News | Highley Parish Council

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11th August 2026

Once again, we find the fraudsters and criminals are jumping on topical situations to defraud the public with too good to be true offers, and what better to offer at this time than inexpensive Air Conditioners and Fans, often carrying well-known brand names.

These are very often coupled with time-related offers and discounts to rush the public into decisions before they check out the background of the offers and the companies providing them.

They offer authentic products at knock down prices coupled with glowing customer reviews. Very often they copy the websites of genuine stores such as Aldi currently.

How can you protect yourself?

Beware of time limited offers and big discounts
Always check website domains and look for errors in spelling and print
Checkout the product details on the genuine maker’s website and always use that maker’s website
Never trust any links or attachments in emails and check the sender before opening any emails
Always think twice before handing over your personal and financial details

Please feel free to share these messages with any vulnerable friends, relatives, or neighbours

If you have fallen for a fraud,

Report it to Report Fraud (formerly known as ACTION FRAUD) on 0300 123 2040 or via www.reportfraud.police.uk

Scam Text messages can be forwarded to 7726 to help phone providers take prompt action and block numbers that generate spam on their networks. You can also report Scam mobile calls by texting 7726 with the word “Call” followed by the fraudulent caller’s phone number.

Forward Fake Emails received to report@phishing.gov.uk

If you think your bank account or personal banking details have been used fraudulently, then use the short phone number - 159 - to contact the Fraud Prevention Department of most major

THINK before you CLICK

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...

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