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Oxford Community Information Weekly Newsletter 24-11-24 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 OXFORD NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH 1) Bringing local people together 2) Resolve -ASB
POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER 1) This Week 2) Home Secretary announces major policing reforms
THAMES VALLEY POLICE 1) Update on wanted man
TVP WEST OXFORDSHIRE 1) Sentenced
TVP OXFORD 1) Castle Street 3) Lime Walk 4) A34 between Botley and Peartree interchanges 5) Abingdon Road
NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICING TEAMS 1) Oxford
SCAM AWARENESS 1) Insurance scams 2) Invoice Fraud 3) Did you know? 4) Mobile Malware 5) Vehicle Fraud
CRIME PREVENTION 1) Carrying a blade 2) White Ribbon Day 3) Active bystander 4) Is this your password? 5) Black Friday - 29th November 2024
CRIME INFORMATION 1) Respect Orders 2) Stalking and harassment 3) Spiking 4) Social media 5) Victims' Code 6) Sharing images 7) Children Heard and Seen 8) Antisocial Behaviour 9) Seatbelts and the Law
OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 1) Social care data 2) Carers Card 3) Consultation 4) Discharge from hospital 5) £1 Bus fares 6) Booking system to be used for household waste recycling centres
OXFORD CITY COUNCIL 1) Report flytipping 2) Proposed closure of St Aldates Post Office 3) Consultation 4) Bin Collection Dates for Christmas and New Year 5) Covered Market 6) Christmas in Broad Street 7) Annual survey 8) Upcoming events
GENERAL INFORMATION 1) When You Are Ready 2) Driving safely around HGVs and large vehicles 3) Tyre Safety 4) Do you know if you’re driving uninsured? 5) Chiltern Railways 6) Product Recalls 7) Food Recalls/Allergies 8) Bus service updates 9) Road Victims' Charter 10) Buy toys safely online 11) Keeping warm and well: staying safe in cold weather 12) Driving in the cold weather 13) Network Rail
Storm Bert is quite slow moving and only really clears from Monday. The start of the week will continue to be unsettled, with strong winds and showers. Although temperatures will be around average for most places, strong winds mean it will feel rather cold.
OXFORD NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH 1) Bringing local people together Neighbourhood Watch is a community led initiative to bring local people together to address crime and other community safety issues. Neighbourhood Watch groups often liaise with the local police, the local authority and other agencies. The concept originated in the United States and was introduced into the UK in the 1980s. Behind it lies a very simple idea; Working together can help to improve your community. Neighbourhood Watches can be large, covering most of the households on an estate, or they might involve just a few houses. They may meet frequently, or keep in touch via e-mail or social media. There really is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to Neighbourhood Watch. Neighbourhood Watch adapts to fit the community it serves. Coordinators have a flexible role and can apply at www.ourwatch.org.uk Quite simply it’s “Your Watch, Your Way”
2) Resolve - ASB I attended all the below webinars this week hosted by Resolve. All recordings can be heard at https://www.resolveuk.org.uk/resolve-summit-2024 The Importance of Partnership Let's Talk about ASB with Neighbourhood Watch ASB and Mental Health ASB and Young People
POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER 1) This Week  2) Home Secretary announces major policing reforms In her speech, the Home Secretary said that without a major overhaul to increase public confidence, the British tradition of policing by consent will be in peril. The reforms will restore community patrols with a Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee and an enhanced role for Police and Crime Commissioners to prevent crime. The changes will also ensure that policing has the national capabilities it needs to fight fast-changing, complex crimes which cut across police force boundaries. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/home-secretary-announces-major-policing-reforms
THAMES VALLEY POLICE 1) Update on wanted man Thames Valley Police is no longer appealing for the public’s help to find a man wanted recall to prison in Bicester. On Friday, the force released an appeal to locate Neil Shorter after he breached his licence conditions. Thank you to those who shared our appeal.
TVP WEST OXFORDSHIRE 1) Sentenced Connor Beesley, 22, was sentenced to six years and nine months in prison at Oxford Crown Court on Wednesday 20 November. Beesley previously pleaded guilty to two counts of rape of a girl, with the offences taking place in West Oxfordshire in the last five years. Investigating officer Detective Constable Samantha Hunter of the Child Abuse Investigation Unit, said: “I would like to pay tribute to the victim in this case, as she has displayed tremendous dignity to support our investigation to bring Beesley to justice. “It is a top priority of Thames Valley Police to tackle violence against women and girls in all its forms, and I am pleased that Beesley is now in prison where he belongs.
TVP OXFORD 1) Castle Street Thames Valley Police is releasing an image of an individual officers would like to speak to following a theft in Oxford. At approximately 11.45pm on Friday 1 November at the Swan and Castle pub, the victim, a woman in her late twenties, had their handbag stolen. The handbag is described as a black handbag which had the victim’s cards, money, work uniform and ID inside. Investigating staff officer Susan Glass, said: “I am appealing to anyone who recognises the individual in the image as they may have vital information to assist us with our enquiries. “If you have any information relating to this incident, please call 101 or report it online, quoting 43240529509. “Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via its website.”  2) Squitchey Lane Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses to a sexual assault in Oxford. At around 6.30am on Wednesday (13/11), a woman in her forties was out running on Squitchey Lane when a man unknown to her grabbed her arm from behind and made an inappropriate comment towards her. The victim pulled her arm free and ran off. The offender is described as white, aged in his late twenties to early thirties, of average build, around 6ft tall and had a deep voice. He was wearing a black hooded top with the hood up and a dark coloured gilet. PC Chloe Palacio said: “I understand incidents such as these can be concerning but we are investigating it as a priority. “I am appealing for any witnesses to this sexual assault to please come forward. “Anyone with information or footage relating to the sexual assault should call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43240549099. “Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via its website.”
3) Lime Walk Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following an assault in Oxford. The incident occurred at around 4.50pm on Tuesday 12 November in Lime Walk, Headington. The victim, a man in his forties, approached a stationary white Audi A6 which was in the middle of the road and knocked on the window. The driver of the Audi then got out of the car and assaulted the victim repeatedly. The victim suffered injuries to their collar bone and elbow but did not require hospital treatment. The offender is described as a white man, at around 6ft tall, and of large build. He had a dark beard and a moustache. Investigating officer, Police Staff Investigator Lorna Starr said: “I am appealing for any witnesses to this assault incident to please come forward. “We understand that a small crowd gathered during the offence and we believe members of public may have filmed the assault. “The victim was assisted by multiple members of the public when the offender got back into their car and drove away, and we would ask these people to please get in touch with the force. “Anyone with information or footage relating to the incident should call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43240548107. “Alternatively, for anonymity, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via its website.”
4) A34 between Botley and Peartree interchanges Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following a serious injury road traffic collision on the A34 southbound in Oxford. At around 11pm on Saturday (16/11) a Ford Transit Connect was involved in a collision with a white Honda 125 motorcycle between the Botley and Peartree interchanges. The rider of the motorcycle sustained serious and life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital where his condition is critical but stable. A 50-year-old man from Abingdon has been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by careless driving and driving whilst over the specified drug limit. He has since been released on bail until 6 February while investigations continue. Investigating officer PC Matthew Stansfield of the Roads Policing Unit said: “I am appealing to anybody who was driving on the A34 between the Botley and Peartree interchanges on Saturday evening to please contact Thames Valley Police if you witnessed the collision. “If you have dash-cam in your vehicles, I would urge you to please check this at around the time of 11pm on Saturday and get in touch if it has captured the collision or the moments leading up to it. “You can call us on 101 or make a report online, quoting reference 43240555926. “If you don’t wish to speak directly with police, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
5) Abingdon Road
Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following a rape in Oxford. At around 11.50pm on Tuesday, 5/11, a woman has met with and been speaking with a man near to the Travelodge on Abingdon Road. They have then walked together and he has then led her to a field where he has then sexually assaulted her. The victim is being supported by specially trained officers. The offender is described as a man of black mixed heritage, around 35 to 37 years old, with beard, with dark black hair with a short back and sides. He is thought to have ridden off on a bicycle and may have been carrying a blue/green delivery bag. Detective Inspector Krista Thompson, said: “We are carrying out extensive enquiries following this incident and supporting the victim and working with her to gather further information. “Further patrols have been put in place following this incident and members of the public will see a police presence while our enquiries are ongoing. “We are asking anyone with information to please come forward and would ask people to please check their CCTV, or if they were driving in the area at around 11.50pm to check any dash-cam footage they may have. “If you have information please call 101 quoting reference 43240536294 or if you have dash-cam or CCTV footage please upload it to our dedicated page.”
NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICING TEAMS 1) Oxford
The Oxford Neighbourhood Team have conducted a search warrant this morning, at an address in Windrush Tower, Blackbird Leys, Oxford. This was due to intelligence being provided from the community about criminality in the area. We rely on the public coming forward with information, so we can tackle any issues raised. You can report information to us on the Thames Valley Police website, via 101, or at your local police station.
Today, Officers from our NHPT were on more targeted patrols focusing on Pick-Pockets and other related theft offences. Our uniformed and plain clothed officers stopped a number of people throughout their shift to obtain their details or to provide them with advice regard these types of crimes. This helps us build a bigger intelligence picture regards our offenders and try and prevent further offences. This operation is being run sporadically throughout the up-coming festive period! If you see any of our uniformed officers, feel free to say hello and ask them questions about the operation!
SCAM AWARENESS 1) Insurance scams https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNknz9Dpvmg "Crash for cash" is a type of insurance fraud where criminals cause or stage a road traffic accident to make a profit from a fraudulent insurance claim. These scams can be dangerous and put other motorists at risk
To avoid becoming a victim of a crash for cash scam, you can:
The Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) and other insurers urge the public to be vigilant for signs of crash for cash scams. The offences of fraud and conspiracy to commit fraud can lead to a 10-year prison sentence. What should I do if I think I've been targeted?
Always call 999 in an emergency.
2) Invoice Fraud Invoice fraud happens when criminals pose as a company or organisation that you trust. Letting you know they have updated bank details and may send a fake invoice. Always question changes in payment and get them verified before sending any money.
3) Did you know? The UK is the third most targeted country in the world for cyber-attacks
4) Mobile Malware Most malware is delivered by email. Always be suspicious of links and attachments in unsolicited emails.
 5) Vehicle Fraud If you find a vehicle you would like to buy - try to go and see the car in person before paying a deposit or agreeing to purchase it.
Report fraud immediately to your bank: this will increase your chance of getting your money back. Also, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at https://orlo.uk/OMYZV If a crime is in progress, always dial 999.
CRIME PREVENTION 1) Carrying a blade In the blink of an eye following a bad decision to carry a blade, lives can change forever. Evidence shows that if you carry a knife you're more likely to become a victim, whether that’s being seriously injured, or lose your life. If you get caught carrying a blade you face a substantial amount of time in prison.  2) White Ribbon Day White Ribbon Day is 25th November https://www.whiteribbon.org.uk/wrd24 To make the White Ribbon promise https://www.whiteribbon.org.uk/promise The White Ribbon became an important symbol for ending men's violence against women. White Ribbon was one of the voices that campaigned for the UN recognition of the 25th of November as The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, which was designated by the UN in 2000. The White Ribbon organisation prevents violence against women and girls by addressing the root causes of men’s violence against women: harmful attitudes, behaviours and systems around rigid gender norms and harmful expressions of masculinity that perpetuate gender inequality and gender-based violence. 
3) Active bystander Becoming an active bystander is not easy, either because we feel embarrassed or fear the repercussions. But if someone is at risk, we can help to make our community a safer place. There are many ways you can be an active bystander, find out more about what you can do here: https://orlo.uk/btpXy
4) Is this your password?
If you are struggling to remember your passwords you can use a password manager If available, use a password manager with a strong master password to securely store passwords for all of your accounts. You can also save your passwords to your browser, just make sure you protect your saved passwords in case your device is lost or stolen.
5) Preventing theft from your doorstep Here are some things you could do to reduce the risk of doorstep theft:
6) CCTV at home Have you considered CCTV at home? Confused about what type? Check out the link in the description here:
7) Frosty morning warning Don't make your car cosy for criminals this morning
https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/
8) Black Friday - 29th November 2024 Keep yourself safe this Black Friday: tips to avoid scams Black Friday is one of the biggest online shopping days of the year, and it's also a prime time for scammers to try to take advantage of consumers. If you don’t want to fall foul of a Black Friday scam, make sure you follow these tips.
3. Only shop on secure websites 5. Be careful about sharing your personal information Fraud and Security The threat from internet fraudsters is continually evolving. The best way to tackle these threats is to ensure you are always aware of them and how they work. Phone calls, emails, letters and text messages from fraudsters can seem legitimate and convincing, so it’s important to be very careful and always keep an eye out for anything suspicious. If you think you’ve fallen victim to a scam, if someone has taken money from your account or if you’ve accidently given your details to a fraudster, please report it immediately to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or online.
1) Respect Orders Respect Orders will tackle the worst perpetrators of anti-social behaviour and could see persistent offenders banned from town centres. The new Respect Orders will give the police and local councils powers to ban persistent offenders from town centres or from drinking in public spots such as high streets and local parks, where they have caused misery to local people. These will be piloted prior to national rollout to make sure they are as effective as possible. Perpetrators can also be required to address the root cause of their behaviour by being mandated to undertake positive rehabilitation, such as attending drug or alcohol treatment services, or an anger management course to address the underlying causes of their behaviour. Failure to comply with Respect Orders will be a criminal offence. Police will have the ability to immediately arrest anybody who is breaching their Respect Order. Police will also be given stronger powers to seize vehicles involved in anti-social behaviour will also be strengthened, with officers no longer required to issue a warning before seizing the vehicles which bring misery to local communities. This will allow police to deal more swiftly with the scourge of off-road bikes in public parks and dangerous e-scooters on pavements, street racing and cruising. It will also assist the police in tackling car meets, which can see hundreds of cars gather in public spaces that often include loud aggressive engine revving and intimidating music. As well as prison sentences of up to two years, criminal courts will also be able to issue unlimited fines and community orders, such as unpaid work, and curfews as punishment for breaching a Respect Order. This will ensure that the most serious offenders are dealt with before their behaviour can escalate and cause further harm.
2) Stalking and harassment Stalking and harassment is when someone repeatedly behaves in a way that makes you feel scared, distressed or threatened. If this unwanted behaviour happens two times or more, report it to the police. Some victims of stalking will receive unwanted calls from the stalker. If you're receiving unwanted calls:
3) Spiking Spiking is when someone is given alcohol or drugs without them knowing or agreeing. Giving someone more alcohol or drugs than they were expecting and consented to is also spiking ... for example, if someone is given double shots instead of singles. It's a difficult topic to talk about, and you might have doubts or concerns about talking to teenagers about it. It's important that they know the risks, and what they should do if one of their friends is spiked.
4) Social media Social media platforms are being used by criminal gangs to target and groom vulnerable children, young people and adults. They post adverts with the tag line “recruitment opportunities available”, normalising county lines and making it seem like a legitimate job offer. Their aim is to trap and criminally exploit their victims. https://www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/what-we-do/crime-threats/drug-trafficking/county-lines
5) Victims' Code Being a victim of crime can be distressing. Whoever you are and whatever crime you have experienced, the Victims' Code explains the rights that you can expect to receive as a victim of crime.
https://www.victims-first.org.uk/victims-code/
6) Sharing images A lot of teenagers don’t realise that sharing nude photos or videos of someone who’s under 18 – even if it is an image of themselves – is illegal, as this will still be classed as creating and distributing an indecent image of a child. It is advised that you talk to your children about what could happen if they share nude or semi-nude images, even if it’s someone they think they can trust. Let them know they can come to you if they are being pressured into something they don’t feel comfortable with.
7) Children Heard and Seen People are often shocked to learn that in some cases, parental imprisonment leaves children living completely alone, without an adult in the home. 𝗜𝘁 𝙞𝙨 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴. Worse still, these are not isolated cases. As long as we continue to not know who or where children with a parent in prison are, we do not know how many children are in this situation every day. A national, statutory mechanism of identification and support for children with a parent in prison would immediately prevent these shocking cases of children left living all alone in the house. Below are 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹-𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 that we have come across as an organisation, of children left living on their own after their parent has been sent to prison. https://childrenheardandseen.co.uk/2024/11/08/children-living-on-their-own/
8) Antisocial Behaviour  The police have legislative powers to deal with specific types of anti-social behaviour (ASB), and additionally, several of partner agencies (eg: local authorities, the RSPCA) have their own enforcement powers to deal with environmental ASB. Antisocial behaviour (ASB) can leave people feeling distressed, harassed and anxious. Not all antisocial behaviour is classed as a crime but it can become a crime. https://www.victims-first.org.uk/crime-info/guidance-and-support/anti-social-behaviour/ Antisocial behaviour support organisations
Victims First, who offer emotional and practical support to victims and witnesses of crime, as well as family members of victims, living in the Thames Valley area: https://orlo.uk/IlQTu You can self-refer via the website or by telephoning 0300 1234 148. Victims First also offer a separate service aimed at under-18s.
A confidential telephone helpline offering emotional support to anyone on any issue, but particularly aimed at those who are socially isolated, vulnerable, at risk groups and victims of any form of abuse. Supportline offers confidential emotional telephone support in the UK for men, women, children and young adults by calling 01708 765200
A mediation service that works across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire. They aim to resolve disputes in several situations, including between neighbours. Contrary to popular belief, both parties do not need to be open to mediation in order to benefit from the service. You can find out more at https://orlo.uk/Ls4sv and can seek help by telephoning 01494 520821 or emailing mediation@alternativestoconflict.org.uk. Both services are free to use.
https://www.resolveuk.org.uk/resolve-summit-2024
9) Seatbelts and the Law In 2022, 30% of car occupant fatalities among 17 to 29-year-olds were not wearing seat belts. Wearing a seat belt not only helps protect your safety, it helps protect the safety of others. In a crash, you’re twice as likely to die if you don’t wear a seat belt. Would you call out a friend or family member for not wearing a seat belt? Road safety is a shared responsibility that requires safer choices from everyone. Learn more about seatbelts and the law https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rs/road-safety/seatbelts/
OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 1) Social care data Oxfordshire Insight has more information and data about Oxfordshire and the people who live here https://insight.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/  2) Carers card Carers ID cards can help unpaid carers in a variety of ways. From collecting medication on someone else’s behalf to notifying the emergency services that someone depends on you - they can come in really handy. Apply for your free carers ID card at https://www.carersoxfordshire.org.uk/carer-id/
Unpaid carers aged 13 or over: someone who provides unpaid care and support to another person who, due to a disability, illness, addiction, condition or other additional need is unable to carry out typical day-to-day activities without their support. The person you support can be of any age, child or adult, but must live in Oxfordshire. Carers Oxfordshire can’t provide a card if you are aged 12 or under, however, you can still receive carer support in Oxfordshire University Hospitals, speak to hospital staff and let them know you are a young carer.
3) Consultation
Join us in shaping the future of travel along the A40. Oxfordshire County Council invites you to participate in the public engagement for the A40 Eynsham Park and Ride to Wolvercote scheme. There will be two public events taking place:
If you can't make the events, you'll have the opportunity to share your views and feedback through our online engagement, which will run from run from 25 November 2025 to 1 January 2025 Closing date 1 January 2025 https://letstalk.oxfordshire.gov.uk/a40eynshamtowolvercote
4) Discharge from hospital On average, Oxfordshire residents are now staying in hospital for 3 days less than last year, thanks to a discharge programme helping people to get home quickly and safely. The programme has also helped 73% of people regain their independence once home. 5) £1 Bus Fares Catch the bus for just £1 on Sundays in December Cut price bus travel is returning to Oxfordshire in time for the festive period – and this year, passengers can take advantage of the offer for even longer. Single bus fares will be capped at £1 every Sunday in December across Oxfordshire. This is an improvement on last year’s offer, which only included the Sundays leading up to Christmas.
6) Booking system to be used for household waste recycling centres Oxfordshire County Council will introduce a booking system for residents visiting the county’s seven household waste recycling centres (HWRCs), including Redbridge in Oxford. The council already operates a booking system for residents wanting to dispose of small quantities of DIY waste and, in the future, this will be extended to all users. Currently, people can visit the sites during opening hours without pre-booking. Advantages of a booking system include better traffic management, reduced queues, better recycling rates as staff can help visitors separate their recyclable from their non-recyclable waste, and more targeted communication with customers about their scheduled visit. It will also save council taxpayers’ money by helping to prevent trade waste from being illegally disposed of at the HWRCs. Although the booking system will be online, residents without internet access will be able to book slots over the telephone. No date has been set yet for the booking scheme to come into operation. However, the council is aiming to have the system in place before the temporary closure of Oxford’s Redbridge HWRC for around three months to enable essential stabilisation work to be carried out. This work is expected to begin in 2025. As Redbridge would normally receive 40,000 customers in these three months, it is anticipated that these people would go to their nearest alternative site instead, increasing demand and queuing times. Therefore, a booking system would help alleviate any short-term issues arising from the temporary closure.
OXFORD CITY COUNCIL 1) Report flytipping https://www.oxford.gov.uk/street-cleaning/report-flytipping Dumped rubbish left on the highway, public or private land can be a danger to the public and need to be removed quickly. Fly tipped items may include furniture, fridges, freezers, cookers, builders' rubble, carpeting, shopping trolleys and any other items of refuse. They may also include chemicals or other polluting materials which are potentially harmful to our environment and waterways.
2) Proposed closure of St Aldates Post Office Oxford City Council statement https://www.oxford.gov.uk/news/article/1583/statement-on-proposed-closure-of-st-aldates-post-office
3) Consultation
Oxford City Council is reviewing its Hackney Carriage Vehicles (Taxis / Black Cabs) quantity control policy. This is a statutory requirement. There are currently 107 licenses for Hackney Carriage Vehicles (Taxis / Black Cabs) in Oxford. The Council seeks the views of the public, as to availability of taxis and choice when travelling within the district. https://consultation.oxford.gov.uk/community-services/hackney-carriage-quantity-control/ Closes 27 Nov 2024
4) Bin Collection Dates for Christmas and New Year Collection day changes are as follows:
5) Covered Market Christmas Late Night Special Covered Market Friday 29th November 5-9pm 
6) Christmas in Broad Street From 23 November, festive celebrations return to Broad Street and the city until 5 January. Organisers Keston Events Ltd have a variety of new activities and experiences planned for local families, community groups, and visitors, including:
New features are not the only change this year, with festivities kicking off earlier and running later throughout the Christmas period and into the new year. This gives people more time to buy gifts in the run-up to Christmas and offers an exciting option for people coming into the city for Boxing Day sales and over New Year.
7) Annual survey Every year, we ask residents what you think of your city. Our latest Residents’ Survey has found:
Respondents also made clear that they want to see more house building to tackle the city’s housing crisis. The news comes after the Planning Inspectorate recommended the withdrawal of our Local Plan 2040 because it was proposing to go beyond a standard assessment of the number of homes needed. Oxford City Council carries out an annual survey using its Residents’ Panel to understand what Oxford residents think about the Council and the city. Findings from the survey are used to inform Council decisions around providing services and delivery and budget setting.
8) Upcoming Events The Lord Mayor of Oxford’s Christmas Carol Concert: Sunday 22 December, 2.30-4pm, Oxford Town Hall Oxford Town Hall will welcome Oxfordshire Schools’ Symphony Orchestra plus special guests for a magical afternoon of festive music and song. Westgate Christmas Village: Until 5 January, 10am - 8pm Leiden Square has transformed into a Christmas village complete with festive food huts, and gifting stalls. Gloucester Green Market late nights: Fridays from 22 November - 13 December, 10am-8pm Explore unique gifts, street food, and mulled wine every Friday evening. Christmas at Oxford Castle & Prison: 26 November - 23 December Meet Father Christmas and enjoy festive activities on select dates across the festive season at Oxford Castle & Prison. Health Promotion Event: Wednesday 27 November, 10am - 12 pm, Rose Hill Community Centre This community-focused event will feature free health checks, free blood pressure checks, free yoga taster sessions, free dance taster sessions, and more. Everyone is welcome. Bright Nights Festival at The Old Fire Station: 4-21 December A spectacular blend of performances, workshops, and festive magic that’s sure to make the season unforgettable. The Oxford Christmas Light Bus: 7, 14, 21 December Organised by Oxford Bus Company and partners, this illuminated open-top bus will spread festive cheer across the city on Saturdays in December.
GENERAL INFORMATION 1) When You Are Ready https://whenyouareready.co.uk/ We understand it can take victims many years to process the abuse or exploitation they sadly experienced as children. For some, it may even take years just to acknowledge that what they experienced was, in fact, abuse, and not the loving or caring actions of someone they could trust. We’d like victims to know that if they do make the huge decision to disclose their abuse, there are organisations who can provide help and support. Go to https://orlo.uk/iKATl to find out more.
There are three simple ways you can improve your safety when driving around HGVs and other large vehicles.
HGVs have areas of limited visibility along both sides. Don’t linger in these zones. Overtaking large vehicles is more difficult, so make sure that you have enough room ahead to complete your overtaking manoeuvre.
Ensure that you have enough space ahead to complete your overtake before committing to the manoeuvre. Remember it takes more time to pass a large vehicle. Don’t pull back in too quickly. Make sure there is enough room between you and the HGV's front blind spot
HGVs have longer blind spots at the back. Dropping back will make it easier for you to see ahead and it should allow the driver of the large vehicle to see you in their mirrors. Getting too close behind large vehicles will mean you can’t see the road ahead. It will also reduce your stopping distance.
An HGV driver may not be able to see you or be able to stop if you try to pass them while they are turning, so wait until they have completed their turn before passing. 
3) Tyre Safety
29% of people forget to check their tyre tread before long journeys. 24% assume it's checked during their annual MOT or service. 18% don't check before they've never had issues with their tyres. 17% rely on friends or family to check for them. You can check your tyre tread depth with a 20p coin. Place the coin into the grooves of the tyre, and if the outer band of the 20p is visible, your tyres are approaching the minimum limit.  4) Do you know if you’re driving uninsured? Every 20 minutes in the UK someone is hit by an uninsured or fail-to-stop driver. If your vehicle is not insured, it may be seized and you could end up in court. Find out how to check your motor insurance is valid: https://www.mib.org.uk/driveinsured
5) Chiltern Railways The new timetable starts on Sunday 15 December 2024 https://www.chilternrailways.co.uk/dec24timetable
6) Product Recalls
Hazard: The water bottles present a risk of choking as both the plastic cap and nozzle can detach with minimal force.
Hazard: The product presents a risk of burns as it has been identified that hot pieces of the waffle or stuffing can be expelled during use, or upon opening the product.
Hazard: The product presents a risk of fire as it has the incorrect converter fitted.
Hazard: The product presents a medium risk of burns as the welding seam may fail.
7) Food Recalls
Morrisons is recalling Morrisons Crushed Garlic because an ingredient has been omitted from the product that prevents microbiological growth and therefore presents a potential risk to consumers. Pack size 75g Best before 19 October 2025
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-18
Tesco Tzatziki Dip Tesco is recalling Tesco Tzatziki Dip because Salmonella has been found in the product Pack size 200g Use by 24 November 2024
Lidl GB is recalling Meadow Fresh Potato Salads because they may contain pieces of copper. The possible presence of copper makes these products unsafe to eat.
Pack size 500g Use by 07 December 2024, 13 December 2024, 14 December 2024, 16 December 2024, 21 December 2024
Pack size 500g Use by 12 December 2024, 16 December 2024, 23 December 2024
The WilderKitchen is recalling Wilderbee Gochujang Hot Honey because it contains gluten which is not mentioned on the label. The exact cereal is currently unknown. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with coeliac disease and/or an allergy or intolerance to gluten or cereals containing gluten. Wilderbee Gochujang Hot Honey Pack size 260g, 350g, 1.4kg Batch code All batches (up to batch number 426) Best before 11 May 2026 8) Bus service updates
46A Templars Square to Oxford City Centre bus service via Florence Park https://www.oxfordbus.co.uk/services/OXFC/46A
The updated Oxford Tube timetable from 2nd December includes:
https://www.oxfordtube.com/service-updates
21-25 November
Due to emergency Thames Water works taking place at the junction of Banbury Road and Marston Ferry Road, the traffic in the area is severely congested, especially at peak time. As a result, our 700 services are suffering disruption. Please expect delays and potential cancellations as a result of this, as we try to regulate our services. Apologies for the inconvenience this may cause.
9) Road Victims' Charter “Road victims have been the forgotten and neglected victims for far too long and that has to change.” The Charter calls for recognition of the trauma of sudden road death and injury; parity with other victim groups; accessible, trauma-informed support; robust and consistent justice; lessons learned to prevent future death and injury; and use of appropriate language when reporting road death and injury. The Road Victims’ Charter was written in collaboration with bereaved families, trauma consultants, support staff and professionals from across the criminal justice and medical sectors.
10) Buy toys safely online Injuries that could have been caused by the unsafe and non-compliant toys identified include:
How to Buy Toys Safely Online (advice from the BTHA)
Be careful when buying from third-party sellers on online marketplaces
Check the product carefully before giving it to a child:
Supervise the child when they play with the toy for the first time - many of the illegal toys found by the BTHA broke very quickly, releasing dangerous small parts or gel contents. Find out More
11) Keeping warm and well: staying safe in cold weather
12) Driving in the cold weather As the weather turns colder, we'd advise you to be prepared for driving in wintry conditions.
Please take extra care when out on the roads. Road surfaces will be wet and. Look out for yourselves and other road users at all times.
13) Network Rail
Water main connection work This week Thames Water started 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.
We appreciate this additional parking suspension in Abbey Road further reduces space available for residents. Anyone with a resident parking permit is able to park in other streets within the wider West Oxford CPZ. More information is available on the Oxfordshire County Council website
Phase 2 of the work will see the road closed between Abbey Road and Mill Street, with all traffic being diverted via Abbey Road. This is planned to start on 1 December. Work will be paused over the Christmas period, between 20 December and 6 January. During this time parking restrictions will be removed. Sewer work  Over the coming weeks, Thames Water needs to do some work on the sewer, which currently runs through the bridge area from Becket Street to Mill Street (see diagram above). Next week, they will install a temporary diversion pipe along the road under the rail bridge (see diagram above), which will allow for the existing sewer to be emptied so the liner can be installed. The temporary pipe will be linked to the existing sewer network outside the Westgate Hotel and by the junction of Becket Street. Temporary bridge structures will be installed to carry the pipe over the pedestrian walkways on both sides of the rail bridge. Eventually the sewer will be permanently diverted through Becket Street car park (see diagram above). The work for this began earlier in the year with installation of the shaft.
With work set to resume on preparing for the replacement of Sheepwash bridge, we need to again close the towpath that runs underneath for safety reasons. It will therefore be closed next Friday (29th November) but will be reopened again ahead of the Christmas period.
We’re currently working at the entrance to Becket Street car park to install a new walkway ramp. If you use the car park, please be aware that the entrance/exit area is reduced down to one lane, being managed by marshals.
Last weekend we moved the walkway on the Frideswide Square side of the rail bridge back to its original position. Please be aware the entrance/exit to the walkway is now by Domino’s on Becket Street junction and not by the station.
Virgin Media have completed the installation of a new cable in Frideswide Square
Work on installing the new pipe for the station water supply is complete and we’re now returning the ramp area back to normal. Sorry for the disruption this has caused.
As part of Network Rail’s performance improvement plan in the Thames Valley area, engineering work is taking place meaning there will be no trains between Reading and London Paddington before 11.15am on Sunday (24 November). Then there will only be a limited service for the rest of the day, as only two of the four tracks will be available.
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
I hope you have an enjoyable week ahead. Keep safe and warm, Maggie
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