Police boss warns the lonely about scammers

A police boss has issued an urgent warning to lonely men and women in North Wales not to be fooled by heartless scammers.

North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin (pictured) spoke out after it was revealed that cruel fraudsters had duped their targets out of nearly £500,000 last year

Mr Dunbobbin said the region’s police force had received more than 100 reports of romance fraud in 2021.

But he fears it could be “just the tip of the iceberg, with many more lovelorn victims who were too embarrassed or ashamed to contact the police about being swindled.

According to Mr Dunbobbin, the increased isolation and loneliness caused by the pandemic had also led to an increase in romance fraud.

One of the cases that came to light involved  a single man aged 57 who was conned out of £150,000 after being groomed over a period of months when he was gradually isolated from family and friends.

The fraudster told him she wanted to renovate a property abroad so that she could sell it to move to the UK so they could spend the rest of their lives together.

The victim was persuaded to send money to the suspect for the work to be completed.

He was persuaded by the scammer that she needed to pretend to be married to claim and inheritance and he was persuaded to pose as her husband.

It ended up with him making “significant payments”  for bogus legal fees to various bank accounts to release the funds to the suspect.

North Wales Police are investigating the case and providing support for the victim.

Tackling fraud is a key priority in Mr Dunbobbin’s Police and Crime Plans which sets out the blueprint for the policing of North Wales.

The commissioner has pledged to bolster the force’s Economic Crime Unit with three extra officers.

Mr Dunbobbin also provides funding for the Victim Help Centre in St Asaph which serves the whole of North Wales.

The centre brings together the support services of North Wales Police, the Witness Care Unit of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and the former Victim Support organisation.

The commissioner also revealed that people who fear they have been victims can now call a new hotline, 159, which aims to be a “999 for fraud”.

The 159 number is being trialled by Stop Scams UK, a group of banks and telephone firms and will enable people to speak to their bank instantly about a suspected fraud

Mr Dunbobbin said: “Being a victim of fraud can have a devastating and traumatic impact on peoples’ lives, often leaving them emotionally destroyed.

“The problem is that these scammers are incredibly plausible and have the gift of the gab so it is understandable that people can get taken in, particularly if they are feeling lonely.

“It’s therefore important for people to be on their guard for this kind of crime and not to be fooled by these smooth-talking swindlers whose only interest is fleecing their victims remorselessly.

“Over the past two years it’s understandable that due to the pandemic people have been feeling insecure and lonely which has increased this type of fraud.

“The pandemic has also provided fraudsters with the perfect excuses as to why they cannot meet their victims in person.

“I am  urging anyone who is concerned they may have been a victim to seek help and support.”

If you have been the victim of a fraud you can report it to Action Fraud via the website, www.actionfraud.police.uk or by ringing them on 0300 123 2040 while people who suspect they have been scammed can also call a new hotline by ringing 159.

Winter of wellbeing planned for youngsters in Denbighshire

Children and young people in Denbighshire can get involved in supporting their wellbeing this winter.

Denbighshire County Council is providing a range of free sporting, cultural and play based bilingual activities as part of the Welsh Government’s Winter of Wellbeing Programme.

This winter, the Welsh Government announced funding for a variety of interactive, creative, and play-based activities for a wide range of ages. 

By creating plenty of safe places for free play and physical activity, children and young people alike can come together and have fun while also strengthening their social, emotional, and physical wellbeing.

Events are taking place across the county and include Saturday Morning Family Art Workshops at Llangollen Library.

The workshops offer the opportunity to experiment and have creative fun as a family. 

Artists at the workshops will be:

• Donna Jones on February 26
• Penny Alexander, March 12
• Nerys Jones, March 19

The workshops are for families with children aged between 6 and 11 years old and are at the library from 10am to 12noon. 

* Find out how to get to Llangollen Library

Cllr Huw Hilditch-Roberts, the council’s Lead Member for Education, Children's Services and Public Engagement, said: “We are pleased to be supporting this project and offering a fantastic bilingual programme of events in Denbighshire. The council is working with a number of partners on this project and I would like to thank all those taking part."

All events and activities will have Covid-19 safety measures in place, which attendees will need to follow.

* To book onto one of the events in the county or activities, or for further information on the Winter of Wellbeing, please visit the web page: www.denbighshire.gov.uk/winter-of-wellbeing

MS urges people to have their say about policing

Senedd Member for North Wales Sam Rowlands is calling on his constituents to have their say and help the police prioritise their neighbourhood policing activity. 

The initiative, ‘North Wales Talking’, which is aimed at understanding the crime and disorder concerns of local communities across North Wales, is  a key priority of North Wales Police Neighbourhood Policing Teams.

Mr Rowlands said: “I think it is a great idea to ask local people, who live and work in my Region, what issues matter to them in their communities.

“I know that North Wales is one of the safest places to live, work and visit and I welcome any measures which will help to keep it that way.

“It is also good to see people being given the opportunity to have their say and I urge everyone to take part in the survey.”

The short survey asks people what it is like to live in their areas and what issues matter most to them in their community. There is also an opportunity to raise any concerns they may have.

Feedback via North Wales Talking will enable Neighbourhood Policing Teams, together with partner agencies to tackle the issues raised and have a voice in how Neighbourhood Policing activity is prioritised. You can also choose to register for the North Wales Community Alert, NWP’s  free community messaging system where you will then receive updates from your Neighbourhood Policing Team on the action taken to tackle the top three local community issues.

Superintendent Helen Corcoran said: “North Wales Talking will provide residents the opportunity to tell us what issues matter most to them in their local community. It could be anti-social behaviour that is worrying you, or perhaps you have information to pass on about drug dealing in your local area.

"We want your feedback which we will use to help identify the top three issues in your area that our Neighbourhood Policing Teams will work on over the next few months.

* To take part and be part of the conversation, visit: www.northwalestalking.co.uk Or www.gogleddcymrunsiarad.co.uk for our Welsh survey.

 

Brave Elodie will tackle Llangollen Canal Walk just weeks after operation

* Elodie-Mae Davies at Trevor Basin to promote Llangollen Canal Walk.

A determined teenager will launch the Llangollen Canal Walk to support Hope House Children’s Hospice just weeks after having an operation.  

Elodie-Mae Davies, 15, will send ramblers on their way for the 10-mile walk on Sunday, March 6, which raises money to support and care for seriously ill local children and their families.  

Elodie, who lives with her family in Ruabon, has had heart defects since birth which have led to a cardiac arrest, clots in her lungs and mini-strokes.  

She has been through 10 open heart surgeries and has a pacemaker fitted.  

The doctors recently discovered she has pulmonary vein stenosis and, as a result, Elodie has lost her left lung and only has 83% functionality of her right one.  

This means she requires oxygen 24-hours-a-day to allow her to breath. Last year she raised an incredible £2,500 by walking the virtual Take A Hike event – walking 10-miles spread out over a number of weeks.  

“Hope House gives me confidence and independence,” says Elodie. “I love visiting and seeing all the staff, it’s a big family.” 

Elodie will have to undergo an operation two weeks before the event but is determined to send walkers on their way and will make the trip over the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in a wheelchair. 

“We are so lucky to have Hope House in our lives and I don’t know what we would do without them,” says mum Jenna. 

“Elodie just wants to help and give a little something back when and where she can.” 

Returning after a two year break the circular Llangollen Canal Walk, sponsored by Net World Sports, will begin at The Trevor Basin in the morning, then taking in five miles of stunning scenery up to the Poachers’ Pocket and returning over the world-famous aqueduct. 

For those who would prefer to complete a 10-mile walk virtually on a route of their choice then tickets are also available for that option too. 

Fundraiser Cat Dowdeswell said: “We’re delighted Elodie will be there to start off the Llangollen Canal Walk, especially after she raised such an amazing amount last year.  

“Every walker that takes part will receive a medal designed especially for this event and a goody bag for their efforts. 

“This really is one of the highlights in our calendar, and tickets are selling fast, so book your places today to avoid disappointment.” 

* Tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for children and can be purchased at www.hopehouse.org.uk/canal 

Latest pandemic updates from Welsh Government

Latest coronavirus updates from the Welsh Government, dated yesterday, are:

• The Welsh Government is investing £366m over the next three years to deliver 125,000 all-age apprenticeships across Wales during this term of government, Economy Minister Vaughan Gething has announced at the start of Apprenticeship Week Wales 2022: https://gov.wales/apprenticeship-week-wales-2022-minister-commits-366-million-deliver-125000-all-age-apprenticeships
• An online resource dedicated to helping young people aged between 11 and 25 to access mental health support has been relaunched to include new information and advice: https://gov.wales/new-look-online-support-launched-providing-mental-health-support-young-people
• The First Minister has announced the planned locations of Wales’ first commemorative woodlands to remember all those who have died during the pandemic: https://gov.wales/first-minister-announces-locations-of-wales-commemorative-woodlands
• Find out if you are eligible for COVID-19 treatments or participation in a UK-wide antiviral study: https://gov.wales/covid-19-treatments
• Financial and debt advice: https://gov.wales/get-financial-or-debt-advice
• Get your Covid Pass; https://gov.wales/nhs-covid-pass-help-getting-your-pass
• Advice for schools and settings to support children and young people with higher clinical risk and clinically extremely vulnerable adults: https://gov.wales/children-and-young-people-higher-clinical-risk-and-clinically-extremely-vulnerable-adults-guidance
• Covid-19 situational report – 4 February: https://gov.wales/covid-19-situational-reports
• NHS beds, admissions and hospitalisations during the pandemic: https://gov.wales/nhs-beds-admissions-and-hospitalisations-during-coronavirus-covid-19-pandemic 

Coronavirus in numbers

• The latest figures published by Public Health Wales show there were 3,382 newly-reported cases of coronavirus, based on PCR tests only, reported in the last 48 hours, bringing the total to 792,667 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Wales since the start of the pandemic. See also: https://digitalanddata.blog.gov.wales/2022/01/11/chief-statisticians-update-understanding-covid-19-infection-rates-in-wales/

• Nine deaths were reported by Public Health Wales in the last 48 hours. The total number of deaths reported by Public Health Wales is 6,872.
• These figures are updated daily at: https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/public.health.wales.health.protection/viz/RapidCOVID-19virology-Public/Headlinesummary   

• The number of people who have received a Covid vaccine in Wales is published every weekday by Public Health Wales.
• The latest figures show 2,514,081 people have received their first dose.

• 2,372,915 people have had two doses of the vaccine.
• To date, 1,849,447 people have had their booster dose of the vaccine.
• https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/public.health.wales.health.protection/viz/RapidCOVID-19virology-Public/Headlinesummary
• For more information about getting your Covid-19 vaccine: https://gov.wales/get-your-covid-19-vaccination
• Can you support the vaccination programme? More information for NHS staff and volunteers at: https://heiw.nhs.wales/jobs/nhs-wales-covid-19-vaccination-team-returning-healthcare-professionals/

What to do if you have symptoms of coronavirus

• The symptoms of coronavirus are a high temperature, a new, continuous cough and a loss or change in smell or taste.
• If you have symptoms of coronavirus, however mild, you must self-isolate at home for up to 10 days from when your symptoms started.
• Guidance about self-isolating: https://gov.wales/self-isolation
• You can book a test at https://gov.wales/apply-coronavirus-covid-19-test
• You should continue to isolate while waiting for a test result. 

Where to find the latest information

• Wales is at alert level zero: https://gov.wales/alert-level-0
• Our latest Coronavirus Control Plan, setting out the longer-term plan for Wales is at: https://gov.wales/coronavirus-control-plan-autumn-and-winter-2021-update  
• Information about coronavirus is available on the Welsh Government’s website at https://gov.wales/coronavirus and https://llyw.cymru/coronafeirws
• For more information about getting your Covid-19 vaccine: https://gov.wales/get-your-covid-19-vaccination
• Can you support the vaccination programme? More information for NHS staff and volunteers at: https://heiw.nhs.wales/jobs/nhs-wales-covid-19-vaccination-team-returning-healthcare-professionals/

Businesses now need to apply for latest Emergency Business Fund

Denbighshire County council is reminding businesses impacted by the latest coronavirus restrictions to apply for the Welsh Government's Emergency Business Fund.

Previously during the pandemic some payments were sent to businesses automatically, however businesses now have to apply for the money.

Under the latest support package, further funding is available for businesses in Denbighshire which fall into one of the below categories:

* Retail, hospitality, leisure and tourism businesses who pay Non Domestic Rates are entitled for £2,000, £4,000 or £6,000 depending on their rateable value.

* Sole traders, freelancers and taxi drivers can apply for £500 and businesses that employ people, but do not pay business rates can apply for £2,000 through the Discretionary Fund.

Businesses applying for funding will need to re-register their details through an online process with Denbighshire County Council to receive their payments.

To help businesses gauge the amount they are eligible for in advance, Business Wales has created an eligibility checker which can be found on their website.

Cllr Julian Thompson-Hill, the council’s Lead Member for Finance, Performance and Strategic Assets, said: “We are working hard with Welsh Government to administrate this fund to all eligible businesses in Denbighshire, so we want to ensure that the application process is clear.

“We are encouraging every eligible business to apply for the funding. Anyone unsure can use the eligibility checker provided on the Business Wales website.”

* To find out more or apply you can visit www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/coronavirus/emergency-business-fund-january-2022.aspx

Erddig one of sites to remember those who died in pandemic

The First Minister has announced the planned locations of Wales’ first commemorative woodlands to remember all those who have died during the pandemic.

The first two woodlands will be created on part of the National Trust Cymru’s Erddig Estate in Wrexham and at a site identified by Natural Resources Wales at Brownhill in the Tywi Valley in Carmarthenshire.

A third memorial woodland will be created in South East Wales – a site is currently being identified.

The memorial woodlands will be a symbol of Wales’ resilience during the pandemic and one of regeneration and renewal as the new woodlands grow.

It is hoped they will be places of commemoration where families and friends can remember lost loved ones.

They will also be locations where the public will be able to reflect on the pandemic and the impact it has had on all our lives.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “It has been almost two years since the coronavirus pandemic hit Wales.

“Too many people have been taken too soon by this awful virus. We will remember all of them and keep them in our hearts and our minds.

“These woodlands will be a permanent and living memorial to all those who have died. They will also be a symbol of the strength the people of Wales have shown over the past two years.”

The woodlands will be planted with a range of tree species, making them resilient to our changing environment.

Planting is expected to begin this year.

Natural Resources Wales and National Trust Cymru will work with local communities and families to plan and design the woodlands.

Clare Pillman, Chief Executive of Natural Resources Wales said: “Our forests and woodlands are powerful, poignant symbols of life, helping to enhance our environment and biodiversity and providing space for recreation and reflection.

“Our ambition for this commemorative woodland is for it to become a living, growing area for all the community to enjoy, as well as a quiet space for contemplation as we continue to navigate this most challenging of times.

“As part of the journey, we want to engage with local communities and our partners to plan and design the woodland, shaping with them safe and accessible spaces, where people of all ages can come to remember and reflect for years to come.”

We expect the sites to become part of the National Forest for Wales in the future, with opportunities for local communities to help shape the management of the woodland.

Justin Albert, Director, National Trust Cymru said: “For over 125 years, the National Trust has provided places for people to connect with nature, beauty and fresh air. This has felt as relevant over the last two years as it has in any time in our history: knowing that nature has been hugely comforting to many during the pandemic, bringing both pleasure and reassurance as all other aspects of our lives changed.

National Trust Cymru are proud to support the Welsh Government in creating one of the commemorative woodlands for Wales at Erddig. We look forward to collaborating with communities and partners to create a special place in memory of those lost to coronavirus. The woodland will be for remembrance and reflection, but also to provide a future green space for everyone to continue that much needed, beneficial connection with the natural world for ever.”

Mountain rescue team save man in distress near Llangollen

Denbighshire Free Press is reporting how the North East Wales Search and Rescue (NEWSAR) team helped save a man in 'distress' in the Llangollen area yesterday (Saturday).

* For the full story, see: 

https://www.denbighshirefreepress.co.uk/news/19903294.equipment-failure-led-man-walking-dark-moors-near-llangollen/

Work planned on 2020 project for coming week

Work planned for week starting Monday, February 7 on the Llangollen 2020 project is:

* Excavate the footpath on Castle Street west from Market Street to the A5

* Pave Castle Street west from Market Street to the A5.

Eisteddfod announces return to live competitions

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod has announced a return to live competitions in 2022, following a two-year break due to the pandemic. 

Applications are now open for over 20 different competition categories, with the full syllabus and application information available online.

In light of continued disruptions to travel due to Covid-19, for the first time the festival is introducing a hybrid competition series, with options to compete digitally via large screens in the Pavilion in front of live adjudicators and audiences. 

It says the aim is to make participation accessible to many more amateur performers this summer.

Executive producer Camilla King said: “We can’t wait to welcome friends from all over the world to experience the true meaning of eisteddfod - friendly competition and a shared joy in performing, all in the beautiful surroundings of Llangollen. 

"In addition to our new digital hybrid format, applicants may notice some other changes to our competitions this year, which we hope will inspire them to come and join us for our 75th anniversary celebrations."

She added: "The jewel in the crown of the eisteddfod will be the Choir of the World competition on Saturday July 9, which for 2022 is joined by the Pendine International Voice of the Future and Dance Champions awards and is set to be a thrilling celebration of outstanding international performers. 

"New for 2022 are Show Choirs, Contemporary Dance, Young Composer, Young Folk Instrumental Ensemble and Junior Instrumentalist join our existing line up which celebrates a huge variety of choral and solo singing, dance, folk music, instrumental performances, and our special non-competitive strand.

"The annual International Eisteddfod is home to over 4,000 performers during the week-long programme and is an exquisite celebration of international music, culture, creativity and collaboration.

"It is now a key driver of cultural tourism to North Wales and attracts over 35,000 visitors every year."

* Downloadable syllabus book, application forms and other competitor information available on the dedicated website: https://eisteddfodcompetitions.co.uk/

Tributes paid to cyclist who died on the A5

Tributes have flooded in for cyclist David Fanning who was killed on Monday night following a crash on the A5 near Corwen.

* For the full story in the Daily Post online, go to: https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-cycling-community-total-22960372

UK Government accused of neglecting north Wales rail system

* Clwyd South MS Ken Skates with North Wales MS Carolyn Thomas. 

Labour politicians, including Clwyd South MS Ken Skates, has accused the UK Government of the "shameful neglect" of rail infrastructure in North Wales.

And they claim the local network is being "short-changed" by £5bn. 

The issue has been raised in the Senedd by North Wales MS Carolyn Thomas followed by former Transport Minister Ken Skates wh0 repeated his calls for rail to be fully devolved to the Welsh Government. 

While transport is devolved to Wales, responsibility for railway track, station infrastructure and signalling remains with the UK Government at Westminster. 

Labour claims that over the past 20 years, Wales has had less than 2% of the £102bn that the UK Government has spent on improvements – despite having 5% of the population and 11% of the track miles. 

During First Minister’s Questions this week First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “Welsh Ministers take every opportunity to raise with the UK Government their shameful neglect of investment in rail infrastructure in north Wales.” 

And Ms Thomas told the Senedd: “The Tory UK Government are investing just under £100bn in HS2 rail infrastructure. If the Barnett formula were to be applied, Wales should be entitled to the population share of 5%which is £5bn. But, because the UK Government says that the line from London to Birmingham is going to benefit Wales, we are getting nothing.  

“On top of this, a levelling-up funding bid was made to UK Government for investment on the Wrexham-Bidston line, which is desperately needed. But, again, the UK Government failed to deliver investment. All we are asking for is that Wales be treated fairly.” 

The First Minister responded: “Wales is treated anything but fairly when it comes to rail investment by the UK Government. It is absolutely nonsensical to claim that because there is a new service from London to Birmingham somehow that means Wales has had its fair share of that investment.  

“And all of that comes on top of a decade of neglect of investment in the infrastructure here in Wales. You've heard the figures here before – 2% of the railway line in Wales is electrified. Twenty-two miles. It is pathetic, and it is the direct result of broken promises. 

“This Welsh Government, by contrast, goes on investing in rail services in north Wales. This year, we will increase services on the line between Wrexham and Bidston. Next year, we will provide new services between Liverpool and Llandudno. And, the year after that, there will be new services from the north to Cardiff. Where the UK Government treats Wales with contempt when it comes to rail investment, this government goes on investing – in the north and in the rest of Wales.” 

The Union Connectivity Review, commissioned by the UK Government and published in December, ‘concluded that devolution had been good for transport’, the First Minister said. 

Ken Skates added: “The most straightforward way to address historic underfunding would be to devolve responsibilities and appropriate funding to the Welsh Government.”  

Last year, Ms Thomas and Mr Skates were among the North Wales Labour politicians to welcome the cross-party Welsh Affairs Committee’s report recommending urgent improvements in rail infrastructure across the region by the UK Government. 

They called on the UK Government to urgently implement the recommendations, which included preparing a full strategic case for the upgrade and electrification of the North Wales mainline.  

The report also called for the classification of HS2 as an England-only scheme – which Mr Skates said ‘could in turn generate huge consequential funds for Wales’ – and HS2 incorporating improvements around Crewe and Chester to enable North Wales to benefit from the project. 

Latest round of Government’s Cultural Recovery Fund opens

The third round of the Welsh Government’s Cultural Recovery Fund has opened for applications.

Businesses and organisations which have not previously received support under the fund are now eligible to apply, Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport, Dawn Bowden, has confirmed. 

Earlier this month, the Deputy Minister announced a further £15.4 million would be made available to cultural organisations in Wales who continue to be severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Impacted sectors including music venues, heritage sites, event venues, suppliers and organisers, independent local museums, community and independent libraries, galleries and independent cinemas who were previously supported via the Welsh Government’s CRF were contacted by letter during the week commencing January 17. 

The Welsh Government has already made payments of £2.2m to more than 88 applicants. It is expected most payments to those who have applied through this process will be made next week. 

New entrants for CRF 3 can today apply from the Business Wales website, where further details and application forms are available. Applications will need to be returned by Friday February 11. 

To be eligible, businesses from the events, creative and heritage sectors will have to provide evidence that they have experienced at least 50% reduced turnover between December 2021 and February 2022 compared to the same period in 2019/20. 

Dawn Bowden said: “We are fully aware that these impacted sectors continue to face new pressures.

"The innovation and resilience which has been demonstrated by the people and organisations which make these sectors so vibrant has been remarkable. 

“We want to ensure that the sector continues to play a part in our recovery from the pandemic and in bringing people together once more. 

"The Welsh Government is also aware of the impact the pandemic is having on our creative freelance community and we have doubled (to £1,000) the Emergency Business Fund grant award available for qualifying sole traders and freelancers who do not pay rates." 

This third round builds on the previous two phases of the Cultural Recovery Fund which have provided £93 million and has supported business, organisations and individuals in the key cultural sectors.

Could you offer care and support in Denbighshire?

Could you offer help at home to people in your neighbourhood?

An initiative is now up and running across Denbighshire which means you can get free professional advice to help you work for yourself offering care and support.

Many people in the area are looking for support at home.

Join a free online event on Thursday February 24 to find out more in a relaxed setting.

Learn about the support you can get, ask questions and hear about others who have already set up.

A number of people from a range of backgrounds are already in the process of setting up in Denbighshire.

They are offering various services, from help with washing and dressing, cooking, cleaning, support with hobbies and more.

Nick Hughes, who is leading the project for Community Catalysts, said: “Lots of people in Denbighshire need some extra help to live the way they want to, perhaps because they are older, disabled or have a long-term health condition. 

"We can help you set up as self-employed offering care and support. You don’t need to have a professional background in care or know how to run a business – you just need to know what good care looks like.”

Councillor Bobby Feeley, Lead Member for Well-being and Independence, said: “We are really pleased to be working with Community Catalysts to help provide more support to the older and disabled population. This is a fantastic programme which can really help caring entrepreneurs bring their own ideas to life for caring and supporting people and I look forward to seeing those with great initiatives take up the worthwhile guidance given through this partnership.”

The project is being run by social enterprise Community Catalysts and funded by Denbighshire County Council.

* To find out more about the process of setting up and to ask any questions, come along to a free online event on Thursday February 24 at 12pm or 6.30pm.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/offer-care-and-support-in-denbighshire-tickets-256129870337

You can also contact Nick Hughes, Denbighshire Community Catalyst on nick.hughes@communitycatalysts.co.uk

Empty homes matching service for Denbighshire

Empty home owners can take advantage of a free matching service with potential developers.

Denbighshire County Council is running a matching service to put empty property owners in touch with potential investors to increase the chances of the property being transformed into a home.  

There are potential investors ready to take forward opportunities.

It is part of the council’s work under its Corporate Plan to reduce the number of empty properties in the county and to create more housing for residents.

Cllr Tony Thomas, Lead Member for Housing and Communities, said: “The council has been working hard to ensure that empty properties are brought back into the market and can be used as homes for residents.

“Selling a property through this scheme can save empty home owners money on estate agency fees and Council Tax, if the property has been empty for more than six months, as well as ongoing maintenance costs of the property.

“There are a number of property developers who are signed up to the scheme and who are looking for opportunities throughout Denbighshire.”

* If you are an empty home owner looking to sell your property or a potential investor please get in touch at strategichousing@denbighshire.gov.uk and we will provide you with further information.

Dementia network meeting planned for February 9

Dementia Aware Denbighshire Network has a meeting via Zoom on Wednesday February 9, between 10am and 12 noon. 

The aim of the network is to proactively lead and facilitate initiatives to improve the awareness of dementia with the aim of making Denbighshire a 'safe, supportive and inclusive place for everyone'. 

The network is open to all individuals, organisations, voluntary and community groups and businesses operating in Denbighshire, people living with dementia and their families and carers, alongside representatives of Third Sector organisations and social enterprises, town and community council members, Denbighshire County Council and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board

Speakers for this session include Owen Phillips from CADR and Gwenno Davies from the North Wales Dementia Centre as well as updates from the local dementia action groups and Dementia Friendly Communities.

* People can book a space at the meeting using this link.

Winter Fuel Support Scheme payment is doubled to £200

The Winter Fuel Support Scheme payment will be doubled to £200 as the cost of living rises, Minister for Social Justice Jane Hutt announced today.

The £100 one-off payment, which was launched in December, is now being extended to support eligible households with rising energy bills and costs.

It is part of the Welsh Government’s bespoke Household Support Fund, which is providing £51m of targeted support for families and the most vulnerable in society.

Announcing the increased support for households, Minister for Social Justice Jane Hutt said: “Right across Wales, people are seeing their bills rise and wages are being stretched like never before. From energy bills, to prices at the pumps and the costs of everyday essentials.

“We know some people are facing the incredibly difficult decision about whether they heat or eat. We’re in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis, which is getting worse.

“Our £51m Household Support Fund targeted support at families across Wales. We know these initiatives are working and making a real difference to the lives of low income households.

“That’s why I’m delighted to announce we’re going to extend support to households by doubling the Winter Fuel Support Scheme payment. We’re increasing the £100 payment to £200 and this will be available to new applicants and retrospectively paid to those who have applied already.”

Local authorities will process new applications from eligible households. To be eligible for the payment, one member of the household must be in receipt of certain welfare benefits. Further details are available on local authority websites, which will be updated to reflect the increased payment.

Councils have contacted people they believe are eligible. If they have not yet made an application, these can be submitted until February 28.

People who have already received a £100 payment under the scheme do not need to anything – they will receive a further £100 payment in the coming weeks.

Ms Hutt added: “We are determined to do all we can to support our people with the bills they are facing, and this will go a long way to do just that.

"I want to pay tribute to our local authorities for swiftly processing these payments. We all know they’ve been under tremendous pressure during the pandemic – time and again, they have stepped up to the plate and delivered for our communities.

“This additional £100 increase will go some way to helping the most vulnerable in our society to pay their fuel bills during this difficult time and I’m determined to do all we can to continue to support the people of Wales through the cost of living crisis.”