About our Parish

The next Parish Council Meeting will be on Tuesday, 15 September 2026 in Woolsery Sports and Community Hall at 7.30pm.

There will be an August Recess.

Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).  From January 2027, the UK’s old copper network will be switched off.  See the link below for more information and help.

phonely-pstn-checklist

 

🚨 The “Hang Up and Call Your Bank” Scam

Many people now know that the safest way to contact their bank is by calling 159 👉 Unfortunately, scammers are adapting — and using this advice against you ⚠️ Here’s how the “Hang Up and Call Your Bank” scam works A criminal calls you pretending to be your bank and says things like: “Money is being taken from your account right now — we need your password to stop it” You refuse (which is the correct action) and then they say: “That’s right — never share your password. Please hang up and call your bank immediately” 👉 This sounds genuine — but it is part of the scam 🧠 What’s really happening The scammer is using social engineering to gain your trust and control what you do next.     They know: You trust your bank You’ve been told to call them yourself You will feel reassured making the call yourself They know you will immediately make that call ⚠️ Here’s the trick.   Even after you “hang up”: The scammer can keep the line open You may even hear a fake dial or ring tone When you dial 159 (or your banks phone number) you could still be connected to the scammer A second scammer may answer pretending to be your bank 👉 So although you think you’ve called your bank — you haven’t ✅ How to stay safe ✔️ Safest option Use a different phone to call your bank (e.g. mobile instead of landline, or vice versa) ✔️ If you only have one phone Hang up Wait at least 30–60 seconds Call a friend or family member first 👉 This confirms the line is properly cleared 👉 Then call 159 🚨 Warning signs.  Be suspicious if the caller: Tries to shock or scare you Pressures you to act quickly Talks about money being at immediate risk Asks you to move money to a “safe account” Tells you to stay on the phone Tries to stop you hanging up 👉 Your bank will NEVER do these things 🟢 Key message “HANG UP PROPERLY – THEN CALL SAFELY” ✅ Remember 159 will never call you You only use it when you dial it It connects you safely to your bank ✅If you are the victim of Fraud or Cybercrime 🌐 Report online here: UK’s Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud – Report Fraud 📞 Or call: 0300 123 2040 ✅ Final advice Scammers rely on panic and urgency. 👉 Take your time remain calm and stay in control Please feel free to share this advice.

 

AbilityNet – Free Technical Support for Older and Disabled People in Devon

Staying safe and secure online can sometimes feel challenging. Do you: Find it difficult to change your online passwords? Feel unsure about setting up two-step verification? Worry about keeping your phone, tablet, or computer up to date? These are important steps that help protect you and your personal information. If you are an older person, or a disabled person of any age, living in Devon, you may be able to access free technical support through AbilityNet. AbilityNet is a UK charity, established in 1998, dedicated to helping older and disabled people get the most from their technology. For over 25 years, they have supported individuals with a wide range of digital needs and worked with organisations to make the digital world more accessible for everyone. If you think you could benefit from their support, they may be able to help. If this message doesn’t apply to you, please consider whether it could help a relative, friend, or someone in your local community. To get in touch with AbilityNet: 📞 Call: 0300 180 0028 📧 Email: enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk 🌐 Visit:  Free Tech Support & Information | AbilityNet  and complete the Home Visit Request Form Please note: AbilityNet services are available beyond Devon, but this offer is particularly relevant to Devon residents. More information is available via their website –  A digital world accessible to all | AbilityNet Please feel free to share this message.

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📶 Keeping Your Home Wi‑Fi Safe and Reliable

Placing your Wi‑Fi router in a window or on a windowsill may seem convenient, but it can create security risks and poor performance. 🚫 Why you shouldn’t place your router in a window Security risk Routers often have stickers showing the Wi‑Fi name (SSID) and password. These can be seen or photographed from outside, allowing someone to access your network. Overheating Direct sunlight can cause your router to overheat, leading to slow speeds, dropouts, or permanent damage. Wasted signal Much of your Wi‑Fi signal will be broadcast outside your home instead of where you need it. Interference from modern glass Energy‑efficient windows can block or weaken Wi‑Fi signals. ✅ Top tips for better Wi‑Fi at home Place it centrally Position your router near the middle of your home for even coverage. Raise it up Put it on a shelf or table (around waist height or higher) for better signal spread. Keep it visible Avoid cupboards, cabinets, or behind TVs—these block signal and trap heat. Keep away from interference Place it at least a metre away from microwaves, cordless phones, and large metal objects. Adjust antennas (if fitted) Vertical = best for single floors Mix vertical/horizontal = better for multi‑storey homes 🔐 Simple steps to improve security Cover your router label If it’s visible, place tape over the sticker showing your Wi‑Fi details. Change default passwords Update both your Wi‑Fi password and the router’s admin password. Use a guest network This lets visitors connect without accessing your personal devices. Restart occasionally Rebooting your router can improve performance and stability. 📍 If your router must be near an outside wall or close to a window Place it slightly away from the window, ideally on a raised surface, rather than directly on the windowsill. Keep it away from direct sunlight. Ensure that any numbers or letters on the router cannot be seen or photographed by anyone outside the window. 👍 Key takeaway A well‑placed and secured Wi-Fi router can: Improve your internet speed Reduce connection issues Help protect your home network from unauthorised access

 

To help people of all ages cope with the impact of being a victim or witness of crime, a dedicated website is available to enable them, as well as their families, get the tailored support they need.

Victim Care, a resource provided by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), is aimed at making the journey to seeking support easier as well as also providing essential information for victims and witnesses who find themselves having to navigate through the complex criminal justice system.

Across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, the OPCC funds more than 40 wide ranging support services for adults and children regardless of whether the crime has been reported to the police or where and when it happened. In 2024/25, 32,977 victims were supported by those services.

Many of those were signposted to appropriate services by Devon & Cornwall Police Victim Care Unit (VCU), also funded by the OPCC. Among those services is Victim Support which has been recommissioned for a further two years to help victims of crime access independent and specialist support. The service is now also being offered to those age 16 and above, rather than just adults.

Last year, Victim Support helped more than 3,000 victims. The crimes they are subjected to can include assault, burglary, crime abroad, cybercrime and online fraud, low level risk domestic abuse, hate crime, criminal damage, rural crime and murder or manslaughter.

Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) are responsible for commissioning services to support victims, reduce reoffending and improve community safety.

Alison Hernandez, PCC for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: “Providing timely and free support for victims has and will remain a significant priority in my Police and Crime Plan.

“I would urge anyone who has been a victim of crime to visit the Victim Care website to see what help is available and how to access it, either through Victim Support or the Devon & Cornwall Police Victim Care Unit.

Heather Welch, Victim Support Area Manager for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: “It’s an honour to provide this vital service and we’re delighted it’s been expanded to include 16 and 17-year-olds so we can also help younger people navigate the physical and emotional challenges of crime and its aftermath.

“Crime affects everyone differently but can have long-lasting consequences and leave many victims feeling traumatised, angry, upset or frightened. Every victim deserves to feel safe, heard and supported, and our support staff are here to help anyone who needs us. For free, independent and confidential advice and support, regardless of when the crime happened or whether it’s been reported to the police, call us on 0300 303 0554 or visit www.victimsupport.org.uk.”

Victim Support provides support to help people make sense of how a crime has made them think feel and act and move forward with their lives, and can also signpost victims to other services, where appropriate. Support can be provided either on the phone, a video call and face to face.

Support is available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm with flexibility for weekend support if needed, along with access is its 24/7 national helpline.

If you have been affected by crime, please visit Devon and Cornwall – Victim Support or call 0808 1689 111.

Alternatively, to find out more about wider victim support available, visit the Victim Care Devon & Cornwall website at https://victimcare-dc.org/

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Crisis and Resilience Fund funded by the UK Government.

Torridge District Council has announced today (Tuesday 21 April) that a new scheme has been launched in Torridge to help people in financial crisis.  The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) which will open on Monday 27 April, will replace the Household Support Fund and runs until 31 March 2029.

Torridge District Council has been awarded £453,055 for the 2026/27 financial year.

The CRF is designed to provide support to low-income households experiencing a sudden financial crisis, such as an unexpected expense or loss of income. It is also designed to help prevent crises before they escalate by helping families to become more financially resilient in the long-term through working with Torridge District Council and other partners.

Residents can apply for Crisis Payments under the CRF if they are aged 16 or over; are in an emergency or disaster situation where immediate help is needed to avoid serious risk to health or safety and can prove their financial need.

Access to the fund will be via a form, with initial applications being processed by the council’s partner and local charity organisation, Encompass. The application form link will be available in the “Cost of Living Help” section, on Torridge District Council’s website by clicking on the Crisis and Resilience Fund icon. More information on eligibility criteria can also be found here.  Alternatively, people can contact Encompass through their website or by telephone if they do not have access to the internet on 01271 371499.

Following the increases in oil prices, Torridge District Council has also received further funding of £121,463 to help residents on a low income, in crisis, who are reliant on oil.

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Torridge District Council is introducing important changes to its recycling services from 1^st April 2026 as part of its ongoing commitment to improving safety and expanding the range of materials residents can recycle.

From this date, cartons (Tetra Paks) will be accepted as part of the district’s kerbside recycling service, in line with simpler recycling requirements. This includes items such as juice cartons, long‑life milk containers, soup cartons and other liquid food packaging. Residents should place cartons in their brown recycling bag, with caps left on, as they can be recycled together.

At the same time, the Council will no longer accept batteries in its weekly kerbside recycling collections. This change is essential to address the serious fire risks and environmental hazards posed when batteries are mixed with general recycling materials. Batteries can ignite if damaged or exposed to certain conditions during the recycling process, creating a significant fire hazard for collection crews, recycling facilities and the wider community. They also contain chemicals that can leak and contaminate other recyclable materials, making them unsafe and unsuitable for standard recycling streams.

Although batteries cannot go in your recycling bin, they can, and should, be recycled safely at dedicated collection points:

• Recycling Centres – Local facilities have designated battery disposal areas, including Deep Moor, Bideford and Anvil Corner Recycling Centres.
• Retail Collection Points – Many major retailers, such as supermarkets, chemists, charity shops and electronics shops have dedicated battery recycling bins.

To find your nearest battery recycling locations, use the Recycle Now search tool at: https://www.recyclenow.com/recycling-locator.

The Council would also like to take this opportunity to remind residents to continue ‘washing and squashing’ all plastics before placing them in the green recycling box, which helps to maximise space and increase the amount that can be recycled.

Cyber

Is it safe using a Public Wi-Fi Point? ​Using public Wi-Fi (in cafés, trains, airports, or shops) requires caution. Although convenient, these networks can sometimes be monitored by criminals. The safest rule is to treat all public Wi-Fi points as insecure. ​If you really need to connect to a public Wi-Fi point, follow this quick guide to stay safe. ​1. Before You Connect ​Verify the Network: Criminals can set up “Evil Twin” hotspots with names like “Café_Free_Wi-Fi.” To make sure you connect to the right one, always ask staff for the official network name. ​Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is your best defence. It wraps your data in an encrypted tunnel, making it unreadable to others on the same network. ​Disable Auto-Connect: Stop your device from automatically joining any nearby open Wi-Fi networks by turning off “Auto-Join” in your Wi-Fi settings. ​Update Your Device: Ensure your phone, tablet or laptop has the latest security updates installed before you leave the house. ​2. While You Are Online ​Avoid Sensitive Tasks: Never use public Wi-Fi for online banking, shopping, or accessing sensitive emails .Don’t use any of your PASSWORDS over a public Wi-Fi point. ​Check for the Padlock: Only visit websites starting with https://. Look for the padlock icon in the address bar; this means your specific connection to that site is encrypted. ​Turn Off Sharing: Disable “File Sharing,” “AirDrop,” or “Nearby Share” so others on the network cannot see your files. ​Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)  also known as Two-Step Verification (2SV) for your email and Social Media accounts: This can stop hackers even if they manage to steal your password. ​Watch out for “Shoulder Surfers”: Be mindful of people looking over your shoulder at your screen in busy public areas. ​3. After Using the Network ​”Forget” the Network: Once finished, go to your settings and select “Forget this network” so your device doesn’t reconnect automatically next time you walk past. ​Log Out: Manually log out of any apps or websites you used during the session. ​4. The Better Alternatives ​Use your mobile phone’s 4G or 5G connection: Your mobile phone’s data connection is significantly more secure than public Wi-Fi. ​Personal Hotspot: Using your own phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot for your laptop is much safer than using a public Wi-Fi provider. ​Look for “Friendly Wi-Fi”: In the UK, look for the “Friendly Wi-Fi” colourful logo. This is a government-initiated standard showing the provider filters out inappropriate content. ​How to Report Cybercrime & Fraud ​If you believe you have been a victim of a scam: ​Report to Report Fraud: Use the official online reporting tool at – UK’s Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud – Report Fraud or call 0300 123 2040. ​Contact Your Bank: If money is involved, call your bank immediately. You can reach most UK bank fraud departments by dialling 159. ​Please feel free to share this information with friends and family. FREE TECH SUPPORT If you are over 55 or vulnerable and living in Devon, free tech support can be obtained by visiting this website here –  Free Tech Support & Information | AbilityNet Ability Net’s Digital Skills Trainers can deliver training one-to-one or to groups. Please feel free to share this information with your members  and wider contacts. Regards, Mick HARRISON, PSE 31015 ,Cyber Protect Officer

Many will be aware of the speedy ways you are able to report suspicious emails and text messages

As a reminder –

• Suspicious Texts  can be forward to 7726 (it’s free and alerts mobile providers)
• Suspicious Emails can be forward to report@phishing.gov.uk 

But what do you do if you come across a suspicious website, maybe one you think is trying to scam you?

You can report those websites online here –  Report a suspicious website – NCSC.GOV.UK – and the National Cyber Security Centre will investigate.

How To Report Fraud and Cyber Crime

If you are a victim of cybercrime or fraud, you can report the matter to Report Fraud online here – UK’s Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud – Report Fraud – or by calling 0300 123 2040.

If you think you have lost money or given out sensitive financial information to scammers, immediately alert your bank. Call them right away to inform them of the suspicious incident. You can quickly reach many UK banks’ fraud departments by calling 159.

Please feel free to share this information.

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You’ve heard of us but do you really know what we do ?! 

Did you know that 10 arrests are made across the UK daily because of 2000 reports that are made daily to Crimestoppers ?  In the South West alone we have an average of 800 pieces of actionable  information every month which we pass to the police.

Know something about a crime or a criminal but don’t want to go directly to the police ? We know that it can sometimes be difficult to come forward with information. You might have seen or heard something about a crime but don’t know what to do, or are scared to come forward. It’s easy to think there is nothing you can do, but we offer you a safe way to do this.

Crimestoppers is a charity and our service is unique and designed to protect your identity, whether you call us on 0800 555 111 or submit through  https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information-online/

 We will listen to you about any crime that you have information about.

• We don’t record any personal details about you.
• We pass information to the relevant authority without revealing your identity.
• All of our call agents are trained to support you through the process.

In the 35 years that we have been running, no one has ever been identified after giving information. It is vital that we guarantee your anonymity because if your identity became known, our reputation would be seriously damaged.

Crimestoppers is not an emergency service and if you see a crime taking place you should ring 999 to report it immediately.

Please follow us locally  www.facebook.com/CrimestoppersintheWestCountry

Scam Alert: Fake Parking Fine Messages

​During recent Cybercrime awareness public engagement events across Devon and Cornwall, several attendees have reported receiving fraudulent parking fine notifications sent via text message and email.

How to Spot the Scam

​As a general rule, real parking fines (Penalty Charge Notices) are never issued via a text or email message.

If you receive this sort of message, please look for these Red Flags:

• ​Missing Details: The message won’t include your vehicle registration number, the specific car park / location, or the exact date/time of the incident.
• ​False Urgency: They use “scare tactics,” threatening that the fine will double or triple if you don’t pay quickly.
• ​Suspicious Links: They will urge you to click a link to “pay now.” These links lead to fake websites designed to steal your bank details.

​What You Should Do

• ​Do Not Click: Never click links in unexpected texts or emails.
• ​Verify: If you are worried, check with your local council or the private parking firm directly using a trusted website or an independently verified phone number. NEVER call any phone numbers included in the original message.
• ​Report It:
  • ​Texts: Forward the message to 7726 (it’s free and alerts mobile providers).
  • ​Emails: Forward to report@phishing.gov.uk.
  • ​Fraud: Report to reportfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.

If you think you have lost money or given out sensitive financial information to scammers, immediately alert your bank / financial institution. Call them right away to inform them of the suspicious incident. You can quickly reach many UK banks’ fraud departments by calling 159

Action Fraud is now REPORT FRAUD

Starting on the 4th of December 2025, the City of London Police began the soft launch of REPORT FRAUD, a new service that replaces Action Fraud as the national platform for reporting cyber crime and fraud. Throughout December, Action Fraud began transitioning to REPORT FRAUD.  Traffic to the old Action Fraud website was gradually redirected to REPORT FRAUD, helping to ensure a smooth transition for the public.  The soft launch is now complete. 

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Between April 2023 and March 2025, the Home Upgrade Grant Phase 2 (HUG2) programme delivered improvements to 176 off‑gas, low‑income households across Devon. In Torridge, 32 homes were upgraded with 11 homes fully decarbonised through heat pumps. The scheme was delivered by Devon County Council in partnership with district councils East Devon, Mid Devon, Teignbridge, Torridge, North Devon as well as Exeter City Council and Torbay Council and funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. More than £4.24 million was invested overall, with £3.87 million spent directly on home energy measures. These included 59 air source heat pumps, 417 kWp of solar PV, insulation, double glazing and other upgrades, totalling 271 individual installations. The improvements are estimated to save 28.7 tonnes of CO₂ per year, based on Energy Performance Certificate assessments carried out before and after the works. For many households, the impact has been immediate; many residents have reported warmer homes, fewer damp problems, and lower energy bills. One homeowner said that their bills had fallen by two‑thirds following the installation of a heat pump, new hot water cylinder and solar panels. Others described their homes as ‘cosy for the first time’ and praised contractors for being ‘professional, respectful and efficient.’ Councillor Philip Hackett, Lead Member for Public Health and Community Safety at Torridge District Council, said: “A number of households supported through the HUG2 scheme had been living with cold homes, outdated heating systems or high energy costs. While these upgrades certainly improve comfort, they also help to lower carbon emissions, reduce energy bills and give residents greater security in their homes. Supporting our most vulnerable communities, while also tackling the climate emergency, is exactly the kind of action we should be taking, and I’m pleased to see such positive results not only in Torridge but right across Devon.” The current funding scheme is the Warm Homes Grant – to check your eligibility, for more information or for free energy saving advice please go to the Energy Saving Devon Website.

 

Woolfardisworthy West or Woolsery!!

Woolsery is set within unspoiled rolling North Devon countryside with wonderful coastlines and country walks, and has a heritage going back to the Doomsday book and beyond.

The heart of the village was built around the Norman Church and has grown over time into a thriving community with something for everyone.

We have an excellent school, shop, and community hall. There is plenty going on for all ages, so come and join in our active community.

Bucks Mills

Bucks Mills is a small village within the Parish of Woolsery, including the North Devon Coast AONB, and on the SW Coast Path.

In the 18th and 19th centuries many of the residents of Bucks Mills and the surrounding villages were related to the Braund family and King Cottage within Bucks Mills was once the home of Captain James Braund who was informally known as the “King of Bucks”