Police to crack down on uninsured drivers

Uninsured drivers are to be targeted next week by Police Scotland, in partnership with the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), in a week of action starting on Monday 16 October and running through to Sunday 22 October. Police Scotland is advising all drivers to ensure they are covered by valid insurance, prior to the campaign starting on Monday. Continue reading Police to crack down on uninsured drivers

Doh! A dear – a female deer – none the worse for tram track trauma

The Scottish SPCA rescued a distressed deer from the side of Edinburgh’s tram tracks yesterday. The animal welfare charity was alerted by a concerned member of the public who saw the animal standing next to a tram line for three hours without moving. Continue reading Doh! A dear – a female deer – none the worse for tram track trauma

Batten down the hatches ahead of Ophelia’s UK arrival

On 30th anniversary of the 1987 Great Storm, windy weather forecast for the west of the UK – protect your home and business now …

Aviva is advising homeowners and businesses to take basic precautions to protect themselves and their property ahead of heavy downpours and very strong winds from ex-tropical storm Ophelia, which are forecast to hit the west coast of the UK early next week.

The tail-end of the US tropical storm is due to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the Great Storm of 15/16 October 1987, which caused winds of over 100mph, significant damage across the UK and killed 18 people.

Although we know from history that precise forecasting can be difficult, Aviva has its network of contractors and property claims experts on stand by across the country and its contact centres are available 24/7 to help those who might be affected by the forecast unsettled weather. 

Rob Townend, claims director for Aviva said: “While it’s unclear yet how severe the storm will be, high winds and heavy rain could cause havoc to homes and businesses.  But some simple measures can help to minimise any damage. For example, secure your fences, doors and windows and be aware that you may face disruption to your travel plans.

“Our claims teams are ready and here to help if your property or car has been damaged as a direct result of storm force conditions. We can also arrange alternative accommodation for you if the damage means you need to move out of your home temporarily.”

Customers wishing to make a claim should contact:

  • For home insurance – call 0345 030 6945 or you can report a claim online on MyAviva at your convenience to get your claim reference
  • For car insurance: call 0345 030 6925 or report a claim online at MyAviva
  • For business insurance:  contact your broker or for commercial property claims call 0800 015 1498, for commercial motor 0800 246 876 and for motor trade 0800 0466 229. 

What to do before the storm

  • If possible park the car in a garage, or away from large trees
  • If time allows and it is safe to do so check for loose tiles on the roof, secure any weak fencing etc to minimise the risk of causing damage to other parts of your property.
  • Safely store or secure any garden furniture, ornaments, bikes or children’s toys/outside play equipment.
  • Make sure all doors and windows are closed.
  • In the event of an electrical storm remove the aerial from the TV set 

What to do after the storm

Call your insurer immediately if your property suffers damage. Aviva’s team of experts will be able to give you advice on how to prevent further damage and will help you with your claim to get your property back to the way it was.

This video provides some handy tips and advice for protecting homes ahead of storm weather

Young People from Barnardo’s Scotland deliver their thoughts to the Care Review

A group of care-experienced young people visited the chair of the Care Review, Fiona Duncan, on Thursday to deliver responses collected during a Care Review Postcard Campaign carried out by Barnardo’s Scotland. The young people, representing children and care experienced young people supported by the children’s charity, met with Fiona to discuss their responses. Continue reading Young People from Barnardo’s Scotland deliver their thoughts to the Care Review

Swap Gameboys for Gird and Cleeks this half term at New Lanark

New Lanark World Heritage Site, Scotland

Bring the family along for a fun filled autumn day out at New Lanark, one of Scotland’s 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this October Break. There will be Family Tours with Costumed Guides and Victorian Toy Workshops running during the October Week Holidays (16-22 Oct) as well as the ‘Lifting the Lid’ exhibition. Continue reading Swap Gameboys for Gird and Cleeks this half term at New Lanark