TV Licensing | Stay scam safe this winter

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.

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

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

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

Lord-Lieutenant visits Association’s new Windsor office

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant visits The Almshouse Association’s new Windsor offices: A celebration of heritage and member community

On a crisp November morning, His Majesty’s Lord‑Lieutenant of the Royal County of Berkshire, Andrew Try, Esq., DL, visited our newly opened offices – Leonard Hackett House, at 19-21 Victoria Street, Windsor. He also toured the ‘Keep’, our secondary office space, leased to support the operations of the new premises.

His Lordship was particularly impressed by the almshouse movement timeline, a central design feature which will adorn the office walls. The wall displays will be a graphical celebration of the history of this enduring community-led housing model, featuring photographs, archival images, and a detailed UK map of almshouse locations for visitors to view and admire.

There will also be a Wall of Thanks dedicated to all our supporters who have contributed in some way over the past 80 years.

Throughout the visit, he commended the office’s thoughtful architectural design, highlighting its seamless integration of modern functionality with historical character. The tour underscored the innovative vision of the new workspace, which not only honours the organisation’s heritage but also serves as a dynamic hub where members can connect, collaborate, and engage with one another.

CEO of The Almshouse Association commented,

“The Chair, myself and the staff of The Almshouse Association were delighted to welcome the Lord-Lieutenant of Berkshire to our new offices in Windsor. After more than 50 years in Wokingham, a generous gift and legacy from former General Secretary Leonard Hackett enabled the Association to sell its small, outdated premises and relocate to a modern office in the heart of Windsor—just a short walk from Windsor Castle and our Patron, His Majesty King Charles.

During his visit, Andrew Try, the Lord-Lieutenant for Windsor and Berkshire, expressed his admiration for the work of the Association and its members, and kindly introduced us to several local charities with shared interests.”

posted 24 November 2025

Leonard Hackett with Mrs Hobbs at our old Billingbear offices in Wokingham

Our new office in Windsor, Berkshire, Leonard Hackett House, honour the late Leonard Hackett, the Association’s first General Secretary, who generously left his house and attached offices to The Almshouse Association in his Will.

Policy & Governance update: November 2025

NOVEMBER 2025: A summary of the latest UK Government policy changes and news.

1. Awaab’s Law Guidance

Awaab’s Law was introduced on 27 October 2025 through an amendment to the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, in response to the tragic death of Awaab Ishak who died after being exposed to mould at his Rochdale home in December 2020.

In the wake of this tragedy, Awaab’s family has fought to secure justice, not only for their son but for all those who live in social housing. Awaab’s Law places strict time limits on social landlords who are regulated by the Social Housing Regulator to investigate and repair reported issues of damp and mould.

At the present time (October 2025), Awaab’s Law applies to Registered Providers in England only. The Almshouse Association supports the principle in all cases of providing warm, safe homes for our residents; however, following extensive engagement with government officials, we can confirm that almshouse charities that are Registered Providers in England (along with almshouse charities that are not Registered Providers) are exempt from the requirements of Awaab’s Law. This exemption recognises the distinct legal and operational status of almshouses, where residents occupy their homes under licence rather than tenancy agreements – and can be seen in the guidance produced by the Government below:

1.5 Which type of housing does Awaab’s Law apply to?  
Awaab’s Law does not apply to temporary accommodation, supported accommodation, or other housing that is occupied under a licence. [taken from Awaab’s Law: Guidance for social landlords – Timeframes for repairs in the social rented sector]

The Almshouse Association is reviewing and, where applicable, updating its policies for all member charities on damp, mould and other housing hazards to ensure residents continue to live in safe, well-maintained homes. These policies will reflect the charitable nature, size and governance of almshouse charities, while maintaining high standards of accommodation and care.

2. Company law

If member charities are registered with Companies House, members will soon need to verify identities on their platform. Identity verification for directors and people with significant control (PSCs) will be mandatory from 18 November 2025 and will be phased in over 12 months.

Recently, Companies House published a new blog on identity verification for directors and people with significant control (PSCs), which should help you understand how this will work. The blog explains the different ways relevant members can verify their identities.

The Companies House register will be updated on 18 November 2025 to show the due dates for each role a member might hold. Companies House is encouraging all directors and PSCs to verify their identity as soon as possible.

3. Charity Governance Code

An updated version of the Charity Governance Code was published on 31 October.

The Code sets out eight universal principles of governance for charities to consider and helps to shape a common view of what good looks like.

Each of the principles describes what to expect to see (with 41 outcomes in total) to show how the charity’s governance is working well.

Within the updated version of the code, members will find behaviours, policies, processes and practises and evidence of good governance for each of the principles.

4. Charity Finance

The Charity Commission has made a few minor updates to its Trustee Finance Toolkit, changing some of the links to pieces of guidance.

  • They have also updated the charity SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice). This includes new tiers and requirements for how charities should report dependant on size. These include:
    • New requirements for how charities should report on certain types of income and lease arrangements. The SORP now includes charity sector specific examples to assist charities in applying new requirements introduced by the Financial Reporting Council’s update to Financial Reporting Standard 102.
    • Three new tiers for greater transparency. Tier 1 – for charities with income up to £500,000, Tier 2 – for  charities with income between £500,000 – £15 million and Tier 3 – for charities with income above £15 million.
    • Refreshed Trustees Annual Report requirements, with further guidance on financial reserves and plans about the future.
    • Updates to how charities should account for social investments.
    • Easier to understand requirements for reporting provisions and contingencies.

The changes will take effect for accounting periods starting on or after 1 January 2026.

posted 5 November 2025

Celebrating a Century

Eileen Terry turns 100!

Isleworth & Houslow Almshouse Charity were thrilled to celebrate a truly remarkable milestone recently—their beloved resident, Eileen Terry, turned 100 years old on Tuesday, 28 October 2025!

To mark this special occasion, they organised a surprise birthday party in her honour. The celebration was attended by over 30 guests, including the Mayor of Hounslow, who joined them in recognising Eileen’s incredible milestone. The room was filled with laughter, heartfelt wishes, and shared memories as friends, family, and fellow residents came together to celebrate her century of life.

Eileen has been part of the Tolson House community since 2012, and her presence has enriched the lives of everyone around her. It was a joy to mark this extraordinary moment and to show her just how cherished she is.

Here’s to Eileen—a remarkable resident and a wonderful part of our community!

New online training courses

Head over to our Online Training page to explore 12 new online training opportunities that are now live on our training platform!

🌿 Featured Course: Dementia Awareness
Gain a deeper understanding of dementia — including its signs, symptoms and types — plus insights into the impact on individuals and communities, the role of carers and employers, and practical guidance on living well with the condition.

💡 Also available – 11 new skills guides:

  • Active Listening • Budgeting • Communication • Decision Making • Delivering Bad News • Effective Meetings • Leadership • Organisation • Project Management • Sexual Harassment Awareness • Writing Effective Emails

All courses are free for members and included in your TAA membership — and all our existing online courses remain available to you too!

  • An Introduction to Almshouses • Cyber Security Awareness • Social Media Awareness • GDPR UK essentials • Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults • Legionella; • Health and Safety • Fire Awareness • Risk Assessment • Mental Health Awareness

➡️ Click here to access!

posted 17 November 2025

New Fundraising Code

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

Yorkshire & Lancashire Regional Meeting Highlights

Nick Phillips was invited to attend the recent Yorkshire and Lancashire Regional Meeting hosted by The Peter Birtwhistle Trust.

The event brought together a highly engaged group of trustees who contributed to a lively and thoughtful discussion throughout the session. Attendees raised a wide range of thought-provoking questions, reflecting both their commitment to good governance and their interest in sharing experiences across the region.

One of the most significant concerns voiced during the meeting was the challenge of succession planning, both in terms of recruiting new trustees and ensuring continuity in clerking services. The conversation highlighted the importance of long-term planning, knowledge transfer, and supporting the next generation of governance professionals.

Sincere thanks go to Sue, Alison, and Alan (Chair) for their warm hospitality and for organising such an informative and stimulating event. Their efforts created a welcoming environment that encouraged open dialogue and meaningful exchange among all participants.

posted 17 November 2025

Heritage Heroes Awards

Please nominate your volunteers!

The Heritage Alliance is entering the final stretch for nominations to their prestigious Heritage Heroes Awards, proudly sponsored by Ecclesiastical.

With just two weeks left until nominations close on 30 November, now is the perfect moment to put forward the outstanding volunteers who power your work. If you haven’t submitted a nomination yet, we strongly encourage you to shine a spotlight on those who truly deserve recognition.

For more than a decade, the Heritage Heroes Awards have honoured the exceptional contributions of volunteers across the UK’s heritage sector, celebrating individuals and groups who go above and beyond to safeguard and champion our shared heritage.

This year, the Awards are recognising excellence in two categories:

  • Heritage Heroes 2025 Award – Celebrating exceptional contributions by an individual or group of volunteers.
  • Young Heritage Hero Award – Highlighting volunteers under 30 who have made an extraordinary impact.

Key information

Take this opportunity to put forward the volunteers who’ve shown exceptional dedication and gone the extra mile throughout the year!

posted 17 November 2025

Event: Celebrations, Reflections, Resolutions

✨ Upcoming Event

📅 Date: 10 December, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
📍 Location: The Hold, 131 Fore Street, Ipswich IP4 1LN
🎓 Hosted by: The University of Suffolk

The University of Suffolk has kindly extended an invitation to our members to attend the following event in Ipswich.

Celebrations, Reflections, Resolutions from 9am to 1pm on Wednesday 10 December at The Hold, Ipswich – a morning dedicated to exploring how Suffolk is leading the way in connecting health and housing.

Hosted by Suffolk Healthy Homes, Safe Suffolk Renters, and the University of Suffolk, this event will:

  • Celebrate the groundbreaking work already happening across the county
  • Reflect on the achievements and insights gained from the Safe Suffolk Renters initiative and the University’s research into the Private Rented Sector and the impact of the health & housing working group
  • Look ahead to the next steps — what we can all do, together, to improve housing and health outcomes for people in Suffolk

This won’t be a morning of presentations alone — it’s a space for connection, collaboration, and conversation. You’ll have the chance to:

  • Hear from those leading innovative projects across Suffolk
  • Engage in open discussions about the challenges and opportunities within health and housing
  • Share your own experiences, ideas, and hopes for the future
  • Network with others who are passionate about creating healthy, safe homes and communities

Lunch will be provided, and there will be plenty of time for discussion and networking from 9am.

This is a public event so feel free to distribute to your networks, and register here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bringing-health-and-housing-together-in-suffolk-tickets-1916309757069

posted 12 November 2025

Picture-perfect moments of community spirit

📸The results are in! 📸

Our latest photography competition has showcased the warmth, joy and connection that make almshouse life so special.

Residents captured wonderful moments across themes including Over the Garden Fence, Tea with Neighbours, Friendship, Garden Days and Community Spirit. Judges, including our award-winning professional photographer, Richard Gray, praised the exceptional standard, saying, “They were all winners in their own way.”

After much deliberation, the panel selected:

🏆 Winner: Cutbush and Corall – “Tea with Neighbours”
🎖️ Runner-up: Chubbs Almshouses – “Community Spirit”

The winner will receive a luxury afternoon tea voucher (£150) and framed certificate, while the runner-up will take home a £50 M&S voucher and framed certificate.

From lively garden chats to tea shared with neighbours, each entry told a heart warming story of friendship and community spirit.

Thank you to everyone who took part in the competition!

posted 11 November 2025