Scotland Crimestoppers has achieved a five percent rise in calls and a twenty-five percent increase in arrests and charges over the last year of April 2010 – March 2011.

Jim Ferguson Chair of Highlands and Islands and Crimestoppers Scotland said: “A huge thank you must go to people across Scotland for using the charity to pass on information about crime. We’re extremely proud that Crimestoppers continues to play such a vital role in helping to make our local communities a safer place to live. I particularly want to thank those people and organisations in the Highlands and Islands for their continued support and involvement with Crimestoppers.

“I’d like to reassure the public that our service is completely anonymous and in the 23 years that the charity has been running no one has ever been identified. The service is run for you, the public, to help make your community a safer place to live. We’re not part of the Police or government, we’re an independent charity, so by contacting us you’ll never have to give a statement to the Police or go to court.”

A number of campaigns have been run both locally and nationally across all areas of Scotland over the last year including Countereit Goods campaign in the Highlands & Islands; public protection in Dumfries and Galloway; underage drinking in Fife; and serious organised crime campaigns in both Glasgow and Edinburgh. In addition, Crimestoppers has led a number of high-profile national campaigns to tackle crimes affecting the area including the cannabis cultivation campaign which led to increases in calls and detections after the campaign highlighted to the public the tell-tale signs to look for.

The recorded increases shows that the quality of information Crimestoppers has received during the past year has been of a very high quality, whilst there is only a five per cent increase in information, many more individuals have been arrested as shown by the twenty-five per cent increase this year.

Crimestoppers operates the 24/7 0800 555 111 telephone number for people to pass on information about crimes anonymously. Information can also be passed via the charity’s website www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Operation Respect is a partnership of the following organisations :

Highland Council
Crimestoppers
Inverness Crime Prevention Panel (ICPP)
Inverness Business Improvement District (BID)
Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA)
Inverness Taxi Association
NHS Highland
Pubwatch
Street Pastors
Northern Constabulary

These organisations are working together to engender respect for each other and for other’s property all year round, but especially during this festive period.

Operation Respect ‘s mission is to create a safe and clean environment for people, families and business within Inverness City Centre by preventing the occurrence of anti social behaviour with a focus on creating respect for the community.

Our aims are to:

• Reduce the fear of crime by ensuring that people feel safe from crime and disorder.

• Enforce the law in regard to low level offending for such offences as littering, dog fouling, street drinking, begging etc.

• Safer streets which experience reduced alcohol and drug related violent crime.

• Promote positive initiatives and diversionary schemes to reduce crime and the opportunity for crime.

• Evaluate the stated objectives and measures put in place to achieve them.

• Change in attitude and behaviour towards alcohol and drug consumption and that those in need are supported by prevention and treatment services.

• Target Inverness City Centre with a high visibility Police presence at peak times.

The Winter Festival was launched this year with Malice in Wonderland and many other exciting events are planned throughout for your enjoyment.
Please check out Winter Festival agenda on this link http://www.invernessfestivals.com/winter08/all_december_events.php:

With the Christmas holiday season almost upon us, now is a good time to
remind people to take steps to make sure your Christmas isn’t spoiled by criminals. This year we want you to have fun whilst out shopping or on your night out.

So what can we do to make sure we have fun and remain safe?
The Inverness Crime Prevention Panel have applied normal crime prevention advice to Christmas and this is often common sense, but you might overlook it in your haste to get everything ready

Out on the town

With office parties and general Christmas celebrations, pubs, restaurants and other venues are often crowded. Don’t leave bags over the back of your chair and keep wallets and purses close to your body to make it more difficult for the pickpocket. Busy places make it easier for the sneak thief, so be alert at all times. Make prior arrangements as to how you will get home. Avoid any potential disturbances on the street. Stay with friends if you can. Make sure someone knows where you are going and what time you will be back. Don’t drink too much – you could become a target for thieves.
Take precautions against Drink spiking – Keep your glass with you, never leaving it unattended and keep it covered.

Please do not drink and drive – to do so risks your own life and others and incurs heavy penalties, possibly prison and financially.

Late Night Bus Service
For the second year Operation Respect will be providing a bus service home after midnight enabling you to come into the city for an evening out without taking a car.

These late night buses will be running during the festive season on a Friday and Saturday.
The service will run between 11.30pm until 4am with a £2.00 fare.

Liz Gilchrist -Vice Chair of Inverness Crime Prevention Panel said  “I hope people will avail themselves of this service, it  will get you home safely after having a good night ‘out on the town’”  Click on this link for the time table:Night bus poster

Shopping Tips

Criminals take the opportunities afforded them by the extra shopping we do, the hustle and bustle of town centres as we rush around, and the value of the goods we buy as presents and store in our homes until the big day. We might also be more trusting and generous at Christmas when requests for charity are made, giving the unscrupulous a chance to collect for their own causes.
When the shops are crowded, the pickpocket has more chance to steal from you. If you can’t arrange to shop during less busy times, make sure you stay alert and be extra careful with your wallet or purse.
If you have too many bags you will be too busy trying to hold on to these to be aware of anyone stealing from you. You could try to make smaller shopping trips rather than do it all at once and carry too much.
Have your purse/wallet close to your body and don’t carry too much cash. The same applies to traveling on crowded buses or trains.
If you travel by car, make sure you park in a well-lit area.
Lock all doors and windows and do not leave presents in view. Try not to return to your car to leave purchases in the boot before continuing with your shopping trip as thieves may well watch car parks for just such a chance. Arrange to collect heavy items from stores when you have finished all your shopping.
Take care of your personal belongings.
Keep your chequebook and cheque card separately.
Protect your card Pin Number when making payments and cash withdrawals.
Do check the cash machine has not been tampered with ie an unusual insert at the card entry point or overhead camera strip.

**********************************************
Jim Ferguson, as Chair of Crimestoppers, in co-operation with Inverness Crime Prevention Panel, Police, Highland Council wishes everyone a very happy and safe festive period.

Finally, people should contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if they have information about any criminal activity. (Crimestoppers is a Registered Charity.)

Have Fun – Be Safe!

Of course there is not definitive answer as to when a business should give a consumer a refund of monies but here is a quick step guide for businesses on ‘refunds’ and ‘returns’ issues:

Knowing your customers rights!

Under the Sale of Goods Act 1979 (as amended), consumers have certain implied statutory rights if they buy goods from a trader or business. Briefly goods must be:

* of ‘satisfactory quality’ – which generally means that the item should be free from fault or defect and as well as being fit for their usual purpose, of a reasonable appearance and finish, safe
and durable.

* ‘fit for the purpose’ – as well as being fit for the purpose for which they are generally sold, goods should also be fit for any specific or particular purpose made known at the time the contract is made.

* ‘as described’ – goods should correspond with any description applied to them – this could be verbally, words or pictures on a sign, packaging or an advert.

Therefore, a consumer may be entitled to a refund, replacement, repair and/or compensation where goods are faulty or not as described.  However different consumer rights apply where goods are either bought online or purchased in a retail shop.

For instance, when a consumer has bought an item of clothing in a retail store, and later discovers that it is the wrong size or they have changed their mind,  there is no automatic right for the consumer to return the goods and receive a refund.   Consumers do have certain cancellation rights, however, if they buy goods from mail order catalogues or over the internet, and where a contract to buy goods has been concluded in the consumers own home (e.g doorstep selling).

Restrictions and Exclusions

Businesses cannot restrict a consumers legal rights or try to take these away from them by use of an exclusion cause in a contract of by the terms of shop notice.  Since the introduction of the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 it is a criminal offence to mislead a consumer about his/her legal rights.

The following are examples of statements that are likely to mislead consumers about their rights:

* “No refunds given”.

* “Goods can only be exchanged”.

* “Only credit notes will be given against faulty goods”.

* “Sold as seen”

Even the statement ‘No refunds except where goods are faulty’ would be considered illegal, as there are a number of cases where a consumer can claim a refund on non-faulty goods (e.g. misdescribed goods). Businesses are advised to avoid using these terms whenever possible and to seek advice about putting in place a clear ‘returns’ policy.

Returns Policy

It can be difficult to draft and display in a notice, a meaningful returns policy, which provides the consumer with useful information, protects business interests and adheres to consumer protection
legislation.

For this reason, it is often said that ‘the best notice is no notice’,. However, this is also not always practical for businesses who want to inform and treat all customers fairly.

Here is an example of an appropriate ‘returns policy’ for a business. This information may be shown on receipts or on a notice may state the following:

“Returns Policy. If you change your mind about your purchase, please return the unused goods to us with the original till receipt within 14 days, and we will offer you an exchange or a credit note. This does not affect your legal rights, including your right to claim a refund, replacement, repair and/or compensation where the goods are faulty or
misdescribed.”

Remember, however, a business cannot impose any conditions where the consumer has a legal right to return goods.

Manufacturers guanrantees

Some goods come with their own manufacturers guarantee.  The terms of such guarantees can vary but are meant to enhance a consumers statutory rights.   Guarantee terms can be used as an alternative means of resolving a consumer complaint.
However, if goods are found to be faulty, midescribed or not fit for a particular purpose, then the consumer has legal rights against the retailer as discussed above.
Likewise, businesses cannot use the duration of a guarantee to limit consumers’ rights. Consumers are entitled to expect goods to remain of satisfactory quality throughout their reasonable life expectancy, so long as they are maintained correctly and not misused.

Businesses must provide, on request, a written copy of any guarantee terms offered along with instructions and care advice of the item, where appropriate.  Any such guarantee must include the following particulars:

* The name and address of the person giving the guarantee.

* The contents of the guarantee (i.e. what it covers, which countries it applies in, and what you will do when a claim is made).

* The duration of the guarantee.

* How to make a claim.

* A statement that the consumer has statutory rights that are not affected by the guarantee.

Highland Council Trading Standards offer free and confidential advice to all businesses within the Highland geographical area.  Businesses can contact Highland Council Trading Standards by telephone on 01463/228700

or by email at: trading.standards@highland.gov.uk
or alternatively visit or write to Highland Council Trading Standards, 38 Harbour Road, Inverness IV1 1UF.

For further Highland Trading Standards news please go to  www.highland.gov.uk/tradingstandardsnews
<http://www.highland.gov.uk/tradingstandardsnews.htm>

Note: Highland Council Trading Standards Service is part of Transport, Environment and Community Service, Highland Council, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness

Crime is down 12% for the period April to December 2009 against the same period in 2008. This equates to 1522 fewer victims. Crime rates have actually fallen by 20% over the past 2 years. At the same time overall detection rates remain high at over 61% for classes 1 to 5 and over 84% across all classes of crime.

Northern Constabulary continues to demonstrate its commitment to reducing crime and contributing to safer communities across the Highlands and islands.

Numerous examples of successes include the following:

A number of significant drug seizures and convictions in Shetland including a 4-year sentence of a man with 120,000 of drugs including heroin.

The arrests and prosecution of 5 cases of domestic abuse in Orkney.

Two officers are to be commended for resolving a firearms incident in Barra, Western Isles.

A new initiative involving a Community Response Team has been active in Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross to tackle vandalisms. The scheme has been favourably received by the public and 76 crimes of vandalism have been detected in Caithness.

There have been notable drug seizures in Ross & Cromarty, Lochaber, Skye and Lochalsh, including the recovery of 160,000 class A drugs on the A82 in November. A number of drink drivers were arrested throughout this area during a targetted campaign.

Considerable work continues across the region to address Domestic Abuse and Child Protection. A dedicated Domestic Abuse Liaison Officer has been appointed for the East Division area.

There have been notable seizures of drugs and successful prosecutions across the region including 2 men receiving 12 years each imprisonment at the High Court in Glasgow in December 2009 for supply of drugs.

A number of secondary schools across the region have taken part in “Driving Ambitions” which promotes safer driving.

Operation Respect initiative was created to engender respect for each other and for other’s property all year round, but especially during this festive period.

With the advent of the Winter Festival and the anticipated increase in numbers of visitors to the City Centre the Council, Northern Constabulary and Inverness BID agreed to formulate a plan which would draw in support from a wide cross section of the Community. Partner organisations include:

Crimestoppers

Scottish Licensed Trade Association

Inverness Bed and Breakfast Association

Highland Youth Forum

The Street Pastors

Inverness Crime Prevention Panel

Operation Respect allows the Partners to link resources to enhance the amenity of the City Centre and provide (via the Nightrider Bus scheme – run with the help of Stagecoach) another option for a safe passage home for visitors to the City’s night time economy.

Street Pastors play a large part in the town centre providing an invaluable service every weekend and are on the streets until the wee hours, assisting those who may have problems.

Jim Ferguson Chairman of Crimestoppers Highlands and Islands, spent an evening with the Street Pastors just recently observing how the volunteers work and said:
“I was very impressed to see the Street Pastors in action as they went out to help those on the streets in many different ways. They were well received and their gentle approach seemed to calm certain situations down that may otherwise have ended in violence. Their outreach and care was inspiring and it was a pleasure to have been invited out to see how they operated.”

So what can we do to make sure we have fun and remain safe?

The Inverness Crime Prevention Panel have applied normal crime prevention advice to Christmas and this is common sense, but you might overlook it in your haste to get everything ready.

Out on the town

With office parties and general Christmas celebrations, pubs, restaurants and other venues are often crowded. Don’t leave bags over the back of your chair and keep wallets and purses close to your body to make it more difficult for the pickpocket. Busy places make it easier for the sneak thief, so be alert at all times.
Make prior arrangements as to how you will get home. Avoid any potential disturbances on the street. Stay with friends if you can. Make sure someone knows where you are going and what time you will be back.
Don’t drink too much – you could become a target for thieves.
Take precautions against Drink spiking – Keep your glass with you, never leaving it unattended and keep it covered.

Nightrider Bus Service

For the second year Operation Respect will be providing a FREE Nightrider bus service for home travel after midnight, enabling you to come into the city for an evening out without taking a car.
Please do not drink and drive – to do so risks your own life and others and incurs heavy penalties, possibly prison and financially.

The late night buses will be running during the festive season free of charge. The service will run between 11.30pm until 4am.
Bus time tables will be on display in Pubs, Clubs and on the Buses themselves.
Please make good use of this service.

Shopping

Criminals take the opportunities afforded them by the extra shopping we do. They prey on the opportunity created by the hustle and bustle of town centres as we rush around and try to take advantage of the value of the goods we buy as presents and store in our homes until the big day.
We might also be more trusting and generous at Christmas when requests for charity are made, giving the unscrupulous a chance to collect for their own causes.
When the shops are crowded, the pickpocket has more chance to steal from you. If you can’t arrange to shop during less busy times, make sure you stay alert and be extra careful with your wallet or purse. If you have too many bags you will be too busy trying to hold on to these to be aware of anyone stealing from you.
You could try to make smaller shopping trips rather than do it all at once and carry too much. Have your purse/wallet close to your body and don’t carry too much cash. The same applies to travelling on crowded buses or trains. If you travel by car, make sure you park in a well-lit area, lock all doors and windows and do not leave presents in view.
Try not to return to your car to leave purchases in the boot before continuing with your shopping trip as thieves may well watch car parks for just such a chance. Arrange to collect heavy items from stores when you have finished all your shopping. Keep your chequebook and cheque card separately.

Blue Light Discos are Proving to be Major Attraction

These popular events have been a great success with the next being on 20^th December. This next disco will be a special night called a Silent Disco and held at the Ironworks when the party revellers will have the unique experience of have music transmitted wirelessly to headphones.

The evenings have been generously supported by Next, Tesco and Mcdonalds with generous Raffle Prizes.

Liz Gilchrist, Vice Chair of Inverness Crime Prevention added:
“I was really pleased at the support received from the four national companies who have businesses based in Inverness, particularly Tesco who have been proactive supporting this type of partnership initiative throughout the country and encouraging safer neighbourhoods”.

Jim Ferguson Chair of Crimestoppers Highlands and Islands also thanked the companies for their generous support and said:
“I hope the Disco’s go from strength to strength as it is the type of event which is to be encouraged, proving that a fun evening could be had without alcohol”.

Steven Kerr of Inverness Business Improvement District and newly appointed Chairman of the Blue Light Steering Group said:
“I was delighted with the success of our events and we are working to encourage even more young people to attend future Blue Light Discos. Steven went on to say that visits would be made to all the Senior Schools in the area to promote future events to the 13 -16 year age groups.

Next event, Silent Disco: 20^th December, Ironworks at 7.00pm

Ticket Price: £4.00 or £3 (with a voucher from bebo/facebook)
Includes FREE Face Art and FREE Raffle Ticket.
If you purchase your entrance ticket in advance it will allow you free bus transport – Just show your ticket to the Driver.
BUY ONLINE:http://www.ironworksvenue.com or Contact 0871  789 4173

Left to right:
Steven Kerr – Chair of Blue Light. Pam Kennedy – Inverness BID.
Rhona Brindle – Community Champion – Tesco. Jim Ferguson – Chair of Inverness Crime Prevention Panel.

Crimestoppers in co-operation with Inverness Crime Prevention Panel, Police and Highland Council, wish everyone a very happy festive period.

Finally, anyone should contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
if they have information about any criminal activity and wish to remain anonymous.
(Crimestoppers is a Registered Charity.)

Inverness Crime Prevention Panel website for further information: http://www.icpp.co.uk

Have Fun – Be Safe!

Reflecting on the impact of serious crime in the Highlands and islands, he said:

“Northern Constabulary is well aware of the extent to which organised crime gangs operate within our area. We are well placed to use a range of investigative methods to target, detect and tackle these individuals and this is reflected by significant seizures of drugs across the entire Force area over recent months. Northern Constabulary operates a visible community style of policing and this, together with high levels of public support, stands us in good stead to continue to be successful in targeting serious organised crime in the Highlands and Islands.”

Ends

The theft occurred between late April and the end of May, 2009, although it is believed to have been more likely to be in early May.

Police are urging the public to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity near to Osprey nesting sites.

Any information in respect of this incident, or any similar incidents, can be reported to Aviemore Police station on 01479 810222,
or in confidence to Crimestoppers on 0800 111 555.

A MULTI-AGENCY approach to youth diversion and the promotion of pro-social behaviour has led to reductions in the levels of youth crime across the Highlands and Islands.

Despite a slight rise in the number of referrals to the children’s hearing system for some age groups on offending grounds (between 2006 and 2008) youth crime levels in the Highlands and Islands continue to be among the lowest in Scotland, per head of the population.

Northern Constabulary and its partners believe there is no room for complacency and have vowed to continue with their corporate approach to tackling the issues surrounding youth crime.

Youth diversion and inclusion is a key part of this approach and representatives from some of the agencies involved have spoken out jointly for the first time about the work they are doing to improve the wellbeing of youngsters across the region.

In 2006, as a result of this multi-agency approach, youth crime figures fell by more than 50% and although this will be difficult to sustain in the short term, this approach is designed to provide long term sustainability.

Northern Constabulary and its partners are involved in a number of initiatives aimed at diverting youths away from crime and ensuring their behaviour is pro-social not anti-social.

Only 2% of our children, aged 0-15, actually commit an offence and it should be noted that a small number of children commit a disproportionate number of crimes.

Head of Children’s Services for NHS Highland and Highland Council Bill Alexander said:

"The reduction in youth crime in Highland is an enormous success story  sustained since around 2006.

"We have indeed bucked the national trend, by sustaining massively reduced youth crime over the last few years, when much of Scotland has seen increased youth crime since 2000.

"We should be celebrating the hard work of staff in many agencies across Highland and also the good conduct of most of our young people. However, that does not mean we should be complacent about continuing youth crime – we certainly aren’t."

He added: "We know there were significant changes in numbers of persistent offenders from 2006, which was a direct consequence of the creation of youth action teams and effective joint working.

"While we had 68 persistent young offenders at the end of 2004/05 (this means more than 5 referrals for any individual in a 6 month period ; i.e. evidence of repeat behaviour) this reduced to 45 at the end of 2005/06, and only 7 at the end of 2006/07.

"The number was 9 when the Children’s Reporter stopped producing these figures (due to a change in Government thinking) in 2007/08."

Northern Constabulary and its partners are working with youngsters on a number of initiatives in an attempt to maintain lower levels of youth offending, including Street Football, Twilight Basketball, Street Rugby, Bluelight Discos, Safe Highlanders, Operation Youth Advantage and Choices for Life.

Community Safety Minister Fergus Ewing visited Inverness recently and praised the work being done on Operation Youth Advantage. OYA gives youngsters on the periphery of crime or those who have an interest in Army life the chance to build team spirit and improve their social skills. (More information can be found on the Force’s website www.northern.police.uk).

Action for Children is also heavily involved in the multi-agency partnership and help the other agencies bring Street Football to a number of areas of the Force thanks to its portable five-a-side football pitch.

PC Rosanna MacSween, who is Northern Constabulary’s Youth Diversion Officer, said: "Northern Constabulary is working with a range of partners across the Highlands and Islands, and with other Forces and national agencies, to delivery a number of youth diversionary activities, in line with two of our strategic priorities of stronger, safer communities and reducing crime.

"This strong partnership working is reflected in initiatives such as Blue Light Discos, Street Sports, Operation Youth Advantage, Choices for Life and Safe Highlanders, together with educational DVDs on alcohol and vandalism.

"New initiatives such as Global Rock Challenge have already been identified and we will be looking to take these forward in due course."

PC MacSween added: "We are realistic in recognising that success will not happen overnight but these measures are aimed at delivering long-term results and with the support of our communities we can achieve them.

"Northern Constabulary is committed to working with and for our young people, the majority of whom make a very positive contribution to our communities."

Scottish rugby is another important partner within the multi-agency set up and Brian Bell, the Scottish Rugby Union’s Regional development manager, said: "Scottish Rugby is investing its "Cashback for Communities," funding to grow participation in rugby in key identified areas throughout all Scotland’s 32 local authorities.

"In order to target areas and socio economic groups not traditionally, or less exposed to rugby, Scottish Rugby will invest in growing and sustaining the network of jointly-funded rugby development officers.

"In the Highlands and Islands there is one such post at Highland RFC, however, a development officer post is currently being advertised for Orkney RFC thanks to funding a support from Orkney Islands Council, European Community Orkney LEADER 2007-2013 programme and Northern Constabulary."

He added: "Through these posts, Scottish Rugby will be able to offer rugby opportunities in more primary and secondary schools, and with the assistance of volunteers take rugby into the heart of deprived areas through the new Street Rugby programme, an easy to learn non contact form of the game which can be played anywhere."

Twilight Basketball was launched in Inverness on Friday 23 January 2009 by the charity Scottish Sports Futures (SSF) supported by the Scottish Government Cashback programme. SSF works in partnership with Northern Constabulary, Highland Council, Crimestoppers, Highland and Islands Fire and Rescue Service, Basketball Scotland and the Merkinch Partnership.

The Twilight Basketball scheme will be launched for the first time in the Hilton area at Inverness Royal Academy on Saturday 16 May 2009, between 6pm and 8pm. This will run in tandem with the scheme already running successfully at Inverness College on a Friday night between 6pm and 8pm. Anyone between the ages of 11 and 21 interested in playing basketball on either day should turn up at the venue closest to them.

Jamie Barr of SSF said:

"Our experience of working in Inverness over the past three months has been a very positive one and we are delighted with the support we have received from a wide range of agencies and organisations that are committed to helping young people across the city.

"Their support has ensured the success of the Twilight programme where young people can have fun but also learn important lifestyle issues at the same time."

Highland Council’s Community Safety unit takes the lead in terms of the Safe Highlanders initiative, which is an excellent example of agencies working together to ensure young people from the Highlands are valued and kept safe.

It is an excellent opportunity for young people to develop their judgement, decision making and risk assessment. It also helps to build their confidence and raise their self esteem.

Isabelle Kaminiarz from the Community Safety unit, said: "Safe Highlanders and Islanders is a Child Safety interactive learning experience aimed at Primary 7 pupils, allowing them to actively participate in a wide range of simulated practical situations which, in real life, would be potentially life threatening.

"It also serves to show them healthy living choices and highlight preventable crimes. Over 1500 P7 pupils attended this "once in a lifetime," event in 2008, and resulted in very positive feedback from schools; this year there will be approximately 2000 pupils attending."

The agencies involved are: Red Cross, Northern Constabulary, British Transport Police, HIFRS, HM Coastguard, Health and Safety Executive and subjects include first aid, road/railway safety, water safety, farm safety, fire safety and construction safety. Messages surrounding these topics, as well as substance misuse prevention, are provided in a fun and interesting way.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO REQUEST AN INTERVIEW PLEASE CONTACT CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS ON 01463 720396/397/369.

THE Highlands and Islands Strategic Coordinating Group (HISCG) has been convened to plan for and manage any potential impact of “Swine Flu” within the Highlands and Islands.

There are currently no confirmed cases in the Highlands and Islands and the risk to the public of the Highlands and Islands is low.

However, the HISCG public organisations, working together, are continually monitoring and assessing the regional and national situation.

HISCG members will be communicating with all staff to keep them fully appraised of the situation as it develops.

At the current time the Scottish Government is issuing comprehensive advice and information to the public, through the media, and we will provide support at a local level as necessary.

Please use the following resources to find out more about the flu situation and the national advice and resources available:

• Scottish Government http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/health/AvianInfluenza
• NHS 24 http://www.nhs24.com/content/default.asp?page=s5_4&articleID=1303
• Highlands and Islands Strategic Co-ordinating Group http://www.handiprepared.gov.uk/
• Health Protection Scotland http://www.hps.scot.nhs.uk/
• Health Protection Agency http://www.hpa.org.uk/
• World Health Organisation http://www.who.int/
• UK Resilience http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/ukresilience.aspx
• British Foreign and Commonwealth Office http://www.fco.gov.uk/
• HISCG website http://www.handiprepared.gov.uk/links.asp
• Highlands & Islands Resilience Group http://www.hai-resilience.co.uk

POLICE have recovered thousands of pounds worth of drugs in latest seizures in the Highlands.

Over £65,000 worth of drugs (amphetamine and cocaine) were recovered in a search of a premises in Rosemarkie on 28 January. A 22-year-old Inverness man, a 19-year-old Inverness female and a 43-year-old Oldham man appeared at Dingwall Sheriff Court on Thursday 29 February 2009.

An undisclosed four figure sum was also seized in connection with the above incident.

Two men, aged 20 and 23, were arrested on the A9 on 29 February 2009 and £10,000 worth of cannabis and ecstasy was seized after police searched a car and properties over the weekend. Both men and a 19-year-old female are expected to appear at Inverness Sheriff Court today.

Chief Superintendent Bruce Duncan, Head of Operations at Northern Constabulary, said: “The Force will continue to pursue those involved in the supply of illegal drugs across the Force area and those who take part in this activity will be dealt with robustly.

“We would encourage anyone with information about drug related activity to contact Northern Constabulary on 01463 715555 or call Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555 111

2008 is no exception and Major Stores, Shops, Pubs, Clubs, Theatre, Cinema, Hotel and Visitor Attractions are making every effort to put an attractive package together to ensure an enjoyable experience to suit most tastes.

Northern Constabulary, Inverness Crime Prevention Panel, Crimestoppers, Street Pastors, Highland Council and other groups are working together to ensure as safe an environment as possible exists during this period and as an ongoing operation under the “Respect” umbrella.

With the Christmas holiday season almost upon us, now is a good time to remind people to take steps to make sure criminals don’t spoil your Christmas.

Criminals take the opportunities afforded them by the extra shopping we do, the hustle and bustle of town centres as we rush around, and the value of the goods we buy as presents and store in our homes until the big day.

We might also be more trusting and generous at Christmas when requests for charity are made, giving the unscrupulous a chance to collect for their own causes.

Jim Ferguson – Chair of the Inverness Crime Prevention Panel
talks with the Police out in the City at night.

Commenting on the Winter Festival arrangements, Inverness Area Police Commander, Chief Inspector Julian Innes said:

“I am really pleased that all the partners in Inverness are working together to make Inverness safer and more enjoyable over the winter festival period. Extra Police officers will be on patrol to deter anti social behaviour but for those that chose to commit crime and spoil the enjoyment of others then the message is clear in that it will not be tolerated and policing will be robust.”

Inverness Area Command

Inverness City is the urban centre of Northern Constabulary’s Force area.
The Area Command is responsible for Policing not only the city, but many of the outlying areas such as Beauly, Drumnadrochit and Fort Augustus to name but a few.

So what can we do?

Inverness Crime Prevention Panel has applied normal crime prevention advice to Christmas.

The information below is often common sense, but you might overlook it in your haste to get everything ready.

Out on the town

With office parties and general Christmas celebrations, pubs, restaurants and other venues are often crowded.

> Don’t leave bags over the back of your chair and keep wallets and purses close to your body to make it more difficult for the pickpocket.
> Busy places make it easier for the sneak thief, so be alert at all times
> Make prior arrangements as to how you will get home.
> Avoid any potential disturbances on the street. Stay with friends if you can.
> Make sure someone knows where you are going and what time you will be back.
> Don’t drink too much – you could become a target for thieves.
> Take precautions against Drink spiking – Keep your glass with you, never leaving it unattended and keep it covered.

Some general points:

You will be safest in bright, well-lit and busy areas.

> Try to look and act confident – look like you know where you are going and walk tall.

> You might like to spread your valuables around your body.
> For example, keep your phone in your bag, your house keys in your trouser pocket and your money in your jacket.

> Try not to be conspicuous about the valuables you are carrying.
> Talking on your mobile phone, carrying a laptop, or showing your friend your new gold ring all show thieves that you are worth robbing.

> When out walking or jogging, you should not listen to a personal stereo through headphones, so you can stay more alert to your surroundings.

Mobile phones

If your phone is stolen, report your number to your network and the police
The handset can now be barred on all networks and will be useless to thieves.

> Register your phone with your network operator.

> Record your registration number (IMEI) and your phone number.
> Keep these in a safe place separate from your phone.
> You can get your IMEI number (15-digit serial number) by keying *#06# into most phones or by looking behind your phone battery.

> Report the number of your stolen phone to your network operator and the police as quickly as you can. It can now be cancelled immediately like a stolen credit card.

> Stay alert your phone is a valuable item. When you are out, be aware of your surroundings and don’t use your phone in crowded areas or where you might feel unsafe.

Credit cards

> Keep your cards separate from your cheque books.

> If your cards are stolen, call your bank or credit card company as soon as possible. > Most banks put the number to call if your cards are stolen on your statement.
They are also often shown on cash machines.

Following the general guidelines for personal safety will help you avoid situations where people may rob you.

Personal Safety: Transport

This section offers some general tips on how to keep yourself safe and secure when you’re making a journey either catching a bus or taxi, or when you’re in the car.

Public transport

As with everything, you are safest where there are other people, and where it is light or well lit.

> Plan your route.

> Try to wait in busy or well-lit areas.

> Sit near other people, the driver if you are on a bus, or near the conductor if you are on a train.

Move if someone makes you feel uncomfortable.

Out Shopping

When the shops are crowded, the pickpocket has more chance to steal from you.

> If you can’t arrange to shop during less busy times, make sure you stay alert and be extra careful with your wallet or purse.
> If you have too many bags you will be too busy trying to hold on to these to be aware of anyone stealing from you.
> You could try to make smaller shopping trips rather than do it all at once and carry too much
> Have your purse/wallet close to your body and don’t carry too much cash.
> The same applies to travelling on crowded buses or trains.
> If you travel by car, make sure you park in a well- lit area, lock all doors and windows and do not leave presents in view.
> Try not to return to your car to leave purchases in the boot before continuing with your shopping trip as thieves may well watch car parks for just such a chance.
> Arrange to collect heavy items from stores when you have finished all your shopping.
> Keep your chequebook and cheque card separately.

At Home

Having bought all those wonderful presents, don’t make it easy for someone to steal from your home.
> Keep them out of sight until last thing on Christmas Eve and if you ‘hide’ or store larger items such as bicycles in the shed or outbuildings, make sure they are very secure.
> Now is a good time to check that you know what you have both normally (TV, Video etc) and with the extra presents you have bought.
> You may well find you need to check your insurance to make sure you are covered for the value of goods in your home.
> Take the frame numbers of new cycles and the serial numbers of new electrical equipment for future reference.
> Remember, empty boxes left outside advertise that you have new goods inside – dispose of packing carefully.

> If you go out for the evening – make it look like someone is at home by turning on lights and the radio.
> Don’t leave curtains open so people can see your decorations as potential thieves can see in.
> Be extra careful about locking doors and windows.
> As a fire precaution, don’t leave Christmas lights on in the house whilst you are out.

> If you go away for the holiday period – use an automatic timer for lights and ask a trusted neighbour to watch your home.
> Don’t forget to cancel newspapers and milk if you have them delivered and either redirect your mail through the Post Office or have your neighbour take mail into the house – unopened Christmas cards and mail are a sure sign that a house is empty.

Strangers at the door

> Genuine delivery personnel usually have uniforms and liveried vehicles and should not need to come into your home.
> Charity collectors will have identification and will not be offended if you ask to see it.
> If you are not sure but want to make a donation, ask whether these can be made in other ways, perhaps through a bank – check with your bank before making any payments through the banking system.

Driving

Please do not drink and drive – to do so risks your own life and others and incurs heavy penalties, possibly prison and financially.

General Safety in your car

> Keep your car in good condition and try not to run out of petrol.

> Keep doors locked when driving and keep bags, phones and other valuables out of sight, preferably in the boot.

> Try to park in well-lit or busy areas, and if you park during the day, think about what the area will feel like after dark.

> Do not give lifts to or accept lifts with people you do not know, or do not know well.

> Do not drive if you have been drinking or taking drugs, and do not take a lift from someone who has.

> You may feel more comfortable carrying a mobile phone with you. Try to keep it out of sight, and do not use it while drivingThe Inverness Winter Festival started on 20^th November and will continue until 1^st January.

Inverness Crime Prevention Panel in co-operation with Police, Highland Council, Street Pastors and Crimestoppers wish everyone a very happy festive period.

Finally, anyone with information about any criminal activity is asked to contact Crimestoppers.

The service is designed with confidentiality in mind and information about crime can be given anonymously

Call Crimestoppers anonymously on: 0800 555 111

Crimestoppers are a Registered Charity.

Have Fun, Be Safe, and please Respect each other during this festive season and at all other times.

Jim Ferguson
Chair - Inverness Crime Prevention Panel
Chair – Crimestoppers Highlands

Blue Light Discos are to be set up on a monthly basis next year for the enjoyment of young people aged between 13 and 16 throughout 2009 at different venues.

The next event is to be held is a Disco on Saturday, 1st November at Spectrum Centre between 7 -10.30pm. Entrance £1

Please come along to the Blue Light Discos and meet your friends and dance the night away.

Where else can you go for a fantastic fun evenings in a safe friendly fun environment for £1?

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Organisations such as United Youth Group, Crimestoppers, Inverness BID, Brook, Street Pastors, Highland Council, ICPP, Youth Inclusive and Fire and Rescue Service support teams are also working to make this project a success.

The aim is to create a safe environment for young people aged 13 to 16 to enjoy themselves. Discos, Breakdancing lessons and instruction on how to use music decks whilst learning how to be a DJ will be some of the activities available. There are Football events to be planned for the future.

The police and youth workers will be on hand throughout the evening to make sure everyone has a good time in a safe and friendly environment. Police will conduct searches and take a breath test for all people coming in to make sure Inverness’s first Blue Light Disco is a success for all.

Northern Constabulary:

Northern Constabulary strongly supports and welcomes this youth initiative and its aim of providing an event, which is free of alcohol and drugs, to enable our local young people to enjoy themselves safely. There is clear evidence from other areas where Blue Light Disco are run, that they contribute to reducing the number of young people becoming involved in unacceptable behaviour.