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Added 8 April

We have teamed up with the Ben Kinsella Trust to run a free webinar called: Knife crime, Safety and Young People and we’d love you to be there if you can spare the time. The webinar will lift the lid on the reasons young people can be drawn into knife crime and also some practical advice for parents and grandparents who are worried about young people.

Stephen Lawrence Day takes place on April 22nd every year, on the anniversary of Stephen’s death. A national moment of reflection and a call to action. Each year, Stephen’s life is honoured by inspiring individuals, schools, and communities to drive change. Stephen Lawrence Day is more than remembrance, it’s a day to celebrate progress, challenge injustice, and empower young people to imagine their futures.

Title: Stephen Lawrence Day Webinar - Knife crime, Safety and Young People

Date and Time Wednesday 22 April 10.30am

Delivered over Zoom

Investment Fraud

UK victims lost £2.4 million every day to investment fraud in 2025 - equivalent to £1,675 a minute, City of London Police reveal

Victims of investment fraud lost an average of £1,675 every minute last year, new figures from the City of London Police, the National Lead Force for Fraud, have revealed.

Criminals stole £879.8 million through investment fraud last year - an average of £2.4 million a day.

In 2025, 34,673 people reported investment fraud to Report Fraud, the national service that replaced Action Fraud in December 2025. This marks a 31 per cent rise on the previous year, with officers warning that fraudsters are taking advantage of economic uncertainty, volatile markets, and increasingly convincing online platforms to lure in victims.

The rise in reporting is not only linked to an increase in investment fraud, but also due to the point at which victims realise what has happened. Reports began climbing steadily from March and spiked in July and September when many people review their investments, move money into new products or check their returns ahead of the new financial year.

For thousands of victims, it was only at that point that the truth became clear: the investment they were sold never existed. Losses averaged £25,612 per person, often representing pension savings or long-term‑ investments.

Detective Inspector Duncan Wynn, Head of Central Fraud Unit at Thames Valley Police said:

“Investment fraudsters are highly skilled at appearing legitimate and will often use pressure, false urgency and promises of high returns to manipulate victims. If an opportunity sounds too good to be true, or you are being rushed into a decision, stop, take a step back and seek independent advice before parting with any money.

Investment fraud does not just affect the vulnerable – anyone can be targeted at the right moment. Criminals tailor their approach to an individual’s circumstances, often striking during periods of financial pressure, life change, or heightened emotion. Understanding how fraudsters manipulate behaviour is key to disrupting their tactics and preventing further victims”

Investment fraud last year ranged from bogus online trading platforms to fake bond schemes, cryptocurrency opportunities and glossy social media adverts that featured well‑ known public figures. Fraud reports have highlighted how criminals now deploy ‑AI manipulated‑ videos, deepfake endorsements and cloned websites to draw victims in, echoing patterns seen across the wider fraud landscape.

Another growing problem is so called “recovery fraud,” where criminals return to previous victims while posing as law enforcement, lawyers,‑ or specialist recovery firms. They promise to retrieve stolen money but instead charge upfront fees and disappear. Detectives describe this as one of the most cynical developments in the fraud world, as criminals effectively monetise a victim’s desperation a second time.

Although victims were recorded in every police force area in the UK, the data suggests the picture may be even broader; more than a quarter of people reporting investment fraud did not disclose their location, limiting the ability to map the full spread of cases. Older adults, particularly those over 60, remained the most likely to come forward, in part because they are more likely to have significant savings or pension pots invested.

In parallel with these trends, officers have also observed a rise in so called‑ “finfluencers” across social media - predominantly young male personalities who boast about making “easy money” on high-risk trading platforms, particularly those linked to forex and ‑rapid turnover‑ investments.

Their content often glamorises quick wins, luxury lifestyles and aggressive self-improvement‑ narratives, themes recently explored in Louis Theroux’s documentary on the online ‘manosphere.’ While not all these personalities are involved in criminal activity, their posts can create a false sense of legitimacy around speculative trading and make inexperienced followers more vulnerable to opportunistic scammers who mimic the same language, style and promises.

As part of wider fraud prevention‑ work, the City of London Police is urging the public to take simple steps to protect themselves.

Before making any investment, use the FCA’s firm checker tool, to confirm whether a firm or individual is authorised. The tool can be accessed via the FCA website and is one of the most effective ways to avoid cloned firms and bogus advisers.
We encourage anyone considering an investment to be cautious of unsolicited messages, adverts promising unusually high returns, or requests to keep the offer “confidential.”
The City of London Police is reminding the public that any suspicious activity should be reported to Report Fraud as soon as possible at www.reportfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, victims of fraud and cybercrime should report to Police Scotland on 101.
You can also contact the Financial Conduct Authority’s consumer helpline on 0800 111 6768 or report suspicious businesses or individuals by using the reporting form on their website.

Council offers support to landlords ahead of Renters’ Rights Act changes

Buckinghamshire Council is providing drop-in sessions to support private landlords across Buckinghamshire ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force on 1 May 2026.

The Act introduces new requirements for how private tenancies must be managed, aiming to create a fairer and more stable private rented sector. It is designed to reduce short-notice evictions, strengthen tenants’ rights to challenge poor practice and rent increases, and ensure landlords can still recover their properties where appropriate.

To help landlords prepare, the council is holding informal drop-in sessions in Aylesbury and High Wycombe. Housing and Regulatory officers will be available throughout the day to answer questions and discuss individual circumstances. Letting agents and managing agents are also welcome to attend.

Drop-in session dates:
The Gateway, Aylesbury – Thursday 16 April and Friday 17 April, 10am–4pm
Queen Victoria Road Offices, High Wycombe – Thursday 16 April and Friday 17 April, 10am–4pm

Landlords are encouraged to review the government’s guidance before attending.

Mark Winn, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Regulatory Services, said:

“The Renters’ Rights Act represents a major shift for both tenants and landlords. We know many landlords still have questions about how the new rules will work in practice, and the Aylesbury and High Wycombe drop-in sessions are a practical way for us to support them through these changes.

“As a council, we are also preparing for the Act’s introduction by updating our own policies and processes so that we remain fully compliant. Our goal is to help landlords adapt with confidence while improving stability and fairness for renters across Buckinghamshire.”

The council also recognises that some renters may be unsure about what the new legislation means for them. The Act is intended to strengthen protections for tenants, but renters who have concerns can check the government’s guidance or seek independent advice from organisations such as Citizens Advice or Shelter.

Added 1 April

Today (1/4), we have published an anti-social behaviour (ASB) action plan setting out how we will prevent, reduce, and respond to ASB.

The plan forms part of our commitment to the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, a key element of the Government’s Safer Streets mission, and is being launched by all police forces in England and Wales.

ASB can have a significant impact on individuals, communities, and businesses, and we are committed to tackling it consistently, transparently, with victims at the centre.

The ASB Action Plan outlines seven key themes which highlight the force’s approach to tackling ASB:

Understand ASB better - we will make sure everyone understands what ASB is, helping people report issues to the right agency and reduce unnecessary delays.
Engage with communities - we will strengthen our engagement with all communities, to understand the real impact of ASB and build trust.
Use data smarter - we will improve how we use data, to identify hotspots, repeat victims, and emerging trends to ensure we target resources where they’re needed most.
Focus on prevention & problem-solving - we will work with partners to stop ASB before it starts and tackle root causes.
Improve support for victims - we will ensure victims of ASB get the help they need, including emotional support and alternative solutions.
Communicate clearly - we will keep the public and partners informed about what we’re doing and how we’re making progress.
Be transparent & accountable - we will make sure our work on ASB is shared publicly so everyone can see what’s being achieved.

Changes to bin collections over Easter and household recycling centres move to summer opening hours

Residents across Buckinghamshire are being reminded that bin collections will be operating to a revised timetable over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend and from 1 April all Household Recycling Centres (HRCs) will move over to summer opening hours.

Bin collections due to take place on Good Friday 3 April, will move to Saturday 4 April, and with no collections on Easter Monday 6 April, all collections that week will take place one day later than usual. Please check the table below for the revised collection days. Bins or containers need to be presented by 6.30am.

Residents who might be using the Easter Bank Holiday to get started on some spring cleaning or gardening are reminded that on 1 April, Buckinghamshire’s 10 household recycling centres will move to their longer summer opening hours of 9am – 6pm on usual days. All sites will also remain open over the Easter bank holiday weekend, including Good Friday and Easter Monday. Please check the website before you travel so you can avoid busier times and remember to bring a proof of address to show to staff at the entrance to demonstrate you are a Buckinghamshire resident.

Garden waste can be collected at the kerbside fortnightly with a valid subscription. To sign up or renew garden waste subscriptions, residents can visit buckinghamshire.gov.uk/garden-waste. This can also be taken to the local household recycling centre free of charge.

Ade Osibogun, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change and Waste said:

“I’m sure many people will be using the long bank holiday weekend to get out in the garden or do some spring cleaning at home so our HRCs will be busy but with the longer opening hours it will allow people more flexibility on when to visit.

“Don't forget we can recycle over 20 different types of waste at our recycling centres. If you sort your waste before you visit you can recycle more and enjoy a quicker visit.”

For more information including how to check your Easter bank holiday bin collections, where to find your nearest household recycling centre and what you can and cannot recycle, visit: https://www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/waste-and-recycling

Added 19 March

Are you someone who visits the Aylesbury, Chesham or High Wycombe Town Centre? If so, we want to hear from you

Through the Safer Streets campaign, Thames Valley Police have been working on making Town Centres across Buckinghamshire safer for everyone, and we want to know what you currently think about your town.

If you have a moment to spare to help us, please fill out the survey via the link below. We greatly value any feedback

Buckinghamshire Safer Streets – Public Feedback

Council updates Hackney Carriage & Private Hire Licensing Policy to improve safety and accessibility

Buckinghamshire Council has updated its Hackney Carriage & Private Hire Licensing Policy to further strengthen passenger safety, improve accessibility and support the local licensed trade across the county.

The revised policy – shaped by a year of engagement with drivers, operators, disability groups and residents – introduces improvements to driver application processes and changes to vehicle standards, including accessibility requirements and zero‑emission ambitions. It also updates the “safe and suitable” criteria for licensed drivers in line with changes to national guidance.

For drivers and operators, the updates provide clearer and more consistent requirements across Buckinghamshire, helping the licensed trade plan for future accessibility and environmental expectations. For residents, the policy ensures hackney carriage and private hire vehicles continue to offer a safe, reliable and inclusive way to travel.

Buckinghamshire council will work with the licensed hackney carriage and private hire trade on the implementation of the updated policy, expected from September 2026.

Added 19 March

A Coordinator in Chalfont St Giles has informed us that there has been a number of cars broken into and damaged over night between 15/16 March in Ellwood Rise. The police have been informed.

If your car has been broken into report to the police on 101 unless you witness your car being broken into then it is 999 telling the police the offender is near-by.

Inform your Insurance Company.

Do not touch anything in case the police need to take finger prints or carry out other investigations.

Make a note of anything missing or stolen and photograph any damage done to your vehicle. Your Insurance company may require this information.

So here are some safety tips to keep your Car Safe:

Do not leave your keys in the ignition or door open when your car is unattended.
Make sure your car is secure with the roof, sunroof ,windows and doors all locked.
Do not leave valuables in your car where they can be seen and stolen.
Do not leave car documents, credit cards in your car.
If you cannot park your car on your drive make sure it is parked in a well lit area or secure car park.
Most sure your alarm is working in your car.
Fit lockable wheel nuts , fuel cap and other security devices available.
If you have Keyless car fob's some allow you to switch off the wireless signals. Check with your manufacturer. If not please keep your fobs well out of site especially away from the front of your property.

Faraday signal blocking pouches in two size, one small @ £3.00 each which will take a single fob, or a larger one at £4.00 each which takes a mobile phone or two fobs. This prevents access to your vehicle by blocking your car key from transmitting its code to the vehicle. If interested please email me on [email protected] or reply to this message'

Support for Buckinghamshire households that use heating oil

Following the announcement from Government this week about financial support for low-income households who use heating oil, Steven Broadbent, Buckinghamshire Council Leader said:

“We know many residents in Buckinghamshire rely on heating oil and will be concerned about the recent increase in price. The Government has outlined some targeted support that may be available. They have indicated the outline of how this will work; it will be linked to the Crisis and Resilience Fund and will be limited to residents from low-income households. Further details are expected in the coming days, but this grant funding is an area that the Government has cut by almost £1 million for Buckinghamshire over the last two years.

Cost of living pressures are once again rising and we are seeking urgent clarity on just how much additional financial support Buckinghamshire will receive for this purpose, given a greater number of people use heating oil at home compared to many other parts of the country. We will communicate more on this at the earliest opportunity.

I urge anyone experiencing severe financial hardship, including struggling to meet energy costs, to look at the cost of living section of our website in the first instance where there is information on how to seek advice and support.”

Bucks Council launches new Growth Fund to boost the county’s economy

Buckinghamshire Council has launched the Buckinghamshire Growth Fund and is now inviting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from local organisations with ambitious, investment‑ready projects that can help grow the county’s economy. EOIs are open until 5pm on Friday 17 April 2026.

The Buckinghamshire Growth Fund is a direct outcome of Buckinghamshire’s Economic Growth Plan, adopted by the Council in September 2025. The Plan sets out a clear ambition to grow the local economy by 2% per year by increasing labour productivity, matching skills to opportunity, and supporting the creation of well‑paid jobs. The Growth Fund has been designed specifically to help local businesses and partners deliver this ambition.

The Fund is made possible through the success of Buckinghamshire’s Enterprise Zones, the fastest‑growing employment areas in the county, at Silverstone, Woodlands (Aylesbury) and Westcott. These areas are home to some of the county’s most innovative and rapidly expanding businesses and their growth generates further funds to the Council to enable reinvestment into wider economic development across Buckinghamshire.

The Fund is made possible through business rates receipts generated within three of Buckinghamshire’s fastest‑growing employment areas—the Enterprise Zones at Silverstone, Westcott and Woodlands (Aylesbury). These areas are home to some of the county’s most innovative and rapidly expanding businesses, and their growth now enables the Council to reinvest in wider economic development across Buckinghamshire.

What types of projects can apply

Example project types include, but are not limited to:

development of commercial, innovation or workspace
site enabling or infrastructure works
research and development
skills and training programmes aligned to employer need
business support and growth activity
low‑carbon and clean growth initiatives that strengthen long‑term resilience

Projects that strongly support the Buckinghamshire Economic Growth Plan and its five priorities—high‑value sectors, place and infrastructure, skills, innovation and partnership working—will score highest and have the best chance of securing funding.

Leader of Buckinghamshire Council, Steven Broadbent, said:

“We’re pleased to open the Buckinghamshire Growth Fund for applications. This new investment opportunity is a direct result of our Economic Growth Plan and the success of businesses based in our Enterprise Zones. Their growth is helping us reinvest in jobs, innovation and long‑term prosperity across the county.

This is a great opportunity for organisations to bring forward bold, investment‑ready projects that can raise productivity, boost skills, support innovation and help deliver sustained economic growth in Buckinghamshire. We have world‑class businesses and exceptional talent here, and this Fund will help unlock new opportunities for our communities and our economy.”

Who can apply

Applications are open to:

businesses
education and research organisations
charities and not‑for‑profit organisations
public sector bodies

Applicants must have operated in Buckinghamshire for at least 12 months.

High‑scoring EOIs will be invited to develop a full business case at the next stage.

How to apply

Organisations should visit this following link to find out more:

Buckinghamshire Growth Fund – open call for Expressions of Interest | Buckinghamshire Council

The Council’s Economy & Investment Team can provide support and reasonable adjustments where needed.

Bucks Council shares advice following meningitis outbreak in Kent

Buckinghamshire Council is issuing public health advice following reports of an outbreak of meningitis in Kent affecting university and A‑level students.

Cllr Isobel Darby, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said:

“There is no indication that this outbreak affects young people in Buckinghamshire, but we recognise that young people and parents in our county may be understandably worried. Meningitis is rare, but it can cause serious illness, so it’s important to know the symptoms and seek urgent medical help if they appear.”

David Munday, Buckinghamshire Council’s Director of Public Health, added:

“Symptoms of meningitis can include:

High fever
Stiff neck and headache
Vomiting
Confusion or extreme sleepiness
Seizures
A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass

“Early treatment is vital, so anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek urgent medical help.

“Vaccination is the best protection against meningitis. Young people who missed the MenACWY vaccine at school can still request it from their GP practice team up to age 25. The MenB vaccine is routinely offered to infants under two.

“If you think you or your child may have missed a routine vaccine for meningitis or any other disease such as measles or whooping cough, please speak to your GP practice team about catch‑up doses.”

For more information about meningitis and routine vaccination schedules, visit:

Meningitis – NHS and NHS vaccinations and when to have them – NHS

What is meningitis? Symptoms, risks and how to protect yourself – UK Health Security Agency