News - Page 205 of 1016

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14/05/2024

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OPERATION SCEPTRE: Knife amnesty bin reminder made as part of awareness week

The public are this week being reminded that a knife amnesty bin is in place at Oxclose Lane Police Station as part of national efforts to deter knife crime.

The bin allows people to dispose of knives or offensive weapons safely without fear of being prosecuted.

The reminder is part of a week of action taking place until Sunday (19) where police showcase measures in place to tackle knife crime.

Operation Sceptre takes place twice a year – in May and November – and a range of initiatives led by the county’s neighbourhood policing teams have been planned including different public engagement events and the deployment of metal-detecting knife arches.

Overall knife crime offences have dropped by 2% in the county, when comparing the year ending March 2024 with the year ending March 2023.

knife_amnesty — Knives can be handed at the bin located at Oxclose Lane (PIC: Nottinghamshire Police)

Police will carry out searches of green spaces looking for discarded knives as part of Operation Sceptre

Chief Inspector Karl Thomas, Nottinghamshire Police’s knife crime lead, said: “Sceptre offers a great opportunity for us to educate more people about the dangers associated with carrying a knife by shining a light on this important topic.

“That decision to pick up a knife can have catastrophic consequences which could ruin or even end lives, so getting these lessons across at an early stage are vital to helping prevent this from happening.

“Our specialist school early intervention officers regularly attend schools and colleges to deliver sessions on knife crime to young people, and these visits will be stepped up throughout the week of action.

“We’ll also be rolling out 13 amnesty bins in total across the community for people to dispose of weapons without fear of reprisal.

“While I understand some people will have some concerns about going into a police station and using an amnesty bin, please rest assured that you won’t get into trouble if you do so – this is not a trick.

“This initiative has directly led to us seizing hundreds of unwanted blades in the past, with this success encouraging us to enhance this offering by setting up permanent amnesty bins inside four of our stations for use all year-round too.

“Whether it’s through the daily patrols of our dedicated knife crime teams or school visits, we already do so much work, along with our partners, to take weapons off our streets and stop them from getting there in the first place.

“Sceptre offers merely a sample of some of this, but anything that can be done to raise awareness about knife crime is incredibly important, so we’re proud to support this national campaign.”

Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden said: “Sceptre is a fantastic way of highlighting the great work that goes on all year-round in Nottinghamshire to stop people carrying knives.

“The campaign is crucial in educating those who may be considering taking a weapon out with them and emphasising the fact that carrying a knife does not protect you, it simply increases the level of danger for you and those around you.

“The amnesty bins provide a safe space to dispose of knives without the worry of facing prosecution while helping to make Nottinghamshire a safer place for all.”

Starting Your Own Business From Home? Here’s What You Need To Know

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14/05/2024

Starting Your Own Business From Home? Here’s What You Need To Know

The idea of starting your own business from the comfort of your home can be an enticing prospect. It comes with flexibility, independence, and the freedom to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams. However, navigating the world of home-based businesses requires careful planning, dedication, and a solid understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the essential elements you need to know to successfully launch and grow your home-based venture.

Evaluate Your Business Idea

Before taking the plunge into entrepreneurship, it’s crucial to critically evaluate your business idea. Conduct thorough market research to assess the demand for your product or service, identify your target audience, and analyse the competition within your industry. This will help you determine the viability of your concept and identify potential challenges or opportunities that may arise.

Consider factors such as your unique selling proposition, competitive advantages, and the scalability of your business model. Additionally, seek feedback from trusted advisors, industry experts, or potential customers to refine your idea and ensure it resonates with your target market.

Create A Comprehensive Business Plan

A well-crafted business plan serves as a roadmap for your entrepreneurial journey, guiding your decision-making processes and outlining your strategies for success. Your business plan should include an executive summary, market analysis, operational strategies, financial projections, and a marketing plan.

Developing a detailed business plan not only helps you solidify your ideas and strategies but also demonstrates your commitment and preparedness to potential investors, lenders, or partners. Additionally, regularly updating and revisiting your business plan can help you adapt to changing market conditions and maintain a clear vision for your home-based business.

Understand Legal And Regulatory Requirements

Starting a business from home involves navigating various legal and regulatory requirements. Familiarise yourself with the laws and regulations governing home-based businesses in your local area, including zoning regulations, licensing requirements, and tax obligations.

Consult with legal and financial professionals to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties or legal issues. Additionally, consider registering your business, obtaining necessary permits or licenses, and setting up the appropriate business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, limited liability company, or corporation) to protect your personal assets.

Establish A Dedicated Workspace

While the convenience of working from home is undeniable, it’s essential to create a dedicated workspace that fosters productivity and professionalism. Designate a specific area in your home for your business operations, ensuring it is organised, well-equipped, and free from distractions.

Invest in the necessary equipment and tools to support your work, such as a reliable computer, high-speed internet connection, and any industry-specific hardware or software. Additionally, consider ergonomic furniture and proper lighting to maintain a comfortable and conducive work environment.

Manage Your Finances Effectively

Effective financial management is crucial for the success of any business, including home-based ventures. Develop a comprehensive financial plan that accounts for startup costs, ongoing expenses, and projected revenue streams. Implement robust bookkeeping practices and regularly monitor your cash flow to ensure financial stability.

Explore various funding options, such as small business loans, crowdfunding platforms, or personal savings, to ensure you have the necessary resources to sustain and grow your business. Additionally, consult with financial professionals to understand tax implications and develop strategies for maximising deductions and minimising liabilities.

Build A Professional Online Presence

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for attracting and retaining customers. Invest in a professional website that accurately represents your brand, showcases your products, or services, and provides a seamless user experience.

Optimise your website for search engines (SEO) to improve visibility and reach your target audience more effectively. Additionally, leverage social media platforms to engage with your customers, promote your offerings, and build brand awareness.

Digital Flipbooks Are A Great Way To Engage Your Audience

One innovative way to capture the attention of your target audience and present your products or services in an engaging and memorable format is through the use of digital flipbooks. These interactive, page-turning publications allow you to showcase your offerings in a visually appealing and user-friendly manner.

Digital flipbooks can be easily embedded on your website, shared on social media, or distributed via email marketing campaigns, providing a versatile and immersive way to engage with potential customers and showcase the value of your business.

Network And Build Relationships

Networking and building relationships are essential components of success for any business, including home-based ventures. Attend local business events, join relevant online communities or forums, and actively seek out opportunities to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, potential partners, or industry influencers.

Building a strong network can provide access to valuable resources, insights, and potential collaborations that can help propel your business forward. Additionally, cultivating positive relationships with customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders can foster loyalty, trust, and long-term success.

Prioritise Time Management And Work-Life Balance

One of the challenges of running a home-based business is maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Without the physical separation of a traditional office environment, it can be easy to blur the lines between work and personal life, leading to burnout and decreased productivity.

Establish clear boundaries and schedules to maintain a structured work routine. Prioritise time management techniques, such as creating to-do lists, setting deadlines, and minimising distractions during designated work hours. Additionally, make time for self-care activities, exercise, and quality time with loved ones to maintain a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Continuously Learn And Adapt

The business landscape is constantly evolving, and successful entrepreneurs must be willing to adapt and embrace continuous learning. Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices by attending workshops, webinars, or online courses relevant to your field.

Seek out mentors or advisors who can provide valuable guidance and insights based on their experiences. Additionally, be open to feedback from customers, industry peers, and experts, and use this feedback to refine and improve your products, services, or business strategies.

Leverage Automation And Outsourcing

As a home-based business owner, you may find yourself juggling multiple tasks and responsibilities. Consider leveraging automation tools and outsourcing certain tasks or functions to alleviate the workload and focus on core business activities.

Automate repetitive or time-consuming tasks, such as social media scheduling, email marketing campaigns, or invoicing processes, using specialised software or platforms. Additionally, outsource non-core tasks, such as bookkeeping, website maintenance, or customer service, to freelancers or specialised service providers, freeing up your time and allowing you to concentrate on growing your business.

Foster A Positive Mindset And Resilience

Entrepreneurship can be a rollercoaster ride, filled with both triumphs and challenges. To navigate the ups and downs of running a home-based business, it’s essential to foster a positive mindset and cultivate resilience.

Celebrate small wins and milestones and learn from setbacks or failures. Surround yourself with a supportive network of fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, or loved ones who can provide encouragement and inspiration. Additionally, practice self-care activities, such as meditation, exercise, or mindfulness techniques, to manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Starting a home-based business can be a rewarding and fulfilling endeavour, offering the freedom and flexibility to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams while maintaining a work-life balance. However, it also requires careful planning, dedication, and a willingness to navigate the challenges that may arise.

Remember, entrepreneurship is a journey filled with ups and downs, but with perseverance, strategic planning, and a commitment to excellence, you can overcome obstacles and achieve your goals. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the milestones, and enjoy the rewarding experience of building your own business from the comfort of your home.

Universal credit claimants working less than 18 hours must now look for more work

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14/05/2024

Universal credit claimants working less than 18 hours must now look for more work

Universal Credit claimants from across Gedling borough working less than 18 hours a week will now have to look for more work.

As part of changes to the welfare system, ministers are raising the administrative earnings threshold from the equivalent of 15 hours to 18 hours at national living wage for an individual claimant.

Those working less than half of a full-time week will now have to meet their work coach more often to boost their earnings, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “Welfare should always be a safety net, and not a lifestyle choice.

“Today’s changes will help more people on Universal Credit move into well paid jobs and progress towards financial independence – which is better for them and for the economy.”

The change impacts those earning below £892 a month or £1,437 for couples. This is up from £617 for individuals and £988 for couples, according to the DWP.

Those affected will have to meet more frequently with their work coach to up their earnings.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Mel Stride MP said: “We will always back those who want to work hard, and today we are radically expanding the support available to help people progress in work.

“Our plan is making work pay, with people in full-time work now £7,000 better off than on out of work benefits, and our tax cuts putting £900 back in the pockets of millions of workers across Britain.

“The Government is clear those who can work to support themselves, should work, and they should feel better off for doing so.

“That’s why the Government is getting tough, putting work at the heart of welfare and enforcing a stricter sanctions regime.”

“With over 900,000 job vacancies in the economy, the Government makes no apologies for helping people achieve financial security through work, as we grow the economy and help people build a better life for themselves.”

The planned roadworks and road changes in Gedling borough

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14/05/2024

The planned roadworks and road changes in Gedling borough

A number of roadworks, and changes to the roads, are set to take place on Gedling borough’s roads during the next few weeks.

The roadworks and road changes include things such as speed alterations, repair works and changing the layout of the roads.

Most of the roadworks are being undertaken by Nottinghamshire County Council while a couple are being led by Severn Trent Water, National Grid and OpenReach

These are the roadworks and closures you need to know about…

Breck Hill Road, Woodthorpe
16 May – 20 May
Roadworks and delays likely for tree Pruning works to maintain highway clearance
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Church Road, Burton Joyce
19 May – 21 May
Roadworks and delays likely
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Nottingham Road, Daybrook
19 May – 21 May
Roadworks and delays likely
Responsibility for works: Cadent

Westdale Lane West, Mapperley
16 May – 17 May
Roadworks and delays likely near the junction of Westdale Lane West and Lambley Ave.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Woodthorpe Drive, Woodthorpe
20 May – 30 May
Roadworks and delays likely
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Carlton Hill, Carlton
20 May
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Davidson Close, Arnold
21 May – 23 May
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Gleneagles Drive, Arnold
20 May – 22 May
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Lingwood Lane, Lambley
21 May – 22 May
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Sherbrook Road, Arnold
17 May
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Trent Valley Road, Gedling
21 May – 22 May
Roadworks and delays possible for inspection of highway structure over railway.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Westdale Lane East, Gedling
21 May
Roadworks and delays possible to replace a damaged traffic signals pole at the junction of Gedling Road / Westdale Lane East – Gedling
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Gedling borough weather Tuesday, May 14

News

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14/05/2024

Cloud and outbreaks of rain affecting the west edging slowly east, reaching all areas before midday. Some heavier bursts at times, but the rain becoming lighter and patchy later. Maximum temperature 17 °C.

Staying cloudy overnight. Residual rain will tend to peter out into the odd spot of light rain or drizzle. Minimum temperature 12 °C.

Tomorrow is expected to see generally rather cloudy conditions likely to prevail with occasional showery rain at times. Maximum temperature 19 °C.

Police reveal 47 people have been killed on Notts roads over last three years due to making ‘wrong choices’

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13/05/2024

Police reveal 47 people have been killed on Notts roads over last three years due to making ‘wrong choices’

Police have revealed today that 47 people have been killed on roads in Notts over the last three years due to drivers and riders making ‘the wrong choices’.

The stark figures have been revealed by Nottinghamshire Police as they continue to try and reduce the number of so-called ‘fatal four’ collisions.

The ‘fatal four’ driving offences/contributory factors which Nottinghamshire officers are focused on preventing and reducing all year round are speeding, drink or drug driving, using a mobile phone whilst driving and not wearing a seatbelt

Of the 411 people killed in total on Nottinghamshire’s roads over the last three years, 44 percent of these collisions (21 deaths) were due to speeding. Drink or drug driving led to 18 deaths and six people were killed by not wearing a seatbelt. Two people lost their lives as a result of a driver using a mobile device while behind the wheel.

Enforcing the law around these ‘fatal four’ offences, as well as other traffic-related offences, takes place across the Nottinghamshire Police force area 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Notts Police issued this crash image as part of their campaign to reduce deaths caused by the ‘fatal four’

During last month alone, Nottinghamshire roads policing officers issued 300 traffic offence reports (TORs) to offending drivers.

Detective Inspector Kate Savage, of Nottinghamshire Police’s Serious Investigation Unit and Roads Policing Unit, said: “Whilst it’s shocking that we’ve seen so many deaths and serious injuries caused by these ‘fatal four’ offences, statistics alone can never paint a true picture of the utter devastation caused to those who have lost loved ones and suffered lifelong injuries in these collisions.

“We are very clear that when anyone gets behind the wheel it is their responsibility to make sure they have done everything they can to ensure their safety and that of others.

“This includes making sure you and your passengers are wearing a seatbelt, children are seated safely and securely, and keeping to speed limits.

“The majority of drivers use the roads respectfully and adhere to the law, but it is worrying that we still have some drivers across our area who are putting themselves and other road users at risk by their reckless driving behaviour.

“Enforcing the law across our roads and educating people about the consequences of unsafe driving is a year-round commitment for the force and we continue to urge all road users to think carefully about their driving behaviour and remind them of their responsibilities when they go out in their vehicles.

“The laws are there to save lives and our activity to crackdown on reckless and dangerous driving and to improve road safety will continue throughout Nottinghamshire.”

Police are urging people to help reduce collisions and casualties in Nottinghamshire and make our roads even safer by reporting instances of unsafe driving by calling 101.

In case of an emergency, or if you believe a crime is in progress, always dial 999.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their online form: www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

JAILED: Prolific shoplifter, 38, is locked up AGAIN for 12 weeks following latest thefts from Gedling borough stores

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13/05/2024

JAILED: Prolific shoplifter, 38, is locked up AGAIN for 12 weeks following latest thefts from Gedling borough stores

A prolific shoplifter has been returned to jail for three months after twice breaching a criminal behaviour order (CBO) three times within a fortnight.

Samantha Clay was spotted in M&S Simply Food, at Victoria Retail Park in Netherfield, on April 18, 2024, and in B&M Bargains, at Victoria Retail Park, on April 29, 2024.

She had also been spotted in a Co-op store in Sneinton Dale, on April 16, 2024.

The 38-year-old, of no fixed address, is banned from entering these stores, among others, under the terms of a two-year criminal behaviour order which was imposed in November 2023 after police successfully applied to the magistrates’ court.

Clay stole from two stores on Victoria Retail Park

She was jailed for 12 weeks when she appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court (PHOTO: Gedling Eye)

As well as admitting to the three breaches of her order, Clay also pleaded guilty to stealing candles and chocolate from the Tesco Express store in Carlton Hill on April 6.

She also took jars of coffee from the Co-op store in Sneinton Dale on April 16, make-up from the Tesco Express store in Carlton Hill on April 17, cheese and a can of drink from the same store on April 28, and cheese from the Co-op in Sneinton Dale on 29 April.

Clay was jailed for 12 weeks when she appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on May 3, 2024.

PCSO Allan Cooke, of the Gedling South neighbourhood policing team, built up an overwhelming file of evidence against Clay which resulted in her criminal behaviour order being initially imposed and later varied.

He said: “Clay has persisted in her offending despite being given chances to mend her ways and repeated warnings about her criminal behaviour.

“We have a duty to protect all victims of crime from repeat offenders. One way we can do this is by applying to the courts for criminal behaviour orders which are intended to prevent re-offending and future impact on retail staff. Breaching them can result in a prison sentence, as Clay has discovered to her cost.

“Shop theft is not a victimless crime. Offenders’ behaviour can affect staff and customers in the stores they target, and I and other neighbourhood officers continue to work with retailers and staff to reduce this sort of offending and protect the local community.

“We also actively encourage retailers and staff to report incidents of abuse and violence so we can take action and put offenders before the courts.”

Arnold school secures funding boost from housebuilder to pay for repairs to damaged outdoor play area

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13/05/2024

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Arnold school secures funding boost from housebuilder to pay for repairs to damaged outdoor play area

House-builder Bellway has donated more than £4k to a primary school in Arnold to pay for repairs to their outdoor play area.

Broken surfacing and brickwork prevented pupils at Derrymount School on Churchmoor Lane from enjoying their outdoor play area.

The special school play area decided to get in touch with Bellway, which is building homes a few miles away at its Sherwood Gate development in Linby, to see if the company could help.

And the housebuilder stepped in to put the play area right by paying over £4,600 for a new wet pour soft surface to be laid by playground specialists Kompan, and arranging for the brickwork to be repaired, and a wooden perimeter to be added.

Deputy headteacher at Derrymount School, Laura Williams, said: “The staff and students at Derrymount School are grateful to Bellway for their hard work and generosity in creating a safe space for students to ride their bikes and trikes.

“The use of these bikes and trikes is beneficial for their social and emotional wellbeing and allows students to develop their listening skills in a fun way, outside of the classroom environment, where some students can struggle to remain focussed due to their special educational needs. Thank you to Bellway from all at Derrymount School.”

The school delivers provision for a wide range of needs including pupils who have autistic spectrum condition (ASC), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and attachment disorder.

Adoptions engineer at Bellway, Andy Pollard, was responsible for organising the work at Derrymount School.

He said: “It was a privilege to be involved in such a worthwhile job.

“Having the opportunity to play outside and cycle is beneficial for all children – but especially important for the youngsters at Derrymount School. It is certainly rewarding to know that the pupils will be able to ride around in safety as a result of this refurbishment.”

How every Wetherspoons pub in Gedling borough got their names and the stories behind them

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13/05/2024