Smileband general news

The Government is reviewing its relationship with Oxfam in the wake of sex allegations against some of the charity's staff. It comes after it emerged the charity failed to share information with other organisations about the misconduct of their former employees. 

Disgraced Roland van Hauwermeiren, 68, admitted to having sex with vulnerable prostitutes at his Oxfam villa in the poverty-stricken country of Haiti where he was based as country director. But the charity decided to allow Mr Van Hauwermeiren to step down from his position and crucially didn't share details of the termination of contract with his new employer. 

The married 68-year-old went on to become head of mission for Action Against Hunger who told MailOnline it had 'no idea' about his background.

The French charity made pre-employment checks but Oxfam did not provide any warning about his 'unethical conduct'.  

A spokesman said: 'We received positive references from former Oxfam staff who worked with him, among them a (former) HR person.'

Mr Van Hauwermeiren led campaigns for them in Bangladesh between 2012-14 but did not renew his contract after the two years.

His current whereabouts is unknown, the spokesman said. 

The Prime Minister Theresa May called for a 'full and urgent investigation' shortly before it was announced the Government would review its relationship with Oxfam. Oxfam said it had publicly announced an investigation into the allegations when they surfaced in 2011 and kept the Charity Commission informed. 

A DfID spokesman said: 'We often work with organisations in chaotic and difficult circumstances.

'If wrongdoing, abuse, fraud, or criminal activity occur we need to know about it immediately, in full.

'The way this appalling abuse of vulnerable people was <!-- Global site tag (gtag.js) - Google Analytics -->

<script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=UA-109237959-1"></script>

<script>

  window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];

  function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);}

  gtag('js', new Date());

  gtag('config', 'UA-109237959-1');

</script>

dealt with raises serious questions that Oxfam must answer.

'We acknowledge that hundreds of Oxfam staff have done no wrong and work tirelessly for the people they serve, but the handling by the senior team about this investigation and their openness with us and the Charity Commission showed a lack of judgment.

'We have a zero tolerance policy for the type of activity that took place in this instance, and we expect our partners to as well.

'The Secretary of State is reviewing our current work with Oxfam and has requested a meeting with the senior team at the earliest opportunity. Oxfam said it had publicly announced an investigation into the allegations when they surfaced in 2011 and kept the Charity Commission informed. 

A DfID spokesman said: 'We often work with organisations in chaotic and difficult circumstances.

'If wrongdoing, abuse, fraud, or criminal activity occur we need to know about it immediately, in full.

'The way this appalling abuse of vulnerable people was dealt with raises serious questions that Oxfam must answer.

'We acknowledge that hundreds of Oxfam staff have done no wrong and work tirelessly for the people they serve, but the handling by the senior team about this investigation and their openness with us and the Charity Commission showed a lack of judgment.

'We have a zero tolerance policy for the type of activity that took place in this instance, and we expect our partners to as well.

'The Secretary of State is reviewing our current work with Oxfam and has requested a meeting with the senior team at the earliest opportunity.'Oxfam said it had publicly announced an investigation into the allegations when they surfaced in 2011 and kept the Charity Commission informed. 

A DfID spokesman said: 'We often work with organisations in chaotic and difficult circumstances.

'If wrongdoing, abuse, fraud, or criminal activity occur we need to know about it immediately, in full.

'The way this appalling abuse of vulnerable people was dealt with raises serious questions that Oxfam must answer.

'We acknowledge that hundreds of Oxfam staff have done no wrong and work tirelessly for the people they serve, but the handling by the senior team about this investigation and their openness with us and the Charity Commission showed a lack of judgment.

'We have a zero tolerance policy for the type of activity that took place in this instance, and we expect our partners to as well.

'The Secretary of State is reviewing our current work with Oxfam and has requested a meeting with the senior team at the earliest opportunity. 

smileband health topics

Ehrlichiosis is a broad term used for infections caused by Ehrlichia bacterial species. The symptoms commonly seen with these infections include fever, headache, chills, malaise, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, rash, and conjunctival injection. Symptoms will vary for individuals.

 

Ehrlichiosis can be a very serious disease if not treated correctly. Individuals who are immunocompromised are more likely to have severe disease.

 

Arizona will typically see 1 to 4 cases of ehrlichiosis reported each year.

 

Arizona 5 year median: 2 cases

 

Transmission

Transmission occurs from the bite of an infected tick. Blood transfusions and organ transplantation are also possible modes of transmission.

Incubation period is between 5 to 21 days.

Lab Tests & Specimen Info

Test*	Specimen
PCR (this test should be used during the acute phase of the disease)	Whole Blood
Serology (Acute and convalescent specimens should be sent and the convalescent should be collected 2-4 weeks after the acute)	Serum
Microscopic examination (this test should be used during the first week of illness)

 Isolation Precautions

Ehrlichiosis is not a communicable disease. 

Standard precautions are recommended in healthcare settings. 

Prevention for Patients
Reducing contact with ticks:

• use insect repellent
• wear long sleeves and pants
• avoid wooded areas and brushy areas with high grass
• perform thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors

Public Health Actions
If an individual develops ehrlichiosis within a month of receiving a blood transfusion or solid organ donation this case should promptly be reported to public health so an investigation can be completed. 

Public health will conduct an epidemiological investigation on a case or suspect case. <!-- Global site tag (gtag.js) - Google Analytics -->

<script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=UA-109237959-1"></script>

<script>

  window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];

  function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);}

  gtag('js', new Date());

  gtag('config', 'UA-109237959-1');

</script>

smileband general news

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry are spearheading a new campaign to end stigma around mental health.

The Heads Together campaign is a partnership with experienced and inspiring charities that provide frontline mental health support to people who may need it, whilst raising awareness and tackling stigma. Supported by The Royal Foundation, the Heads Together campaign aims to change the national conversation on mental wellbeing.

The Heads Together campaign is extremely fortunate to be selected as the 2017 Virgin Money London Marathon Charity of the Year. As the UK’s premier charity sports event, with its energetic and positive fundraising, this year’s Virgin Money London Marathon is the perfect springboard for this vital campaign.

A spokesman for The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry said:
“Through their work with young people, emergency response, homeless charities, and with veterans, Their Royal Highnesses have seen time and time again that unresolved mental health problems lie at the heart of some of our greatest social challenges.

“They are passionate about tackling the stigma surrounding the issue. Too often, they have seen that people feel afraid to admit that they are struggling with their mental health. This fear of prejudice and judgement stops people from getting help and can destroy families and end lives. They want to help change the national conversation.

“Heads Together will be the biggest project The Duke and Duchess and Prince Harry have undertaken together. They are incredibly grateful to be working with charities who have achieved so much in the fight against the stigma that surrounds the issue. They want the Heads Together campaign to build on the great work that is already being done across the country so that prejudice and fear no longer stand in the way of people getting the help they need. They want people need to feel much more comfortable with their everyday mental wellbeing and have the practical tools to support their friends and family.

“Their Royal Highnesses would like to thank the Virgin Money London Marathon for making Heads Together their 2017 Charity of the Year. They cannot wait to see hundreds of runners hitting the streets of London next April to end the stigma on mental health once and for all.”
The Heads Together partnership currently consists of the following charities, however the campaign will be open for other organisations to join in the months ahead: <!-- Global site tag (gtag.js) - Google Analytics -->

<script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=UA-109237959-1"></script>

<script>

  window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];

  function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);}

  gtag('js', new Date());

  gtag('config', 'UA-109237959-1');

</script>

Smileband general news

A 16-year-old boy has been cleared of killing a man who was shot dead outside a petrol station, while a second teenager who is accused of pulling the trigger remains on the run, possibly in Ibiza. John Pordage, 34, was killed by a single shot to the chest at a BP garage in Chelmsford, Essex, following an altercation with a group of teenagers.

He was returning from a nightclub and on his way to buy cigarettes when he was attacked at around 2.10am on August 5 last year at the garage in Baddow Road. A 16-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was found not guilty of murder or manslaughter following a four-week trial at Chelmsford Crown Court, Essex Police said.

Tracy Ayling QC, prosecuting, had told the trial that the 16-year-old was with a second teenager, Bradley Blundell.

She said Blundell, who was 17 at the time and is now 18, shot Mr Pordage.

Blundell remains on the run from police, and officers believe he may be using Ibiza as a base.

Crimestoppers is offering a £10,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.

Following the trial, DCI Martin Pasmore of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: 'We remain determined to locate Bradley Blundell and bring him to trial.

'I appeal to Bradley to give himself up. 'We will never give up searching for him and we are liaising with the National Crime Agency and colleagues abroad to locate him.'

The 16-year-old boy admitted perverting the course of justice and handling stolen goods.

His co-defendant Saul Stanley, 18, of no fixed address, was found guilty of two counts of possessing a prohibited firearm, one count of possessing ammunition without a certificate and perverting the course of justice.

He was cleared of two further counts of possessing ammunition without a firearms certificate.

He admitted handling stolen goods.

Stanley and the 16-year-old are due to be sentenced on March 2. 

Smileband health topics

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can be caused by over 40 different species of fungi from the Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton families. The fungus can cause an itchy, red, circular rash on the body. Ringworm can affect different parts of the body including feet, groin, scalp, beard, hands, toenails or fingernails, and arms or legs.

 

Ringworm is a very common infection but those who have weakened immune systems may be at high risk for the infection and may have a harder time fighting off the infection. The fungi can live on skin and in the environmnet.

 

Transmission

Transmission can occur from coming into to contact with a person or animal that has the fungi. Transmission can also occur if you come in contact with the fungi in the environment.

The incubation period is 1 to 3 weeks.

Lab Tests & Specimen Info

Test*	Specimen
Microscopic Examination	Lesion Scraping
Culture	Hair, Skin Scraping

 Isolation Precautions

Standard precautions are recommended in healthcare settings. 

Prevention for Patients

• Keep your skin clean and dry
• Wear shoes that allow air to circulate freely around your feet
• Don't walk barefoot in locker rooms or public showers
• Don't share clothing, towels, sheets or other personal items
• Wash your hands after touching pets 
• <!-- Global site tag (gtag.js) - Google Analytics -->
  <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=UA-109237959-1"></script>
  <script>
    window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];
    function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);}
    gtag('js', new Date());
  
  
    gtag('config', 'UA-109237959-1');
  </script>
  
  

Smileband health topics

N

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects humans and animals. It is associated with more tropical climates, recreational activities, and is caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira. 

 

Symptoms are nonspecific and include fever, headache, red eyes, abdominal pain, vomiting, rash, and jaundice. Some infected people may have no symptoms at all, however, without treatment; Leptospirosis can lead to kidney damage, meningitis, and even death. Domestic animals are also susceptible to Leptospirosis infections.

 

There have been 3 cases of leptospirosis in Arizona over the past 10 years. All 3 cases had travel-related exposures.

 

Arizona 5 year median: 1 case

 

Transmission

People can become infected through contact with the urine or other body fluids of infected animals, or contact with water, soil, or food that has been contaminated with urine of infected animals. Drinking contaminated water can also cause infection.

The incubation period is typically 5-14 days but can range from 2-30 days.  Isolation Precautions

Person to person transmission is rare.

Standard precautions are recommended in healthcare settings. 

Prevention for Patients

• Avoid swimming, kayaking or other recreational activities in water that might be contaminated with animal urine, or eliminating contact with potentially infected animals.
• Wear protective clothing or footwear to avoid exposure to potentially contaminated water or soil.
• Have pets vaccinated against leptospirosis.

Public Health Actions
Public health will conduct an epidemiological investigation on a case or suspect case. <!-- Global site tag (gtag.js) - Google Analytics -->

<script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=UA-109237959-1"></script>

<script>

  window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];

  function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);}

  gtag('js', new Date());

  gtag('config', 'UA-109237959-1');

</script>

Smileband general news

A banker has told how he spent more than a year on bail after a woman he met online made a false rape claim against him. Paul Faulkner, from Hertfordshire, is the latest man to complain about the way sex cases are handled by the police following a string of collapsed prosecutions.

He says he was wrongly accused of a number of offences by a woman he met on Match.com, prompting his house to be raided by four police officers. He told The sun online that he then spent 70 weeks on bail, losing his job and considering suicide, before he was finally told he faced no further action in December last year.

He told the website: 'I had given the police all the evidence, I was not guilty and yet I was treated like a violent criminal who had already been convicted. No one was listening.'

The 46-year-old, who once earned £100,000-a-year, said he was sent a series of texts by the woman, demanding money and vowing: 'I will get my revenge.'

He says the issue of long delays in investigations is serious not just for wrongly accused men like himself, but also for potential victims who may have to wait months to get justice.

Hertfordshire Police said a complaint had been made about the case and was being investigated.

Mr Faulkner spoke out as Scotland Yard continued its review of 600 cases of rape and sexual assault which are awaiting trial, with thousands more under review nationally, amid claims evidence is not being properly dealt with. Last week, the Metropolitan Police and prosecutors were forced to apologise for a litany of blunders which led to student Liam Allan being wrongly accused of rape.

Mr Allan, a criminology student at Greenwich University in London, spent two years on bail accused of rape and sexual assault - under messages from the woman emerged at the start of his trial.

Mr Allan's case collapsed last December, sparking a national debate about the failures by the authorities to disclose relevant information to those accused in sex cases.

The messages sent by the woman in that case included one to a friend saying: 'It wasn't against my will or anything.'

Others read: 'Sometimes sex is the number 1 priority, I'm really not joking to be honest,' and, 'You know it's always nice to be sexually assaulted without breaking the law.' <!-- Global site tag (gtag.js) - Google Analytics -->

<script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=UA-109237959-1"></script>

<script>

  window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];

  function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);}

  gtag('js', new Date());

  gtag('config', 'UA-109237959-1');

</script>