Help with Java

Java is used on our website to run our online forms and a few other sections. If you don't have Java installed and enabled on your PC you won't be able to fill in online forms.

July 2011 Update

During July 2011 we had some technical problems which meant that some of our forms did not work. Although normal service has now been resumed we are aware of ongoing problems effecting some website users. Sorry. Please follow the below guidance and hopefully everything will be OK.

If you recieve the message "Decryption failed on server. Keys do not match" it is likely there is a probelm with the Java Cache. (Sorry, this is quite technical).

Step 1

Using the mouse, right click on the Java 'coffee-cup' icon in your system tray (usually situated in the bottom right hand corner of your screen)

Step 2

Click on the 'Open Control Panel' menu item

Step 3

You should now see the Java Control Panel.

Step 4

Click on the 'Settings' button and then click 'Delete Files' and then 'OK' to clear all your cached Java files

OR if you wish to keep your cached files and only delete those relating to our forms click the 'View...' button and then search for and delete references to a zip file called mandoforms.zip and any xml files with a file name beginning with "MF"

Step 5

Once this is done, please close your web browser and return to the webpage and you should be able to complete the form.

We have looked into every possible solution to this problem and this appears to be the only option that works. We know it's quite technical in places and are really sorry. If you need any help or assistance please contact the Web Team and we'll try our best to help.

Frequently asked questions

What is Java?

Java is a programming language developed by Sun Microsystems that creates code for online applications. Java applications should work on any type of computer.

Is Java safe?

Yes.

Do I have Java installed on my computer?

You can check whether you have the recommended version of Java installed on your computer on the Java website.

The Java website cannot verify if I have Java installed

If the Java website cannot verify whether you have Java installed, or you cannot view an online form or a map on our website, then it is likely that you do not have Java installed or you may have an old version. Please install Java.

How do I install Java?

You can download Java from the Java website. It is free.

I do have Java installed

Like any software there are regular updates and upgrades. It's worth checking to see if you have the most up to date version of Java. You can check whether you have the recommended version of Java installed on your computer on the Java website.