Bedfordshire Police Federation would like to wish all our members a merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
This year like last year has been challenging and tough for police officers.
Policing is rarely acknowledged, and it can feel like a thankless job with the constant criticism.
We recognise and thank you all for your hard work, commitment, and dedication, putting yourself at risk to protect others day in day out.
The festive season should be a chance to spend time with our family and friends.
For those of you working over Christmas and New Year, please stay safe and we hope you are all able to spend some quality time with your loved ones.
Should you require the assistance of the Police Federation over the festive period we are on call and available as we are throughout the year.
As 2023 draws to a close, we wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year as we enter 2024.
How to save money in your home this Winter with PayPlan
As the colder months approach, we understand that keeping your home warm can be costly. That’s why we’ve put together some energy-saving tips to help you stay warm and cosy without breaking the bank.
Seal in the warmth
Make sure you keep the warmth in and the cold out by sealing any gaps or cracks in your home where cold air can come in, like your doors and windows. Draught excluders or weather-stripping tape are effective and inexpensive ways to keep the heat in. Keyholes can also allow warm air to escape, so consider getting a cover for them as well.
Get the best out of your appliances
General tips for your appliances
If your appliances have an eco-setting, it’s worth using it. It will help save the environment and your pocket.
For items like chargers, radiators or speakers that don’t need to be on all the time, unplug them when not in use. Speakers can cost around £6 a year when on standby for 20 hours a day, and a radiator left on in a room that’s not in use is just keeping an empty room warm.
Make sure your appliances are cleaned regularly too, as this will help to keep them running efficiently. For example, did you know that a kettle with limescale buildup requires more energy to heat water? Likewise, keeping your freezer organised and the back of your fridge clean can help both run more efficiently.
Tips for your washing machine
- Instead of washing all your clothes at high temperatures, consider using a lower setting, especially for items that aren’t heavily stained.
- Be efficient with your laundry load. If you don’t have enough clothes to wash, wait until you do.
- Use machine commercial stain removers and cleaners for tough stains and to clean your washing machine.
- For everyday items like trousers and jumpers, consider airing them out after a single wear instead of washing them right away.
Tips for your tumble dryer
- If the weather’s good, dry your clothes outside instead.
- If you use the dryer, clean the lint filter regularly and sort your clothes out by fabric type to reduce drying time.
Do your research
Why not look to see if you can get a better deal with a different energy provider or tariff? Which? has created a free energy comparison tool to find a better rate for you and your home.
- If you receive paper bills, check to see if you’re being charged for them and ask to receive them via email or on your provider’s app instead.
- Paying by direct debit is usually cheaper and will help you manage your costs more closely within your budget.
- If you don’t have a smart reader, remember to send your supplier meter readings as often as possible. This ensures you’re paying for what you use instead of estimated amounts.
- You can also see if your provider offers any scheme for non-peak usage (using electricity at quieter times, such as between 11 am and 4 pm). British Gas, for example, has a scheme called PeakSave, which rewards customers who use their electricity when there is less demand.
A few final tips
If money’s tight, there are some particularly budget-friendly ways you can save on energy bills:
- Turn down the thermostat and add a layer or two to keep warm.
- Try wearing slippers or warm socks and consider using a hot water bottle to stay warm with minimal energy use.
- You can also charge devices while you’re out, such as at a local library or community centre, to save energy at home.
Overview
For more practical energy-saving ideas, visit BudgetSmart, where you’ll find additional tips on reducing household costs and boosting your income.
What you can do next
If you are struggling with debts call us on 0800 072 1206. We’re open from 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 3pm on Saturdays.
Alternatively, you can visit our www.payplan.com/police to speak to us via live chat or for more information.
Navigating the Festive Season After a Loss with PayPlan
The holiday season, whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah, work parties, family gatherings, or other celebrations, is often a time for people to come together to celebrate, remember, and connect. But if you, or someone close to you, are grieving, these gatherings may feel overwhelming rather than joyous.
We would like to raise awareness of National Grief Awareness Week which takes place from December 2nd to December 8th 2024, providing a dedicated period for individuals, organisations, and communities to come together to acknowledge and address the various aspects of grief.
How can you navigate this season while caring for your wellbeing?
Acknowledge your feelings
It’s okay to feel sad, lonely, or even angry. Accepting your feelings without judgment can help you process them. Allow yourself to grieve in your own way and at your own pace.
Skipping the celebrations
If it feels right to skip the festivities altogether, don’t hesitate to make that choice, especially if it’s what you need to cope. However, remember that the world will continue around you, so consider strategies to reduce reminders, like avoiding TV and social media. You might also ask someone to help with tasks like opening your mail or doing your shopping online to minimise additional stress.
Saying no to invitations
Invitations are usually extended with kindness, but it’s okay to decline if you’re not up for socialising. If you’re unsure about how you’ll feel on the day, ask if you can decide at the last minute or perhaps join only for part of the gathering, like the meal, if that feels manageable. If you need a quieter environment, consider joining the group for a walk, where you can engage with one or two people at a time.
Sending holiday cards
If you’re sending cards, consider a pre-printed message that shares your loss with your wider circle, while acknowledging the holiday. An example might be:
“In case you’re not already aware, we wanted to let you know that [name] passed away on [date]. We won’t be sending our usual card this year as we focus on treasuring memories with family. We appreciate your friendship and support.”
Hosting the holiday meal
If you usually host the meal but don’t feel ready to do so fully, you can focus on what you can manage but delegate the rest to others. This year you can make the gathering about ease rather than tradition -create a menu that won’t cause you additional stress.
Taking a breather
If things feel too much, make sure you have a quiet space to go to. Talk to your host in advance and arrange a room where you can have some time alone if needed.
Handling gifts
If your loss is recent, you may receive gifts intended for the person who has passed away. Consider setting these gifts aside or ask someone to help you discreetly remove them. With permission from the gift-givers, you might even donate these items to a charity in memory of your loved one, whether it’s a raffle prize or a contribution to support those in need.
Honour your loved one’s memory
It may be a nice new tradition to find a way to celebrate their life at Christmas if that feels right. Writing them a letter, creating a small memorial, or looking through photos can help you feel connected to them and keep their spirit present during the holidays.
Seeking support
Don’t be afraid to lean on friends, family, or support groups. Talking with others who understand your loss can be very comforting. Our partner, The National Bereavement Service, supports anyone who has experienced a bereavement with practical and emotional information and advice from professional bereavement advisors with lived experience.
What you can do next
If you are struggling with debts call us on 0800 072 1206. We’re open from 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 3pm on Saturdays.
Alternatively, you can visit our www.payplan.com/police to speak to us via live chat or for more information.
Motor Source Group – December 2024 Offers
Exciting offers from Motor Source Group.
Police Care UK Christmas Update
Christmas is a time for celebrating with friends and family, gathering together, and giving to others. As you know, police personnel, across the UK willingly expose themselves to the risk of physical injury and psychological trauma to protect society, every minute of every single day, and it doesn’t stop for Christmas, which can be the most heartbreaking time of the year to be policing, especially for those away from their loved ones.
I’m writing to remind you that Police Care UK is the independent from government and forces, police charity continually providing confidential and free financial and psychological assistance to UK serving and retired police officers, staff, volunteers, and their immediate families, who have been harmed as a result of their policing role.
You may be interested to know that Police Care UK has launched it’s Christmas ‘Thank You’ campaign – the second of its type – to recognise the tireless efforts of UK police personnel. We’re saying thank you to them for their protection and service. Any support we receive helps us to help them, whether by providing our specialist trauma therapy, giving access to mental health support, or providing financial assistance, and with your help we can do more. Together, we can understand trauma and restore lives.
If you’ve not already done so, would invite you and your colleagues to consider registering for our newsletter, here; https://www.policecare.org.uk/
Because there is no subscription to Police Care UK, (we don’t want this to be a barrier for those needing help), and we receive no state funding, all the assistance we provide relies on donations. We are very grateful to all individuals across all forces for supporting Police Care UK via Payroll Giving scheme, Donations, or any other ways of involvement.
Serve and Protect Credit Union launch latest Fixed Saver, offering a guaranteed return of 4.5% AER
Are you looking to earn a guaranteed return on your savings? Serve and Protect Credit Union have launched their latest fixed-rate savings account.
Serve and Protect Credit Union (formerly Police Credit Union) are a not-for-profit organisation designed to help people in the police, prison, military, fire, and health services save money for their financial future.
- Their Fixed Saver account allows you to deposit from £1,000 up to £10,000, with a guaranteed return of 4.5% AER over a term of 12 months.
- Your savings with Serve and Protect Credit Union are also protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, covering you up to £85,000.*
By opening a Fixed Saver, you not only earn a competitive return on your savings, but you also play a vital role in providing affordable loans to those who serve and protect the nation.
Don’t miss out on this exclusive offer!
It’s available on a first-come-first-served basis, so act fast. The product is available throughout November 2024 and just requires you to complete a simple application online.
Please Note: If you are not already a member of Serve and Protect, you can still apply, but you will have to do so by the 28th of November 2024.
To apply or learn more about the Fixed Saver, visit:
https://serveandprotectcu.co.uk/save/fixed-saver
How to check if you could pay less council tax
If you’re currently paying council tax for your home in England, depending on your circumstances you may be able to receive a discount or not pay it at all.
You may be able to get:
- A discount, for example, for single-person occupancy or for an empty property
- Council Tax Reduction (CTR) if you’re a low-income household
- Other reductions dependent on your circumstances
If you think you might be eligible for a discount or a reduction, it won’t happen automatically, so you’ll need to make sure you apply. It would be a good idea to also check you’re on the correct council tax banding which you can do here. You can challenge your banding if you think it’s incorrect.
Guidance is different if you live in Scotland or Wales – find out more here:
- Scotland Discounts, exemptions and reductions – mygov.scot
- Wales Council Tax discounts and reduction | GOV.WALES
Council Tax discounts
If you’re the only adult in the household, you can receive a 25% discount on your council tax bill.
Some people in a household aren’t counted for in the council tax bill, including anyone under 18, students, people with learning difficulties or anyone who has a severe mental impairment. If everyone in the household meets this criteria, there’ll still be a council tax bill, but it will have a 50% discount. You don’t pay council tax if everyone in your household is a student or severely mentally impaired.
If you or your partner are receiving the ‘guaranteed’ part of Pension Credit, you may be eligible for a full reduction on your council tax bill, up to 100%.
A ‘second adult rebate’ discount may be available if an adult you live with is on a low income or receiving certain benefits.
If someone moves out of your household and this entitles you to a discount, you need to tell the council. Even if you tell the council after the moving out date, you’re entitled to the discount from the moving date.
If you own another home
Your local council may give you a discount if you have another home that you don’t live in, such as one that needs repair work or is empty. If your property is unoccupied and undergoing major repair work or structural alterations to make it habitable, then you may be exempt from paying council tax for up to 12 months.
If you have a holiday or second home, you may qualify for a 50% discount if it’s owned by someone who can’t live there due to needing to be in another location for work.
If you have an annexe connected to your home, you’ll receive a 50% discount if it’s used by people who live in the main household or immediate family members. If you have a dependant family member who lives there, you don’t need to pay council tax on the property. They must be over 65 years old or have a physical or mental disability. If the annexe is empty, you don’t need to pay council tax for it.
If you live with a disabled individual
If you or someone you live with is disabled, your council will charge you the rate for the next lowest council tax band. For example, if your house is in band D, you will be charged for band C instead.
You must evidence that your home is adapted for a disabled individual and that the individual lives there. For example, there is an extra bathroom or kitchen to meet their needs, and there is enough space for a wheelchair.
Council Tax Reduction (CTR)
Low-income households may be able to receive a council tax reduction. If you receive benefits or have other people living in the home with you, this may affect the amount your council tax is reduced by.
You’ll have to submit details of your income and circumstances to the council so that they can evaluate if you qualify for CTR. If you’re awarded it, your bill will be reduced accordingly.
Discretionary Reduction
If you’re really struggling to pay your council tax bill and don’t qualify for any of the reductions, you can contact your local council directly about a ‘discretionary reduction’. They will ask for evidence of your circumstances to show that you’re suffering financial hardship and can’t afford your bill, then review on a case-by-case basis.
How you pay can reduce the monthly amount
The total year’s amount will stay the same, but you can choose to split your bill over 12 months instead of the usual ten, which will reduce your monthly cost. If you contact your local council, they will alter your payment schedule. Alternatively, you can choose to pay in full.
What you can do next
If you are struggling with debts call us on 0800 072 1206. We’re open from 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 3pm on Saturdays.
Alternatively, you can visit our www.payplan.com/police to speak to us via live chat or for more information.
Everything you need to know about The Winter Fuel Payment
The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual payment from the government to help eligible people with their heating costs during the colder months. It’s usually between £100 and £300 depending on your circumstances.
If you’re eligible, you’ll normally receive your payment automatically. It’s tax-free and won’t affect any benefits you receive.
Who is eligible?
If you were born before 23 September 1958, you can get a Winter Fuel Payment for Winter 2024 to 2025.
You must also live in England or Wales and receive one of the following:
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
If you live in Scotland, you might qualify for an annual Pension Age Winter Heating Payment instead.
How much will you receive and when?
In October or November, if eligible, you’ll receive a letter telling you how much Winter Fuel Payment you’ll receive. If you think you’re eligible but don’t receive a letter, check if you need to make a claim.
The amount you receive is based on your birth date and circumstances between 16 and 22 September 2024. This is called the ‘qualifying week’.
Payments are automatically received in November or December. You’ll receive a letter explaining how much you’ll receive and what bank account it will be paid into—usually the same account as your benefits or Pension Credit.
If you live alone
You’ll get either:
- £200 if you were born between 23 September 1944 and 22 September 1958
- £300 if you were born before 23 September 1944
If you live with someone
If you and your partner jointly claim any of the benefits, one of you will get a payment of either:
- £200 if both of you were born between 23 September 1944 and 22 September 1958
- £300 if one or both of you were born before 23 September 1944
It’ll be paid into the bank account your benefits are usually paid into.
If you live in a care home
If you’re eligible you’ll get either:
- £100 if you were born between 23 September 1944 and 22 September 1958
- £150 if you were born before 23 September 1944
Other help with heating bills
You could also get:
- a Cold Weather Payment – if the weather drops to zero degrees Celsius or below for seven days in a row and you receive certain benefits you may be eligible.
- the Warm Home Discount – this is a £150 discount on your bills if you receive Pension Credit or live in a low-income household
- help from the Household Support Fund, if you’re eligible under your local council’s rules – check on your local council’s website
What you can do next
If you are struggling with debts call us on 0800 072 1206. We’re open from 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 3pm on Saturdays.
Alternatively, you can visit our www.payplan.com/police to speak to us via live chat or for more information.
Support with raising children
Raising children is one of the most rewarding experiences life can offer. However, it can be surrounded by a fair share of worries, particularly when it comes to your finances. From milk to nappies, childcare to clothing, the costs soon add up.
The average amount of money spent on raising a child from birth to 18 in the UK – including housing and childcare costs – is £223,256, according to the latest research from investment platform Moneyfarm. That works out at about £12,400 a year, or £1,030 a month. (The Times Website)
For many prospective and new parents, these financial concerns can be overwhelming, which is why we have put together a list of resources and benefits that may be available to help ease the burden depending on your circumstances.
Help with childcare costs available
- Sure Start Maternity Grant – You could get a one-off payment of £500 to help towards the costs of having a child. You usually qualify for the grant if you’re expecting your first child, or you’re expecting a multiple birth (such as twins) and have children already and you or your partner already get certain benefits. The grant must be claimed within 11 weeks of the baby’s due date or within 6 months after the baby has been born. The grant does not need to be paid back and it does not affect your other benefits or tax credits. If you live in Scotland, you cannot get a Sure Start Maternity Grant, you can apply for a Pregnancy and Baby Payment instead. To find out more about the Sure Start Maternity Grant click here.
- Healthy Start Vouchers – If you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be able to get help to buy healthy food and milk. Click here to check the eligibility criteria.
The vouchers can be used for;
- Plain liquid cow’s milk
- Fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables
- Fresh, dried, and tinned pulses
- Infant formula milk based on cow’s milk
- Child Benefit – Child Benefit is available if you are responsible for raising a child under 16, or under 20 if they remain in approved education or training. Payments are made every 4 weeks, typically on a Monday or Tuesday. There are two rates: £25.60 per week for the eldest or only child, and £16.95 per week for each additional child. You can claim Child Benefit 48 hours after registering your child’s birth or once a child starts living with you. Claims can be backdated for up to 3 months. If either you or your partner has an ‘adjusted net income’ over £60,000 a year, you may have to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge. Click here to check the eligibility criteria.
- Tax Free Childcare – You can receive up to £500 every 3 months (up to £2,000 a year) per child to help with childcare costs. For a disabled child, this amount increases to £1,000 every 3 months (up to £4,000 a year). To access this support, you need to set up an online childcare account for your child. For every £8 you deposit into the account, the government will contribute £2, which can be used to pay for childminders, nurseries, after-school clubs, nannies, and play schemes. Note that you cannot receive Tax-Free Childcare simultaneously with Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, Universal Credit, or childcare vouchers. Click here to check the eligibility criteria.
- Universal Credit Childcare Support – If you qualify for Universal Credit, you might be able to reclaim up to 85% of your childcare costs while working. This could amount to up to £951 per month for one child or £1,630 for two or more children. You need to pay for your childcare costs upfront, report them to Universal Credit, and then receive a reimbursement for a portion of the expenses. Find out more here.
- 15 & 30 Hours Free Childcare – In England, working parents or those receiving government support can access 15 hours of childcare per week for their 2-year-olds. The same eligibility extends to parents of 3 and 4-year-olds, who can receive 30 hours of childcare per week. Starting in September 2024, the government will provide 15 hours of funded childcare to all children from 9 months old. By September 2025, working parents of children under five will be entitled to 30 hours of government-funded childcare per week. Find out more here.
- Free school meals – All children will be able to get free school meals if they’re in a government-funded school and in reception class, year 1 or year 2. After this age, you may get free school meals if you receive certain benefits. Find out if you are eligible here.
- Holiday activities and food programme – If you get access to free school meals you quality for free activities and healthy food for your children in the Easter, Summer and Christmas school holidays. Further information can be found here.
What you can do next
If you are struggling with debts call us on 0800 072 1206. We’re open from 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 3pm on Saturdays.
Alternatively, you can visit our www.payplan.com/police to speak to us via live chat or for more information.