It has been announced that the old £5 note will be withdrawn from circulation on May 5th, sooner than expected by some. Indications are that, while some businesses might accept the old notes from their own customers, others might not. So, the sooner you exchange them the better. While the notes will retain their face value, exchanging them after May 5th could necessitate a visit to the Bank of England in London ….. or you could post them.
Are you giving away up to £35 per week without knowing it?
Last year, pensioners lost nearly £4bn by not claiming pension credit, when they were eligible to do so. Could you be one of them? For a single person, not claiming, could mean that they miss out on up to £35 per week. To find out more, please see the article on our ‘alerts’ page.
Please be vigilant!
In the light of recent events in Westminster, the public is being encouraged to be vigilant and, if possible, assist the police in their efforts to keep us all safe. They would like to draw your attention to new measures which might assist them. For further information, follow this link.
Have you seen something suspicious?
The police are keen to encourage the public’s support in preventing terrorism and assisting in the investigation of terrorist attacks. Following the recent terrorist attack in Westminster, the police are trying to increase public awareness of how people can assist them. To find out what happens when you report something suspicious Click here.
Don’t miss our AGM!
We will be holding our AGM on Thursday March 23rd from 2pm – 2.45pm at St Paul’s Church (opposite Harrogate Library). This is our annual business meeting which will include a full Financial Report from the Treasurer as well as the Chairperson’s Report about the Forum’s activities over the past year.
After the refreshments, Dr. Rebecca Leigh will talk about her role as Elderly Care Consultant in Harrogate Hospital. Dr. Leigh works alongside orthopaedic surgeons to ensure compassionate, holistic care for patients who have suffered a hip fracture or other injury.
It’s ‘free wills’ month again
If you haven’t yet made a will, or you need to amend an existing simple will, now is the time to do it. In association with various charities, some solicitors are participating in a scheme for ‘free’ wills, this month. To find out more click here.
St Michael’s Hospice is also participating in this event and you can find out more about their role in this scheme, St Michaels advertisement.
FSCS has increased its compensation limit.
The Financial Savings Compensation Scheme has increased its limit for protection from January 30th 2017. The previous compensation limit for people with money in banks, building societies and credit unions was £75,000. For further details visit our ‘Alerts’ page.
Do your finances need a spring clean?
It’s that time of year when financial matters come to the fore ….. household insurance, car insurance and energy supplies are just some of the things which may be occupying your mind. Not to mention, trying to make the most of your savings. Help is at hand. Paul Lewis, the financial advisor, who appears on BBC television, Money Box on the radio and writes a column in the Radio Times, is offering advice in the latest issue of InTouch newsletter.
Having a clearout after Christmas?
Lots of good ideas from the Cone Exchange about how to reuse, recycle & support local charities . Have a ‘rummage’ around and see what you can find and then contact the Captain or follow this link for further ideas.
By the way, Captain Rummage will be giving a presentation at St Mark’s Church on Leeds Road on Tuesday February 7th at 2pm. You’re welcome to attend. Please ring 01423 879620 to reserve a place.
‘Benefits matter’
Benefits and allowances are the subject of our next Forum meeting on November 26th, details of which can be found on the ‘Forum Events’ page.
It has been reported that two thirds of those eligible do not claim the marriage allowance and grandparents are missing out on boosts to their pensions, if they are looking after grandchildren. Make sure you’re not missing out. For further information about some of the benefits and allowances to which you may be entitled, please visit the ‘Topical News’ page.