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Oxford Community Information Weekly Newsletter 17-11-24 Newsletter and information collated and edited by volunteer Maggie Lewis Area Representative and Administrator for Oxford Neighbourhood Watch Cyberhood Watch Ambassador (National Neighbourhood Watch) SCAMbassador for Oxford (National Trading Standards) You can join or apply to set up a Neighbourhood Watch scheme at https://www.ourwatch.org.uk/joinNW
For any comments/information/queries or unsubscribing onw.enquiries@gmail.com Social Media sites https://www.facebook.com/groups/1937740226361938 https://www.facebook.com/groups/605172170528080
CONTENTS NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH NETWORK 1) Harassment 2) Webinars
POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER 1) This Week
TVP ROAD POLICING 1) Iffley Road
THAMES VALLEY POLICE 1) Wanted Man
TVP WEST OXFORDSHIRE 1) Missing person update
TVP OXFORD 1) Thames towpath 2) Cowley Road 3) St Ebbes Street 4) Sentenced
SCAM AWARENESS 1) Take Five 2) Amazon email scams 3) Rogue firms 4) DVLA 5) Pets Reunited 6) Phishing 7) Fake universal credit App
CRIME PREVENTION 1) Staying safe in the Digital Space 2) Online Shopping 3) Preventing theft from your doorstep 4) Burglary 5) Advice for shopping in town
CRIME INFORMATION 1) Are you scam-savvy quiz? 2) escooters 3) Safe spaces 4) Walking Home Alone? 5) Carrying a knife 6) Cannabis 7) Counterfeit car parts
OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 1) Road Safety Week 2) Consultations 3) Primary school application process opens for September 2025 4) Targeted Youth Support Service (TYSS) 5) SEND Conversations
OXFORD CITY COUNCIL 1) Consultations 2) Winter warmth campaign 3) Green skills courses 4) Community Safety - Street Lighting update 5) Upcoming Event
OXFORD DIRECT SERVICES 1) Dog Warden RSPCA Award
GENERAL INFORMATION 1) Food Recalls 2) Product Recalls 3) Car Insurance 4) Driving safety 5) Healthwatch Oxfordshire webinar on health services for men 6) Silver Line Helpline 7) ASB Awareness Week 8) World Day of Remembrance 9) Christmas Light Bus 10) Bus service updates 11) A34 Road Closure 12) Network Rail 13) Driving licences 14) Driving in cold weather 15) Some tips for staying safe in cold weather
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH NETWORK 1) Harassment Harassment doesn't look like one particular thing - it can appear in many different behaviour patterns. Visit our website for advice on how to spot, and report, harassment: https://bit.ly/458GJkZ We can work together to stand against harassment and VAWG.  2) Webinars This November, we are bringing to you a series of webinars which will focus on a variety of crime prevention and safety themes. Please see the full list of webinars below and the registration links to these.
Community Safety: Integrating an enforcement approach, and how partnerships can be maximised
"Let's Talk ASB" Day: Co-hosted by Resolve and Neighbourhood Watch to mark 'Let's Talk ASB Day' (as part of the national ASB Awareness Week), this session aims to bring together frontline practitioners, Neighbourhood Watch coordinators and the general public.
Stand up Against Harassment
POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER 1) This Week 
TVP ROAD POLICING 1) Iffley Road
A man has been disqualified from driving after hitting a cyclist with his car when passing too close. At Oxford Magistrates Court on 4 November, Dennis Amoah, aged 36 of Charlbury Road, Oxford, was disqualified from driving for 12 months and ordered to pay over £1,000 of prosecution costs, victim costs and compensation. On 17 September 2023, Amoah passed a cyclist in his car on the Iffley Road, Oxford. He passed too close to the cyclist and his wing mirror hit her causing her to fall from her bike. The cyclist suffered a broken arm and received hospital treatment. Investigating officer PC Mark Exley said: “Dennis Amoah was driving in an inconsiderate way which caused serious harm to another person. “His actions were completely avoidable and I am pleased he has been held accountable for his actions. My thanks go to the victim for supporting this investigation through to prosecution. “We will continue to look to prosecute those who are a danger to others on our roads.” Dennis Amoah was ordered to pay the following, with a 12-month disqualification from driving: £500 compensation £576 fine Victim surcharge £230 £85 court costs
THAMES VALLEY POLICE 1) Wanted Man Thames Valley Police is appealing for the public’s help to find a man who is wanted on recall to prison in Bicester. Neil Shorter, aged 55, is wanted on recall to prison for breaching his licence conditions on Thursday (14/11). Shorter is white, around 5ft 10ins, of medium build and bald with a short grey beard and moustache. He was last seen wearing a blue anorak with a hood, a grey hoodie underneath, grey tracksuit bottoms, black trainers, purple headphones and sunglasses. Investigating officer Detective Constable Sam Lea said: “Enquiries have been ongoing to locate Shorter, since he breached the conditions of his release from prison yesterday but we are now appealing for the public’s help. “Anybody who knows of his whereabouts, or if you see Shorter please do not approach him, and contact Thames Valley Police on 999, quoting reference INC-20241114-1877.”   TVP WEST OXFORDSHIRE 1) Missing person update Good news - Kelly from Witney has been located safe and well. Images deleted.
TVP OXFORD 1) Thames towpath Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following an attempted robbery in Oxford. At around 2.30pm on Friday 8/11, the female victim was cycling along the river Thames towpath from Kennington Road to Folly Bridge. Approximately 200 metres from the small footbridge just before the Folly Bridge crossing, the offender blocked her path with an e-scooter and gestured for her to stop. The victim had headphones in and so stopped the music and got off her bike. The offender has then grabbed the victim to her upper body, possibly in an attempt to take her rucksack. The victim kicked out at the offender and made an escape. Nothing was stolen, and the victim was not injured. The offender is described as an Asian man, aged in his thirties or forties with a skinny build. He was around 6ft to 6ft 2ins tall with a large nose, and was wearing a black coat with his hood up, black jeans and was on a black e-scooter. He spoke with possibly a northern accent. Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Lisa Jones of Oxford CID said: “This incident has occurred in the middle of the afternoon along the Thames towpath. “I am appealing to anybody who witnessed this incident, or who may have mobile phone footage or any information that may assist this investigation to please get in touch with Thames Valley Police. “You can make a report online or by calling us on 101, quoting reference 43240541345. “Alternatively, for 100% anonymity, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
2) Cowley Road Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following an assault and theft in Oxford. The incident occurred between 7.20am and 7.40am on 11/11 at a bus stop on Cowley Road near Magdalen Road. A man assaulted a woman and proceeded to leave the scene with her mobile phone and bank cards. The woman sustained bruising to her face but did not require hospital treatment. The offender is described as a white man in his early 40s, approximately 6ft tall, of broad build. He had grey hair and a black and grey beard. He was seen to be wearing a grey tracksuit. Investigating officer, Detective Constable Michael Hopcroft, said: “I am appealing for any witnesses to please come forward, particularly to those who were on a passing bus at the time of the incident. “Anyone with information relating to the incident should call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43240545139. If you have CCTV footage please upload it to our dedicated online portal. “Alternatively, for anonymity, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via its website.”
3) St Ebbes Street On Monday morning Officers from our Neighbourhood Policing Teams and Problem-Solving Team executed a drugs warrant at an address in Oxford City Centre. After forcing entry into the address on St Ebbes Street, a large cannabis farm was located which spanned over 4 floors inside. Around £50k worth of drugs were seized along with other pertinent items which will assist with the investigation. One male was located hiding in the loft space & was arrested for cultivation of cannabis. Further enquires has lead to a further arrest of a male we suspect to be involved in organising & facilitating the cannabis farms There is often a huge debate around cannabis however it remains illegal to possess and sell. The cultivation, supply & use of the drug has a massive impact on the community and those directly involved with strong links to Organised Crime and Violence.
4) Sentenced Following an investigation by Thames Valley Police, a prolific shoplifter has been jailed in Oxford. Andrew Copeland-Brown, aged 58, of Henry Taunt Close, pleaded guilty to five counts of theft from a shop in a hearing at Oxford Magistrates’ Court on Saturday 9/11. At the same hearing, Copeland-Brown was sentenced to 26 weeks’ imprisonment. Between 24 June and 28 October this year, Copeland-Brown targeted stores in London Road, stealing goods from Headington Pharmacy, the Co-operative store and Sainsbury’s. He was arrested on Thursday 8/11 and charged the same day. Investigating officer PC Jon Kelly said: “Copeland-Brown is a prolific offender who frequently targeted the same stores in London Road. “I am pleased that he has been given a custodial sentence as a result of his offending behaviour. “Tackling shoplifting in Oxford is a priority for the force, and I hope that this outcome shows that we are taking retail theft seriously and will always seek to pursue and prosecute offenders.”
SCAM AWARENESS 1) Take Five https://www.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/ Take Five is a national campaign offering straight-forward, impartial advice that helps prevent email, phone-based and online fraud - particularly where criminals impersonate trusted organisations. Scam warning: Criminals may purport to be from Take Five, using our official branding on websites, social media posts, literature, on the phone or by text. Take Five doesn’t provide endorsement or approval for any products/services and would never call or text anyone.
2) Amazon email scams The Scam Another common scam email says that your Amazon Prime membership is set to renew shortly, but that the payment method associated with your account is no longer valid. You are asked to click a button to update your payment information. How to Avoid Find out more
3) Rogue firms Rogue firms continue to bombard the public with misleading calls about appliance and white goods repair cover. Last year, National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) data revealed that nearly £13m was lost during the Christmas shopping period to online shopping and auction scams. Between November 2023 and January 2024, the NFIB received 16,031 reports from online shopping and auction scam victims, with total losses of £12.9m. The NIFB analyses data from Action Fraud's reports, it also sends reports to local police forces for investigation and can take down bank accounts, websites and phone numbers used by fraudsters. Purchase fraud, where scam victims are deceived into buying goods that don't exist, is one of the most common types of fraud in the UK. It poses such a threat that TSB has warned that from January to October this year, purchase fraud accounted for more than half of all fraud cases at the bank. TSB also found that Facebook accounted for two thirds of all purchase fraud losses and Instagram accounted for one in six. A bogus offer isn't anything new, but the hype of the Black Friday and Christmas sales period and all the advertising that's pumped out at this time of year allows scammers to disguise their traps.
4) DVLA Action Fraud have received over 1,100 reports about FAKE emails claiming to be from the DVLA. The emails claim that your "vehicle tax payment has failed". Their aim is to steal your financial and personal information. You can report such e-mail by forwarding them on to report@phishing.gov.uk
5) Pets Reunited We have been made aware of scam calls to owners of missing pets listed on Pets Reunited. Please be vigilant, these scam calls are often very convincing! The caller claims to be from a vet, the RSCPA or a rescue centre informing owners they need to pay immediately as their beloved pet needs an operation. Or, sometimes they are asking for a small 'release fee' (around £5) in order for a pet to be released back to its owner. Please do not be taken in by this, this is a scam. Our adviceIf you're unsure if this is a genuine call about your missing pet - take the name of the vet or rescue centre and google it, find the contact details yourself and then contact them directly. If they are genuine - they won't have a problem with this. Do not use the number the scammers offer you. Hang up the phone! If you're using a landline, make sure that they are not still on the line after you've hung up.
6) Phishing Phishing is where you receive an email, message, text or phone call that appears genuine, but it's actually malicious. Phishing attempts might try to trick you into revealing sensitive information, or may contain a link to a malicious website or attachment that is infected with a virus. Some attempts are random, others are more targeted. Spotting a phishing email The advice you will hear a lot is to look out for signs like poor spelling and grammar. While these are a good place to start, they can't be used to spot all phishing emails. Here are three things to look out for:
7) Fake universal credit App Beware downloading a Universal Credit App claiming to let users manage their accounts. It is understood that no such official government App exists, and users may be at risk of giving away personal information. Only use the DWP Universal Credit Website Contact the Trading Standards Service via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.
CRIME PREVENTION 1) Staying safe in the Digital Space
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GaA1S6Y-rdU
2) Online Shopping The busiest time of year for buying online is also a busy time for online criminals. Don’t pay a seller you don’t know for goods by bank transfer… it could be a sign of fraud. If you can, always pay by credit card. When buying from an ad on social media or an online marketplace, it’s always best to see the goods in person before you part with any money. Always check that payment pages are secure by checking that the address begins with ‘https’ (s is for secure) and there’s a closed padlock in the address bar, Fake goods are of poor quality, illegal and might even be dangerous in use. Avoid them at all costs, however tempted you are to buy, If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, report it to https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/
3) Preventing theft from your doorstep Here are some things you could do to reduce the risk of doorstep theft: Track your parcel to ensure you or someone else is at home for the delivery Install a video doorbell; this can be connected to your mobile so you are notified immediately of any delivery, and is easier to install than a full CCTV system Install a security light Arrange for your parcel to be delivered to a trusted neighbour, or other family members who will be at home; if you live in a flat, is there a concierge who could accept the parcel for you? Use an off-site locker service for frequent deliveries, or for expensive items; these parcel boxes are more likely to be in busy, safer locations - such as supermarkets - rather than secluded areas which could be targeted by thieves
4) Burglary Most burglaries happen when no one is home and are often opportunistic. Burglars look for vulnerabilities, so securing your home can be the first step to keeping them out. Here are some tips to help protect you and your property:
5) Advice for shopping in town
CRIME INFORMATION 1) Are you scam-savvy quiz? https://quiz.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/
2) escooters With Christmas coming up and lots of sales on, e-scooters may be at the top of some people’s wish list. However, Buyer Beware! You cannot use a privately owned e-scooter on the road, pavement or in a public space. To do so is an offence under Section 165a of The Road Traffic Act 1988 and you risk receiving a large fine, points on your driving licence and your e-scooter being seized. Several retailers, both online and on the high street, are now making customers aware of the legislation in relation to e-scooters. Signage may be displayed in store and links to the guidance around powered transporters, including e-scooters, are now often found in product listings online.
3) Safe spaces A Safe Place is a registered venue that has agreed to offer help and support to people in this situation. You can recognise them by this logo prominently displayed in a front door or window. If you download the free Safe Places app and open it, it shows a map with your location pinned. You then can tap on the "Get me to the nearest Safe Place" link and it shows the shortest possible walking route to the nearest Safe Place that is open. For a list of current participating venues in Oxford, please look at https://www.safeplaces.org.uk/member-schemes/oxford 
4) Walking Home Alone? Strut Safe is a nationwide phone line which is run by volunteers to keep you company and help you feel safe on your walk home. Their phone lines are open: Fridays & Saturdays, 7pm to 3am Sundays, 7pm to 1am If you don't feel safe on your walk home then give them a call 0333 335 0026 Their volunteers will help you feel safe until you are through the front door. More info at https://strutsafe.org/
5) Carrying a knife Carrying a knife (or any weapon) has serious consequences. Some young people say that they carry a knife for protection or to make them feel safer, even though they wouldn’t think of using it. Not all young people who carry weapons intend to use them, but if someone carries a weapon and gets into an argument, it's more likely to be used. Research has shown that you’re actually more likely to become a victim of crime if you’re carrying a knife. If you have considered carrying a knife – or are already carrying – there are things you need to think about...
The impact and implications of knife crime extends much further than you. Surrender your weapon today.
6) Cannabis While cannabis is seen by some as a ‘harmless drug’, its production is often linked to organised crime gangs who use exploitation and violence to make vast quantities of money. They set up factories in homes, shops and derelict buildings, putting neighbouring properties at risk as they bypass electricity meters and overload electrical circuits. It is considered that the Class B drug does act as a gateway drug to harder drugs.
7) Counterfeit car parts Drivers have been warned of the life-threatening dangers of buying fake parts for their vehicles. Items crucial for safety such as tyre, wheels, airbags and brakes are among the most commonly purchased “fake” items, the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) said. Counterfeit parts are advertised and sold to consumers and businesses as genuine branded vehicle parts, but are likely to be made using inferior materials and are not safety-tested, according to the IPO. In a survey of 1,394 motorists commissioned by the IPO, one in six respondents (15%) said they had purchased a counterfeit part in the 12 months leading up to October 2024. Purchases made unknowingly were often uncovered later, as 45% of respondents who thought the item they were purchasing was genuine discovered it was fake through their garage after the part had faulted. The most commonly purchased fake parts in the UK included car batteries, tyres and wheels and windscreen wipers – with 14% of motorists buying fake airbags and 12% buying counterfeit brake pads or discs, according to the survey. Of those who knowingly bought fake parts, 31% cited cost savings as a reason for making the purchase. City of London Police said officers had recently seized 500 counterfeit car airbags, which could have put motorists in danger, during an operation in East London. The IPO has issued advice for consumers on avoiding counterfeit purchases in a national campaign titled Fake Always Breaks launched on Monday. This includes being wary of prices that seem “too good to be true”, researching the seller, looking at previous customer reviews and checking the spec as fake parts are often “one size fits all” and are not made for a specific vehicle. Genuine parts come with a certificate of Original Equipment, the IPO said, and therefore parts without the certificate are likely to be fake. Selling counterfeit parts is illegal and the IPO has urged anyone who suspects a part might be fake to report the seller to the charity Crimestoppers.
OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL Every 20 minutes someone is killed or seriously injured on UK roads. With Road Safety Week coming up next week, now's a good time to think about how fast we drive. Speed is a major factor in most collisions & many of these tragedies could be avoided if we all slowed down. Always drive at a safe speed for the road and its conditions. Tips for car drivers  2) Consultations
We want to hear:
https://letstalk.oxfordshire.gov.uk/healthier-foods-24 Closing date 21 November 2024
We're asking for your views on the proposal to amend existing and introduce new ‘No Waiting at Any Time’ (double yellow lines) parking restrictions in Armstrong Road, Minchery Farm Estate, Oxford. The proposals are being put forward as a result of the development of land for residential purposes at the ‘Littlemore Park’ estate. Additionally, `raised table` traffic calming features will be introduced at points along Armstrong Road, in order to help regulate traffic speeds within the estate. https://letstalk.oxfordshire.gov.uk/oxford_armstrongroad_parking2024 Closing date 22 November 2024
East-West Rail are holding a series of in-person consultation events across the route. At each event you can review the updated proposals, talk to members of our team, ask questions and submit your feedback. In-person meeting Oxford, Oxford Town Hall 19 November 2024, 2pm - 7pm Have your say on proposals for a new rail link between Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge. With the Chancellor’s Budget confirming support to deliver the East West Railway in full, a 10-week consultation has been launched, encouraging communities to have their say and shape the development of the line. This will include proposals for how trains could be powered on the route, outlining a preference for greener traction power and hybrid battery-electric trains, which would result in cleaner and faster journeys for passengers. The public will also be invited to have their say on planned timetables and services, which include up to four trains per hour along the route, delivering a 'turn-up-and-go' style service for passengers. https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/east-west-rail-consultation-2024 Feedback formhttps://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/8MJVPW/
3) Primary school application process opens for September 2025
4) Targeted Youth Support Service (TYSS) The Targeted Youth Support Service (TYSS) works with young people to reduce problems in their lives. We help by enabling children and young people to increase aspirations and develop resilience. Services include:
We also work with schools and other services to address problems like Anti-Social Behaviour, lack of local youth provision, responding to violence in a community or other sudden trauma. Adults supporting a young person can request referral to the Targeted Youth Support Service using this form. You must have the child's consent. https://oxme.info/life/tyss-referral-form
5) SEND Conversations Join us at our next round of SEND Oxfordshire Conversations events on:
Book your place These events are open to all parents and carers of children and young people with SEND across Oxfordshire, but you need to book so we can understand any additional needs you have and email you the joining instructions.
OXFORD CITY COUNCIL 1) Consultations
The Town and Country Planning Act 1990 requires Neighbourhood Forums to reapply every five years. The Headington Neighbourhood Forum has submitted an application to Oxford City Council asking to be redesignated as a Neighbourhood Forum. We are inviting comments on this application to be made within this consultation window. The Neighbourhood Forum area remains the same as when it was originally designated. Closes 20 Nov 2024
Oxford City Council is undertaking its five-yearly review of polling districts and polling stations, inviting members of the public, organisations, and stakeholders to provide feedback. Consultation period and deadline The consultation will run until Monday 18 November and we welcome views from all interested parties. To share your comments, please email elections@oxford.gov.uk. The revised polling scheme will come into force on 3 February 2025. The review is part of our commitment to ensuring that all electors have access to practical and accessible facilities when casting their vote. Have your say at the link in the comments.
2) Winter warmth campaign  3) Green Skills Courses Oxford businesses, organisations, and residents are being encouraged to apply for a free space on a green skills course, as part of an initiative to support Oxford on its journey to net zero. Oxford City Council has been awarded £60,000 from the Government to offer businesses and residents 60 fully funded places on green skills training opportunities in Oxford. The funding has been provided by the Green Skills Fund, and supports a range of different courses, from introductions to electric-cargo bikes, to heat pumps, and more. Green Skills courses will be open to individuals who live or work in the city and to organisations and companies based in or operating in Oxford. Some courses will require additional qualifications based on course eligibility criteria. More information on the green skills fund and courses can be found on the dedicated webpage or by emailing Greenskills@oxford.gov.uk
4) Community Safety - Street Lighting update
Oxford City Council website Oxford City Council welcomes Oxfordshire County Council’s decision to defer its proposal to turn off street lights in Oxfordshire after 11pm, acknowledging that our concerns appear to have been heard. However, we remain deeply concerned that this policy is still under consideration. Street lighting is essential for helping people feel safe in their communities, especially at night. This proposal risks adding barriers to evening activities, such as sports and cultural events, particularly for women who may feel unsafe walking home in the dark. We urge Oxfordshire County Council to consult residents directly and explore alternatives that ensure community safety and wellbeing are not compromised.
5) Upcoming Event
Tea Dance: Wednesday 20 November, 2 - 4.30 pm, Oxford Town Hall Our ever-popular Tea Dances are back at Oxford Town Hall! Get your dancing shoes on and have a fun filled afternoon of dancing (and a drinks interval) in our stunning main hall. Tickets available to purchase on the door, £4 per person. https://www.oxfordtownhall.co.uk/whats-on/upcoming-events/event/tea-dance-27/
OXFORD DIRECT SERVICES 1) Dog Warden RSPCA Award ODS, in partnership with Oxford City Council, has achieved the prestigious RSPCA PawPrints Gold standard! Presented last week in London, the award celebrates the outstanding work of Ady Higgs, ODS's dedicated Dog Warden, for his commitment to safeguarding stray dogs across Oxford. Thanks to Ady’s efforts, animal welfare standards are upheld, ensuring our city remains a safe and compassionate place for animals in need. We’re incredibly proud of Ady’s achievements and grateful for his dedication, which made this recognition possible. 
GENERAL INFORMATION 1) Food Recalls
Several brands are taking the precautionary step of recalling several spice products that contain mustard. They may contain peanuts which are not mentioned on the label. This means the products are a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to peanuts. Update 12 - https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-aa-42-2024-update-12 https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-aa-51-2024-update-16
Aldi is recalling Let’s Party Vegetable Bao Buns because they contain sesame and duck meat which is not mentioned on the label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to sesame. Let’s Party Vegetable Bao Buns Pack size 8 pack Best before All date codes
2) Product Recalls
Hazard: The product presents a high risk of injuries as it can reach speeds in excessive of the maximum permissible limit.
Hazard: The product presents a risk of fire as it may overheat and ignite.
Hazard: The product presents a risk of cuts and injuries as some products may have an accessible sharp edge. 
Hazard: The product presents a risk of injuries as it is possible for the laces to get caught during use, causing the user to trip.
Hazard: The product presents a high risk of fire as the housing on the battery may be damaged, allowing water ingress.
Hazard: The product presents a serious risk of injuries as the fork steerer tube can crack, leading to the detachment of the bicycle stem and handlebar
3) Car Insurance Is your vehicle insurance set to auto-renew? Are you sure? There is an average of 300,000 uninsured vehicles on UK roads every single day. Check your insurance today: https://enquiry.navigate.mib.org.uk/checkyourvehicle
4) Driving safety Did you know you can be fined up to £1,000 and receive three penalty points if you’re pulled over and fail a roadside vision test? You could even be disqualified from driving completely. With the dark night’s drawing in it’s more important than ever to make sure you’re meeting the legal eyesight standards to keep yourself, other motorists, and pedestrians safe.
5) Healthwatch Oxfordshire webinar on health services for men You are invited to a webinar on how health and care services in Oxfordshire could be more inclusive and accessible for men on Tuesday 19 November (1pm-2pm). The webinar is being run by Healthwatch Oxfordshire, and will let you talk about your experiences and ask questions in a safe, confidential space. Zoom link on this page https://healthwatchoxfordshire.co.uk/news/men-in-mind-webinar/
6) Silver Line Helpline The Silver Line Helpline run by Age UK is a free, confidential telephone service for ages 55+. They provide friendship, conversation and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call free on 0800 4 70 80 90
7) ASB Awareness Week ASB Awareness Week 2024 is 18th - 24th November. The overarching theme and hashtag for the week is #MakingCommunitiesSafer. This years' daily themes are:
https://www.resolveuk.org.uk/our-services/asb-awareness-week#asb-week
8) World Day of Remembrance Every year, more than 1,700 people die on UK roads. Another 30,000 receive serious, life-changing injuries. The numbers are shocking, and there has been no significant reduction for more than a decade. But road casualties are not just statistics. Behind every number is a family in turmoil.  9) Christmas Light Bus From Oxford Bus Company The Oxford Christmas Light Bus is BACK! Vote now for where the bus should stop on its route! https://www.oxfordbus.co.uk/lightbus2024 
We want your input on deciding the stopping locations in the Oxford area. Voting is now open! Please share the voting form with your friends and family. The more votes a location receives, the higher the chance it will be included in the route and picked as our stopping location.
10) Bus service updates
Due to roadworks on Hollow Way, between 18/11 and 20/11, several stops will be temporarily suspended in both directions each day, we are also expecting significant traffic delays, for more information see our Updates page below: https://oxfordbus.co.uk/service-updates
11) A34 Road Closure The A34 will be closed in both directions from Peartree to Botley from 8pm on November 19 to 6am on November 20. There are expected to be moderate delays of between 10-30 minutes.
12) Network Rail
This week East West Rail have launched a consultation to get feedback on their latest plans. Lasting 10 weeks until 24 January 2025, it includes a number of in-person events at various locations along the route, as well as online sessions. For more information visit https://eastwestrail.co.uk/news/latest-stories/our-consultation-is-now-open
Water main connection On Monday (18 November) Thames Water are due to start work to complete the connection of the new water main on the western side of the bridge. This follows on from the ground investigation work during October to identify a suitable location. How will this impact you? · Abbey Road - From midnight (00.01am) on Monday, parking in Abbey Road, between Botley Road and Cripley Place junctions, will be suspended to allow buses to be diverted to get to the turning area. · Mill Street – The junction into Mill Street will be open as usual, but reduced down to one lane, with temporary traffic lights in place to manage traffic coming in and out. · Cyclists and pedestrians – With Mill Street being a busy junction for people coming to/from the walkway under the rail bridge, cyclists and pedestrians are asked to take extra care when crossing. There will be an additional set of traffic lights by Westgate Hotel to help guide when safe to cross.
Work has started on moving the walkway on the Frideswide Square side of the rail bridge back to its original position, after the work on the water main in that area was completed. It will be reopened next week.
Virgin Media are working in Frideswide Square to lay new cable, which is due to continue into next week. Businesses are open as usual.
Work to install new pipe for station water supply is complete and we’re now waiting for Thames Water to do final connection and testing. This is due to take place next week, after which the ramp up to the station and crossing point will be returned to normal.
Due to the work affecting access to the station entrance, in exceptional circumstances, and during dedicated times, GWR are providing passenger assistance from the west side of the station.
Please be aware that there is engineering work taking place this weekend which will impact train services to/from London Paddington.
For more information visit https://www.gwr.com/travel-information/travel-updates/planned-engineering Chiltern Railway train services will be operating to/from London Marylebone as usual. For more information visit https://www.chilternrailways.co.uk/
13) Driving licences Do you know your responsibility when it comes to your driving licence? It's against the law to drive with an invalid driving licence. You must renew a photocard licence every 10 years, once you reach 70 this is every 3 years and you must inform DVLA if you develop a ‘notifiable’ medical condition or disability or a condition or disability has got worse since you got your licence. www.gov.uk/driving-medical-conditions If you have been disqualified from driving you will also have to re-apply for a new licence or in some cases may have to retake your test again. If your driving licence has expired your insurance will also be invalid. You should receive a reminder before your current licence ends but take time this weekend to check yours and visit www.gov.uk/renew-driving-licence
14) Driving in cold weather Colder wintry weather is forecast so, before setting off, ensure all windows, mirrors & lights are clear. Drive to the road conditions – slow down, leave more space between yourself and the vehicle in front to give yourself more time to react safely.
15) Some tips for staying safe in cold weather
I hope you have an enjoyable week ahead. Keep safe, Maggie | ||||
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