SAFETY

Bullying

Dealing with bullying: A harsh reality of life, but how can you deal with it?

Is it happening to your child?: Signs to look out for with your children.

Parental support: Ways of supporting your child through this difficult period.

What is bullying?: The different types of bullying.

Cyber bullying: A new phenomenon, but still bullying!.

Reasons for bullying: Why are some children victims of bullying?

Outside Support Agencies: The different types of bullying.

School Anti-bullying Policies

All schools have a policy, written or other wise to which they adhere in cases of bullying. Some schools will follow guidelines laid down by national or local Government, others will have working practices drawn up by their Governors. Within Samuel Whitbread and all schools in the Pyramid the policy is summed up in two words - ZERO TOLERANCE.

Personal Safety

It is every parent’s worst fear that something could happen to their child when they are out of sight and, with ever increasing media coverage of the challenges and dangers facing young people today, it is important to ensure that both you, the parent, and your children are fully aware of the simple steps that can be taken to increase their safety. There is a sea of information out there and we have tried to highlight some of the most important.

Stalking

The definition of stalking is "to pursue stealthily" and was a term usually used in respect of game or animals. Today it now has a more sinister connotation with people being the prey. We look at stalking and how it might affect your child.

Crimestoppers

If you have information on a crime, any crime, you can now pass it on totally anonymously, using Crimestoppers. Call 0800 555 111. Read more on Crimestoppers.

Credit Card Fraud

Card fraud happens when someone charges goods and services to your credit card, debit card or bank account. Personal Information security is vital and we look at some simle steps to take.

Distraction Burglary

This offence is a particularly nasty and unpleasant one as it is usually targeted at the elderly and the vulnerable. We make suggestions on how to reduce the risk of you and your family becoming victims.

Identity Theft

One of the fastest growing offences on earth is identity theft. A criminal gets hold of sufficient details about you to enable them to open bank accounts, obtain state benefits, get credit cards or arrange loans. What can you do to fight this type of crime?

No Cold Calling Zones

No-one welcomes a visit by a cold caller. No Cold Calling Zones can be set up in your neighbourhood. There is support available to help you.

Vehicle Security

Ensure you are not a victim of car crime. Theft of, or theft of items from, a car count for a large chunk of reported crime. Here are few tips to help you make it that bit more difficult for the criminal.

Community Safety

Our communities are important. They are where we live, work, shop play and enjoy our free time. We asked the Central Bedfordshire Council Community Safety Department to tell us more about their work in not only reducing crime, but also reducing the fear and perception of crime and making all our neighbourhoods better and safer places.

Home Security

If you have ever been burgled, you will know exactly the feeling you get when you realise a total stranger has broken into your house. The more difficult you can make it for a criminal, the more likely they are to go elsewhere. Follow some simple advice to improve your Home Security.

Safer Neighbourhoods

Bedfordshire Police are very proactive when it comes to bringing communities and their officers together. The Police use groups of uniformed Police Officers, Community Support Officers, members of the Special Constabulary and volunteers who work together to form Safer Neighbourhood Teams.

Fire Safety

Fire in the Home KILLS! Preventing fire in the home is something we should all make a priority, and BEST Advice in conjunction with the Bedfordshire & Luton Fire & Rescue Service (BLFRS) is keen to help everyone make sure their homes are a safe as possible.

Anti-Social Behaviour

We hear a lot about "Anti-Social Behaviour" in the papers and on television and it is one thing that always features highly when the public are asked what concerns them the most in the area they live. But, what is anti-social behaviour, and what can you do if it is effecting your life?