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Community safety

Let’s stamp out fraud together

Fraud comes in many forms – from bogus tradespeople knocking on doors, to emails aimed at tricking us into sharing personal information.

Fraudsters targeting local authorities seek to steal public money.

Our highly experienced anti-fraud officers are looking to both prevent and investigate fraud in all areas, including direct payments, blue badges and housing. All instances of potential fraud are rigorously investigated. We seek the highest level of prosecution including monetary fines and prison sentences.

fraud lock

16 Days Campaign

White Ribbon Day on the 25 November launches the 16 Days Campaign against Gender-Based Violence.

This campaign is a reminder that gender-based violence happens everywhere and can happen to anyone. The London Borough of Bexley is committed to challenging and responding to gender-based abuse in all its forms. 

Find out more at vawg

neighborhood watch

Stay secure this Christmas

Christmas is a time of joy, family and celebration. Unfortunately, it can also a peak time for burglaries.

Many people travel during the holidays. While it’s tempting to share your plans on social media, announcing your trip dates publicly is a welcome invitation for burglars. While away, remember to make it look like someone is home. Use smart plugs or timers to turn lights and even a radio or television on and off at different times.

Dispose of packaging carefully. Boxes for new TVs, laptops, and gaming consoles are like billboards for potential thieves. Break the boxes down and put them in your paper and card recycling bin for collection.

Keep receipts separate. Store receipts for expensive gifts in a secure place. This can be crucial for insurance claims if the worst happens. 

For tips and information visit BBNWA

Illegal vapes seized

Working with Bexley’s Police, Bexley’s Trading Standards team recently seized 400 illicit single use vapes from a trader in the Broadway, Bexleyheath.

Single use vapes are not designed or intended for reuse and the only legal vapes that can be sold are those that can be recharged, refilled and have the coil replaced.

Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, Cllr Brian Bishop, said: 

Single use vapes are illegal and I am grateful for the work of the Trading Standards team and Bexley’s Police to seize these illicit vapes. I am glad they will not find their way onto our streets."

If your local vape retailer doesn’t have a vape take back bin email the Council’s Trading Standards team at tsduty@bexley.gov.uk.

 

vapes seized in bags
labubu missing eye

Counterfeit Labubus

Bexley Trading Standards have recently seized more than 1,000 counterfeit Labubu dolls and 128 other unsafe toys from two shops in the borough.

Labubu, a character from the popular Pop Mart collectible series, has surged in popularity online, leading to a flood of counterfeit versions entering the market. These fake toys pose serious safety risks, including choking hazard and untested materials.

If you suspect you’ve purchased an unsafe toy or know of a trader selling them report it to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0800 144 8848.