Stay scam safe this winter – BBC TV licensing has sent out helpful information on staying scam safe this winter which we have shared below:

Keeping the public scam safe this winter

Hello, from the TV Licensing Communications team.

You may not have heard from us before, but we are contacting you – and a range of other organisations we work with – to ask you to help protect TV Licensing customers from being scammed.

This newsletter contains a STOP, CHECK, ASK campaign toolkit. We encourage you and your organisation to download and share the campaign materials on your channels and with the public. If you require any further information, please contact tvlstakeholders@bbc.co.uk

Key Information

Throughout 2025, TV Licensing has become aware that the public continue to fall victim to increasingly sophisticated email and text scams – particularly scams that appear to be from TV Licensing, but are in fact fraudulent. 

TV Licensing message is simple.

STOP – Scammers will attempt to trick you into giving away your personal or bank details. Always be wary of letters, emails, texts or phone calls that promise you money or a refund.

CHECK – Has the sender spelt your name correctly, and are there any grammatical errors? You should also make sure they have included the correct licence number, which you can check on the TV Licensing website. Be wary though, recent email spoofs are using our official email addresses. If you click or tap the email address shown, it will reveal the actual email address being used. If this shows a different email, it’s proof it’s a fake.

ASK – If you are ever unsure about a communication you have received, it is always best to ask someone – perhaps a friend or trusted advisor. You can go to the TV Licensing website and sign in to your licence at tvl.co.uk/yourlicence to check if anything is wrong or call TV Licensing on 0300 303 9695 to speak with someone who can help.

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FAQs

What if you’ve already entered your personal details on a suspicious site? Report it to Action Fraud or call them on 0300 123 2040. If this included card or bank account details, talk to your bank immediately.

How do you report a scam email?

Protect your information by sending any scam or suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and the National Cyber Security Centre will investigate. If the email links to a scam website it will be blocked or taken down.

How do you report a scam text message?

Help stop the scammers by sending a photo or screenshot of the scam text message to textscam@tvlicensing.co.uk

How you & your organisation can keep the public scam safe

1. Promote and amplify STOP, CHECK, ASK on your social media channels  

TV Licensing has produced a suite of content for your organisation to use on social media channels. The images are available in different formats and we welcome you to download and use them.

Also featured is a document containing supporting text which you can use alongside the images. Please use the hashtag #StopCheckAsk and support year-round and regularly.

The content can be downloaded via the button below and scrolling to the scams section

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2. Be aware of misleading websites  

TV Licensing has been made aware of websites offering a paid service to purchase, renew, or cancel your TV licence. These websites, such as mylicenceassistant.co.uk, have no affiliation with TV Licensing and do not act on behalf of TV Licensing. We urge the public to visit the official TV Licensing website at tvlicensing.co.uk, where TV licences can be purchased, updated, or cancelled for free. 

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3. Watch and share the TV Licensing anti-scam Help Video  

TV Licensing has a dedicated anti-scam Help Video which we welcome you to share with the public via social media, newsletters, and on your website.

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4. Share the TV Licensing anti-scam website page  

You can also find more information about how to avoid scams and how to report one on the TV Licensing anti-scam web page. Share this page with the public via online and offline channels. 

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5. Download and share the TV Licensing STOP, CHECK, ASK leaflet

The TV Licensing STOP, CHECK, ASK leaflet explains what a scam email and text looks like and where to report it to. Please share this with the public via any offline and online channels.

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Need further information? Contact TV Licensing

If you are interested in learning more about the support available from TV Licensing, contact the Communications team at tvlstakeholders@bbc.co.uk  

posted 26 November 2025

What Trustees Need to Know

The Fundraising Regulator has introduced a new Code of Fundraising Practice, which came into effect on 1 November 2025.

This Code sets out the standards that charities should follow when raising funds, ensuring that fundraising is honest, respectful, and safe—for both donors and fundraisers.

What Has Changed?

• Principles-Based Approach: The new Code focuses on broad principles rather than detailed rules. Charities are expected to act reasonably, transparently, and responsibly in all fundraising activities.
• Modern Fundraising Covered: Guidance now includes online donations, contactless payments, and unmanned collection points, reflecting how people give today.
• Fundraiser Protection: Charities must take steps to ensure staff and volunteers are safe and supported while fundraising.
• Third-Party Fundraising: Any outside companies or platforms raising money on the charity’s behalf must be properly vetted and monitored.

What This Means for Trustees

Trustees play a key role in ensuring the charity meets the new standards. Trustees should:

1. Familiarise themselves with the new Code and the main changes.
2. Review current fundraising activities— including events, online campaigns, and collection boxes, to ensure they meet the new standards.
3. Update policies and procedures to reflect the Code, including risk assessments and oversight of third-party fundraisers.
4. Support staff and volunteers, ensuring they are trained, safe, and confident in fundraising activities.
5. Keep clear records of fundraising practices, decisions, and monitoring activities.

Support for Charities

The Fundraising Regulator has produced helpful Code Support Guides to make it easier for charities to understand and apply the new standards in everyday practice.
You can find them here: https://www.fundraisingregulator.org.uk/code/code-support-guides

In addition, the Regulator offers a Code Advice Service, where you can ask specific questions about how the Code applies to your charity’s fundraising work.
Find out more here: https://www.fundraisingregulator.org.uk/about-fundraising/code-advice-service

Why This Matters

Following the new Code is not only about compliance, it’s about maintaining public trust and demonstrating that the Almshouse Association is transparent, ethical, and responsible in its fundraising. By taking a proactive approach, trustees can ensure that all donations are raised in a manner that reflects positively on the charity and the wider sector.

For more information, trustees can view the full Code on the Fundraising Regulator website.

posted 17 November 2025

As winter approaches, it’s important to take steps to stay warm, healthy and financially secure. Here’s a quick guide to help you and your residents prepare. A printable PDF is also included if you’d like to share it.

1. Get your winter vaccinations

Flu and COVID-19 cases tend to rise in winter, so getting vaccinated is key. You may be eligible for a COVID-19 booster if you’re over 75, live in an older adult care home, or have a weakened immune system. You’re entitled to a free flu jab if you’re over 65, a carer, have certain long-term health conditions, live with someone immunocompromised, or are in long-term care. Ask about the pneumo (pneumonia) and Shingles vaccines when you get your flu jab.

2. Keep your home warm

Try to heat the rooms you use most to around 18°C.

• Close doors and unused rooms to save energy.
• Keep curtains open during the day for natural warmth and closed at night to block draughts.
• Rugs on hard floors and hot water bottles can help retain heat. (Never use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket).

3. Prevent the spread of germs

Wash hands regularly with soap and water. Catch coughs in tissues, consider wearing a mask in busy places, and ventilate indoor spaces when possible. Keep hand sanitiser with you while out.

4. Dress for the cold

Layer clothing to trap heat. Wear hats, scarves, and gloves when outside, and opt for warm nightwear and slippers indoors. Keeping your whole body warm helps maintain circulation, especially to hands and feet.

5. Check your finances

Winter can be costly. Make sure you’re claiming all the benefits you’re entitled to. Use a benefits calculator to check your eligibility and find support schemes for heating and energy bills. See on our website: External Funding and Assistance Programmes

6. Be prepared

Stock up on food, water, cold and flu remedies, and any regular medications in case bad weather prevents you from going out. A torch with spare batteries is useful during power cuts.

7. Keep moving
Staying active helps you stay warm and maintain strength. Try not to sit for more than an hour at a time.

If walking is hard, try chair exercises, or simply move your arms, legs, and toes. Find activities that feel safe and comfortable for you.

If you’re unsure where to start or have a long-term condition, seek guidance on safe ways to stay active

8. Stay safe outdoors

Wet leaves, ice, and snow increase the risk of slips and falls. Wear shoes with good grip and keep grit or salt on hand for paths. Ask neighbours for help clearing walkways if needed.

9. Eat Well

Try to keep a routine with regular meals, even if preparing food feels difficult.

• Warm foods and drinks: Soups, stews, and hot drinks help keep you warm—aim for at least one hot meal a day.
• Balanced diet: Include a variety of foods, with fruit and vegetables daily (fresh, frozen, or tinned). Keep basic supplies at home in case you can’t get to the shops.
• If appetite is low: Eat whatever you can manage—even a small treat is better than nothing. If you’re losing weight without trying, make sure you let your doctor know.
• Vitamin D: Important for bones, teeth and muscles. In winter, sunlight may not be enough, so ask your doctor if a supplement is right for you.

By following these tips, you can stay warm, well, and financially secure throughout the winter months.

Source: AGE UK

posted 28 October 2025

Celebrating Special Occasions with Royal Support

A Royal visit is a truly special occasion, one that can make milestones and celebrations within your charity even more memorable. These visits offer a wonderful opportunity to highlight the remarkable work you do and to celebrate significant achievements in your community.

We are deeply grateful for the support of our Royal Patrons and are committed to nurturing long-standing partnerships with the Royal Households for the benefit of all our members.

Thanks to our strong relationships with the private offices of our Royal Patrons, we are able to ensure they can focus fully on the visits and events they are able to attend. This careful coordination helps to make each Royal visit a meaningful and memorable occasion for everyone involved.

Should your charity wish to host a Royal visit, our established protocol with the Royal Households is for members to contact us as the first step.  An initial discussion with you helps determine the most suitable way for a Royal visit to enrich your event, while guiding you in crafting an occasion that seamlessly embraces this unique honour.

Following this conversation, we gather the details of your request,  your potential event plan and a range of possible dates.  All requests are then discussed with the Royal Households during our annual review meeting, where requests are considered that complement their calendars for the coming year.

We recommend contacting us as early as possible, ideally up to 12 months in advance, to maximise the likelihood of a successful visit. Once a visit has been agreed in principle, we liaise with you to confirm the dates offered by the Royal Household and, where possible, secure a date in your diary.

Royal visits are a collaborative effort between The Almshouse Association, your charity, and the Lord Lieutenant’s office, with all parties maintaining close communication throughout the process.

To discuss your plans or learn more about organising a Royal visit, please contact Gerry Harmon, PR & Engagement Manager, at gerryharmon@almshouses.org.

We thank you for your support in following this process and look forward to helping you create truly memorable celebrations with the support of our Royal Patrons.

Please note: Our Royal Patron and Royal Vice Patron are not available for fundraising events.

posted 23 October 2025

Don’t let that ‘free‘ photo cost you!

Using images from the internet without proper permission or credit can land you in serious trouble. Many of us mistakenly believe that if a photo is online, it’s free to use. Wrong! Most images are protected by copyright and using them without permission can result in hefty fines or legal claims.

Photographers and image agencies regularly scan the internet for unauthorised use of their work. If they find one of their images on your website, newsletter, or promotional material without the proper licence or credit, you could receive an unexpected demand for payment – often hundreds or even thousands of pounds.

To stay safe, always ensure you have the legal right to use a photo. This means either paying for a licence through a reputable stock photo site, using free-to-use online graphic design tool images *, or taking your own photos.

A moment of caution can save you from a costly mistake. If in doubt, leave it out, or get proper permission. Protect yourself and your organisation by respecting photo copyrights.

* always check the small print!

posted 16 October 2025

Small changes, big impact in dementia care

The Josie Sara Charity for Dementia Wellbeing specialises in affordable design improvements to support people living with dementia. Dementia affects how individuals perceive and navigate their environment, but thoughtful design can reduce confusion, promote independence, and restore confidence.

Simple changes, like using contrasting colours for stair nosings, light switches and furniture can greatly improve visual clarity. Clear signage, decluttered spaces and non-reflective flooring also help reduce disorientation. Even placing a chair in a long corridor can aid with orientation and provide comfort.

The charity’s Inspiration Kit offers practical suggestions for care homes, many of which can be applied to private homes. The designs are subtle, unobtrusive, and aesthetically pleasing for everyone.

The charity also created a dementia-friendly garden at a Wirral care home, promoting wellbeing through safe access to nature.

Explore the Inspiration Kit and more at: www.josiesaracharity.org.

posted 6 October 2025

Jennifer Millard of Millard Consultants, Almshouse Association panel consultant and Regional Peer Representative for Cambridge has kindly put together this article on clerking and the power of networking to share with members.

Clerking and the power of networking

Time is undeniably valuable, but investing even a little of it into networking can yield significant benefits. While we may not always have the capacity for extensive networking, the moments we do manage to connect often prove well worth the effort.

Why network?

Clerking for small to medium-sized charities can sometimes feel isolating. Getting out into the community and engaging with local networks can be a refreshing change—and a reassuring reminder that you’re not alone. You’re likely to meet others facing similar challenges, opening the door to shared experiences, support, and practical ideas.

Spreading awareness – subtly – about your charity’s mission and work can have real benefits. It can help attract new trustees, contractors, or collaborators and raise your profile locally. Over time, even small efforts can lead to meaningful outcomes for your organisation.

Hidden opportunities

Some of the best opportunities come unexpectedly through simple conversations. We’ve come across previously unknown funding streams, discovered council trading arms offering services like gardening, and secured free spots at local events to showcase our work – all through informal networking.

These valuable discoveries often come at no financial cost yet can make a real difference to your charity’s reach and impact.

Know your community

The more you understand your local area – its people, its challenges, and its resources – the more equipped you are to drive meaningful change.

Talk to people. Learn what others are working on in the private, public, and third sectors. Collaboration starts with connection.

Where to network?

Here are a few ideas to get started:

• Local church or cathedral groups
• Business forums and networking events
• Community events at libraries and public spaces
• Voluntary organisations, local charities, and community foundations
• Your regional almshouse charity network
• Informal meetups, coffee mornings, and weekly gatherings

What will you need?

Not much – just a little time and some basic materials. A few business cards or a short summary of your charity’s work can go a long way. Being prepared means you can make the most of spontaneous opportunities to connect, share, or ask for support.

Best of all, your “networking budget” doesn’t have to stretch beyond your time. Trustees or volunteers can also help take part.

Don’t be afraid to promote your charity

Many people attend events hoping to support local causes – so don’t be shy about sharing your story.

Even at larger events, which may seem intimidating, you’ll often find people who know your area or connect with your mission. Posting flyers in libraries or community hubs can also have an impact.

Consider hosting your own event

Consider running an open day to showcase your charity or promote a vacancy. A warm welcome and a few cups of tea or coffee (and maybe some cake!) can go a long way in connecting with your community and raising your profile.

posted 29 September 2025

Trustee recruitment and roles

Contributed by R D Bailey, Chairman of the Crowborough Almshouse Charity

Partnerships

Crowborough Almshouse Charity (CAC) benefits from a close partnership with two Church of England parishes in the town. The incumbents of these churches serve as ex officio trustees, forming part of a board that currently comprises two ex officio trustees and eight nominated trustees. Supporting the board are a clerk, a property manager and a minutes secretary.

Community support

There is a strong culture of charitable support in Crowborough, and CAC reflects this spirit. Trustees and volunteers are committed, active and willing to contribute to the running of the charity.

Approach to trustee recruitment

With the exception of the clerk, CAC is fortunate enough, so far, to have never needed to advertise trustee positions. New trustees are usually appointed through personal connections, often via the churches, though the town council and other local congregations have also played a part.
The chairman and clerk are typically aware when a trustee intends to retire, allowing time to begin the search for a replacement.

Active trustee roles

CAC trustees are not passive board members. Each one takes on a specific responsibility and new trustees are asked to bring skills that will strengthen the charity. Candidates often want clarity on their expected role before committing.

Structure of trustee responsibilities

CAC owns four properties. Each property is overseen by two trustees:

• Resident Support Trustee – focusing on residents’ wellbeing
• Property Trustee – overseeing maintenance and management alongside the clerk and property manager

In addition, trustees participate in a standing committee and meet quarterly to review compliance with statutory obligations.

Identifying board needs

When recruiting, the chairman and clerk consider the most pressing need:

• For resident-focused roles, interpersonal skills and experience in nursing or care are highly valuable.
• For property-focused roles, knowledge of property, surveying, and related legal matters is essential.
  All trustees are also expected to contribute to governance, including financial oversight.

Current skills on the board

CAC is fortunate to have a diverse mix of skills among its trustees. Recent appointments have added expertise in surveying and property development—particularly useful as the charity explores opportunities for new land and property. This demonstrates the importance of remaining open to new skills and perspectives, a responsibility that rests primarily with the chairman.

Appointment process

The process for appointing new trustees is as follows:

1. Interview with the chairman and one or two trustees
2. Report to the clerk
3. Submission of CV and statutory checks
4. Recommendation to the full board for approval

Induction for new trustees

Once appointed, trustees are fully briefed by the clerk. Induction includes:

• Trustee role and liabilities
• Structure, governing scheme, and financial details of CAC
• Policies relevant to trustees and residents
• Attendance expectations for quarterly and other meetings
• Publication of their name on the Charity Commission website
• Agreement for a photo and biography on the CAC website
• Participation in Almshouse Association training and webinars as needed

A cohesive and skilled team

CAC is proud to have built a cohesive, committed, and experienced trustee body. Over the years, the charity has developed effective practices for recruiting and retaining trustees with the right mix of skills. We are always glad to share our approach with other almshouse trusts seeking to strengthen their boards.

September 2025