ‘community involvement’ newsletter. In this edition, it is concentrating on how it engages with people who are often considered vulnerable to exclusion.

The first newsletter focuses on two groups – Eastbourne Disability Involvement Group and Eastbourne Cultural Involvement Group. Subsequent editions will cover work with other groups such as Eastbourne’s Faiths Forum and Bourne Out.

Click here to download the newsletter.

6th August 2016

News and appeals

Woman punched in face following night out in Eastbourne

Police are seeking witnesses after a woman was assaulted following a night out in Eastbourne.

More information > >

White van men sought in connection with Eastbourne assault
A 17-year-old local boy was walking with a friend in Sevenoaks Road, at the junction with Kingfisher Drive, when a white Ford Transit van pulled alongside them.

More information > >

Operation Blitz

There will be no dedicated contact telephone number for Operation Blitz this weekend, as policing resources have been delegated to operational need areas in Eastbourne. However, should you need to report any anti-social behaviour please visit our website www.sussex.police.uk or call 101. In an emergency always dial 999. Thank you.

Spate of lead crime in Eastbourne

Eastbourne Police are asking residents to be vigilant as there has been a spate of crime involving theft of lead from schools and church buildings.

St. Michaels’s Church in Willingdon and Lindfield School have recently targeted and police are appealing for witnesses who may have seen or heard anything.

To prevent this crime from happening to your building consider the following options;

Put all ladders away in secure storage to prevent thieves from using them to climb up on the roof
Consider implementing outside lighting around the building
Paint anti climb paint on outside pipes and other service items around and on the building
Implement CCTV cameras and burglar sensors

Help us keep Sussex safe
If you saw or heard anything, or have any information about any incident in this message please contact us online, email us at 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting the reference number provided.
Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

28th July 2016

Street Learning Programme

Free training courses will be available, throughout September, to all residents of Eastbourne and Willingdon.

Available courses include:

Maths
English
IT skills
Cookery
and more

Click here for the full list of course dates and venues.

All courses must be booked through the provider:
streetlearning@wealdon.gov.uk.

25th July 2016

Sussex Fraud July Newsletter

Please find attached the latest edition of the Sussex Fraud Newsletter.

Articles include:

Update on activity so far for Scams Awareness Month, including a link to our new video
Warning about holiday booking fraud
How to avoid Rio 2016 Olympics ticket fraud

Download the newsletter > >

25th July 2016

The Changing Role of the PCSO

From Monday 4th July 2016 Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) are equipped with new training and additional skills to proactively problem solve and reduce crime in Sussex. This is the first ‘layer’ of change for Local Policing with the rest of the model to follow in April next year.

PCSOs have played an important role in our delivery of policing to local communities since their introduction in 2003. When they first joined the team in Sussex they were introduced primarily to be visible and provide reassurance. Through their excellent work they have become a valuable part of the organisation. Since this time however, social media has expanded, the crimes people commit have changed, people’s expectations have increased and our budget has reduced.

In order to reflect the changes we have seen in the demands placed on the police, we are making changes to the way we deliver all of our services. This allows us to match demands from the public, to reflect how crime patterns have changed and to provide digital services that are fit for the future.

The changes we have made to the PCSO role specifically include the addition of more powers, including the ability to tackle alcohol-fuelled anti-social behaviour. PCSOs will also take statements from victims and witnesses to support the problem-solving work of their teams. They will not be taking statements on behalf of other units. Many of the changes have come about through the evolution of the role and the changes we have made to reflect this.

In the past, communities would have one named PCSO to contact about an issue. If that person was away from the office on leave or on rest days, the enquiry would wait until their return. Now the public can make contact with a team who can be called upon to help them with their problem. This means the public should get a quicker response to their issue and a greater number of people working with them if this is required.

People have told us they are worried that the changes mean a reduction in service. But far from losing a policing presence, communities with a specific issue could have a whole team of PCSOs from the local district, or even the wider Sussex area, come to them to help tackle their problem. We are absolutely not withdrawing from our communities rather delivering policing in a more focussed, flexible and targeted way. They will now work when and where they are needed.

Whilst the role and deployment of our PCSOs does change, they will continue to conduct foot patrols within Sussex. These will be targeted to areas where we know they can make a difference. They will no longer undertake random patrols as these are proven to have little impact on crime reduction.

The changes being introduced to the PCSO role mean that they will be more flexible and responsive in the interests of all residents and in Eastbourne your PCSO’s can be contacted in a number of ways.

Eastbourne Police Community Support Officers

PCSO Steven Knowles, based at 1 Grove Road, Eastbourne working across the whole of Eastbourne and supported by his Sergeant, Ed Ripley, PC Scott Franklin-Lester, PC Dan Toft and PC Lisa Cousins. Steven has chosen to join us having spent much of his time as a PCSO in Lewes District, he has a keen interest in road safety and community speed watch initiatives. Steven has been spending his early days with his new team getting to know local business and characters from the town centre.

Steven can be contacted on 101 or via the Eastbourne Team email address:
district.eastbourne@sussex.pnn.police.uk
or via his work mobile telephone 07912 896004

PCSO Tracy Honey, based at Hammonds Drive, Eastbourne working across the whole of Eastbourne and supported by her Sergeant, Fiona Munro, PC Louis Thompson, PC Paul Rolfe, PC Rachel Bourne and PC Jacqui Bird. Tracy has chosen to join the team at Eastbourne having spent many years working in Lewes. Tracy is keen to get to know the people of Eastbourne and is experienced in her work with partners to find solutions to local problems. We are delighted to have both Tracy and Steven, as experienced PCSO’s they are extremely positive about the changes to the role and motivated to do the very best job they can.

Tracy can be contacted on 101 or via the Eastbourne Team email address:
district.eastbourne@sussex.pnn.police.uk
or via her work mobile telephone 07912 893380

PCSO Ania Raczynska, based at Hammonds Drive, Eastbourne working across the whole of Eastbourne and supported by her Sergeant, Fiona Munro, PC Louis Thompson, PC Paul Rolfe, PC Rachel Bourne and PC Jacqui Bird. Ania is used to working in Hampden Park and has built strong links in the community. Ania is looking forward to a more flexible way of working and getting to know other parts of Eastbourne just as well, transferring her skills and experience and putting to the test her new statement taking training.

Ania can be contacted on 101 or via the Eastbourne Team email address:
district.eastbourne@sussex.pnn.police.uk
or via her work mobile telephone 07912 897012

PCSO Lisa Izzard, based at 1 Grove Road, Eastbourne working across the whole of Eastbourne and supported by her Sergeant, Fiona Munro, PC Louis Thompson, PC Paul Rolfe, PC Rachel Bourne and PC Jacqui Bird. Lisa has spent time working in the town centre previously and has built up a good knowledge and relationship with some of our most vulnerable communities. Her understanding in this area of policing is extremely valued and she will continue to build on this using her new skills and powers to the full.

Lisa can be contacted on 101 or via the Eastbourne Team email address:
district.eastbourne@sussex.pnn.police.uk
or via her work mobile telephone 07912 896976

PCSO Libby Horsman, based at 1 Grove Road, Eastbourne working across the whole of Eastbourne and supported by her Sergeant, Fiona Munro, PC Louis Thompson, PC Paul Rolfe, PC Rachel Bourne and PC Jacqui Bird. Libby has spent her time previously working in the Roselands, Langney Point, St. Anthonys communities of Eastbourne. The new role will mean that Libby will be exposed to some very different and diverse communities and will be challenged to put her problem solving skills to the test. Working from 1 Grove Road will mean that Libby, and her colleagues will have the support and advice of the Neighbourhood First Team who continue to work closely in partnership with the Police and other agencies to tackle some of the most difficult and long standing issues.

Libby can be contacted on 101 or via the Eastbourne Team email address:
district.eastbourne@sussex.pnn.police.uk
or via her work mobile telephone 07912 895000

PCSO Martin Hylands, based at 1 Grove Road, Eastbourne working across the whole of Eastbourne and supported by his Sergeant, Julian Williams, PC Ed Faulkner, PC Keith Rockingham and PC Vicky Bishop. Martin is one of our most experienced PCSO’s having been at Eastbourne since the very beginning. Martin has received heartfelt thanks and appreciation from the community of Sovereign Harbour who have enjoyed his dedicated and mature approach to issues and concerns raised by the residents and businesses at the Harbour. Martin will be working just as hard in the new role, but using that knowledge and experience for the benefit of many others and across all parts of Eastbourne.

Martin can be contacted on 101 or via the Eastbourne Team email address:
district.eastbourne@sussex.pnn.police.uk
or via his work mobile telephone 07912 893311

PCSO David Kerr, based at Hammonds Drive, Eastbourne working across the whole of Eastbourne and supported by his Sergeant, Julian Williams, PC Ed Faulkner, PC Keith Rockingham and PC Vicky Bishop. David has previously been found patrolling the Langney and Shinewater areas and has been instrumental in setting up community speed watch in Eastbourne. David’s focus is very much on victim and customer service, and is a very supportive member of the team.

David can be contacted on 101 or via the Eastbourne Team email address:
district.eastbourne@sussex.pnn.police.uk
or via his work mobile telephone 07912 894873

PCSO Austin Milson, based at Hammonds Drive, Eastbourne working to the original PCSO role. Austin has chosen to remain with Sussex Police until December 2016 when he plans to take redundancy. Austin made the decision not to apply for the new PCSO role, but he remains committed to the organisation and continues to work hard every day. We wish him well for the future and until then we continue to value his contribution and benefit from his plethora of knowledge about neighbourhood watch

21st July 2016

20th July 2016

Lunch and a Game of Tennis?

Twofour Broadcast, a television production company, is currently producing a new 6 part consumer health series for ITV. The show is trying explore our nation’s preoccupation with health - It will attempt debunk the myths and reveal the facts, telling us everything that we need to know about topics such as sleep, teeth whitening, keeping fit, vitamins and supplements, and how your diet can affect your health and well-being.

They are filming this Friday at the Devonshire Park Tennis Club in Eastbourne to do a story on multivitamins and are looking for people over the age of 50 who fancy a day out with lunch provided and a game of tennis to feature in the show.

It’s pretty short notice but they want people who either regularly take vitamins and swear by them or don’t take them. They plan on doing a fun experiment run by the British dietetics Association and swap the groups over for a period of 4-6 weeks. So those taking multi-vitamins will stop taking them, and those that don’t will be provided with a supply of vitamins to take each day.

They will take blood samples before and after to see whether these vitamins are really doing what they claim to. They will be filming again on 23rd September to reveal the results.

It could be a fun day and if you’d like to help please feel free to email Greg Goff, the producer, at Greg.Goff@twofour.co.uk or call 01752 727528 before Thursday.

20th July 2016

Age Concern Eastbourne has volunteer opportunities
with its Home from Hospital team

VOLUNTEERS are required for the Home from Hospital project across East Sussex, including Hellingly, Hailsham, Herstmonceux, Polegate, and Pevensey Bay. Induction, training, support, travel expenses are provided, plus you have an opportunity to play a part in your local community, supporting people to be independent in their own homes as they recover from recent Hospital stays.

Volunteers required in this area

Would you like to support people who have been recently discharged from Hospital and who require help within their own home to stay independent?

Could you:

Share a cuppa and engage in conversation
Go shopping for a few basic essentials such as milk or bread
Do a little light housework for example washing up, making the bed, dusting
Promote Age Concern services and activities
Identify unsupported needs and pass concerns onto the Co-ordinator

You would not be expected to provide personal care or assist with medication.

For more details please contact: Rowena Reeve,
Home from Hospital Co-ordinator,
AGE Concern Eastbourne,
The Venton Centre,
Junction Road,
Eastbourne, BN21 3QY
Tel: 01323 749854 or email:
Rowena.reeve@ageconcerneastbourne.co.uk

19th July 2016

Stay Alive Pocket Resource

A suicide prevention pocket resource for the UK, Stay Alive offers help and support both to people with thoughts of suicide and to people concerned about someone else. The app can be personalised to tailor it to the user.

This is the first version of Stay Alive. The app will be updated following an academic review and we are seeking next stage funding to help us develop the app further, including a location-enabled function to show the user support services in their vicinity.

If you are interested in contributing to funding the next stage of the app please get in touch.

16th July 2016

TV presenter Julia Bradbury launches Love Parks Week

Champion of the great outdoors and TV presenter, Julia Bradbury, has today launched Love Parks Week for 2016! Julia joined up with joggers and walkers at Paddington Recreation Ground in London to take part in the first Love Parks Mile, encouraging people to get outside and get active.

Love Parks Week is the annual event of our Love Parks programme, a year-round celebration of all the amazing parks and green spaces we have in this country. It was set up to support and recognise all the hard work friends’ groups do across the country to maintain, protect, improve and promote them.

More information > >

16th July 2016

Fraudsters are impersonating telephone service providers and contacting their clients offering a phone upgrade on a low monthly payment contract. The fraudsters will glean all your personal and financial details which will then be used to contact the genuine phone provider and order a new mobile phone handset. The fraudsters will either intercept the delivery before it reaches the victim’s address or order the handset to a different address.

Protect yourself

Never provide your personal information to a third party from an unsolicited communication.
Obtain the genuine number of the organisation being represented and verify the legitimacy of the communication.
If the offer is too good to be true it probably is.
If you have provided personal information and you are concerned that your identity may be compromised consider Cifas Protection Registration.

If you have been a victim of fraud report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or
http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/

16th July 2016

News and appeals

London man jailed for drug dealing in Eastbourne play area
A London man has been jailed after he was caught dealing drugs in the car park of a children's play area in Eastbourne and was then seen swallowing them as officers attempted to arrest him.

Aaron Hudson, 33, of Anthlone Street, Camden, London, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply heroin on 9 May this year. He was sentenced to three-and-a-half years imprisonment.

More information > >

Thefts from traders' vehicles while working out-of-town prompts security advice from Eastbourne police
Police in Eastbourne have become aware that some local traders working away from the town have had their vehicles targeted by thieves who force open windows and doors to steal cash, tools and small saleable items from the interior.

One recent case involved the theft of £6000 worth of tools from Eastbourne decorators working on a job in Lewisham.

More information > >

Eastbourne police target banned drugs during a three-day operation
On Friday, Saturday and Sunday (8, 9 and 10 July) Eastbourne Police carried out a proactive operation targeting the supply of drugs within the town.

Officers were joined by Sussex and Surrey Police drugs dogs and over the three days the team patrolled the town centre searching anyone suspected of carrying drugs, as indicated by the specially-trained dogs.

More information > >

Operation Blitz
Operation Blitz will be running 6pm until Midnight Friday and Saturday, please call 07785 372050 to report Anti-Social Behaviour.

Sussex Police asks the public - do you know the warning signs of fraud and scams?
Scams are fraud and fraud is crime - this is the message that Sussex Police is sending for the start of this year's Scams Awareness Month.

More information > >

Come and see us working in partnership with Trading Standards, Age UK, Barclays Bank, Safer East Sussex, and Neighbourhood Watch at the following public stands.

20th July - Tesco, Lottbridge Drove, Eastbourne between 10am to 2pm.

Help us keep Sussex safe

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

12th July 2016

Holiday Booking Frauds

With summer holidays fast approaching, individuals are often more exposed to travel booking frauds when looking for last minute package deals / cheap flights. Whether paying upfront for a family holiday or simply booking a flight, payments are transferred only to discover that the holiday / airline ticket does not exist and was sold to you by a bogus travel company. Fraudsters will often lure in potential customers with low prices and ‘one time only’ offers that are simply too good to pass up, requesting payment by the preferred method of direct bank transfer.

Protect Yourself

Avoid responding to unsolicited calls, texts or emails offering holidays at incredibly low prices.
Whenever possible, pay for your holiday by credit card as it offers increased protection.
Always remember to look for the ‘https’ and locked padlock icon in the address bar before entering your payment details.
Never feel pressured to make a booking for fear that you will miss out on this ‘low price’ opportunity. If you have never used the company before, take your time to do some online research to ensure they are reputable.
Should you make a flight or hotel booking through a travel company, feel free to separately check with the hotel / airline that your booking does indeed exist.

If you have been affected by this, or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk

8th July 2016

News and appeals

Do you know a police volunteer who deserves special recognition

Nominate them in the annual Lord Ferrer’s awards, supported by the Home Office in celebration of police volunteers in England and Wales.

More information > >

Sussex Police asks the public - do you know the warning signs of fraud and scams?

Scams are fraud and fraud is crime - this is the message that Sussex Police is sending for the start of this year's Scams Awareness Month.

More information > >

Come and see us working in partnership with Trading Standards, Age UK, Barclays Bank, Safer East Sussex, and Neighbourhood Watch at the following public stands.

13th July - Eastbourne District General Hospital - 10am to 2pm.
20th July - Tesco, Lottbridge Drove, Eastbourne - 10am to 2pm.

Operation Blitz

Operation Blitz will be running 6pm until Midnight Friday and Saturday, please call 07785 372050 to report Anti-Social Behaviour.

6th July 2016

Police Contact Changes

Following the recent reorganisation of Neighbourhood Policing, members of the public will no longer be able to contact individual Police Officers or PCSOs. All contact will now be handled centrally and officers deployed as appropriate.

3rd July 2016

Welcome to another issue of The Link online.

In this issue we are delighted to be able to share with you information on our 'For Later Life ' Conference 2017. We're also pleased to be able to report that Age UK is currently working to improve the local search facility on its website.

This work is taking place in phases so please bear with us as we progress this really important piece of work.

Download the newsletter > >

2nd July 2016

Fraud and Scams Video

Please find time to watch the three minute Sussex Police video “Fraud and Scams – Know the Warning Signs”, which has been produced to support Scams Awareness month.

2nd July 2016

Chestnut Tree House Big Heart Auction

All 200 amazing artworks are now live on the online auction site eBay for Charity. Bidding closes at 9pm Sunday 10th July. You can register for eBay here.

To make sure you’re in with a chance to win your favourite artwork:

View all the artwork here.
Click on the artwork you like
Click on the 'Bid on this artwork' button on the artwork page.
Put in your maximum bid or keep an eye on it and keeping bidding if you are out bid.

You can also see all 200 artworks by visiting Brighton Dome until Tuesday 5 July. The exhibition is open 10am - 5pm and entry is free.

Good luck and thank you for supporting Chestnut Tree House!

2nd July 2016

News and appeals

Arrest warrant issued for Eastbourne man charged with rape

Police are trying to trace an Eastbourne man who failed to attend Lewes Crown Court to face trial on a charge of rape and another of sexual assault.

More information >

Eastbourne hosts 999 Weekend at the Western Lawns

In an emergency, who you gonna call? And no, the answer isn't Ghostbusters - it's the people who will be demonstrating their skills at a 999 special event in Eastbourne on Saturday and Sunday, 2 and3 July.

More information > >

PCSOs equipped with enhanced powers and skills, are starting their new role on Monday, 4 July.

With new skills and powers to deal with a wide range of local problems, they can act to resolve issues such as alcohol fuelled anti-social behaviour from their very first day in the new role. They will be an integral part of larger teams solving local problems, carrying out basic investigations, working alongside partners and directly with witnesses and victims to respond to community issues. Making use of mobile technology, PCSOs will access information whilst out in the community.

The flexible nature of their new role means they can work when and where they are needed, logging on remotely, as well as working from police and shared premises. To find out more about the new role from ACC Laurence Taylor click here.

Operation Blitz

Operation Blitz will be running 6pm until Midnight on Saturday, please call 07785 372050 to report Anti-Social Behaviour.

Help us keep Sussex safe

If you saw or heard anything, or have any information about any incident in this message please contact us online, email us at 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting the reference number provided.
Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

30th June 2016

Increase in Thefts from Vehicles

There has recently been an increase in thefts from vehicles parked in various areas of Eastbourne. The vehicles targeted have either been left insecure or had personal items left on display.

Don't become a victim of crime.

When leaving your vehicle parked or unattended please remember to carry out the 3 Cs.

CLEAR valuables and personal belongings from vehicle ensuring nothing is in view that would encourage someone to break in and steal it
CLICK your remote locking key fob to lock and secure the vehicle
CHECK that you have followed these steps to make sure it is secure.

Following these simple guidelines will help you avoid becoming a target of vehicle crime.

Help us keep Sussex safe

29th June 2016

Emergency 999 Exhibition

The Emergency 999 Exhibition will be held this weekend on the Western Lawns. Timetable below.

29th June 2016

Beware Bogus Olympic Tickets

The Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro begin on 6th August 2016 and as of late June, you will be able to purchase tickets from the Rio 2016 ticket offices. Purchasing from an unauthorised seller or a ticket tout could leave you out of pocket; not only are the tickets advertised at inflated prices, but there is also a risk that the tickets purchased are counterfeit or do not exist. Any individual with a counterfeit ticket will be refused entry.

To help protect yourself, the list of authorised sellers has been published on the official website and provides a list of trusted resellers; this can be found at www.rio2016.com. Equally, tickets purchased that are no longer needed can be sold through the Rio 2016 website for a 100% reimbursement of the amount paid if the tickets are resold.

Protect yourself

When purchasing from another company or individual, ask questions; specifically when you will receive the ticket and what type of ticket you are purchasing.
Pay for tickets by using a credit card or trusted payment service. Payments made by bank transfer may not be recoverable.
Always check that the payment screen is secure by looking for the padlock symbol or making sure the website/url begins with “https”.
If you have been affected by this, or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or visiting:
www.actionfraud.police.uk

28th June 2016

Look Out For Fake Mailboxes

The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) has noticed an increase in reports of fraudsters placing fake letter boxes on residential properties in an attempt to harvest the mail. Residents are sometimes unaware of the fake letterbox as the fraudsters will periodically remove the item, which may leave notable markings. The mail is then used to open various lines of credit with financial providers in the name of the innocent resident.

Protect Yourself

Be vigilant and check for any suspicious activity, tampering of your post/letterbox or for suspicious glue markings on the wall.
Check all post received from financial institutions, even if it appears unsolicited.
Consider reporting theft of mail to your local police force and any cases of identity fraud to Action Fraud.
If you have been a victim of identity fraud consider Cifas Protection Registration

If you, or anyone you know, has been affected by this fraud or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting:
www.actionfraud.police.uk

28th June 2016

Has Neighbourhood Alert Helped You?

Neighbourhood Alert has recently invested in a new support desk system and expanded the support staff so if you have any questions regarding this email, the survey or any part of the Alert system, please email:
support@neighbourhoodalert.co.uk and we will be sure to respond quickly.

You might also like to complete the Neighbourhood Alert Survey.

26th June 2016

Eastbourne Guide for Disabled People

Eastbourne is a fine Victorian Town built mainly on the level. Gentle slopes and ramps are used to overcome steps and stairs making Eastbourne more accessible although some barriers do remain due to architectural limitations.

The Eastbourne Access Group has produced a guide which will make the town more accessible to residents and visitors alike.

Click here to view the guide > >

26th June 2016

Beware of Escrow Accounts

Online shopping websites are being utilised by fraudsters to advertise vehicles for sale which do not exist. After agreeing to purchase the vehicle via email with the fraudsters, buyers then receive emails purporting to be from Amazon Payments and/or Amazon Flexible Payment Service stating that their money will be held in an ‘escrow account’ (a bank account held by a third party, used as a temporary holding account during a transaction between two parties- for a 7 day ‘cooling off’ period).

Once happy with the purchase the email indicates the money will be released to the seller, therefore offering ‘buyer protection’. In reality these emails are fraudulent and do not come from Amazon. The bank accounts are controlled by fraudsters

Protect yourself

Remember that Amazon does not provide an escrow account to purchase items.
Meet the seller ‘face to face’ and view the vehicle before parting with any cash.
Be vigilant of emails that purport to be from genuine companies and check the ‘domain’ name of the email address for any inconsistencies.
Check feedback online by searching the associated phone numbers or email addresses of the seller.
If the vehicle is below market value consider whether this is an opportunity too good to be true!

If you, or anyone you know, have been affected by this fraud or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting the Action Fraud website.

26th June 2016

News and appeals

Police advice for householders as burglars target insecure homes in Eastbourne

Burglars have recently been taking advantage of windows being left open in warm weather to target homes in the Langney area of Eastbourne.

More information > >

Detectives investigate after man is robbed of an expensive bag in Eastbourne

Can you help identify a trio of thieves who forced a man to hand over valuables after accosting him in the early hours of the morning?

More information > >

Arrest warrant issued for Eastbourne man charged with rape
A man due to appear at Crown Court to stand trial for rape and sexual assault failed to turn up and is now wanted on a warrant for his arrest.

More information > >

Operation Blitz

Operation Blitz will be running 6pm until Midnight Friday and Saturday, please call 07785 372050 to report Anti-Social Behaviour.

Don't miss out on experiencing this year's 999 Weekend in Eastbourne

People are being urged to circle Saturday and Sunday, 2 and 3 July in their diaries for an emergency services special event in Eastbourne.

The popular 999 Weekend is again taking place at the Western Lawns on Eastbourne seafront, giving adults and children alike a chance to meet those who safeguard their lives and provide help when trouble strikes.

The event is being supported by Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, the South East Coast Ambulance Service, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, British Transport Police, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and voluntary support groups.

Blue light services will provide spectacular demonstrations of the work they do and be on hand to give free advice about safety both in and out of the home.

Full details are available on social media including Eastbourne Police Facebook page and Twitter accounts @eastbournepol and @Eastbourne999.

Help us keep Sussex safe

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

26th June 2016

Eastbourne Shed Open Day

The Eastbourne Shed Project provides a place where people over 50 can experience the joy and fun of pottering about in a shed, but doing it with like minded people, supplying good company.

If you want to know more about this project come along and have a go at woodworking, carving, wood turning, model making, refurbishing old tools and machines or just come along for tea, biscuits and good company.

For more information:
Contact: Age Concern Eastbourne
Tel: 01323 638474
Or E-mail: oscar.plumley@ageconcerneastbourne.co.uk

21st June 2016

Modern Crime Prevention Strategy

The Government’s Modern Crime Prevention Strategy was published in March 2016. A pamphlet has been published which provides a brief summary of the action being taking to prevent crime, and the research it is based on. The full strategy is available at gov.uk.

Download the pamphlet > >

17th June 2016

Have Your Online Accounts Been Compromised?

Troy Hunt, a Microsoft Regional Director and recipient of “Most Valuable Professional for Developer Security” award, blogger at troyhunt.com, international speaker on web security and the author of many top-rating security courses for web developers on Pluralsight, has created “Have I been pwned?” as a free resource for anyone to quickly assess if an online account of theirs has been compromised or "pwned" in a data breach.

Short of the odd donation, all costs for building, running and keeping the service currently come directly out of his own pocket. Fortunately, he says, today's modern cloud services like Microsoft Azure make it possible to do this without breaking the bank!

This site came about after, what to date, remains the largest ever single breach of customer accounts — Adobe. Post-breach analysis of user credentials kept finding the same accounts exposed over and over again, often with the same passwords, which then put the victims at further risk of their other accounts being compromised.

Have your accounts been compromised? > >

16th June 2016

Operation Signature

Just in case you need more advice about Scams why not watch the latest video from Sussex Police.

It is reported that 1 in 5 people fall victim to scammers every year and nearly 50% of all adults are targeted.

16th June 2016

Exciting Euro 2016 game today - England vs Wales!

For the vast majority of people who watch football and support their national teams the games are enjoyable events that draw people together. But for a small minority, football provides the catalyst for alcohol abuse and violent behaviour, which can be particularly dangerous in some relationships.

There should be no excuse for domestic abuse, at any time. We have special response officers in place for Euro2016.

Call us now on 101 report it online.

For further information on domestic abuse, visit our website www.sussex.police.uk/domesticabuse

15th June 2016

Your County

The June issue of the East Sussex County Council newsletter - Your County- is now available to download.

In this issue:

Summer Sussex Events
Take a trip down memory lane
Join the 'dementia friendly' society
Half price cycle and art offer

Download the newsletter > >

14th June 2016

Highways Survey

We had plenty of feedback at our stand in the Sussex Lifestyle Show last week. One common issue was the state of our pavements; so why not complete the latest survey from East Sussex Highways and have you say?

Complete the survey > >

14th June 2016

East Sussex County Council News

The latest issue of the East Sussex County Council newsletter is now available to download.

In this issue:

Can you help spot Dutch Elm disease?
Future of vital ferry service
Got a question for the Sussex PCC?
Meeting rooms for hire at libraries

Download the newsletter > >

13th June 2016

Helping the Local Community

With the growth of youth unemployment in Eastbourne and the rise of payday loans we would like to share a better financial well-being plan for those that are facing a debt crisis and for others that have the means to save.

By joining with East Sussex Credit Union you can access ethical savings accounts and fair and affordable credit (for all that can afford to pay the loan repayments).

As the East Sussex Credit Union is a co-operative then members are paid dividends in their savings.

More information > >

13th June 2016

New Phishing Campaign Hits Students

A new phishing campaign which has hit students of UK universities claims that the student has been awarded an educational grant by the Department for Education. The email purports to have come from the finance department of the student’s university and tricks the recipient into clicking on a link contained in the message to provide personal and banking details.
One victim reported that after submitting their sensitive information (including name, address, date of birth, contact details, telephone provider, bank account details, student ID, National Insurance Number, driving licence number and mother’s maiden name), they were taken to a spoofed website which appeared like a genuine website of their bank, where they were asked to type in their online banking login credentials.

Protect Yourself:

Do not click on any links or open attachments contained within unsolicited emails.
Do not reply to scam emails or contact the senders in any way.
If an email appears to have come from a person or organisation you know of but the message is unexpected or unusual, contact them directly via another method to confirm that they sent you the email.
If you receive an email which asks you to login to an online account via a link provided in the email, instead of clicking on the link, open your browser and go directly to the company’s website yourself.
If you have clicked on a link in the email, do not supply any information on the website that may open.

If you think you may have compromised the safety of your bank details and/or have lost money due to fraudulent misuse of your cards, you should immediately contact your bank, and report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.

11th June 2016

Counterfeit Cheques

Businesses are being contacted for the sale of goods or services by fraudsters, who request to pay by cheque. The fraudster sends a cheque with a higher value than the amount expected, and then sends the business a request for the difference with instructions on how it should be paid back. This is usually by bank transfer or through a money transfer service, such as Western Union or PaySafe. Once the ‘refund’ has been provided, it is realised that the cheque provided was fraudulent and no funds are credited to the business’s account.

The NFIB has seen an increase of 84% in the number of counterfeit cheque frauds reported to Action Fraud since November 2015. Criminals are targeting a wide range of services including paintings or other artwork, photography and lessons, with various amounts requested to be refunded. The average amount requested to be refunded is £1,818. The highest amount requested was over £80,000.

The suspects have used pressure tactics to persuade victims to refund the amounts immediately prior to the cheques clearing.

Crime Prevention Advice

Be cautious of payments where the amount provided is higher than expected. Refuse to provide the service unless the correct balance is received or wait until the cheque has cleared before refunding the difference.
Always contact banks on a trusted number found on their website or correspondence that is known to be authentic to confirm whether the cheque has cleared.
Do not feel pressured to provide a refund before the cheque has cleared.
If you have been affected by this, or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk

11th June 2016

News and appeals

Special Constables Recruitment

Can you serve your local community? Volunteering as a Special Constable is hard work but ultimately rewarding.

More information > >

Witnesses sought to Eastbourne crash involving 4x4 and motorcycle
Police are appealing for witnesses following a road traffic collision in Eastbourne.

More information > >

Operation Blitz

Operation Blitz will be running 6pm until Midnight Friday and Saturday, please call 07785 372050 to report Anti-Social Behaviour.

Sussex Police patrols to support domestic violence victims during football championships

Don’t suffer in silence – that’s the Sussex Police message to anyone who suffers domestic abuse, whether physical or psychological, during the European Football Championships this summer.

Officers will be specifically tasked at peak times during and after England matches to help protect victims and families from abuse. There will also be an all-day Tweetathon as the tournament gets under way to encourage debate and provide advice.

The dedicated “Operation Ribbon” patrols will operate on England Wales match days in the Tournament’s group stages, and further patrols will operate if either team progresses in the Tournament.

Alongside their response role, the Officers are being kept up to date about previous or likely victims who may be particularly vulnerable and about suspected or proven offenders who may pose a higher risk

In addition teams of specialist investigators will be ready to carry our further enquiries.
Join in on the conversation by following Sussex Police on Twitter (@sussex_police) and Facebook (/sussexpoliceforce).

For advice and support over domestic abuse in Sussex visit www.sussex.police.uk or call 101 or 01273 470101. We have specifically trained officers who can help.

If you are not confident in talking to the police, there are other organisations who can give you the confidential advice and support that you need - Click here > >

To find other local support and help near to you visit www.safespacesussex.org.uk

Help us keep Sussex safe

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

10th June 2016

Police Board Sovereign Harbour Yacht

Police who boarded a yacht entering Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne, shortly after midnight on Thursday (9th June) found it was carrying herbal cannabis, a class B controlled drug, with an estimated street value of £280,000.

Two men who were on the vessel were arrested and are due to appear before Brighton magistrates at 10am on Friday (10th June).

Anthony Keiran Poyser, 28, and Harrison Law, 21, both of no fixed address, are each charged with being jointly concerned in the improper importation of cannabis to the United Kingdom.

Chief Inspector Emma Brice, Eastbourne district police commander, said: " I am aware of the concern about the security of smaller ports and harbours around Britain's coastline."

"I would like to reassure people that police are alert to the situation and will respond whenever circumstances demand."

9th June 2016

Euro 2016 Ticket Fraud

The 2016 European Football Championships will begin shortly and those wanting to purchase last minute tickets are likely to be targeted by fraudsters posing as official sellers. Purchasing from an unauthorised seller or a ticket tout could leave you out of pocket; not only are the tickets advertised at inflated prices, there is a risk that the tickets purchased are counterfeit or do not exist. Any individual with a counterfeit ticket will be refused entry.

Resale Platform

Consumers wanting to sell their tickets can do so through the resale platform, where tickets will be resold at face value. For further information please visit UEFA’s website. Those seeking to purchase tickets are advised to check the site regularly as tickets will be sold on a first come first serve basis and are likely to change regularly as different tickets become available to purchase.

Only purchase tickets from an authorised seller by using the exchange portal.
When using the portal do not be encouraged to contact the seller privately and complete the transaction outside of the portal.
Be wary of purchasing tickets from a social media account. There is a risk that the ticket does not exist or is counterfeit. Consider conducting research on the information provided by the seller, for example a mobile phone number or email address used by the seller could alert you to any negative information associated to them online.
Avoid making payments through bank transfer or money transfer services, as the payment may not be recoverable.

If you have been affected by this, or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.

8th June 2016

Latest Sussex Police Fraud Newsletter

The latest edition of the Sussex Police Fraud Newsletter is now available to download.

Download the newsletter > >

4th June 2016

Eastbourne Police News and appeals

CCTV image of man who stole £200 of whisky in Eastbourne

On Sunday, May 22 around 10am a man was seen to leave Waitrose on the High Street without paying for a large number of bottles of whisky, worth around £200.

More information > >

Witnesses sought to multiple vehicles injury crash in Grand Parade, Eastbourne
Witnesses are being sought to a collision involving six vehicles which occurred on Wednesday 25 May at around 12.45pm on the B2106 Grand Parade, Eastbourne.

More information > >

Police seek witnesses to camper van crash, Midhurst Road, Eastbourne
Police want to identify the driver of a white camper van that crashed into three parked cars in Midhurst Road, Eastbourne, at around 9pm on Saturday (28 May) before driving off without stopping.

More information > >

Operation Blitz

Operation Blitz will be running 6pm until Midnight Friday and Saturday, please call 07785 372050 to report Anti Social Behaviour.

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

27th May 2016

Eastbourne Police News and appeals

Police seek owners of recovered cycles

Police are appealing for witnesses and owners for possible thefts of bicycles from Eastbourne town centre between 7.30pm on Sunday (15th May) and 3.30am on Monday (16th May).

More information > >

Don't miss out on experiencing this year's 999 Weekend in Eastbourne

The popular 999 Weekend is again taking place at the Western Lawns on Eastbourne seafront on the 2nd and 3rd July, giving adults and children alike a chance to meet those who safeguard their lives and provide help when trouble strikes.

More information > >

Police seek witnesses to a collision between a car and a child riding a bike in Langney Rise, Eastbourne

It occurred at the junction of Langney Rise and the entrance road to the Langney shopping centre, Eastbourne, at 12.50pm on Sunday (22 May).

More information > >

Operation Blitz

Operation Blitz will be running 6pm until Midnight Friday and Saturday, please call 07785 372050 to report Anti-Social Behaviour.

Bank Holiday Weekend Advice
We are all looking forward to enjoying the long weekend with our family and friends, however, we need to consider how safely kept are our personal items when we go on holiday or on days out.

Be aware that thieves often operate in teams, one distracting in front whilst another attacks from behind - striking or snatching a bag.
Keep the contents in your handbag to a minimum, keep valuables in your pocket.
Keep your wallet in a deep pocket or a pocket that can button up.
Do not put address labels on keys. If you lose your keys, change your locks immediately.
Do not write your personal identification number (PIN) on any other piece of paper in your bag, purse or wallet. Neither the police nor the bank will contact you to ask for these details, so do not give details over the telephone to anyone. The bank will issue you with a new card and a new PIN.
Remember, if your debit or credit card is lost or stolen, let the bank/card company know immediately.

Help us keep Sussex safe

Your local teams

Visit our Website to contact your local team, view local news and find out what we're doing in relation to your priorities.

21st May 2016

News and appeals

Eastbourne police seek owners of recovered cycles

Police are appealing for witnesses and owners for possible thefts of bicycles from Eastbourne town centre between 7.30pm on Sunday (15 May) and 3.30am on Monday (16 May).

At 3.30am that morning patrolling police officers arrested three people in the town centre on suspicion of theft of three bicycles. The cycles were seized.

More information > >

Serious crash at Jevington, near Eastbourne, sadly proves fatal

Police are seeking witnesses to a crash on the Jevington Road, between Polegate and Friston, which sadly proved fatal to one of the passengers involved.

More information > >

Sussex Police Issue Urgent Warning To Residents over HMRC Phone Call Scams

Sussex Police are issuing an urgent warning to residents, especially the elderly and anyone living alone, not to be taken in by a current wave of crime in which phone callers posing as HMRC staff are demanding payment for incorrect taxes.
On Monday (16 May), calls were made to three residents in Eastbourne. Fraudsters claim that they owed substantial amounts of money to the HMRC through incorrect taxes. Some residents have described how the caller has threatened to freeze bank accounts, send the police round to execute a warrant for their arrest, or remove goods from the property to recover the debt.
We understand that these types of scam calls can be upsetting for residents, especially the elderly and vulnerable.

It can be very tempting to give into the fraudsters demands and attempt to pay any debt, or come to some arrangement to settle the alleged tax debt.

The advice is to end the call and report the incident to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

Operation Blitz

Operation Blitz will be running 6pm until Midnight Friday and Saturday, please call 07785 372050 to report anti-social Behaviour.

20th May 2016

ESF AGM 15th June 2016

We do hope you will be able to attend our AGM, details below. Copies of Minutes of last year's AGM, Chairman's Report and Treasurer's Report will be available on the day.

We know this meeting will be a useful and informative one so please do make every effort to attend and bring your friends. Thank you for your support.

More information > >

18th May 2016

"HMRC" Phone Scam

Sussex Police have issued an urgent warning to residents, especially the elderly and anyone living alone, not to be taken in by a current wave of crime in which phone callers posing as HRMC staff are demanding payment for incorrect taxes.

On Monday (16th May), calls were made to three residents in Eastbourne. Fraudsters claim that they owed substantial amounts of money to the HRMC through incorrect taxes. Some residents have described how the caller has threatened to freeze bank accounts, send the police round to execute a warrant for their arrest , or remove goods from the property to recover the debt.

We understand that these types of scam calls can be upsetting for residents, especially the elderly and vulnerable.
It can be very tempting to give into the fraudsters demands and attempt to pay any debt, or come to some arrangement to settle the alleged tax debt.

The advice is to end the call and report the incident to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

16th May 2016

EU Referendum Debate

Your MP, Caroline Ansell, invites you to a meeting at the Congress Theatre on 26th May, 7.30 to 9pm. (Doors open 6.30pm)

So many people have contacted her in recent weeks to ask for facts, and an explanation about the forthcoming EU referendum, that she decided to put on a meeting in the town to try and address these issues.

There has been such enormous interest locally in this event that she has taken the decision to move the event from the Winter Garden to the Congress Theatre.

The format of the evening is a 'Question Time' style event, but they will be taking questions in advance, not from the floor, which would be infeasible in such a large meeting. Your questions can be submitted by email to office@carolineansell.co.uk

She states she has purposely not declared her position on this issue, and as such will be ensuring a balanced debate, with her in the Chair.

The speakers for the evening are;

Dan Hannan MEP, representing ‘Vote Leave’
Lord Marks, LibDem spokesman for Justice, representing ‘Britain Stronger in Europe’
Kevin Byrne, Founder of CHECKATRADE
David Sears, Former Deputy Director of British Chambers of Commerce
Cole Moreton, Broadcaster and Journalist

Hopefully it will be a valuable and memorable event. You can book tickets online, or if you prefer, you can call 01323 409000.

She hopes you can make it, but please remember tickets are first come first served - so book early!

14th May 2016

Neighbourhood Alert Weekly Update

News and appeals

Police seek witnesses to knife-point shop robbery in Seaside, Eastbourne.

At around 9.15pm on Tuesday (3rd May) a shop assistant at The Larder Store in Seaside, Eastbourne, was confronted by a masked man who demanded he hand over money from the till while threatening him with a knife.

The assistant, who was shaken but otherwise unhurt, placed bank notes totalling around £150 on the counter which the robber picked up before making off on foot in the direction of Firle Road.

More information.

Woman sentenced for Eastbourne driving offences

A woman who drove at more than twice the 30mph speed limit on roads in Eastbourne while over the legal alcohol limit appeared at Lewes Crown Court on Thursday, 5th May for sentence.

More information.

Operation Blitz

Operation Blitz will be running 6pm until Midnight Friday and Saturday, please call 07785 372050 to report Anti Social Behaviour.

Crime Prevention Advice - In the Garden

Weather forecasters say we are in for a beautiful weekend and many of us will be out in our gardens. Please remember the following tips when enjoying the sun.

Ensure that gates or access to the rear of the house are locked and secure.
Trim overgrown plants – don’t give burglars a hiding place.
Secure garden tools and ladders in a locked shed or garage to prevent them from being used to break into your home.
Fit outside security lighting and a visible burglar alarm to help deter burglars.
Register your property at immobilise.com its free of charge and can increase your chances of being reunited with your property.

Help us keep Sussex safe

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111

13th May 2016

Fraud Newsletter May 2016

Each month, scammers target Sussex residents in an attempt to defraud them. Operation Signature is the Sussex Police answer; preventing frauds and scams and supporting vulnerable victims.

This Fraud newsletter covers the latest incidents across Sussex to help prevent others becoming a victim. It shares examples of good work, such as the operation with Trading Standards colleagues to crack down on rogue traders and prevent doorstep crime.

By their very nature, scams are constantly evolving and taking on new forms. But be assured that, by following the tips at the bottom of this newsletter and encouraging family, friends and colleagues to do so too, you will reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

Download the newsletter > >

13th May 2016

Shaping the Future of Our Countryside

East Sussex County Council manages 2,000 miles of public rights of way and ten countryside sites across East Sussex. If you like to walk, cycle or ride in the countryside, then it is very likely that you use these paths and sites.

We’ve opened a consultation on our draft Countryside Access Strategy. This is a proposed plan for how we could manage public rights of way and countryside sites.

The consultation is open to everyone, from individuals and user groups to landowners and partners. It should take around 15 minutes to complete.

You have until 29 July to have your say. You can complete the survey here: Shaping the future of our countryside access

13th May 2016

Carers Week 6th-12th June 2016

The UK’s carers are, quite literally, indispensable. By providing unpaid care for someone they know who is ill, frail or disabled, they save the economy an incredible £119 billion. Despite this – and the fact that 3 in 5 people will be carers at some point in their lives – carers often face a lack of recognition in all areas of their lives.

Throughout Carers Week, Care for the Carers and partner organisations will be putting on events around the county, details of which can be found on the Carers Week website.

13th May 2016

ESCC Library News

The May issue of ESCC Library News is now available to download.

Click here > >

13th May 2016

Eastbourne Access Group Guides

The Eastbourne Access Group has published two useful guides.

2016 Eastbourne Guide for Disabled People

Eastbourne Accessible Toilets leaflet

13th May 2016

Eastbourne Foodbank News

Eastbourne Foodbank is extremely busy at the moment planning the move to the new building and securing the funding to make it happen. They are very grateful to Sussex Community Foundation for grant support towards the annual rent and Devonshire West Big Local for a contribution towards architects & planning fees.

View the Eastbourne Foodbank newsletter > >

5th May 2015

The Big Heart Auction

The inaugural Big Heart charity auction raised an impressive £30,000 in March 2015. The Big Heart Auction 2016 includes around 200 donated artworks from local, national and celebrity artists, illustrators and photographers as well as pieces by some of the children cared for by Chestnut Tree House.

All proceeds from the sale of the artworks will support Chestnut Tree House’s vital work caring for children with life-shortening illnesses across Sussex, and Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival’s community work such as the Umbrella Club, which provides live art experiences for these children. Proceeds will be split, with 80% going to Chestnut Tree House and 20% to Brighton Dome.

For more information, visit:
the Big Heart Auction website.

5th May 2016

Free Stargazing at the Redoubt

Eastbourne Astronomical Society will be holding a free stargazing event at the Redoubt Fortress next Monday 9th May. It is hoped to see Mercury passing right over the sun between 12.12pm and 3.57pm. The last time this was observed from Eastbourne was in 2006 and the next transit will be on 7th May 2049!

Keith Brackenborough of the Eastbourne Astronomical Society said “It is extremely dangerous to look directly at the sun but the society has adapted two of its telescopes to allow safe observing of the small spot, which is Mercury, making its way slowly over the disc of the sun. With luck we may be able to see some sunspots too”.

Local amateur astronomers will be on hand to describe the event and answer any questions. Further details from the Eastbourne Astronomical Society website.

5th May 2015

Warning of Pet Fraud

The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) and Action Fraud have noticed a rise in the reporting of pets, and in particular puppies and kittens, being advertised for sale via popular online auction websites.

The fraudsters will place an advert of the pet for sale, often claiming that the pet is currently held somewhere less accessible or overseas. Upon agreement of a sale, the suspect will usually request an advance payment by money transfer or bank transfer. However, the pet does not materialise and the fraudster will subsequently ask for further advanced payments for courier charges, shipping fees and additional transportation costs. Even if further payments are made, the pet will still not materialise as it is likely that the pet does not exist.

Protect Yourself:

Stay within auction guidelines.
Be cautious if the seller initially requests payment via one method, but later claims that due to ‘issues with their account’ they will need to take the payment via an alternative method such as a bank transfer.
Consider conducting research on other information provided by the seller, for example a mobile phone number or email address used by the seller could alert you to any negative information associated with the number/email address online.
Request details of the courier company being used and consider researching it.
Agree a suitable time to meet face to face to agree the purchase and to collect the pet. If the seller is reluctant to meet then it could be an indication that the pet does not exist.
A genuine seller should be keen to ensure that the pet is going to a caring and loving new home. If the seller does not express any interest in you and the pet’s new home, be wary.
If you think the purchase price is too good to be true then it probably is, especially if the pet is advertised as a pure-breed.
Do not be afraid to request copies of the pet’s inoculation history, breed paperwork and certification prior to agreeing a sale. If the seller is reluctant or unable to provide this information it could be an indication that either the pet does not exist or the pet has been illegally bred e.g. it originates from a ‘puppy farm’. A ‘puppy farm’ is a commercial dog breeding enterprise where the sole aim is to maximise profit for the least investment. Commercial dog breeders must be registered with their local authority and undergo regular inspections to ensure that the puppies are bred responsibly and are in turn fit and healthy. Illegally farmed puppies will often be kept in inadequate conditions and are more likely to suffer from ailments and illnesses associated with irresponsible breeding.
When thinking of buying a pet, consider buying them in person from rescue centres or from reputable breeders

If you have been affected by this, or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk

4th May 2016

Police called to handgun incident

A man was arrested in Eastbourne on Tuesday evening (3rd May) after police were called to an incident following reports of a group of youths with baseball bats and possibly a handgun.

Armed police officers, supported by a National Police Air Service helicopter, were called to Etchingham Road at 8.03pm where the group was reported to have been seen running into a block of flats. Police surrounded Hampshire Court and advised people not to attend the scene and to remain in their homes locally until the matter was resolved.

Just before 10.10pm, armed officers moved into the block and within minutes removed a man from one of the flats. A police dog was sent in to search the remainder of the premises, but there was nobody else within.

Detective Superintendent Nick May, from the East Sussex Police Divisional Command Team, said: "I would like to thank everyone for their patience while we carried out our operation to contain this matter. I appreciate that the sight of armed officers and the police helicopter may have been disturbing, if not alarming for local residents, but it is important that we treat reports such as these seriously for the safety of everyone concerned."

"Thankfully, nobody was hurt and we managed to bring the incident to a fairly swift conclusion. A man is in custody and we will continue with our investigation locally to establish the circumstances, which include discovering who else was involved. However, we do not believe that they are a threat to the public and people can now move freely in the area again. The scene has been secured and a marked vehicle will remain in place overnight before we resume our search of the premises in the morning."

"If you witnessed any of the events prior to the police arriving or you have any information about the incident or the people involved, please email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101 quoting serial 1438 of 03/05. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 (www.crimestoppers-uk.org)."

A 34-year-old man of no fixed address was arrested on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and affray. He remained in custody on Tuesday night.

27th April 2016

Age UK cleared of misleading media allegations

You may recall some misleading media allegations in the papers in February about Age UK’s partnership with E.ON to offer an energy tariff. Last week, Ofgem and the Charity Commission both published their reports about Age UK's trading activity. Age UK was cleared by the Charity Commission, and Ofgem found no breach of regulations by E.ON and no case to answer. Our media statement is below.

If you, or the older people you connect with, have any questions, please contact the Age UK customer services team on 0800 169 87 87.

Without doubt, this has been a challenging time for Age UK and for our network. Thank you to everyone who has provided encouragement and support over these difficult few months. Given the positive outcome, we can now move forward and continue to focus our full attention on our vital work for people in later life.

Age UK's media statement
Tuesday 19 April

An Age UK spokesperson said: "We welcome the Charity Commission's report about Age UK's trading activities and Ofgem's report also published today.

“We are especially pleased that, with respect to the Age UK energy tariff, Ofgem has found no breach of the regulations, and that the Commission has addressed the misconceptions about pricing and has acknowledged that the tariff had regard to the particular needs of older people

“We accept we can never be too transparent and our trading arm needs a sharper demarcation from the Age UK charity.

“We want every customer of our trading arm to know who they have bought from, that any surplus is then gifted to our charity, and how this then benefits older people in need. We will be making some changes so this is always crystal clear.

“We are glad that the benefits commercial partnerships can bring to charities and those they support have been recognised by the Charity Commission and we hope the changes we will be making in response to this report will help other charities too."

Campaigns and Influencing
Tell us what we should shout about!

Spring has sprung and we’re in the process of planning our campaigns. We would like to invite you to tell us what issues you think should be top of our campaigning list. We’ve created a short survey which should take you no longer than 5 minutes to complete.
Please complete the survey by Tuesday 3rd May.
Take our survey now

24th April 2016

Tax Rebate Text Scam

Fraudsters are texting members of the public offering a tax rebate. The text message contains a link to a website and requests to provide personal information, such as bank account information, to claim the non-existent rebate.

Protect Yourself

Don’t click on web links contained in unsolicited texts or emails.
Never provide your personal information to a third party from an unsolicited communication.
Obtain the genuine number of the organisation being represented and verify the legitimacy of the communication.
HMRC will never use texts or emails or tell you about a potential rebate or ask for personal information.
If you have provided personal information and you are concerned that your identity may be compromised consider CIFAS Protection Registration.

22nd April 2016

Thousands of pounds worth of stock stolen
from Eastbourne jewellers

Police are investigating a burglary at an Eastbourne jewellers in which thousands of pounds worth of stock was stolen.

Officers were called to Ernest Jones, in the Arndale Centre, at about 1.13am on Monday (18 April) following a report from a member of staff about the break in.

Entry was gained via a front window, which was smashed, and stock with an estimated value of between £50,000 and £100,000 was taken.

Police would like to speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area at the time, in particular three men who appeared to be wearing bright coloured ski jackets and scarves covering their faces.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting serial 38 of 18/04.

22nd April 2016

Police investigate East Sussex distraction burglaries

Police are seeking information about several incidents in Polegate, Hailsham and Eastbourne on Tuesday (12 April) in which bogus callers conned or tried to force their way into residents' homes.

Offences occurred in Brook Street and Dittons Road, Polegate; in Hawthylands Road, Hailsham and in Slindon Crescent, Eastbourne.

These may be linked to three further distraction type burglaries which occurred earlier the same day in Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea, and another in Bexhill Road, St Leonards-on-Sea.

22nd April 2016

Help Choose Keep Britain Tidy's 2017 Campaign Name

Last month's Clean for The Queen campaign was a massive success, and Keep Britain Tidy is excited to tell you that it will be running a follow-up in 2017; but they need your help!

What should next year's campaign be called? They want to hear your ideas. It has to be something that will encourage people to take part and will appeal to all ages.

All suggestions are welcome and you will get the chance to vote on a short-list later this year.

22nd April 2016

Healthwatch East Sussex Spring Newsletter

The Healthwatch East Sussex Spring 2016 newsletter is now available to download.

In this issue:

Maternity Services Review
Red Bus Tour
PPG Video
and more.

21st April 2016

PCC Elections

On 5th May, you will be able to vote for your police and crime commissioner (PCC). The job of the PCC is to oversee the police and ensure that they are prioritising what matters to you. Elections will be taking place in England and Wales, excluding London and Greater Manchester.

Police and crime commissioners are elected by you to ensure the policing needs of your community are met as effectively as possible and to oversee how crime is tackled in our area.

Click here for more information.

Click here to view candidates' statements.

21st April 2016

Sports Ticket Fraud

The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) has recently received an influx of reports that fraudsters are targeting the public, via social media, in relation to football tickets.

Fraudsters are posting pictures or statuses online telling members of the public to contact them via Direct Message for football tickets. This then leads to a mobile messaging conversation. During the conversation, bank details are provided by the suspect so that the tickets can be purchased.

After the victim has paid for the ticket the fraudster blocks them to stop further conversation, leaving victims without the tickets and out of pocket.

Protect yourself:

Check the security of the website and validity of the post
Avoid taking the conversation offline to private messages
When purchasing any products over the internet always try to make the payment via PayPal or a credit card where you have some sort of payment cover

If you, or anyone you know, have been affected by this fraud or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.

16th April 2016

Winter gritting for 2015/2016 ended on Thursday 14th April.

Gritters have been busy this Winter, using 4,502 tonnes of salt and gritted all of the primary gritting routes 43 times.

On 1st May Costain CH2M become the new Provider for delivering Highway Services in East Sussex.

The new partnership will be responsible for maintaining the roads, pavements, grass and street lights in East Sussex.

Most Highway services will continue as normal but there will be some changes.

On 29th April the Highways Contact Centre will be closing early to allow for maintenance works. If you need to contact them you can do so online and you can still contact us to report emergencies.

On 1st May ESCC Highways will be launching a new website. You will be able to log and track enquires, view local events and get real-time roadworks information.

The new website - www.eastsussexhighways.com will be available from the 1st May.

12th April 2016

Lawn Bowling

Bowls greens across the town will be open for the outside season on Saturday 16th April.

Many have seen it on the television, played carpet, short-mat or indoor bowls but have not tried lawn bowling. Eastbourne Bowling Club, the oldest and largest in the borough, is offering a ‘new to bowls’ membership of just £60 for the year and an open invitation to experience this highly sociable and skilful sport.

It is indeed one of Eastbourne’s most popular leisure activities. It is not too physically demanding and is aesthetically pleasing to play. Coloured bowls, a new, relaxed dress code and new formats have transformed the game in recent years.

With a car park handy for the town centre, excellent facilities, a wide variety of social activities and two very good greens Eastbourne Bowling Club has much to recommend it. A warm welcome awaits visitors.

Website
Tel: 01323 724340

12th April 2016

Property Repair Fraud

Fraudsters are targeting members of the public who are expecting to make a payment for property repairs. The fraudsters, via email, will purport to be a tradesman who has recently completed work at the property and use a similar email address to that of the genuine tradesman.

They will ask for funds to be transferred via bank transfer and once payment is made the victims of the fraud soon realise they have been deceived when the genuine tradesman requests payment for their services.

Protect Yourself:

Always check the email address is exactly the same as previous correspondence with the genuine contact.
For any request of payment via email verify the validity of the request with a phone call to the person who carried out the work.
Check the email for spelling and grammar as these signs can indicate that the email is not genuine.
Payments via bank transfer offer no financial protection; consider using alternative methods such as a credit card or PayPal which offer some protection and avenue for recompense.

If you believe that you have been a victim of fraud you can report it online at:
http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report_fraud
or by telephone on: 0300 123 2040.

12th April 2016

User Testing Sessions for Eastbourne Borough Council

Would you like a £5 shopping voucher for spending just 30 to 45 minutes giving honest and constructive feedback on an exciting new service Eastbourne Borough Council will shortly be offering?

This is your opportunity to influence the way in which you will be interacting with Eastbourne Borough Council in the future.

The new MyAccount upgrade will offer direct access to more services, such as council tax bill and payments, business rates bill and payments, housing application status, and more. The sessions will take place on 18 and 19 April 2016.

To participate, please apply by email to
isabelle.lageard@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or jane.haselden@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
or by phone on 07714 096 713 or 07736 461 908.

8th April 2016

Adult Social Care Consultation Update

This is a quarterly update with information about Adult Social Care consultations – current consultations that you can take part in and the results of closed consultations.

Download the update > >

7th April 2016

ESF AGM and Open Meetings

ESF will be holding public meetings in St. Saviour's Church Hall on 12th May and 15th June 2016.

The meeting on 15th June will start with the ESF Annual General Meeting and be followed immediately by a public meeting.

There will be speakers on a variety of subjects,
click here for more information.

14th March 2016

Eastbourne District Commander's Message

Dear Residents,

We have had a very successful year so far and I would like to share some of our most recent results with you.

Our Officers have been very successful in working hard to stop individuals for burglary dwelling, supplying of drugs and stopping anti-social behaviour. In regards to burglary dwelling, Michael Brickley was recently jailed for over 6 years as he was caught by one of our officers trying to sell stolen items from a burglary. Courtney Birmingham was arrested for money laundering as a result of a stop and search in the street. Her phone was interrogated as part of this investigation and she was found to be involved in the supply of cannabis and cocaine. She pleaded guilty at court and received a 2 year suspended sentence. On the 19th February, Jodie King was jailed for assault and breach of her Anti-Social Behaviour Injunction. Her sentencing followed an attack on a 48-year-old man in Eastbourne town centre in May 2015 which left him with serious cuts and bruises to his head, body and arms for which he received hospital treatment. The attack on the man was horrific and will not be tolerated. Violence and anti-social behaviour is not acceptable and we will always work with others to prevent this happening in Eastbourne.

As you can see from these cases the process of Stop Search is vital to our role. Since Sussex Police signed up to the Home Office best Use of Stop and Search Scheme in 2014, we have been looking at the process to ensure it is used legitimately and effectively and so that we can improve our service. Any individual who is stopped and searched by our officers in Sussex should be treated with respect and given a full explanation of why the search is taking place. Records of all searches are kept and people who have been searched are entitled to a copy of these. I also check these records to ensure officers at Eastbourne use this power legitimately. However, we can always improve and I would welcome your comments if you have experienced this process. Please can you email our Public Engagement Officer to let us know what kind of experience you had. To find out more please visit www.sussex.police.uk

We have also been working in partnership with the Prince’s Trust and Adult Social Care to help promote the reporting of Scam Mail and Child Sexual Exploitation. Officers invited the students to join them at a 'Community Surgery' in the Langney Shopping Centre on the 23 February to hand out the information and give advice. The students designed their own poster and flyer which were given out along with other scam and fraud awareness advice at the community surgery. The information was extremely well received and a number of local residents took advantage of the advice and reassurance given. If you, or someone you know, is being targeted by fraud/scams please contact Sussex Police on 101 or www.sussex.police.uk If you have been a victim of crime, you can report this to Action Fraud, the national fraud and cyber-crime reporting centre on 0300 123 2040.

The Force wide campaign to highlight the signs and prevent Child Sexual Exploitation has been a great success, and our officers have attended a conference about Human Trafficking and Missing People, a play called Chelsea’s Choice and taken part in a public stand at the Arndale Centre with East Sussex Adult Social Care. We have now elected a liaison officer, PC Rachel Bourne, to help outside agencies and organisations in recognising the signs and preventing further young people becoming victims.

You can receive regular updates from your Local Policing Team by signing up to our community messaging emails or via our social media sites. To receive our community messaging updates please email our Public Engagement Officer.

Emma Brice
Eastbourne District Commander

5th March 2016

3View Spring 2016

The latest edition of 3View, the official quarterly magazine for the voluntary and community sector in Eastbourne, Lewes District and Wealden, is out now.

View online / Download PDF

This spring 2016 edition highlights the recent changes to charity regulation and law.

28th February 2016

East Sussex Road Police Target Anti-social Drivers

Following a number of complaints from local residents relating to anti-social driving and speeding in the Pevensey Bay Road area of Eastbourne, East Sussex Roads Policing Department took targeted action on Thursday 25th February.

In total six drivers were reported for speeding, one had their vehicle seized for not having appropriate insurance, and one had their vehicle seized following a second warning for anti-social behaviour. The complaints from residents all relate to vehicles driving considerably too fast along Pevensey Bay Road, and using their vehicles inappropriate in and around The Crumbles car park. This is the first of such action, and we will be continuing our attention on this area, and others nearby.

PC Ed Faulkner, Neighbourhood Constable for the area, said “We take all complaints from residents seriously, we also take road safety seriously. This action underscores our focus on these issues, and demonstrates that action will be taken where offences have taken place. Our roads are not race tracks, and it is the responsibility on all drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users to be safe when using roads and pavements.”

East Sussex Roads Policing Department intend to continue these checks, both in marked vehicles and plain vehicles, targeting those who are endangering others.

22nd February 2016

'Southern Water' debt collectors were genuine -
but still be alert for bogus callers

Police continue to warn Sussex residents to use caution about callers claiming to be from debt collecting companies acting on behalf of public utilities or any other undertaking.

Police had at 3.50pm on Friday issued a warning about two such callers in Sussex, with the agreement of Southern Water.

On Wednesday (17th February) a card claiming that money was owed was left at an address in Tumulus Road, Saltdean while the occupant, an elderly lady, was not there.

On the same day a man called at the home of another elderly lady in Iveagh Crescent, Newhaven, claiming that she also owed money. She did not part with any money and the man left a card. Both cards had the name of Orbit Debt Collections on them.

Southern Water on Friday (19th February), clarified that those two particular calls were from Orbit Collections, a company working for them but, if you, or in particular any elderly person you know, are ever approached in such circumstances, still always use proper caution and check their bona fides.

If in doubt do not hand over any money and contact the police on 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk. or call 101.

15th February 2016

Appeal to sellers in Eastbourne
who may have been paid in fake notes

Police are appealing to anyone who has sold items in the Eastbourne area and may have been paid in fake money.

Officers are investigating a man contacting sellers advertising items for sale on Gumtree, Friday-Ad and Facebook selling sites, including Eastbourne Buy, Sell and Swap, then paying for them with counterfeit notes.

Investigator Bernadette Peters-Shorter said: "We know there have been at least four victims but there could be more people who have sold items and not realised to start with that they have been paid in fake money. Please get it touch."

"We have conducted warrants in Sorrell Drive, Pensford Drive and Horsa Close in Eastbourne and have seized a number of items. The investigation continues."

Anyone who thinks they may have been a victim is asked to contact police on 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting serial 1680 of 08/02.

12th February 2016

Chestnut Tree House Big Heart Auction 2016

Big Heart Auction 2016 will feature 200 amazing artworks in our awesome online auction. This is your chance to own a beautiful original artwork and support children with life-shortening illnesses.

The money raised by the online auction will support Chestnut Tree House, the children’s hospice for Sussex, and Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival’s community work, such as their Umbrella Club which provides live art experiences for these children. We are bringing a selection of the artworks to venues across Sussex and all artworks will be available to view at the Brighton Dome from Friday 1st to Tuesday 5th July and on our website.

You can see all the artworks here.

You can find out where to see artworks locally here.

All artworks will be auctioned on online on eBay from 1st to 10th July. Register for eBay here.

12th February 2016

Sussex Police Publish First Issue of Fraud Newsletter.

Please click here to download the first edition of the Sussex Fraud Newsletter, giving you the latest updates on those scams we are warning Sussex residents about this month. Please print this out and / or share with people who may find the updates useful.

We would like to draw your attention to the courier fraud described, in which fraudsters phone or visit residents claiming to be police officers or bank officials in the hope of gaining their bank cards and PIN.

We are pleased to confirm that there have been no recent reports of this type of incident in Sussex, however we are aware that there have been recent attempts in the South East area.

We encourage everyone to be vigilant and warn others who may be vulnerable to this type of fraud.

If you or someone you know is vulnerable and has been a victim of fraud or scams call Sussex Police on 101 or visit www.sussex.police.uk.

11th February 2016

Woman arrested over Hailsham hit and run collision

On Wednesday afternoon (10th February) police arrested a woman over a hit and run collision in Hailsham on Tuesday (9th February). A car has also been recovered.

A 78-year old Hailsham woman pedestrian sustained serious injuries following the incident, which occurred at about 6.40am on Tuesday in South Road. She is still in a critical but stable condition in the Royal Sussex County Hospital.

The woman arrested, who is 35 and also from Hailsham, is in custody for interview on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and failing to stop at the scene of a collision

10th February 2016

Police seeking car and driver involved in
Hailsham hit and run

Police are still trying to trace the driver and vehicle involved in a hit and run in Hailsham on Tuesday (9 February).

A pedestrian sustained serious injuries following the incident, which occurred at about 6.40am in South Road. Sergeant Richard Hornsey, of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "This was an appalling incident that left an elderly lady lying in the road with significant injuries."

"From debris found at the collision site, we are looking for a Ford Fiesta or Ford B-max in Candy Blue, manufactured from 2012 onwards. The vehicle has damaged a wing mirror in the collision. If you know someone who drives a vehicle like this and could have been in the Hailsham area yesterday morning between 6 and 7am, please contact the investigation team on:
collision.appeal@sussex.pnn.police.uk
or call 101, quoting Operation Image."

9th February 2016

Llama Park February Newsletter

The Llama Park at Wych Cross, Forest Row is open daily from 10am to 5pm.

The February newsletter, with details of the 2016 programme is now available to download.

Download the newsletter > >

Visit the Llama Park website > >

6th February 2016

Your Call 2016

You are invited to find out more about your local ambulance service at South East Coast Ambulance Services ‘Your Call 2016’ member event in Eastbourne, East Sussex.

It takes place on Tuesday 1st March 2016 at the Sovereign Harbour Yacht Club in Eastbourne from 4-6pm. Places are limited at this free event; so early booking is advised, book online.

At the event:

Find out about how your ambulance service works locally.
Learn the new ways of working to improve things for patients.
Meet Paramedics and have a tour of their vehicles.
Ask questions and give your views about the service.

You’ll have the opportunity to meet SECAmb's Paramedics, Chairman, local Governors and volunteers and there will be a question and answer session after the presentations and the opportunity to look inside some of our vehicles. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided.

SECAmb's Governors and staff would love to meet you, so please let them know you plan to attend, book your place online.

Please note: there is an option to select which of two member events you wish to attend on the survey. If you are unable to register online please call the Membership Office on 01273 484 821 and leave your name, postcode, and telephone number alongside the names of any additional attendees - and which event location you wish to attend.

The event is open to SECAmb members and the general public so feel free to bring friends and family along. Further information here, and on the SECAmb website.

5th February 2016

Keep Warm This Winter

East Sussex County Council will be holding a number of events around the region to give advice on keeping warm this winter.

More information > >

NHS Top Tips for Winter > >

28th January 2016

Do You Own, or are Considering the Purchase of,
a Retirement Property?

If you own a retirement property, or are thinking of buying one, the chances are you (or your family) will have to pay some kind of fee when it is sold. This may be called a “transfer fee”, “exit fee” or “contingency fee”. The generic term “event fees” is used to refer to these kinds of fees. Usually it is 1% of the sale price, but it can be more.

Event fees can be useful. It might mean that you pay a lower service charge. You can ‘pay later’ while enjoying the benefits of living there now. But, if you were not told about the fees when you first looked into buying your home, it can cause you some issues.

Read the Law Commission Leaflet > >

Complete the Law Commission Questionnaire > >

27th January 2016

About the Support with Confidence Scheme

The East Sussex County Council Support with Confidence scheme ensures all members are committed to the highest level of quality, safety and training.

It is a directory of vetted and approved care and service providers. Support with Confidence is aimed at people looking for support and care in their homes including services like personal care, meal provision, gardening, home improvement and transport needs.

More information for clients & service providers > >

Visit the Support with Confidence website > >

16th January 2016

Eastbourne Wrongly Included in
Gang Violence Report

Sussex Police has released a Press Statement in response the Home Office announcement relating to their report "Ending Gang Violence and Exploitation"

Hastings is included in the government programme but unfortunately Eastbourne was mistakenly included by the Home Office in this announcement, which has caused some concern locally. Eastbourne Police District Commander T/Chief Inspector, Emma Brice, said, "Can you pass this on to your members with my reassurance that Eastbourne does not have a problem with gang violence and remains a safe place to live, work and visit.

"Sussex Police and local partners are fully committed to protecting vulnerable people and dealing with youth crime in all the county's seaside towns. There is no evidence that Sussex has a gang culture where young people become involved in crime through their allegiance to a gang, however we know that youth violence - often drink or drug fuelled - can occur. We also know that vulnerable people locally can be at risk of being exploited by County Lines, where drug gangs from London seek to move into a provincial towns. , and it was to this end Sussex Police and our partners welcome this offer of additional advice and guidance from experts who are able to share good practice. This enables us to build on the strong partnership work already going on across Sussex to protect vulnerable people.

Already officers in Hastings, working with our partners, have done an enormous amount in tackling drug-related criminality, including violence, through initiatives like Operation Ball, which last autumn saw more than 30 arrests made. We have been tackling "County Lines" and we deal with this whenever we have evidence or intelligence to indicate it may be happening. We work closely with our partners to reduce the harm caused and help those who are vulnerable.
This operation was based on co-operation with other forces and partner agencies to amass intelligence allowing robust action to be taken against suspects.

Eastbourne was not part of the focus and currently Hastings is the only area in Sussex that will become one of the 52 areas nationally offered this additional support from the Home Office.

Superintendent Nick May said: "While we do not have the gang violence perhaps associated with inner city areas, it can sometimes manifest itself in drug trafficking between the coast and the capital, which we have been dealing with robustly. We are committed with partners to reducing the harm caused by all violence in our towns and protecting those who are most vulnerable in our communities".

15th January 2016

Cold Weather Advice

Weather forecasters have predicted a cold snap in all regions of England until Tuesday 19th January. Sleet, snow and severe frosts are forecast in some regions over the next few days.

This cold weather could increase the risk of life-threatening illnesses, especially among older people. The ideal temperature for a bedroom is 18°C (64°F) and 21°C (70°F) for a living room.

Read AgeUK's practical winter wrapped up guide for some useful tips on heating your home, eating well and other resources to keep warm. Please share this information with older friends and relatives.

In the winter, many older people or those with mobility issues stop going out for fear of slipping on icy or snowy pavements. Could you become a Snow Angel and help clear a safe path for people this winter?

Living Streets is working with a host of Snow Angels in communities where we know there are many people at risk this winter. And you can help too. The small act of putting down a little grit or salt, or clearing snow and ice from pavements when the cold weather hits, can make a big difference. A clear pavement means that an older person can still meet friends and get to the shops rather than being left isolated, lonely and inactive.

So spread your wings, get your halo polished, and salt, shake and walk your way to ice-free pavements by signing up here.

Power cuts don’t happen very often but if the electricity network is damaged or develops a fault it’s UK Power Network's job to get your power back on. Its engineers will work around the clock 24/7 to restore your power as quickly and as safely as possible.

The elderly, those dependent on medical equipment or who have a disability or young children living in London, the East or South East of England, are eligible for the Priority Services Register, which will ensure you will receive extra support if you experience a power cut. Click here to see if you are eligible.

Registration entitles you to:

A priority number that you can call 24 hours a day if you have a power cut
Regular text messages or phone updates during a power cut
Extra support from UK Power Network's partners, such as the British Red Cross, to visit your home during an emergency (They’ll check with you first)

14th January 2016

Stargazing at the Redoubt

n Saturday 16th January at 5pm, the Redoubt Fortress will open its gates to the public for the first time this year as part of the 2016 series of Stargazing events.

Both educational and entertaining, these free family friendly events are offered to anyone with an interest in astronomy, beginners or the more experienced stargazers, and anyone who wants to learn more about our night sky, with guided use of telescopes and expert knowledge from the Eastbourne Astronomical Society. The series continues on the 13th February at 6pm and then on the 12th March at 7pm

Some hot drinks and other refreshments will be available to purchase from the Pavilion Tea Room next to the Redoubt.

13th January 2016

Suicide Prevention Training

Grassroots Suicide Prevention delivers training that saves lives. Very few, if any of us, are untouched by suicide. They believe that suicide is a community health problem and that suicide can be prevented.

Grassroots Suicide Prevention promotes and delivers ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training), a 2 day workshop that teaches a model of suicide first aid. ASIST has been developed by LivingWorks and has been delivered to over 1 million people worldwide.

More information > >

12th January 2016

Library Opening Hours Survey

East Sussex County Council provides a range of public library and information services across the county. It’s free to become a library member and this gives you access to the full range of services.

You don’t have to be a member to visit libraries and browse catalogue and there are currently lots of different ways to access services to suit your needs.

East Sussex Libraries Service is conducting a consultation on its opening hours and would appreciate your input.

More information > >

Complete survey online >>

18th December 2015

Kent ‘mystery shoppers’ help make
Huguenot Museum more dementia friendly

Clearer directions and signage, avoiding information overload and providing dedicated headphones could all make the experience of visiting Rochester’s Huguenot Museum an even more enjoyable place to visit for people who have dementia, local mystery shoppers say in a new report by research charity Rica.

10th December 2015

Free Cold Weather Alert Service

coldAlert is a free severe cold weather alert service available throughout Sussex over the winter months, from November 2015 to March 2016.

Carers, home visitors, friends and relatives of vulnerable older people are encouraged to sign up and ensure that the elderly people in their care are protected during severe cold weather events.

coldAlert is sponsored by East Sussex County Council Public Health, working with the Keep Warm, Keep Well teams to promote the service across the county.

Read more information > >

10th December 2015

Bogus Detective Scams Vulnerable People

Sussex Police are warning residents to remain vigilant to scams and frauds, as recently we have seen an increase in a trend of scams where fraudsters telephone local people claiming to be from the Metropolitan Police asking for details and money.

The pattern tends to be that someone claiming to be a Detective Constable from the Met Police telephones a person stating someone has been arrested in London and has provided the Eastbourne residents details. What follows is an elaborate and complex scam involving financial account details, and even requests for cash. Many local residents have fallen victim to these scams, and many have lost money.

PC Ed Faulkner, Neighbourhood Constable, said “This scam takes advantage of people trust in their Police service. People often fear the worse when Police call upon them and this makes them more vulnerable to this kind of scam. If you are in any doubt at all that the person calling you is not a Police officer then you should take their name, hang up, call 101 and ask for the Police force they are from.

Officers are always happy and willing for their identity to be checked and verified whether in person or on the phone, and this quick and easy check can often prevent you falling victim to any kind of scam. Please warn you relatives and friends to be vigilant, and not to fall victim to this nasty fraud.

7th December 2015

Extra Support During Power Cuts

UK Power Networks keep the lights on in your area regardless of your chosen energy supplier. It owns and maintains the electricity lines and cables in London, the East and South East of England.

They understand that power cuts can be worrying. Do you need extra support during a power cut?

Services are free to customers who need support.

More information > >

20th November 2015

Warning to Internet Users

Police are issuing a warning to all internet users following a series of emails that have been received by many people claiming to be from Google asking them to confirm their account status.

The email, which purports to come from secure@googleaccountservices.co.uk states that they are required under European law to check the authenticity of Google account members. It then provides a link for users to click on to give personal details.

This is a scam, and is a blatant attempt to obtain personal details through a very official looking email. The link on the email is also designed to look very official and so this is a very sophisticated scam.

It is likely that the scammers are sending this email to any email address it can get hold of, and so it is not just Google customers that are at risk.

3rd November 2015

Healthwatch East Sussex November Newsletter

The Healthwatch East Sussex November newsletter is now available to download.

In this issue:

What have you been contacting us about?
Healthwatch England annual report 2014/15
Healthwatch East Sussex priorities
East Sussex better Together
East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust Chair
Tough budget decisions – adult social care savings
Nursing and Midwifery Council
The Care Act - how things have changed since April 2015
CQC annual analysis of the quality of health and social care services in England
Involving young people in Healthwatch East Sussex
Mental health information course
3Ts Redevelopment - Royal Sussex County Hospital
Healthwatch East Sussex competition
Consultations
Give us your feedback

Download the newsletter > >

27th October 2015

Adult Social Care Survey

Please see downloadable document which is in a very readable format. If you scroll down to pages 6/7 you will see where cuts are planned Pages 8/9 where they are not and pages 13/17 lots of detail on which voluntary organisations may not get contracts renewed.

Finally, there is a survey at the end for you to print off, compete and post in.

You can also complete the survey online > >

If you say "you can't cut here.." it would be good to show an alternative cut, because cash is finite and the cuts have to happen somewhere in the sector.

There will be inevitably more pressure on the volunteer services to provide more and raise their own funding. We are fortunate that "The Good Life" has greatly helped the funds of ESF and Age Concern

16th October 2015

Sussex Councils promote "Reading the South"

ESCC has joined forces with West Sussex county council to promote Reading The South, a three-month initiative.

The project aims to explore the sense of identity “the South” through the work of a number of contemporary authors who live in the South or who have been influenced by the region in their work.

To see the events (and creative writing workshops)
visit the Reading the South website.

8th October 2015

ESSA Autumn 2015 Newsletter

The ESSA Autumn 2015 Newsletter is now available to download.

In this issue:

Older People's Day
Changes to ESSA Constitution
Steps and Home Works
Action on Elder Abuse
and more.

Download newsletter > >

21st August 2015

Building Stronger Bridges

‘Building Stronger Bridges’ is a project within the community of Eastbourne. The aim is to set up a group of good neighbour schemes which include a co-ordinator and volunteers, who will provide support for the local people who may need help with some of the basics of day to day living.

The Good Neighbour Scheme is supported by Age Concern Eastbourne although its vision is that the groups will eventually run independently. As the network of good neighbour groups develop, then these will begin the network of building stronger bridges in the community.

There is need to support vulnerable communities and also recruit local co-ordinators and volunteers.

More information > >

9th August 2015

New scams reported from Action Fraud

Action Fraud have received numerous reports from victims who have been contacted by scammers who are cold calling and emailing people claiming to be from Action Fraud and the National Fraud Authority (NFA). The NFA was shut down in 2013.

The fraudsters are cold calling from withheld numbers and contacting victims from actionfraud999@gmail.com. They are trying to scam people in various ways which include:

Telling victims that they can obtain a refund from a previous fraud because the suspect has been caught.
Scaring victims into thinking their IP address was being used as part of fraud overseas and remote access was needed to rectify the issue.
Cold calling and claiming that victims are entitled to refunds and bank details were needed to transfer the money.
Asking for personal information, including passports and drivers licences.
Claiming that they can recover money from a previous fraud.
Sending emails asking victims to fill out a survey which contained suspicious links.

Action Fraud are in no way affiliated with these scammers and would never under any circumstances request information such as this. We would only email from contact@actionfraud.police.uk.

Please remember it is easy for fraudsters to set up an email address like gmail.com and be aware that scammers can change this at any time. Additionally the Home Secretary announced the closure of the National Fraud Authority on 2 December 2013.

If you receive a call or email that is suspicious and you want to verify the identity claiming to be from Action Fraud you can call 0300 123 2040 or email contact@actionfraud.police.uk.

22nd June 2015

Protecting adults from abuse

East Sussex County Council Adult Social Care has issued a leaflet about adult abuse, and what you can do if you are concerned that someone may be at risk of abuse or neglect.

An ‘adult at risk’ is someone who is at risk of harm by others, if they are in circumstances that put them at risk due to, for example, age, illness or disability.

Download the leaflet > >

17th June 2015

Ageing Without Children

One in five people over 50 have no children and by 2030 there will be 2 million people over 65 without children.

Ageing without children was set up to consider the impact this will have on services for older people and on wider society. Earlier this year we carried out a survey of 400 people ageing without children

Key findings

The biggest fear (92 respondents) was having no one to speak up for them or act in their best interests when they could no longer do so for themselves
78 feared being lonely and losing their peer group
65 were worried they had no one to call on in emergency
50 were afraid they would be abused or neglected
Other major issues were; help with practical tasks (36), being unable to afford care (24), end of life care (24), poor care from the NHS (20),
In terms of services, co-housing was the most popular (84% in favour), followed by ‘networks of community volunteers’ (thought useful by 73%), and joint housing (55%). There was also support for the idea of surrogate grand-parenting (42% in favour) and shared living arrangements (36%).
However, many other service options were also listed as important with access to information and advice, advocacy and care navigator services to coordinate and support people to access support all being key.
It was notable that many people seemed not be aware of services that already existed highlighting a gap in awareness and marketing of services.
90% felt that the Government had not recognised the numbers of people ageing without children and felt they were unaware of the impact on health and social care, or regarded it as unimportant.
The majority of respondents felt that wider society was unaware of the numbers of people ageing without children or did not see it as their problem to worry about.

Two thirds of respondents had wanted children but been unable to have them for medical reasons or other life circumstances but one third had made a positive decision to be child-free.

Download the full report > >

Ageing Without Children founder, Kirsty Woodard, will be running a workshop, lasting approximately 3 hours, designed to be delivered in house to staff and volunteer teams; however, Ageing Without Children is happy to work in partnership with organisations to put on standalone workshops which a range of organisations can attend.

For more information contact:
ageingwithoutchildren@gmail.com
or call 07919-335680
Download flyer > >

15th June 2015

Volunteers needed

The Association of Carers free respite and befriending service gives unpaid carers the opportunity to take a weekly three hour break from their caring role, while a carefully selected and thoroughly vetted volunteer spends time with the person they look after.

Barbara has been caring for her husband Cliff since he had a stroke 27 years ago. Sadly the stroke left Cliff unable to speak but he is able to walk with the aid of a stick and has a great sense of humour.

Volunteer Paul visits the couple each week and goes out with Cliff while Barbara has some time to herself.
Paul said: “I love my role as a respite and befriending volunteer. I feel rewarded by seeing how much Barbara appreciates her break and Cliff and I have a great time together, we go to the garden centre for a browse and enjoy a cup of tea.”

The Association of Carers is now recruiting for new volunteers across East Sussex.

To find out more please call 01424 722309 or email: info@associationofcarers.org.uk

20th May 2015

The Good neighbour Scheme

The Good Neighbour Scheme plays a key role in Eastbourne as, not only does it provide practical support, but also a befriending service, which helps reduce isolation and loneliness and may also contribute to towards some people maintaining their own independence.

Click here for more information.

14th May 2015

The Care Act in East Sussex

The Care Act came into force in April 2015 and is the biggest change in social care for 60 years.

It will help to make care and support more consistent across the country and puts the wellbeing of individuals at the heart of health and social care services. If you need care and support, or look after someone who does.

See how care and support is changing in East Sussex

22nd April 2015

Eastbourne Foodbank Financial Update 2014-5

Dr John Middleton, Vice President of Faculty of Public Health says: "The rising number of families and individuals who cannot afford to buy sufficient food is a public health issue that we must not ignore.

For many people, it is not a question of eating well and eating healthily, it is a question of not being able to afford to eat at all. UK poverty is already creating massive health issues for people today, and if we do not tackle the root causes of food poverty now we will see it affecting future generations too.

The increased burden of managing people's health will only increase if we do not address the drivers of people to food banks."

Read more > >

26th March 2015

Sussex Police warn of email-based
money laundering scam

Police in Sussex are warning students and other young people about the dangers of getting caught up in money laundering scams when they are making multiple job applications.

Detective Inspector Till Sanderson of the force's Economic Crime Unit said; "We have had two recent instances of young people supposedly being 'employed' by companies in America and then being asked by them to transfer funds placed in their accounts, onward overseas. In both cases the people concerned thought they had been given genuine jobs and have just become suspicious later.

This is a not a new fraud and it is an international issue which is not unique to Sussex. The last such case reported to us was a few years ago so to have two in a week or so is unusual. It is possible that the fraudsters are exploiting the difficult job market."

The incidents were reported by a Chichester man on 18 March and by a 21-year old Worthing woman on 10 March. The man had accepted an apparent on-line job offer purporting to be from a promotions company in Florida, and forwarded on £3,400 to an account in Turkey before his bank became suspicious.

The woman had accepted an on-line 'job' as a data in-putter with a supposed New York City company, and had similarly forwarded on some £1,710 to a Ukraine account before suspicions were aroused.

Police and anti-fraud experts advice great caution over unsolicited emails or approaches over social media promising opportunities to make easy money.

Verify any company that makes you a job offer and check their contact details (address, land-line phone number, email address and website) are correct and whether they are registered in the UK.
Be especially wary of job offers from people or companies overseas as it will be harder for you to find out if they really are legitimate.
Never give your bank account details to anyone unless you know and trust them.

Other signs that could indicate you are being targeted by a money mule scam:

Money mule adverts or offers can take a variety of different forms and they may even copy a genuine company's website and have a similar web address to make the scam seem authentic.
These adverts will normally state that they are an overseas company seeking 'UK representatives' or 'agents' to act on their behalf for a period of time, sometimes to avoid high transaction charges or local taxes.
The nature of the work that the company will claim to be involved in can vary, but the specifics of the job being advertised invariably mean using your bank account to move money.
The advert may be written in poor English with grammatical and spelling mistakes.

If you have already disclosed your bank account details or received money into your account and you think it could be a money mule scam, you should contact your bank immediately.
To report a fraud and receive a police crime reference number, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

3rd March 2015

The Health and Wellbeing Visiting
project has arrived!

We seek to help make older people more aware of their health needs and choices, help people take more action to manage their health and feel safer and generally better connected and able to access the services they need.

This is a unique development initiated by 3VA with East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and funded by the Department of Health.

The project will provide trained volunteers to visit people over the age of 50 with long term health conditions, disabilities or otherwise in need of support with continuing to live as well as they might in their own homes. The volunteers are badged and easily identified as volunteers with the Fire Service, thus providing the assurance associated with a well trusted and respected service that is well known throughout the County.

The volunteers will seek to understand the individual’s health and wellbeing priorities through having a conversation with the people they visit and will seek to provide support through putting people in touch with appropriate sources of help. They are likely to see the person they visit again if this is requested, probably on at least 2 occasions to see how they are managing, to see how useful the organisation referred to has been and explore other options if necessary.

As part of the visit the volunteers will also check to see if there are any fire safety issues that need attention and can refer to East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service to see if they can help further.

If you wish to discuss having a visit from the project, or to discuss opportunities for training as a volunteer, please contact:
Ceilidh Jackson-Baker by telephone: 01323 462 437 or email:ceilidh.jackson-baker@esfrs.org

3VA has engaged a new Project Manager for Health to lead on this development. Stephen Hughes can be contacted on: Stephen.hughes@3va.org.uk or Tel. 01323 72 78 72

More information > >
More information for volunteers > >

29th January 2015

Operation Bluebird

East Sussex County Council (ESCC), Brighton and Hove CC and Sussex Police have just secured joint funding to enable them to fight misuse and fraudulent use of the Blue Badge scheme that causes so many difficulties for genuine users.

The operation, named ‘Bluebird’, will seek to tackle misuse of badges and remove them from circulation and quite possibly prosecute some offenders. In addition to prosecution in a court of law; a further penalty has been considered and agreed between the sponsoring parties, this is called a community resolution order and is intended to educate offenders on the effects of this problem and the consequences of their actions. This will be in the form of a video recorded by our disabled badge holders and how misuse and fraudulent use impacts on them.

The aim of Operation Bluebird is to raise awareness of this crackdown also to inform you of some facts that you may not be aware of. 20% of badges are misused in some way; there are 24,000 badges issued by ESCC and a further 13,000 issued by Brighton, and this misuse costs the tax payer an average of £5,000 per badge as well as this financial impact on the tax payer. However, the impact it has on disabled people is uppermost and this is where you can assist by giving some examples of this. Your input is valued and any particular examples of the difficulties that misuse has caused to others would be welcome.

A number of action days will be held across the county this year; badges that are displayed will be closely checked and, with some previous intelligence information already gathered on street, enforcement officers we will seek to remove immediately any badge is clearly being misused.

Two investigation officers are now working across the two areas and they are already working closely with on street officers to gather information on problem areas and will prepare cases for possible prosecution.

If you have any information of misuse or fraudulent misuse of blue badges, you can e-mail the Operation Bluebird team.

21st January 2015

An ITV Documentary Wants To Hear
From Elderly Drivers

If you are over 90 years of age AND still driving – rdf Television would love to hear from you!

Are you one of the 70,000 drivers in Britain in their 90’s?

Can you remember what driving was like when roads were policed by ‘courtesy cops’ and the M1 didn’t even exist?

If so - rdf wants to hear from you. They would love to discuss how driving in the United Kingdom has changed over the years and how it compares to driving now.

If this sounds like you or someone you know please call rdf on 0207-013-4180 or e-mail Miranda.Tattonbrown

15th January 2015

Eastbourne Police warn of increase in phone scams

Eastbourne Police would like to issue a warning to residents, especially the elderly and anyone living alone, as there is currently an increase of crime in which phone callers posing as police officers or bank staff ask for bank and card details.

There has been a recent rise in this crime across the Sussex Force area, and elsewhere in the country. The fraudsters call the intended victim claiming to be from either the police or a bank. They tell them that their card details have been fraudulently used and that they need to act urgently to protect themselves. They suggest that they hang up and ring the bank or police back to ensure that the call is genuine.

Don't be fooled - they stay on the line and pretend to be the police or the bank. They then tell the intended victim to key in or read out their PIN number.

They then send a taxi or courier, who may know nothing about the crime, to collect the bank card. With this and the PIN they will then have full access to spend your money.

Sergeant Gareth Evans said: "Under no circumstances would the police or your bank request your PIN number over the telephone or arrange collection of your bank cards from your home address in this manner. Never give out your bank details to someone who has contacted you on your home phone unsolicited.

"If you have any suspicions, please do not use the phone you have just been called on to contact the police or your bank. If possible use another phone to contact the police to report it, or to contact a friend to relative to alert them. Alternatively, wait for at least half-an-hour before trying to ring.

"I would urge anyone reading or hearing this message to pass it on to any friends and relatives who may not be aware of this particular type of targeted fraud, to prevent any vulnerable friends or family members from becoming victims.

"Eastbourne Police want to encourage everyone to continue to resist these callers, so if you have any information, whether you have received similar calls or know someone who has been a victim of this crime, contact Sussex Police via 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting Operation Edisto. You can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Click here for on-line advice on fraud prevention.

If you would like more information for crime prevention of scams, please contact your Local Policing Team who will be able to issue with a Big Book of Scams booklet

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You are recommended to seek competent professional advice before taking any action based on its contents.

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Autumn 2016

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Community Safety Partnership Relaunches
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