The NSPCC is urging parents in the West Midlands to talk to their children before leaving them home alone.
The charity says nearly 500 referrals were made in the region over safety concerns.
It recommends under-12s are never left alone and highlights a spike in summer cases.
The NSPCC stresses the importance of listening to children's worries and preparing them for what to do if something unexpected happens.
Hereford set to be turned pink during Venus Midnight Walk for St Michael’s Hospice
Glow sticks and feather boas will light up the night next month as one of Hereford’s best loved and longest running fundraisers hits the city streets.
Working Together Ludlow Thanks Mayor for Donation Supporting Community Garden Renovation
Working Together Ludlow Thanks Mayor for Donation Supporting Community Garden Renovation
Calls for road safety study
Calls have been made for a road safety study to be carried out on a south Shropshire road.
Thousands of NHS patients treated in hospital corridors
Thousands of patients are still being treated in hospital corridors. In Worcestershire and Herefordshire, an average of 67 patients were treated in corridors each day in May.
Village war memorial to be restored to its former glory
A parish council has been given permission to restore a war memorial back to its former glory.
New eclectic eatery for town-centre spot
A Herefordshire town could be about to get the county’s first branch of a quirky and eclectic café-bar and restaurant chain.
‘Tash’ Ashby death could yet lead to homicide inquiry
The death of a troubled young woman in a tent in Hereford nearly three years ago could yet lead to a homicide inquiry, a court has heard.
Cats Protection Hosts Family Summer Event in Allensmore
Herefordshire families are being encouraged to head over to the Herefordshire Cat Centre in Allensmore this June as Cats Protection hosts its much‑loved Summer Charity Event, a community favourite packed with activities, treats, and of course, plenty of feline charm.
