News | Highley Parish Council

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10th August 2026

Many young people don't realise that some online actions can be criminal offences, with consequences that can impact their education, future careers, travel opportunities, and more.

From unauthorised access to systems and data to making purchases without permission or taking part in DDoS attacks, even "low-level" cybercrime can have serious repercussions.

Parents, teachers, and carers play a vital role in helping young people understand the risks and make positive cyber choices. With skills in coding, gaming, and cybersecurity in high demand, there are countless opportunities to turn digital talent into a rewarding career.

Educate
Support
Inspire

Let's work together to help young people stay safe online and use their skills for good. For help and resources head to - Cyber Choices: https://padlet.com/WMPCyber/cyber-choices-15ftygig6x9x2vo2

Become a Cancer Champion in Highley

8th August 2026

Highley Parish Council is supporting the regional Cancer Champions campaign, which helps people understand the signs and symptoms of cancer and encourages residents to take up screening invitations. Cancer Champions are everyday volunteers who help make conversations about cancer easier, clearer and more accessible within their community. No previous experience is needed, and full training and support are provided.

Cancer Champions:

Talk to others about spotting early signs and symptoms of cancer.

Encourage people to attend screening appointments and seek help when something doesn’t feel right.

Listen to local experiences and help reduce stigma and myths around cancer.

Support friends, colleagues and neighbours by sharing accurate, practical information.

This initiative is active across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Powys, and volunteers come from all backgrounds. Becoming a Cancer Champion means helping improve health outcomes in your community and supporting early detection, which saves lives.

If you are interested in becoming a Cancer Champion, you can learn more and register at:
https://www.cancerchampions.co.uk/about-our-campaign/

Highley Parish Council encourages residents who are passionate about community wellbeing to consider taking part.

8th August 2026

Families affected by domestic abuse often live with it for a long time before getting help. On average, people assessed as high risk experience it for nearly two and a half years before receiving support. It is vital that we understand why leaving or speaking out can be so difficult, so that we can support vulnerable people more effectively.

To many people, Ruth Dodsworth appeared to have it all: a successful television career, a loving family and a long-term relationship. But behind the scenes, she was living what she later described as a "double life". It took years for Ruth to recognise the abuse she was experiencing and to find a way out.

In 2019, her former husband, Jonathan Wignall, was jailed for coercive and controlling behaviour and stalking. Since then, Ruth has become a powerful advocate for victims and survivors of domestic abuse, receiving an OBE in 2025 for her services to the cause.

We are incredibly grateful to Ruth for sharing her story on our podcast. It is a sensitive and, at times, challenging conversation, but it is also insightful, powerful and ultimately hopeful. By listening, you'll gain a deeper understanding of coercive control, why people can become trapped in abusive relationships, and what support can make a difference.

https://www.ourwatch.org.uk/supporting-communities/neighbourhood-watch-p...

29th July 2026

We have recently received a number of calls relating to FMSE…… But what is FMSE you ask…..

FMSE is when criminals use fake or compromised online profiles to build trust, persuade people to share intimate images, and then demand money while threatening to share those images with friends and family. This is known as Financially Motivated Sexual Extortion (FMSE) or "sextortion".

Victims of any age or gender can be targeted, although teenage boys and young adult males are particularly at risk.

As a parent, you can help by:

Having regular, open conversations about online safety.
Reassuring your child they can come to you without fear of judgement.
Encouraging privacy settings on social media and gaming platforms.
Talking to them around the dangers of sharing intimate images.
Reminding them that if something goes wrong, it's never their fault.

If you are being threatened:

Don't pay.
Stop communication.
Save evidence.

Remember, if this happens to you, it is not your fault. Help and support are available.

Make a report to West Mercia Police on 101 or via the online reporting form. The platform the message was received on and to Report Fraud online or via 0300 123 2040

Additional guidance and support can be found through CEOP (for under 18s), or the Revenge Helpline website (for adults) https://revengepornhelpline.org.uk/ and via our Padlet page - Cyber & Fraud Protect - Family Resources https://padlet.com/WMPCyber/cyber-fraud-protect-family-resources-4xjhar8...

29th July 2026

Highley Parish Council has received a number of enquiries from residents about local house sales and whether any properties are being converted into Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). We want to share some clear information so everyone knows how HMOs are regulated and how you can check or report concerns.

What is an HMO?
A property is classed as an HMO when it is rented to three or more people who form more than one household and share facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom.

Do HMOs need a licence?
Some do.
A property must have an HMO licence if it has:

Five or more residents,

From two or more households,

Sharing facilities.

These licences are issued and enforced only by Shropshire Council, not the Parish Council.

How to check if a property is a licensed HMO
Shropshire Council keeps a public register of all licensed HMOs.
Residents can check whether a property is licensed by visiting the HMO section on the Shropshire Council website or by contacting their Housing Enforcement Team.

Reporting concerns
If you believe a property may be operating as an HMO without a licence, or you have concerns about safety, overcrowding, waste, or anti‑social behaviour, you can report this directly to:

Shropshire Council Housing Enforcement Team
They are responsible for inspections, licensing, and enforcement.

If concerns relate to noise or anti‑social behaviour, these can also be reported to the Police or Shropshire Council’s ASB team.

Why the Parish Council is not notified
Most small HMOs do not require planning permission, so Parish Councils are not statutory consultees and are not informed automatically.
However, we are always here to support residents and can help signpost concerns to the correct Shropshire Council teams.

If you have any questions or would like support in raising an issue, please contact the Parish Council office.

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