Liverpool, Southport & West Lancs 40

FREE Please

LIVERPOOL, SOUTHPORT & WEST LANCS

take on

e

MAY - JULY 2015

EDITION 40

Jane McDonald Still Following Her Dreams

Hairy Bikers

Healthy Low Calorie Recipes

Tracey Miller Family Law

Award Winning Family Owned Luxury Parks set in Lancashire

Offering a 7 Day a Week Service

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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25% off glasses for over 25% plus plus free free eye eyeoff test test glasses for over 25% plus plus free free eye eyeoff test test glasses for over plus plus free free eye eye test test

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CONTENTS

20-21

INSIDE...

6-7

Save up to £100 per couple ...

On a Robinsons Mystery Tour

8-9

River Cruising in Style ...

Chrissy Nason from Silver Travel Advisor shares here experience

11

Holidays to Remember ...

At Ribby Hall Village

12-14

New Looks for your Home this Spring ...

Freshen your home with our guide

18-19

Supporting Independence Across the City ...

With Liverpool Mutual Homes

20-21

Jane McDonald ...

The no-messing Yorkshire lass with a powerful singing voice

How much cash could you release from your home?

12-14

36-37

26-28 26-28

Low Fat Recipes ...

From the Hairy Dieters

30-32

Out and About ...

Places to Visit and Things to Do

36-37

The King and I...

Tom Jones the Life

42-43

How to Choose the Right Home Care...

10 Key Questions to ask

46-47

Excellence Comes as Standard ...

With Asmall Hall.

Request your FREE GUIDE If you’re a homeowner aged 55 or over then you could use an Equity Release plan to unlock some of the value tied up in your property.

This guide will explain all the facts.

6th Floor | 120 Bark Street | Bolton | BL1 2AX T: (01204) 860 194 | F: (01204) 860 213 e: admin@mcgrathmedia.co.uk

Repay your existing mortgage Settle debts No monthly payments Move home in the future Lump sum of cash Maintain 100% ownership

Retirement Experience Nationwide Retirement Specialists

Call now for a FREE copy of our Guide to Equity Release or to arrange a no obligation appointment on:

0800 037 5902 www.retirement-experience.co.uk This is an equity release plan. To understand the features and risks, ask for a personal illustration.

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Professional writer will undertake ghostwriting and publishing of all kinds from booklets to autobiographies or family histories. Traditional and e-book publishing with asociated web sites if required. Installment terms available.

Contact Graham Smith at grahamsmithpublishing@yahoo.com or call 07866626090. www.grahamsmithmedia.co.uk 3

TWITTERING ON months. Barely a sentence goes by without use of the procreation verb or adjective and coming out of that falsely constructed generous gob it sounds like fingernails down the side of a ship.

Keeping abreast of the times Celebrity culture is big business. To join this band of elite, dysfunctional people you need certain qualities. You should preferably be verbally challenged to the point where you cannot string a sentence together, tattoos over most inches of exposed flesh are a necessity, metal objects inserted in each bodily orifice add to the attraction, oh, and you must be vulgar.

My 2015 award for vulgarity has to go to Leeds lass, I think, Josie Cunningham who hit the headlines after having a boob job on the NHS and then employing an agent of dubious origin to publicise the episode and subsequent miscreant meanderings of a sexual connotation which included offering to have an abortion so she could take part in Big Brother. Worrying isn’t it?

In a “fly on the wall” TV documentary this fearsome looking specimen came over as a complete half wit whose antics are capable of extracting large amounts of money from today’s downmarket tabloid media. Her baseball capped agent was shown ferrying her around in a taxi to various photo shoots and locations in his quest to make a financial killing. He’s an oddball who has a grasp of how to manipulate social media so the femme fatale thinks she is rising to iconic proportions in the popularity stakes while, truth is, he is lining his own pocket.

There’s enough collagen in her lips to keep a small trawler afloat in heavy seas and her so far untended teeth would mean most sane men would need an anaesthetic and several strong men to drag them under the mistletoe with her. Her dulcet Leeds accent makes a Billingsgate fish wife sound like an elocution expert and she uses enough profanities and vernacular to keep Gordon Ramsay going for six 4

In a scene of blissful domesticity she was shown with her mother painting skirting boards at the family home and holding a tasteful discourse about how much they ******* love each other and anyone who doesn’t like it can go forth and multiply. Their application of the gloss paint was as thick as their awful accents and the result was very similar to their sordid way of life, runny, lacking in finesse and full of drips.

amount of an average-sized newborn.

Maxxzandra Ford's son Avery is the heaviest ever Graham Smith baby to be born at St Joseph's Women's Hospital in Tampa, Florida.

Avery, who was delivered in a natural birth lasting 18 hours, is one of the largest-ever born in the state.

Ms Ford did not know she was pregnant until about 35 weeks in, according to media reports in the US. She told television stations WFLA and WFTS that after she rapidly gained weight last autumn, doctors confirmed she was pregnant.

Ms Ford said she thought she was having twins at first.

Josie describes herself as a model, for what I’m not quite sure. She sets out to shock and invariably succeeds. If your son brought her home you’d leave it. she is surely an ambassador for the cause of celibacy if ever I saw one.

Debbie Moore, a registered nurse at the hospital, said they would "definitely not" have recommended a natural birth if they had known how much Avery weighed, the Tampa Bay Times reported.

In one of her outbursts, proudly sticking out her prosthetically enhanced chest, she said fat people did not deserve a gastric band on the NHS. She deserves two. One around her vile, over inflated gob and the other strategically placed and tightened about six inches lower.

Avery's father, Allen Denton, told the newspaper: "I got a linebacker now instead of a fullback."

Musical boob Now here is a much more tasteful story about the female form.

A tattooed model who became a viral star by jiggling her breasts to Mozart has repeated the trick for Valentine's Day. Sara X Mills, whose unusual rendition of Mozart's Eine kleine Nachtmusik notched up 37m hits on YouTube, has this time performed to Beethoven's Fur Elise.

The 27-year-old US model, who also jiggled her breasts to Jingle Bells for Christmas, plays Cupid with a bow and arrow for her latest video.

She wrote: "Celebrate Valentine's Day with a silly new interpretation of this piece, Fur Elise. Much love and happiness to all!"

Stone me!

A woman in the US has given birth to a baby weighing 14.1 pounds (6.4kg) - and he is already eating double the

Ms Ford, who already has a one-year-old son and a five-year-old daughter, said she "just melted" when she finally held Avery.

Weather you like it or not Perhaps it’s my age but female weather presenters are beginning to get to me.

I’m old enough to remember Bert Ford and Michael Fish in their tweeds and sombre suits but today it seems an overwhelming number of presenters are women and more attention is supposed to be paid to the glamour than occluded fronts and deep depressions.

Is it me or are the isobars and low pressure areas being replaced by in your face cleavages and painted smiles? Are the flickering eyelashes and mascara supposed to detract from the fact that it’s below freezing in the Trossachs and scything down in the Gorbals, or is it all a femme fatale front to bluff us that half the time they get it all wrong?

And the scripting is getting on my cold front too.

“As we go into the first half of the weekend”…is that Saturday? “The start of the new working week”…that’ll be Monday then?

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MYSTERY TOURS

5 DAYS from ONLY

£159

Robinsons Own Hotels

includes 2 excursions

2015

Sunny Sussex Eastbourne

The Garden Isle Isle of Wight

Delightful Devon Torquay

Eastbourne is an “all year round” holiday destination with one of the best sunshine records in the UK.

The Isle of Wight offers stunning landscapes, award winning beaches, breath taking seascapes and not forgetting its extensive history.

The Imperial Hotel is an impressive Victorian hotel situated at the seaward end of Devonshire Place, an imposing tree-lined boulevard, less than fifteen minutes walk from the facilities and amenities in the town centre and across the road from the promenade and the bandstand. The hotel offers the guest a good standard of accommodation, spacious lounge areas and a majestic restaurant all in a dignified and tranquil ambience for the discerning holidaymaker.

The Ocean View Hotel is an elegant hotel commanding magnificent views across Sandown Bay, the balconies provide the perfect place to enjoy the sunset on summer evenings. Guests can unwind in the piano lounge before enjoying an evening meal in the spacious restaurant. A night porter ensures 24 hour reception service.

Hotel amenities l All rooms have private facilities, telephone, television and complimentary tea/coffee and hairdryers l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Table d’hote evening meal with choice of menu, plus tea or coffee l Live entertainment most evenings l Lift serving all floors l Porterage.

Hotel amenities l All rooms have private facilities, telephone, television and complimentary tea/coffee and hairdryers l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Table d’hote evening meal with choice of menu, plus tea or coffee l Live entertainment most evenings l Indoor heated pool l Indoor bowling green, table tennis and snooker room l Lift serving all floors l Porterage.

Freephone: 0800 083 9900

With its mild climate and trademark Palm Trees, Torquay is one of the UK’s premier seaside resorts and has been fashionable since the 19th Century.

The Abbey Lawn Hotel is an elegant Georgian hotel, in the grounds of the former Torre Abbey, with it’s newly refurbished conservatory / lounge offers the discerning holidaymaker an exceptional standard of comfort throughout.

Many of the bedrooms offer panoramic views of the bay.

Hotel amenities l All rooms have private facilities, telephone, television and complimentary tea/coffee and hairdryers l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Table d’hote evening meal with choice of menu, plus tea or coffee l Live entertainment most evenings l Indoor and seasonal outdoor pool l Lift serving all floors l Porterage

Groups: 0800 785 1025

The Robinsons Difference

PRICES NOT TO BE MISSED -

SAVE UP TO £100*

PER COUPLE AT THESE 3 FEATUR

ED RESORTS

Mystery Tours* DATE DURATION MYSTERY PRICE 26 April 5 days £159 04 May 5 days £169 11 May 5 days £169 18 May 5 days £179 25 May 5 days £189 01 June 5 days £209 08 June 5 days £209 15 June 5 days £209 22 June 5 days £209 29 June 5 days £209 06 July 5 days £209 13 July 5 days £209 20 July 5 days £209 27 July 5 days £209 03 August 5 days £219 10 August 5 days £219 17 August 5 days £219 24 August 5 days £219 31 August 5 days £209 07 September 5 days £209 14 September 5 days £209 21 September 5 days £209 28 September 5 days £209

Once your booking is made, you will be allocated at one of the three resorts featured. Your destination and seat numbers will be advised on receipt of your final travel document which is issued approx. 2 weeks before travel. Terms and conditions of the Trading Charter in the main 2015 brochure apply.

Includes excursions Friendly staff l Own hotels in great locations l Peace of mind security l Payment in instalments * Robinsons own hotels l

Local joining points l No single supplements* l High standard of accommodation l Great choice of menus l Executive coaches with extra legroom

l

l

7 Day Tours

8 Day Tours

6 Nts dinner, bed & breakfast

7 Nts dinner, bed & breakfast

Date 26 April 03 May 17 May 24 May 31 May 07 June 14 June 21 June 28 June 05 July 12 July 19 July 26 July 02 Aug 09 Aug 16 Aug 23 Aug 30 Aug 06 Sept 13 Sept 20 Sept 27 Sept 04 Oct 11 Oct 18 Oct 25 Oct

Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn - - £279 - £319 £349 £349 £359 £359 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £359 £359 £359 £329 £329 £329 £289 £289 £289 £279 £279 £279 £269 £269 £269 £269 £269 £269

Supplements per person 7 Days: Imperial: Premier Room £30 Ocean View: Premier Room £45 -Sea View Room £13 Abbey Lawn: Premier Room £40 - Front Facing Room £13

!

Win A Robinsons Holiday Win a holiday for two people with Robinsons Holidays to either the Abbey Lawn Hotel in Torquay, the Imperial Hotel in Eastbourne or the Ocean View Hotel on the Isle of Wight.

Name:-----------------------------------------------

This is your chance to win a holiday for two people for five days. Prize is valid between 1st July 2015 and 30th September 2015.

------------------------------------------------------

Simply choose one of the dates from our 2015 main brochure, a copy of which will be sent to you upon publication. Prize includes half board accommodation and coach travel from any pick-up point in our main brochure. Holiday itinerary is as per relevant brochure tour for chosen date.

Postcode:-------------------------------------------

Address:--------------------------------------------

------------------------------------------------------

Tel:-------------------------------------------------Email:-----------------------------------------------

Prize is subject to availability and is non-transferable, non- refundable and has no cash redemption value. Prize can not be auctioned on any web-site or used or offered as a prize for any other competition or as a gift or incentive. Prize is not for re-sale. Multiple entries will be disqualified. Closing date for all entries is 31st May 2015.

Post your entry to McGrath Media, 6th Floor, 120 Bark Street, Bolton BL1 2AX ROBINSONS HOLIDAYS may wish to contact you about special offers, products or services by post.

Please tick this box if you do not wish to receive these details 

Date Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn 09/10 May £369 £369 £369 16/17 May £379 £379 £379 23/24 May £389 £389 £389 30/31 May £399 £399 £399 06/07 June £399 £399 £399 13/14 June £399 £399 £399 20/21 June £409 £409 £409 27/28 June £409 £409 £409 04/05 July £409 £409 £409 11/12 July £409 £409 £409 18/19 July £409 £409 £409 25/26 July £409 £409 £409 01/02 Aug £409 £409 £409 08/09 Aug £409 £409 £409 15/16 Aug £409 £409 £409 22/23 Aug £409 £409 £409 29/30 Aug £409 £409 £409 05/06 Sept £399 £399 £399 12/13 Sept £399 £399 £399 19/20 Sept £389 £389 £389 26/27 Sept £359 £359 £359 03/04 Oct £319 £319 £319 10/11 Oct £309 £309 £309 17/18 Oct £299 £299 £299 24/25 Oct £299 £299 £299 Supplements per person 8 Days: Imperial: Premier Room £35 Ocean View: Premier Room £50 -Sea View Room £15 Abbey Lawn: Premier Room £50 - Front Facing Room £15

9 Day Tours 8 Nts dinner, bed & breakfast Date 02 May 16 May 23 May 30 May 06 June 13 June 20 June 27 June 04 July 11 July 18 July 25 July 01 Aug 08 Aug 15 Aug 22 Aug 29 Aug 05 Sept 12 Sept 19 Sept 26 Sept

Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn £399 £399 £399 £409 - £419 £419 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £419 £419 £419 £389 £389 £389

9 DAYS ~ ONLY STANDARD ROOMS AVAILABLE

Visit us online at www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk and book a great deal today!

Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP.

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50 Plus Travel

sponsored by

River cruising in style

By Chrissy Nason from Silver Travel Advisor Following a long travel career, Chrissy Nason brings her experience and eye for stylish detail as an advisor and travel writer for Silver Travel Advisor, the information and review website for mature travellers.

For my first river-cruise experience I was delighted to be invited by Avalon Waterways on their inaugural 3 night sailing of Poetry II, from Cologne to Amsterdam.

First impressions didn’t disappoint: sleek, elegant, with a full-length sky deck, spacious lounge and dining areas, the ship exudes style. The staterooms (cabins) have the benefit of wall-towall panoramic windows to facilitate maximum viewing and create a balcony within the room. Beautifully decorated

8

in contemporary style and furnished to a high standard, the staterooms are luxurious and comfortable. Storage in small spaces, always a challenge, was plentiful. The marble tiled bathroom and shower was a decent size, beautifully appointed, with complimentary L’Occitaine toiletries.

Ready to explore, I opted to join a walking tour of the city centre, keen to get a feel for Cologne before sailing later that afternoon. All destination excursions have an expert local guide and individual audio sets to give a personalized experience.

Cologne is home to Eau de Cologne, the fragrance created in 1709 by Johann Maria Fabrina. The original shop has its own little museum and although they now offer a wide range of fragrances, the original cologne is still sold.

The Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an architectural masterpiece and famous as the home of the shrine of The Three Wise Men, whose remains were brought to Cologne in the 12th century. The Cathedral miraculously escaped the WW2 bombing, apparently the spires were used as a navigational

landmark to target the main railway station located immediately next door.

A few minutes walk back to the ship, a short mandatory safety drill and with the sun setting behind the Cathedral’s spires, we set sail.

Relaxation and dining room facilities are plentiful and spacious for the ship’s 128 passenger capacity. After a pre-dinner drink in the lounge we headed down to a delicious dinner: typically, a three or four course a la carte menu, including regional dishes, with complimentary wine or local beer. The food throughout was very good with a choice of hot food to order or a buffet and salad bar.

The next morning we docked at Tiel with a choice of sightseeing: Arnhem or the Kroller-Muller museum (Van Gogh paintings). Most of us opted for Arnhem.

We drove over the famous reconstructed bridge to Oosterbeek and Villa Hartenstein, now an excellent museum.

We also visited the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery. Surrounded by woods, viewed through mist and rain it was deeply moving.

After lunch we sailed a short distance to Willemstad, a small picturesque town

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TRAVEL with well-preserved fortifications and a lovely octagonal church where we were treated to an organ recital. Back to the ship, another memorable supper and a great night’s entertainment from a local group who had everyone tapping and clapping and yours truly on the dance floor.

Overnight we sailed to Dordrecht with a choice of excursions: the worldfamous Keukenhof tulip gardens or the Kinderdijk Dutch windmill heritage site.

I opted for the Keukenhof Gardens, an hour’s drive. Open only 8 weeks each year, the gardens offer a stunning horticultural display: 7 million spring-time flowers within a wooded landscaped park with 700 tulip varieties.

Back on board, I requested a tour of the ship. Erik, the Cruise Director, pointed out some subtle design features: “slightly higher chairs and tables, perfect for those guests who can no longer touch their toes” he said giving me a knowing look. Coffee tables that can be raised to dining table height to allow guests inroom dining, should they prefer. The skydeck, a tremendous space for sunbathing and watching the world go by, with a hot-tub, loungers and a bistro area for lunchtime barbecue grills.

Certainly, for someone like me who suffers from seasickness, one of the joys of this cruise was the gentle, relaxing, motion of the ship. I rarely felt any vibrations and in the superbly comfortable beds (complete with memory foam mattress topper) I slept very well. Soundproofed cabins, Avalon’s state of the art design, quiet engines and generators no doubt helped, though the wine probably played its part too!

A river cruise with Avalon ticks a lot of boxes: inclusive guided on-shore excursions; full-board a la carte dining with complimentary local wines and beers; onboard gratuities; transfers and a private chauffeured taxi from your home to the nearest UK airport or Eurostar station (within a 100 mile radius). How good is that?

We arrived in Amsterdam all too soon.

Most people chose to add an additional hotel night to allow for sightseeing, but my flight home beckoned. After such a wonderful experience I’ve already got my eye on Avalon’s themed Opera cruise next year: on-board performances as you glide down the Danube from Budapest to Prague. I can’t think of a better way to experience Europe’s rich heritage.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Sample Itinerary for 2015 ‘ Tulip Time’ The eight day Tulip Time cruise takes in the tranquil, open landscapes of Holland and Belgium and the Keukenhof’s magnificent spring flowers and the wooden windmills of Kinderdijk on this memorable river cruise. Highlights include an orientation walk in Veere, a canal cruise in cosmopolitan Amsterdam, sights with Local Guides in Antwerp, Ghent and Middelburg and the fascinating city of Maastricht. Cruises run from 31 March until 1 May 2015 and prices include return flights and airport transfers, a door-to-door home pick up service, a seven night full board deluxe cruise with wine and beers served with dinner, on-board gratuities and included excursions.

Avalon Waterways 0800 668 1801 or visit www.avaloncruises.co.uk

Silver Travel Advisor is a travel review, information and advice website exclusively for over 50’s, packed with articles, suggestions, tips and ideas. For free and independent travel advice as well as reviews about holidays, hotels, restaurants and days out, please visit www.silvertraveladvisor.com or email service@silvertraveladvisor.com. It’s free to register as a member of Silver Travel Advisor, and you could win a fabulous holiday prize.

9

Age Concern Services & Products supporting Sefton’s over 50s

Funeral Plans – call and speak to a member of our team for further information. With the cost escalating each year, you can freeze the price of your Funeral now and receive a £25.00 high street voucher.

Financial Planning – financial advice on pensions, investments, tax, long-term care-planning and other money matters, provided by our specialist partners at Co-operative Wealth.

Retirement Planning – courses available to help you make the most of mid life and retirement.

Information and Advice – expert advisors on hand to offer you confidential and impartial advice on a wide range of issues including pensions, care and benefit checks.

Counselling Service – our free sessions are delivered by vetted counsellors. All sessions are delivered in a relaxed, confidential, welcoming and non-judgmental setting.

Our office is open Monday to Friday between 10.00am – 4.00pm. You can make an appointment or simply throughout their lives, if you feel drop in to our office.

We were the first Age Concern in the world and of local older people. From Information and Advice to Homecare, from Funeral Plans to Equity Release, our range of products and services suit the needs of people agedand 50 and over. We provide practical times le feel lonely isolated at particular advice, help, care and support to help you make r someone you AgelifeConcern & more of life andknow, to make your better and Liverpool easier.

Befriends Ad_190x125mmV5.pdf 1 12/01/2015 pride ourselves on improving the quality09:20 of life

Sefton may be toare: help. If you Other services we able provide

– companionship 0 andAsover, live in the borough of Sefton and haveBefriending Sefton and GP,Re-ablement you can access the and we are a local charity it means we are able to: increasing your confidence and independence.

opportunity to increase your ending and Re-ablement service.

Giving • Use all of the funds we raise to support local people you theCancer Support Service – practical support for older

• Provide the services which older people tell us what people aged 60+ recently diagnosed with cancer. independence, improve your confidence and overcome loneliness.

they need and want • Represent and campaign on behalf of older people’s views accurately and powerfully

Our Sefton office right in the heart of Southport town centre is at 8-10 Hoghton Street. Close to Southport Train Station and local bus routes, the office is friendly and welcoming and our team of staff and volunteers are on hand to answer any questions, queries or concerns you may have.

Homecare – quality personal care and practical support including shopping, bathing and feeding.

Active Ageing – keep fit sessions, cycling and walking groups with qualified cycle and walk leaders, and computer sessions.

access up to 6 weeks of FREE support plus subsequent weekly visits r volunteer befrienders who are carefully selected to support you.

you can help us Sefton Age Concern Liverpool &How can help you to: You can help us to help older people by donating your

unwanted items (clothes,according bric-a-brac, books, CDs/ cernServices Liverpool &Keep Sefton Homecare Service has been designed to • Get to activities & • in touch with people we provide at our Sefton office are: DVDs, etc) to our charity shops, leaving us a legacy in what Equity older people toldappointments us theywith have been your looking We arrange will or byfor. making a donation.

We arefor also seeking Release – free, have no obligation a medical appointments • Manage your in many areas including Charity Shops, specialist Bowers Retirement Services. ed carers tofrom visit your home, atmoney times you decidevolunteers to help with the tasks you

Befriending & Re-ablement and Information & Advice.

Wills/Legal Power of Attorney Clinic – appointments • usFeel • below Feel safe Pleaseservice contact if you positive would like to know more. cover the tasks plus many more. We fit the around your needs. with a solicitor from Goldsmith Williams. Sessions take place on Tuesday •between 2.00pm – 4.00pm.

Be treated with dignity

• Look after yourself

and respect

How to get in touch

• Going out to the shops • Have companionship

t the Befriending & Re-ablement Team on 01704 542 933.

Drop into our office at: 8 – 10 Hoghton Street, Southport, PR9 0TF Phone us on: 01704 542993 8-10 Hoghton Street, Southport, PR9 0TF E-mail us: mail@ageconcernliverpoolandsefton.org.uk Twitter: Follow us @AC_Lpool_Sefton www.ageconcernliverpoolandsefton.org.uk Like our Facebook page: Age Concern Liverpool & Sefton

10

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

holidays

made to

remember

In the heart of the Lancashire countryside you will find the beautiful Ribby Hall Holiday Village.

Over 100 acres of luxury accommodation, restaurants, cafés and bars, leisure facilities and an award winning Spa. Just a short distance away you’ll find the charming seaside town of Lytham St Annes and the bright lights of Blackpool. With something to keep every age entertained, Ribby Hall Village is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday with family or friends.

hol£id2a7y9s

from

*

e! for six peopl

Our fabulous cottages, with all the luxuries of home, start from just £279 for six people.

To book or request a brochure call us FREE on 0800 107 1931 or visit www.ribbyhall.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply. £279 lead in price applies to four night break between 20 Nov – 20 Dec 15 in a Poppy Cottage.

6821 RHV Over 50s A4 Ad 2015.indd 1

03/02/2015 15:10

Soothing, stylish dining is on the menu with the help of Colours at B&Q

New Looks For Your Home This Spring IF there’s one thing the freshness of Spring brings it’s the chance to take a new look at our homes.

12

Winter-time tends to make us close the curtains, keep cosy and just enjoy being indoors, but Springtime is all about renewal – and our homes are at the front-line of these plans.

This may be the year, for example, when you finally add that muchneeded EXTENSION, SUNROOM or ORANGERIE to your home. Or you can make your living room and kitchen into a major open-plan space that could quickly become the heart of family living.

You may want to add the light and space of a CONSERVATORY. The key

here is to ensure that it doesn’t look “tacked on” to your property. It’s important to give the appearance of flowing from the main house with the same flooring and décor.

Be careful not to over-extend your property, though, at the expense of your garden. Most of us value that bit of green space especially in the Spring and, if you’ve got the time and the interest, your garden can become a pleasing feature of both your home and your lifestyle.

Converting your garage into an extra bedroom or a kitchen extension works well in many homes. Most of us don’t use our garages properly anyway. They can easily become cluttered and many are never employed for their prime use as somewhere to keep the car, so using what your property already has available makes sense.

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HOME Changing your old FRONT-DOOR to a more modern design, preferably with glass to allow in plenty of light, is a simple way to freshen up both the outside and the inside of your home.

This can help update the HALLWAY which, after all, is the first opportunity you have to make an impression on any visitor. Bold wallpaper in bright colours on a white background is a great modernising option here. Hallways need light so look at your lighting and consider updating and add a mirror or two to maximise this.

Before you start buying items or investing in paint and wallpaper, a simple way to brighten up your home and give it a fresh feel is to undertake some serious de-cluttering.

Take an honest look at every room and see what you can take out to allow clearer surfaces, cleaner lines and a general feeling of space. It can be hard breaking the emotional link to many of the items we insist on hoarding but try to be objective about possessions.

rustic tiles. Even treating yourself to a set of brightly coloured kettle, toaster and coffee-maker can make your kitchen look chic.

Brighten up that home office space with a lively blind from Direct Blinds at www.directblinds.co.uk

Go for inexpensive plain tiles in toning colours to highlight smart units and one of the new textured floor coverings or

Your DINING ROOM or dining area needs to be a place where you enjoy spending time so, even if this is a small space, create something special here.

Buy a lovely chandelier and choose cool light greys and other pleasing shades so that you can eat in a pretty area that makes the whole experience a pleasure.

You don’t need to change everything in your BATHROOM – although if you’ve still got an avocado suite that might prove the exception! The most enduring contemporary look for bathrooms these days is still a white suite.

Most of us happily take the same items through each house move as though they had a right to be in the new place when, in fact, they’re of no real use to daily life.

Chuck out what you can’t give to the local charity shops. The same applies to dated pieces of furniture – especially those surplus to requirements. Some charities, like the British Heart Foundation sell second-hand furniture to boost their funds and are often glad to collect saleable items in good condition.

Changing your home doesn’t need to be all about costly major changes, though. Going for a new COLOUR SCHEME or using WALLPAPER cleverly on a feature wall in an otherwise plain room can transform your property.

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Looking at your lounge or living area.

The fireplace is almost always the focal point of the room, so selecting the right style, surround, and furniture for your fireplace is key. Blazes have many fireplaces to choose from to help transform your living space this Spring.

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Steam-clean your KITCHEN area – you’ll be amazed how this lightens the place and update white electrical sockets with chrome. Kitchens are a central area in most homes these days so it’s worth investing in new cupboard doors or work surfaces for a more modern look.

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HOME SHOWERS are quite futuristic now, as well as being very lifestyle-friendly, so changing your old shower is a practical improvement that won’t break the family budget. Going for natural colours on the walls, whether in tiles or emulsion, can be off-set by jewelcoloured towels and other accessories that can be picked up relatively cheaply.

If you’re wanting a major change here and want to invest in your home, having a WET ROOM has become popular. Even smaller bathrooms can be adjusted with concealed shower trays that give the appearance of a wet room which can prove very practical.

Get clever with STORAGE in the bathroom in particular. Ditch the laundry basket for a start – you really don’t need to keep laundry here.

Replace it instead with a pop-up laundry caddy for each bedroom.

Invest in an over-door towel rail, which is great for hanging up your damp towels. And go through all those lotions and potions that everyone has in their bathroom. They take up a lot of space and it’s a safe bet that you’ll never use most of them!

Turn your bedroom into a contemporary and relaxing place with Somers bedding from LUMA New BEDDING can alter a tired-looking bedroom, especially if you complement the shades in the rest of the décor.

Jarring colours don’t work well here as this room is all about relaxing and winding down, so go for soothing neutrals with restrained colours.

Now so many people work from home, many of us have a HOME OFFICE but the temptation is just to hive off a space and stick a fitted desk in there. Instead,

how about creating a work area that really does promote positive thinking with a fresh lick of white paint and a feature blind on the window with a splash of colour?

Don’t forget the WALLS throughout your home, either. An eye-catching painting, much-loved family photo or just a print that you like can come to life with a beautiful frame that adds interest to your home, and helps promotes the feelgood factor of Spring.

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The Upside to Downsizing

We have a range of two bedroom apartments available for sale through Shared Ownership.

Located on the beautiful Joseph Williams Mews development in Belle Vale, Liverpool 25, these properties have been designed specifically with over 55’s in mind so that you can have the lifestyle that you deserve.

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18 NEWS

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

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An exclusive development of luxury lodges and static homes has recently been unveiled at Moor Lane Leisure Park in Ainsdale

Five-star luxury at great prices on idyllic site AN EXCLUSIVE development of luxury lodges and static homes has recently been unveiled at Moor Lane Leisure Park in Ainsdale.

The holiday park – now under new ownership – has been expertly revamped to provide luxury holiday and lodge accommodation for mature and retired adults.

Prices for the holiday homes start at just £25,000, with a stunning range of styles to choose between. From modern, two-bedroom lodges, to immaculate pre-owned statics, the

spacious homes offer fantastic value for money.

“Our beautiful holiday homes offer five-star luxury at affordable prices and enjoy a peaceful setting – perfect for the more mature holidaymaker or those who are retired,” said park manger, Lynda Murray.

Each lodge and static home comes with a private driveway, a large verandah, a landscaped garden and free wifi – as well as impressive views over open countryside. All new lodges and caravans are sold fully furnished and are kitted out to

the highest specification, with stylish décor which can be customised to suit your tastes.

It's not just weekend holidaymakers that the park is popular with either. Lynda explained: "More and more customers are people who have chosen to sell their family home and downsize.* “For instance, one gentleman recently sold his house, just four miles from the park, for £480,000 and purchased a top-of-the-range lodge for £80,000. Where else could you get a brand new property, with

open views and a large verandah or garden for that price? The park is great for customers who have an apartment or villa abroad, but still want a UK base too. We really do offer the best of both worlds."

Moor Lane Leisure Park overlooks Formby Hall Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, and is just minutes from Formby, Ainsdale and Southport.

Lynda added: “We have one of the finest locations in the UK, close to a host of attractions like Formby Pinewoods. We're also a pet friendly

site and the park has secure barrier access and CCTV for extra peace of mind."

UK Leisure Parks, which owns the development, is a family-run company with a number of prestigious awards to its name.

A variety of finance deals are available, with part exchange options on both properties and touring caravans. Static homes can also be relocated to the site.

So what are you waiting for?

Your dream holiday home could be closer than you think.

Moor Lane Leisure Park is located about a mile along Moor Lane (turn left at the traffic lights on Woodvale crossroads at the end of the Formby Bypass coming from Southport or right from Liverpool).

l To arrange an appointment, or request an enquiry pack, call Moor Lane Leisure Park on 01704 573259/07825685768, email admin@luxuryparks.co.uk or visit www.ukleisureparks. co.uk. * Check terms and conditions

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Moor Lane Leisure Park is a new development overlooking Formby Hall Golf Course situated between Formby & Ainsdale, only a stones throw away from Southport.

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The Smithy Leisure Park in Garstang is an established park situated on the Lancaster to Preston canal offering a wide range on new & used homes, some with waterfront positions.

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Oakland’s is just outside the beautiful town of Lytham St Anne’s and offers all your touring needs 01772 634 459.

Moor Lane & Glenfields both have new exclusive holiday & lodge developments. All homes come complete with private parking, verandas, fully serviced pitches, landscaped gardens & most have unspoiled views across open countryside.

With homes starting from £8,000 and Lodges from £79,995 we won’t be beaten on price, quality or service!

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42 x 20, 2 bedrooms, situated on The Meadows exclusive development at Glenfield’s.

42 x 16, 2 bedrooms, 2 x coming 1 situated on Moor Lane, the other on a waterfront pitch on The Smithy.

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42 x 20 double home, 2 bedrooms & utility room, situated on The Smithy.

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Glenfield Leisure Park is less than 3 miles north of Knott End in the village of Pilling.

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Jane

McDonald IT’S amazing to think that it’s 17 years since Jane McDonald first captivated viewers in the BBC documentary-soap “The Cruise.”

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The no-messing Yorkshire lass, a singer on the cruise ship, immediately fascinated everyone with her broad Yorkshire accent, warm heart and undoubtedly powerful singing voice.

Right from the first sight of her, we knew she was a straightforward type of person, and she became the enduring image of that first series. The programme also provided a very useful springboard to success for Ms McDonald. But by then she had more than earned the right to it.

Jane grew up in Wakefield. Her father, Peter, was a miner who doubled as a chimney sweep and Jane’s mother, Jean, and Jane’s grandmother ran a boarding house.

Singing was what Jane was destined for, however, and for 12 years, she sang in the clubs throughout the North, honing her singing skills and learning to handle every kind of audience.

She also entertained on cruise ships and in 1995 she met her future husband, Henrik, onboard The Century. They married in May, 1998, and in January, 1998, the BBC began broadcasting its fly-on-the-wall documentary.

The programme was watched regularly by 14 million viewers and her wedding to Henrik, also televised, was watched by a large audience although the couple later divorced.

Such was her instant fame that in July, 1998, Jane released her first, self-titled album which spent three weeks at No.1 and went platinum.

In November the following year, she released her concert video, followed in 2000 by her second album, “Inspiration.”

TV proved to the nation that here was a girl who could not only sing but who was funny and could present. She became a guest presenter on BBC’s “National Lottery” before being given her own show, “Star for a Night”, which helped launch the career of singer Joss Stone.

Because of the way the public first got to know Jane, it’s always been difficult for her to shake off the image, as she says herself, of “‘er off the cruise ship.”

But, in fact, not only has she carved out a very successful TV career but she has regularly toured all over the country, and all over the world including America, bringing her own brand of glamorous glitz and powerful, entrancing singing to her legions of fans.

And she appreciates those fans. “To me, twenty fans are equally as important as twenty thousand fans,” she states.

“When I look out, I don’t see a sea of people but individual faces.”

She also has very loyal fans. “They travel around the country to see me,” she explains, “write to me, send me things and

are all so supportive. I always make sure when I do a concert or a TV show that I meet the fans afterwards.

“There’s been a time when the signing session after the show has lasted longer than the show itself! But I wouldn’t miss that for the world. Without them …. well … I woudn’t know what to do.”

Jane especially appreciates her fans since she became wellknown and started touring because of her tough years in the clubs. “When I sang before I’d have to compete with the bingo callers and people chatting at the bar,” she says. “I thought I’d gone deaf on this tour because the audience was so quiet. It took a while to realise they were quiet because they were listening to me.”

As well as her touring, Jane became a regular presenter on ITV daytime programme “Loose Women” where her forthright opinions were always loved by viewers. She finally left the series last year after 10 years to concentrate on her music career and toured the country at the same time as her latest album, “Singer of Your Song”, came out.

She’s made numerous guest appearances on mainstream TV - from “Ready, Steady Cook” to “All Star Family Fortunes” and “Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway”. She’s reviewed newspapers and had her own autobiography, “Follow Your Dreams” which was published in 2000.

Her shows are unashamedly showbizzy and fun with eye-catching sets and costumes, and Jane belts out all the favourite standards to please her fans. Indeed, she always seems to enjoy herself as much as her audience does.

She’s 51 now, divorced twice but happy finally with musician Eddie Rothe. They first dated at 18 when he was in the band Liquid Gold, but split up and Jane met him again on the set of “Loose Women”.

Her fans are a cross-section of ages, including her own age-group. “I see the same three rows wherever I go,” she states. “I’ve seen them grow up and go through marriages and losses.” And it’s to these loyal fans that she dedicated last year’s album and tour.

She’s just finished a stint in panto at Birmingham Hippodrome, in “Jack and the Beanstalk” playing The Enchantress, before going off on another series of sell-out appearances around the UK. But to all those fans who were first enchanted by her in “The Cruise” and who have remained keen to follow her career ever since, it’s plain that – while life may not have been all plain-sailing for Jane McDonald – she’s determined to continue putting a smile on other people’s faces.

For details of her latest appearances go to www.jane-mcdonald.com

For more articles like this one, please visit our brand new revamped website at www.50plusmagazine.co.uk ! www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

21

Will your past come back to haunt you?

A recent court decision has given an ex-wife the permission to make an application for financial relief following a divorce some 25 years ago.

It is vital to note that, if there was no order made by the court dealing with the matrimonial finances and dismissing all future claims, an application to the court could be made to resolve the financial matters at any time………….even 25 years after the divorce was completed.

It is also now not uncommon for a person to come to us for advice who has married for a second or even a third time.

The issue is often that when an earlier marriage was dissolved the financial matters relating to the divorce were not properly finalised. This could have been for any number of reasons such as there being no assets at the time, a misbelief that it wasn’t necessary or a lack of legal advice.

In the recent case, that is exactly what has happened and now the ex-husband has a pot which he has accrued since separation and he is at real risk of having to make a substantial payment to his ex-wife.

Clearly this is frustrating & distressing to him and his family, but unfortunately for him, an application to the court has been made, despite the ex-husband arguing that the application couldn’t possibly be successful , however the court didn’t agree and that application will now be heard, the outcome may not be known until later this year or early next year.

Whether you have re-married or not, the fact remains that if you did not formally resolve the financial matters at the time of your divorce; there is a real risk that your ex could come back to seek financial relief now. The assets that you have built since your divorce could be at risk.

Quote “50 Plus Magazine” for an ENTIRELY FREE OF CHARGE, NO TIME LIMIT CONSULTATION. 22

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These are some frequently asked questions:Q: “I didn’t have a solicitor at the time of my divorce, does that matter?”

A: It doesn’t matter that you didn’t have a solicitor at the time and the likelihood is that you wouldn’t have known to resolve the financial matters at the same time as the divorce. Unless you have a financial court order sealed by the court, an application by either party could be made at any time in the future.

(There are exceptions – see below “I’ve married….)

Q: “I have a financial order sealed by the court, am I ok?”

A: It is likely that that order will dismiss all future financial claims resulting from the marriage but you may want to have it checked over if you are unsure particularly if legal advice was not sought at the time Q: “We simply sold the house and had half each at the time. Is that the end of it?”

A: Regardless of what happened at the time, if there is no order to dismiss the claims or a bar by re-marriage, a claim can still be brought Q: “I’ve remarried but my ex hasn’t” A: Regardless of one party’s re-marriage, if the other party hasn’t, they could still bring a financial claim, this depends though on which party was the petitioner and which the Respondent and whether certain boxes were ticked on the divorce application Q: “My divorce went through over 6 years ago, isn’t there a limitation?”

No, the Statute of Limitation doesn’t apply to matrimonial matters and so a claim could be brought at any time unless it is dismissed or barred Q: “The children are all grown up now, isn’t that the end of it” A: No, just because any children of the marriage have reached majority, a financial claim for a spouse could still be brought.

It is essential to seek legal advice; to have your previous divorce looked at by experienced professionals. At Tracey Miller Family Law, we can consider the documentation that you have and where necessary discuss your options as to protecting your current position from ghosts of relationships past.

SEMMES HOUSE, RUMFORD COURT, 12 RUMFORD PLACE, LIVERPOOL L3 9DG Tracey Miller Family Law specialises in Divorce & Judicial Separation, Financial Settlements, Cohabitee Disputes, Children Matters, Civil Partnerships, and Prenuptial Agreements.

One of the main differences between TMFL and other solicitors is that we offer a 7 day a week service, which means we are available to speak to, out of hours and over a weekend.

Please contact us on:

0151 5153036 or 07795060211

Visit our website

www.traceymillerfamilylaw.com

FREE CONSULTATION WITH DISCREET CARE Call 01704 578 209 11/8/11 20:22:00

DENTURE SOLUTIONS What is a Clinical Dental Technician?

A Clinical Dental Technician (CDT) is a qualified dental technician that has under gone further Education and Training in areas such as Medical Emergencies, Cross Infection Control and Oral Pathology (cancers and anomalies) to name just a few sections that make up the Diploma in Clinical Dental Technology as Awarded by the Royal Collage of Surgeons (RCS).

It is this qualification that allows the clinician at Denture Solutions to be able to be registered and regulated with the General Dental Council (the official body for protecting the public with regards to dentistry) and carry indemnity insurance. It is this qualification, which means that only Dentists and Clinical Dental Technicians are the only Dental Professionals permitted to supply dentures direct to the public. A dental technician is not qualified to supply a denture directly to the public. However, despite this being an act of Mal practice many technicians will still practice illegally without informing the patient that they are not qualified. If you are unsure if your denture provider is qualified; ask them for their GDC registration number, then contact the GDC to see if they are registered not just as a dental technician but as a CDT. Dentures, like most things, have a limited lifespan; usually around 5-7 years. After this period of time the denture can start to offer inadequate facial support, which can leave cheeks looking sunken and withered as well as lips appearing excessively wrinkled. New dentures can reduce these age related features by supporting the facial tissues without making the teeth looking large and protruded.

DENTURE Solutions fully understands the daily problems that wearing a denture can create.

Its clinical technician, Andrew Corlett (CDT, RCS (Eng)) and his team of highly skilled technicians and nurses aim to provide a complete professional denture service, with discreet care and understanding of what your needs and expectations are.

Using its onsite laboratory enables the team to combine clinical and technical skills together to design and create beautifully handcrafted dentures focusing on comfort, fit and appearance.

Andrew’s passion and enthusiasm for natural lifelike dentures has helped him create a denture clinic where the finest detail and care are delivered in a relaxed atmosphere.

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Look at the difference

At your free initial consultation Denture Solutions will take time to discuss your individual needs and the choices that are available to you, be it complete or partial dentures, flexible Before dentures, implant dentures as well as denture repairs, adjustments and relines.

After

It’s friendly, professional staff will guide you through the whole process making your experience a relaxing and enjoyable one.

Let Denture Solutions solve your denture problems with our friendly, personal and confidential service. We provide natural looking Dentures designed and created just for you.

Denture Cleaning Here at Denture Solutions we use the Renfert Sympro Cleaning System which is recommended by the British Association of Clinical Dental Technology.

Mrs Graham from Waterloo “When I first saw Mr Corlett’s ad, regarding his dental clinic, I was interested, but also anxious, as I had not heard of him before. However at my first consultation I realised my anxiety was not necessary. We discussed what I needed and what would be best for me.

The end result is a perfect set of the most comfortable dentures I have ever had.”

Dentures change with age; under a microscope you can see how the surface becomes increasingly coarse. Everyday cleaning at home is correct and important, but cannot prevent deposits forming and spreading. These deposits change over time; they harden within a day and trap pollutions.

The denture can lose its lustre and become marked and unattractive.

In just 30 minutes the denture undergoes an intensive cleaning process. Cleaning should be carried out at least 3 to 4 times a year.

Have your denture cleaned regularly and professionally at Denture Solutions.

Thank you to Mrs Graham who kindly allowed us to use her testimonial and images.

Natural looking dentures designed and created just for you.

New dentures direct to the public Emergency repairs and relines • Implant dentures and flexible dentures • Free consultation with discreet care • Home visits by appointment • •

Fully qualified, registered and insured clinical dental technician with 20 years experience.

Find us on, 104 Station Road, Ainsdale, Southport, PR8 3HL or get in touch, phone: 01704 578 209 email: manager@denturesolutionsuk.com web: www.denturesolutionsuk.com

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11/8/11 20:22:00

FOOD AND DRINK THE HAIRY DIETERS EAT FOR LIFE "We've cooked the recipes in our first book over and over, and they've become much loved standards in our kitchens, along with our other favourite dishes. We enjoy them so much that, like you, we wanted, more so now we've come up with some new ones that we hope you're going to like just as much."

ALL-IN-ONE SPICY PORK AND RICE 395 calories per portion Lean, tender pork with spicy rice and lots of veggies - what more could you want? This is a scrumptiously simple family supper with big flavours that fulfils all your needs. Only problem is stopping yourself eating too much of it!

Heat the oil in a large, non-stick deep frying pan or sautÊ pan. Fry the onion wedges over a medium heat for 3 minutes until they’re softened and lightly browned, stirring regularly.

Season the pork with salt and black pepper, then add it to the pan and stir-fry with the onion for 2 minutes until lightly browned. Add the chorizo, garlic, peppers and beans and stir-fry together for 2 minutes more. Sprinkle with the spices and stir in the rice, then pour over the stock and bring to the boil.

Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring regularly, until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice and pork are both lovely and tender.

Serves 4 Prep: 15 minutes Cooking time: about 30 minutes 2 tsp olive oil 1 medium onion, sliced into thin wedges 500g pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1 cm slices 50g chorizo sausage, skinned and cut into 5mm slices 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 red and 1 orange pepper, deseeded and sliced 100g green beans, trimmed and cut into short lengths 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander 1/2 tsp hot chilli powder 150g easy-cook long-grain rice 750ml chicken stock, made with 1 stock cube flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper.

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SHIP A traditional ‘Great British Pub’ FIVE-MINUTE PIZZA 250 calories per pizza

The Ship at Lathom serves a wide range of real ales – with always at least six on offer; premium lagers and stouts; fine wines and spirits – including a range of malt whiskies. There’s always a welcoming and relaxed environment with friendly, attentive and knowledgeable staff to make your visit an extra special one...

Our super-quick pizza is based on a tortilla wrap instead of pizza dough, which makes it lower in calories and fast to prepare - a pizz-a genius! We like to add some pitted olives to our pizza before grilling but don't forget that every 15 grams of olives ups the calorie count by 15.

Preheat the grill to its hottest setting. Place the tortilla on a baking sheet and spread with the passata, leaving a 2cm gap around the edge.

Tear the ham into strips and arrange them on top of the tortilla. Sprinkle with the oregano and then the grated Cheddar. Season with black pepper.

Toss the rocket or salad leaves with olive oil and a dribble of balsamic vinegar if you like. Put to one side.

Place the pizza under the grill and cook for about 11/2 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the edges of the pizza are beginning to brown. Watch carefully so it doesn't burn! Slide the pizza on to a board or a warmed plate, top with the salad and serve immediately.

Makes 1 pizza (serves 1) Prep: 31/2 minutes Cooking time: 11/2 minutes 1 large flour tortilla wrap 3 tbsp passata with basil 20g wafer-thin ham (a couple of slices) 2 good pinches of dried oregano 20g half-fat Cheddar cheese, finely grated small handful of rocket or baby salad leaves 1/2 tsp extra virgin olive oil 1/2 tsp good balsamic vinegar (optional) olives in brine (optional) freshly ground black pepper.

The Food At The Ship you can indulge in traditional country inn dining with fresh food that is locally sourced, much from premium local specialist suppliers. The food is prepared on the premises by a resident team of local chefs, supplementing a core menu of British staple foods with specials that really are special – including a range of vegan dishes.

Barrista coffees are prepared from locally roasted beans by fully trained staff. Food all day – full menu ‘til 9pm (8pm on Sundays); Booking advisable.

4 WHEAT LANE, LATHOM, WEST LANCS L40 4BX

TEL: 01704-893117

EMAIL: INFO@SHIPATLATHOM.CO.UK

WWW.SHIPATLATHOM.CO.UK 27

FOOD AND DRINK

THAI BEEF SALAD 239 calories per person (if serving 2); 159 calories per portion (if serving 3) The Kingy and I both love this salad. It’s full of fresh, soaring flavours and plenty of heat, but if you don’t like your food too spicy, leave out the chilli or deseed it before slicing. Make sure you wash your hands really well after handling the chilli! You can make this with chicken or fish too.

Trim off any visible fat from the steak and season it with salt and lots of freshly ground black pepper. Heat the oil in a small non- stick frying pan and fry the steak over a high heat for 11/2 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Leave it to rest on a board while you prepare the veg.

Use a vegetable peeler to peel the carrots into thin ribbons, turning regularly. Cut the cucumber in half lengthways and scoop out the seeds with a teaspoon, then cut the cucumber into slices of about 5mm. Finely slice the shallot. Trim the pepper at both ends and cut it into thin strips. Put all the vegetables in a bowl, then strip the leaves off the herbs, tearing any large leaves in half, and scatter them on top.

To make the dressing, put all the ingredients in a small blow and whisk until well combined. Cut the steak into slices about 4mm thick and add them to the salad. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss lightly and serve.

Serves 2-3 Prep: 20 minutes Cooking time: 3 minutes 1 lean sirloin or rump steak (1.5cm thick) 1 tsp sunflower oil 2 medium carrots, peeled

1/2 small cucumber

1 long shallot or 2 small shallots, trimmed 1 small red pepper, deseeded 25g bunch of fresh coriander 25g bunch of fresh mint flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper

Dressing 1 tbsp nam pla (Thai fish sauce) 1 tbsp light brown soft sugar 1 tbsp fresh lime juice 1 red or green bird’s eye chilli, trimmed and very finely sliced.

FOR MORE ARTICLES ON HEALTHY EATING VISIT WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 28

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FREE

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Venue: Haydock Racecourse, Newton-le-willows, 0HQ BOOK YOUR DON`T MISSMerseyside, THIS GREAT WA12 OPPORTUNITY,

EVENT FREE 50PLUS 10.00am until 3.30pm EVENT Saturday 11 April 2015 Making the most of life

STAND TODAY. BOOK YOUR PLACE

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Some of the companies already bookedEmail........................................ to exhibit include: Full name........................................................................ ...............................

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This is a big family event and so families including children are most welcome, as there will be plenty of entertainment on offer.

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Kama Events, 685 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan, WN5 8AQ your form to: enquiries@kamaevents.co.uk www.50plusnorthwest.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Southport Food and Drink Festival 29 - 31 May 2015 Victoria Park, Rotten Row, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 2BZ Tel: 01704 533333

WIKN ETS!

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The CRUISE Show - Manchester 26-27 September 2015 | www.cruisingshow.com Discover a whole world of voyages at The CRUISE Show in Manchester...

As Europe’s leading cruise event, The CRUISE Show will host the largest collection of major cruise lines and specialist operators all under one roof for one weekend!

Whether you’re looking for a oncein-a-lifetime expedition cruise to a far-flung destination, a sumptuous ultra-luxury voyage, maybe a relaxing cultural river cruise or a tropical family cruise-holiday with lots to entertain all ages - The CRUISE Show at Manchester Central has it all.

Packed with information and inspiration visitors can enjoy exclusive money-saving show offers and upgrades, be inspired by the informative free talks, gain essential expert advice that you won’t find in the brochure, discover different ship styles and incredible destinations and hear directly from the cruise lines about what’s new for 2015/2016.

So, if you’re completely new to cruising and intrigued to discover what it’s all about, or you’re a seasoned cruiser wanting inspiration for your next adventure, then make sure you head to The CRUISE Show at Manchester Central on 26-27 September 2015.

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TICKETS We are giving 20 lucky people the chance to win a pair of tickets to the show! Just enter the competition online (details below)

READER’S TICKET OFFER: We are also offering reduced price advance tickets to the show! Get your tickets for only £4 (that’s saving £6 off the door price!!) by quoting ‘50PLUS’ when booking tickets online at www.cruisingshow. com or when calling 0871 620 4024. (Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras).

For your chance to win tickets to the Cruise Show Manchester, simply visit www.50plusmagazine.co.uk/competitions and answer the simple question!

Closing date 31st July 2015. Only one entrant per household. UK residents only.

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International Mersey River Festival 2015 4 to 7 June 2015 The International Mersey River Festival will once again sail into Liverpool complete with ships, stages and things for all ages – and it’s set to host the very first Northern Boat Show.

In 2014, the International Mersey River Festival attracted around 200,000 visitors and this year’s event is set to be just as popular with activities for all the family . Tall Ships, naval vessels and barges are just some of the boats people can explore. Walking tours, air shows, model boat displays, flyboarding and have a go water sports sessions are also popular.

For music lovers, there’s plenty on offer as Music on the Waterfront forms part of the celebrations – 2014 saw a fantastic DJ set from Craig Charles, as well as performances from The Christians, Jaki Graham, Esco Williams and the Band of HM Royal Marines to name a few.

This inaugural Northern Boat Show will see around 150 exhibitors and 60 boats attending the show. www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Clipper Marine have already signed up to the boat show and will showcase a series of Bavaria Yachts and motorboats with other exhibitors including Hamble Point Yacht Charters, Pantaenius boat insurance, Marine Teak and WiFi Onboard.

Free event - no tickets required unless attending specific events.

JUDY - THE JUDY GARLAND STORY Monday 8th to Wednesday 10th June 2015 This mesmerizing show takes a spellbound audience through the life and music of Judy Garland. The highs and the lows, the good times and the bad. You experience Judy’s timeless classic songs performed by award-winning singers and dancers.

Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE Phone: Booking Number - 0844 871 7660, General Enquires - 0871 231 7787

FARM FEAST - Food and Drink Festival 13 - 14 June 2015 Claremont Farm in Bebington will host this new Food & Drink Festival on Saturday 13th June 10am-6pm & Sunday 14th June 10am-5pm, 2015. There will be specialist food suppliers, local producers, cookery demos, music and fun for the kids.

Claremont Farm, Old Clatterbridge Road, Bebington, Merseyside, CH63 4JB Tel: 0151 707 0965

Rock 'n' Roll Marathon 2015 14 June 2015 This unforgettable course will feature a scenic tour of the city centre. Starting at the Albert Dock on Liverpool’s Waterfront – a UNESCO World Heritage

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Site before heading off towards the World Famous home of The Beatles – The Cavern Club. From here the route heads North of the city, with a run around Goodison Park, home stadium of Everton FC before heading through Stanley Park and past the majestic Palm House before running by Anfield home to Liverpool FC. The route then heads back to the city via Everton Park, where runners are welcome to a spectacular view of the Liverpool Skyline and River Mersey. Runners then pass the Liver Buildings before heading towards Chinatown and running through the Chinese Arch. The route then takes in Princes Park, the beautiful Sefton Park and Otterspool Park before heading along the promenade to an electric finish line on the Waterfront alongside the Liverpool Echo Arena.

JERSEY BOYS 23rd June to 4th July 2015 The internationally acclaimed stage sensation, Jersey Boys is touring the UK and Ireland for the very first time. This smash hit musical has

won 55 major awards worldwide, including the Olivier Award for Best New Musical.

Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE Phone: Booking Number - 0844 871 7660, General Enquires - 0871 231 7787

Armed Forces Day Southport 27 - 28 June 2015 FREE ENTRY Join us to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to Service families and from veterans to cadets.

This two day event will have the Armed Forces, vintage military vehicles, children's rides, live music & brass band, entertainment, hot food & drinks, trade & charity stalls.

We can help raise public awareness of the contribution made to our School, so you can be sure that the group will also feature prominently in this year’s proceedings.

Brazilica 2015 7 - 19 July 2015 City Centre, Liverpool, Merseyside The increasingly popular annual Brazilica Festival returns for 2015 from Friday 17 July to Sunday 19 July and will once again cover the city in colour for the eighth consecutive year.

Last year’s festival included a packed programme of events leading up to the main Carnival Day on the Saturday – and this year promises to be just as colourful with an abundance of sights, sounds and tastes of Brazil.

The 2015 festival will include a two-week film festival and fringe events packed with great music and exciting activities in venues across the city.

This year also marks the 20th birthday of Liverpool Samba The spectacular Carnival Parade which features Samba bands from across the UK and overseas will also remain as the main festival highlight.

Further announcements will be made when entertainment and activities are confirmed.

City Centre, Liverpool, Merseyside www.brazilicafestival.com

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OUT & ABOUT wining West End and Broadway smash hit Memphis, is a funny and moving tale of hope, second chances and the healing qualities of Rock 'n' Roll.

23 JUNE - 4 JULY country by those who serve and have served in Her Majesty's Armed Forces Sunday there will also be a Veterans parade along Lord Street from 10.30.

Princes Park, The Esplanade / Ocean Plaza, Southport Merseyside, PR8 1RX Tel: 01704 530639

Liverpool Chester Bike Ride 05 July 2015 Pennine Events, Suite 1a, Ribble House, Meanygate, Bamber Bridge, Preston, PR5 6UP Tel: 07881309435 Once again Pennine Events are proud to present their longest running event, now in its 22nd year!

The Liverpool Chester Liverpool bike ride allows over 3500 riders to participate in the only cycle event in the country to include nearly 3 miles underground in the Birkenhead tunnel, and enjoy a fun-filled family day out raising money for nominated event charity, Claire House Children’s Hospice.

Previous participant Pete loved the event last year, saying: ‘’I take part in cycling events right across the UK, but the Liverpool Chester Liverpool route is by far one of the best. It offers lots of off-road paths to allow cyclists to take in and enjoy the scenery, and the event is always really well manned, with marshals at hand around every corner, which makes a huge difference to the overall feel of the ride.’’

There are 4 different distances over 6 different routes so there is something for everyone.

Last year, the generosity of cyclists at the Liverpool Chester Liverpool bike ride raised over £26,000 for Claire 32

17-18 JULY House Children’s Hospice! This year we would like to see over £30,000 raised for the Claire House Children's Hospice.

Join over 3000 riders in the only cycle event in the country to include nearly 3 miles underground and enjoy a funfilled family day out raising money for our nominated event charity, Claire House Children’s Hospice.

The biggest bike ride in Merseyside has listened to participants comments and are offering more than ever before to make your experience even more enjoyable!

There are set times throughout the morning to take part in the rides - see website for further details: www. liverpoolchesterliverpool.com

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS THE MUSICAL 7 - 18th July 2015 Based on the classic comedy film starring Sir Michael Caine and Steve Martin, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels will transport you to the French Riviera as two seasoned swindlers attempt to hoodwink a millionaire heiress. As the pair compete, they discover there is only room for one of them.

Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE Phone: Booking Number - 0844 871 7660, General Enquires - 0871 231 7787

LOVE ME TENDER 7 - 18 July 2015

Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE Phone: Booking Number - 0844 871 7660, General Enquires - 0871 231 7787

Southport Flower Show 20- 23 August 2015 Located in Victoria Park and within easy walking distance of the town centre, Southport Flower Show takes place from 20th - 23rd August 2015.

Attracting around 70,000 visitors, the event will feature stunning show gardens, the finest flower and vegetable displays, specialist foods and books, celebrity guests and much more.

Southport Flower Show, the UK’s largest independent flower show and a great day out.

There are fantastic group discounts available for groups of 10 or more.

Victoria Park, Rotten Row Southport. Merseyside PR8 2BZ Tel: 01704 547147

PADDY McGUINNESS Thursday 22nd October 2015 One of the country’s best-loved and most popular comedians Paddy McGuinness has announced a brand new UK tour for 2015 & 2016.

Starting in September this year, the star of ITV’s Take Me Out will return to his performing roots, with his first stand-up comedy tour since 2011.

Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE Phone: Booking Number 0844 871 7660, General Enquires - 0871 231 7787

Packed with 25 of the best loved songs by The King himself, Love Me Tender, by the writer of the award-

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Scam Watch What’s your favourite prank to play? Whether it’s with unsuspecting friends or the grand-kids, we’ve probably all pulled – and been on the receiving end of – a trick or two in our time. But what about those tricks that aren’t quite as innocent – the ones that are designed to part you with your cash. Well, you’ll be glad we “made you look” as we go through some of the more common pranks you should be on the look-out for.

Shoulder surfers: one of the most common ways for fraudsters to acquire your PIN is not through sophisticated techniques of card cloning, but simply by watching over your shoulder as you enter it. Always be wary of people standing behind you at cash points and when entering your PIN in a shop.

Volunteering in Sefton

The most precious gift you can give someone is your time, especially if they are isolated, vulnerable and do request from “your bank” to confirm your details? These are not have support from their loved ones. We provide help all phishing scams and you will end up losing money. Look out to many people in this position. Our team of over 200 for the email originating from an unusual address, or failing to volunteers contribute to what makes us the premier charity address you by name. Some can be more convincing and even in Liverpool andlives, Sefton for the quality of life of lonely and isolated at to particular their if improving you feel look like they have been sent you by friends. times If in doubt,throughout don’t older people, making their day to day life a little bit easier. give your details out.

d_190x125mmV5.pdf 1 you 12/01/2015 09:20 Phishing: have won a lottery you didn’t enter? Had a

one you know, Age Concern Liverpool & Sefton may be able to help. If you Volunteering can be mutually rewarding; knowing you are Hang-up, no you hang-up: imagine it – you receive a call from making a difference andaccess enriching lives, ver, live in the borough of Sefton and have Sefton GP, you can theby improving your your bank telling you your account had been compromised and mental health and wellbeing, and by gaining valuable life you need to act fast to save your cash!

You’d do exactly you opportunity to increase your g and Re-ablement service.

Giving you asthe skills, confidence, achievement and pride. Whatever your were told right? But stop, this is a scam. Your bank would take age it can provide a springboard to or have an influence on its ownimprove steps to prevent fraud on your account, it would endence, your confidence andnever overcome loneliness. future career opportunities and looks good on your CV and require you to give out your full account number, password, PIN or hand over your card to a courier – ever. Even if you’re convinced you’re on the phone to your bank – never give out this information.

on job applications.

We have many and varied volunteering opportunities in up to 6 weeks of FREE support plus subsequent weekly visits Sefton: nteerPayment befrienders who carefully support you. protection insurance (PPI)are refunds: you receive a selected • Charityto Shops – helping in one of our shops and making text or call from someone claiming to be your bank, the Ministry of Justice, or a PPI company telling you that you’re owed money from mis-sold PPI. But, you must pay an administration fee before the refund can be processed. Don’t give away any money! If you have a PPI complaint, you can come to the ombudsman for free and save yourself giving your cash to claims managers unnecessarily.

new friends • Befriending & Re-ablement – in the community providing companionship • Counselling – providing a safe place for people to explore their • Get tofeelings activities & • Active Ageing Programme – walk and cycle groups, exercise classes andappointments computer sessions medical • Information & Advice – giving out information and advice on wide range of queries • Feel positive • Meet & Greet – on our reception at our office in • Going out to the shops Southport.

Age Concern Liverpool & Sefton can help you to:

verpool •&Keep Sefton Homecare Service has been designed according to in touch with people lder people have told us they have been looking for. We arrange for • Manage youratmoney rs to visit your home, times you decide to help with the tasks you Online shopping scams: many of us are beating the queues by shopping online these days – and the good news is that • below Feel safe the tasks plus many more.

We fitthethe service around your needs. majority of transactions are completed with no problem. But • Be treated with dignity and respect

always be wary of a seller (or buyer) who asks you to complete transactions outside of the official payment channels like PayPal – as you may find you’re not protected if the item you’re buying, or the money for the goods you’ve sold, doesn’t show up.

To find out more and to join a great team call Lauren • Have companionship Jones on 01704 542993, e-mail lauren.jones@ageconcernliverpoolandsefton.org.uk or visit our website www.ageconcernliverpoolandsefton.org.uk.

• Look after yourself

We hope these tips help you get ahead of the game. But

Befriending &a fraudster, Re-ablement Team on 01704 542 933. if you’ve lost out to don’t panic. Tell your bank what’s gone wrong but if you’re still not able to get things sorted out, the ombudsman may be able to help on 8-10 Street, Southport, PR9 0300 123Hoghton 9 123 or www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk.

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www.ageconcernliverpoolandsefton.org.uk www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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ARE YOU READY TO BECOME A GRANDPARENT? The role and demands on grandparents are changing because of new socioeconomic pressures, so whilst you’re immersed in the anticipation and excitement of the new arrival, unexpected friction and conflict can often occur if you’re not prepared, according to cognitive psychologist Dr Lynda Shaw.

“The role of the grandparents is ever changing. Baby boomer grandparents may take on a huge chunk of the childcare responsibilities whilst mums return to work, whether it’s doing the school run, helping when the children are ill or stepping in to lend a hand during the school holidays. This is not new in society. But now and in the near future the sandwich generation will find themselves still working well into their sixties, both because they can and financially they have to, as well as looking after elderly parents.

Therefore, like never before they can’t or will struggle to take on the caregiver grandparent role too.”

Although today’s society plays huge part in the role of the grandparent, psychology theory of grand-parenting is important too. German-born American psychologist, Erik Erikson developed the Generativity versus Stagnation theory, which is typically associated with people who have reached midlife but who instinctively long to create a nurturing environment to support the development and growth of the next generation. For grandparents, they may view this time as a second chance to create a positive impact, a living legacy in the lives of their grandchildren through love and guidance with a hope that they can

make a difference. Stagnation refers to those who find it difficult to contribute positively and who perhaps lack the ability to be involved and connect with others.

There are different sorts of grandparenting personalities. Leading gerontologist Bernice Neugarten identified the core five patterns of grand-parenting as:1. Formal grandparent: follows what are believed to be the appropriate guidelines for the grand-parenting role including occasional services and maintaining an interest, but not being overly involved.

2. Fun seeker: primarily provides entertainment for the grandchild.

3. Surrogate parent: takes over the caretaking role for the child.

4. Reservoir of family wisdom: the head of the family who dispenses advice but also controls the parent generation.

5. Distant figure: has infrequent contact with the grandchildren, perhaps appearing on special occasions.

Ultimately having a baby is not just one of the greatest milestones for the parents themselves, but it is of huge significance for grandparents.

Shaw says: “Having had many years raising their own children, adjusting to ‘grandparent’ status can take a little while and unfortunately, it’s not always a bed of roses. Having already raised children of their own, grandparents are keen to pass on their knowledge and wisdom, but persistent advice and opinion are not always well received.

New parents ultimately want the time and space to figure things out for themselves and to be the key decision

makers and not be told how it should or shouldn’t be done.

“By contrast, less confident parents can also become too dependent with help at hand and rely entirely on the grandparents for support, leaving them feeling unappreciated and taken for granted. Situations such as these can become awkward for both parties and if the ground rules are not set from the word go, this can lead to a fractured and unhappy relationship in the long run. A huge number of factors are involved in successful grandparenting.” www.drlyndashaw.com 5 Top Tips for Expecting Grandparents: 1. Spoiling Them The job of a grandparent is all about the really good bits - shower them with as much love as possible, fun and enduring memories instead of mountains of gifts.

2. Two Hands Are Better Than One Looking after a new baby is all consuming and needs round the clock care and attention. Make yourself useful by offering to cook, do some household chores or run some errands.

Your contribution is guaranteed to bring much relief and will be appreciate.

3. Give Them Space As exciting as it is that you want to be a hands-on grandparent, it’s really important to be led by the parents and not to assume that they are always going to want your help. More often than not, new parents like to work things out for themselves and will ask for help when needed.

4. Don’t Be Judgmental It’s easy to voice your opinion especially when it’s something you disagree with such as an obscure name you dislike or sleeping arrangements with their baby. Whatever the circumstance may be, he or she is after all their child and not yours. Go with the flow and best to keep your feelings to yourself.

5. The Perfect Bond We’ve all heard funny stories of babies crying uncontrollably when being held by certain people. If you’re a grandparent and this happens to you, do not fret! Persevere with it – it takes time for babies to get used to people other than mum and dad.

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TT EELLEEP PH H OO NE NE

0151 0151934 9343726 3726

New Directions staff support people to get the best out of life, and our commitment to providing

New Directions staff support people todeliver get the best outand of life, our commitment to providing personalised services means that we care where whenand it’s needed.

We work with a rangemeans commissioners transform and improve to ensure personalised services that wetodeliver care where andservices when it’s needed. We that we continue to provide the support that people want. work with a range commissioners to transform and improve services to ensure that weOur continue to provide the support that people want. plans for our future focus on creating further life enriching opportunities for people

Our plans for our focus on creating including, forfuture example, meeting vocational furtherand life employment enriching opportunities people needs throughfor appropriate including, for and example, meeting vocational training dedicated support. and employment needs through appropriate employs over 300 dedicated, trainingNew andDirections dedicated support.

enthusiastic and caring staff working across a wide range of services, meeting the needs of New Directions employs over 300 dedicated, several thousand people across Sefton Borough enthusiastic and caring staff working across a and beyond.

wide range of services, meeting the needs of record ofpeople exemplary service is reflected by the severalOur thousand across Sefton Borough Care Quality Commission in their inspection reports and beyond. which can be viewed at www.cqc.org.uk.

Our record of exemplary service is reflected by the What customers reports have to say about their Sefton New Directions experiences: Care Quality Commission insatisfied their inspection which can be viewed at www.cqc.org.uk.

I would like to thank all the carers who’ve been so kind me since I Sefton came outNew of hospital.

Theyexperiences: have What satisfied customers have to saytoabout their Directions encouraged me and made me feel that I’m really improving. They have been pleasant and it’s I would like to tothank all the who’ve been a pleasure know them.

I carers think you are been so kind to meand since came out oftohospital. invaluable I’mIvery grateful you all. They have

encouraged me and made me feel that I’m really improving. They have been pleasant and it’s been aIpleasure to know them. I think you are can leave my son…knowing he is well invaluable and I’mIvery to youand all. a looked after. havegrateful total respect very high regard for the members of staff.

I can leave my son…knowing he is well you to everyrespect one of you... lookedThank after.

I each haveandtotal and a made afor difference. very you hightruly regard the members of staf Please contact us if you want to know how we support people who have disabilities, mental health issues or needs because of their age.

Thank you to each and every one of you you truly made a difference.

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Telephone: 0151 934 3726 | Info-ND@ndirections.co.uk | www.ndirections.co.uk Please contact us if you want to know how we support people who

CELEBRITIES

The King and I An extract from Tom Jones’ biography

by Sean Smith - Tom Jones: The Life Courtesy of HarperCollins. Available through all good book stores and online at Amazon.co.uk.

Tom couldn’t believe it when he was told Elvis and his wife Priscilla had been seen in the foyer of the Flamingo.

He thought it was a wind-up but it was true – The King and his entourage, the ‘Memphis Mafia’, had driven from Los Angeles just to see the show. They had been invited by Chris Hutchins, who knew both Colonel Tom Parker and Joe Esposito, Elvis’s road manager, and suggested they come over.

Elvis was curious to see how a performer like Tom would be received in Las Vegas, because he was seriously thinking of making a live comeback there himself.

His recording career was in the middle of a slump and he needed something to reinvigorate his career – a problem Tom would also face at a later date.

The lighting in the audience was quite dark, so Tom had to peer into the gloom to see if Elvis was really there. He had been primed by Chris, so he knew what to say if he caught sight of the man.

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Eventually, he realised The King was in the very front row. Halfway through the show, he introduced Elvis, who stood up to take a bow, and the place erupted.

It went on for ages and ages, until Tom managed to calm everyone down. Elvis eventually sat back down and Tom said, ‘Don’t forget I’m the star here tonight.’

It was a tongue-in-cheek comment, but took some nerve: Tom was just starting his Vegas adventure, whereas Elvis was the biggest star in the world.

After the concert, Elvis and his gang went backstage to congratulate Tom in his dressing room. The ‘Mafia’ usually numbered about half a dozen or so of Elvis’s oldest friends and yes-men. If Elvis told them at breakfast that scarlet was the new colour, they would all have their cars resprayed by lunch.

Linda was at the Flamingo that evening and she sat and chatted with Priscilla.

Tom remembers Elvis saying he wanted to watch him in concert to see how he put together his act. Tom and Elvis talked about music, something they both never tired of doing.

Priscilla Presley believes that Elvis took to Tom because he was a real person – ‘someone who was down to earth that

you could talk to, that was not on an ego trip’. Tom’s show also reminded Elvis how it used to be for him: the adulation of the girls, the applause and the fantastic music. He missed it. He also liked the way Tom didn’t take it too seriously.

For his part,Tom thought the Presleys were ‘a great couple’. He gave Priscilla an autographed photograph for their daughter Lisa-Marie, who was six months old.

The first meeting went so well that Elvis invited Tom to stay at his holiday villa in Hawaii.When he arrived, Priscilla told him that her husband had popped out to buy a couple of guitars so the two of them would have something to goof around with later.After dinner, the two men enjoyed a sing-song, like a couple of enthusiastic schoolboys, belting out ‘Blue Suede Shoes’, ‘Hound Dog’ and ‘Jailhouse Rock’, as well as ‘It’s Not Unusual’ and Elvis’s favourite, ‘Green, Green Grass of Home’. They jammed together through the night. Tom said simply, ‘I’ll never forget it as long as I live.’

The two men became genuine friends. .

Tom spoke graciously of Elvis to the Daily Express: ‘I never sat at his feet looking up to him, because we regarded each other as equals. He was much too modest to be comfortable with someone who fawned around him and was never afraid to admit his own vulnerability – always the mark of the truly great.’

They were rivals, as well as friends, when Elvis began a season at the newly opened International Hotel in July 1969, which two years later was renamed the Las Vegas Hilton. Both shows were ruthlessly

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advertised. On one side of the strip the huge billboards read, ‘Elvis Presley is at the International’. On the other side, the hoardings declared,‘Tom Jones is in Town!’

Tom moved briefly to the International too, because its show- room was three times the size of the Flamingo’s. In 1971, he finally settled at Caesars Palace.

Elvis, meanwhile, stayed loyal to the Hilton, where he lived in the impressive penthouse, which became known as ‘Party Central’. The two friends would take it in turns to visit each other’s suites.

Elvis was a reality check for Tom – a stark example of a road he would go down if he didn’t look after himself. Tom tried to keep in shape. At home in the UK, it was relatively easy, thanks to his fitness complex. On the road or in Vegas, it was more difficult, but he swam and took up squash. In the eighteen months before he opened at the Flamingo, he slimmed down from fifteen to eleven and a half stone. He said goodbye to chips for ever.

He never stuffed himself with burgers or other junk food and avoided puddings, preferring a chateaubriand steak for dinner with the finest wines.

Tom didn’t drink before a concert, which was particularly important where the desert air was so dry and put a strain on his voice. His shows were a workout in themselves, because Tom finished dripping with sweat and as much as six pounds lighter. After a show, he took a long, thirty-minute shower and then enjoyed a vodka martini or opened a bottle or two of Dom Pérignon while he socialised. His friend and backing singer Darlene Love became so sick of the constant supply of vintage champagne that she loathes bubbly to this day and only has a glass if it is mixed with orange juice.

Elvis, however, struggled with his weight yo-yoing up and down. Early on, he told Tom that he took pills to stop the pounds piling on. The two men would have many discussions about the merits of drink and drugs.

During one conversation, Elvis told him that he had taken every kind of drug imaginable just to keep his ‘head together’. Elvis asked him what he took to keep sane and Tom replied simply,

‘Nothing, that’s why I feel I am sane.’

Tom’s aversion to drugs is very well known. He told Sylvie Simmons of MOJO magazine a funny story of the evening he went to a party in London thrown by Lulu.

A rock star sidled up to him and said, ‘You want to see what’s going on in the kitchen!’ Tom, being Tom, immediately thought it might be something involving one or hopefully two women. He was disappointed to see that the great excitement was a pile of white powder on the kitchen table.‘See you later,’ he said.

Elvis never took any drugs in front of Tom – he had too much respect for him.

Instead, they would be sitting down, listening to records, when Elvis would suddenly disappear into the bedroom and come out a new man. They would listen to a few more records and then the same thing would happen again.

They may have had differing opinions on drugs, but both Elvis and Tom had similar views on gambling. Although they were the bait to draw thousands of punters into the hotel casinos, they never indulged themselves. That example was not followed by their respective managers, who lost fortunes at the gaming tables. Gordon incurred heavy losses playing blackjack. He was rumoured, in one disastrous night, to have lost the whole of Engelbert’s fee for a year.

Tom just didn’t get the attraction. Why give away so easily what you had worked so hard to earn? One evening at Caesars Palace, Linda came bounding up to him and asked for some money so she and a friend could spend some time at the tables. Tom reached in his pocket and gave her $5. He advised her, ‘Don’t lose it all at once.’

Tom was intrinsically more sociable than Elvis, who preferred quiet evenings in his suite. He loved gospel music and was prepared to stay up even later than Tom, just singing. Tom would say goodnight and be halfway out the door, when Elvis would start something else and Tom would be obliged to go back in and sing another song.

For the most part, they kept their friendship low-key. Elvis would slip into Caesars Palace with a baseball cap over his distinctive black hair and sit at

the back of the room. Disappointingly, Elvis and Tom never sang together in public. Elvis might walk on stage when Tom was performing, but he was under strict contract to another hotel, so he would never join in with a quick chorus of ‘Delilah’. Their duets were private moments and Elvis made it clear that they must never be recorded. His manager, Colonel Parker, had told him that he must ensure there were no bootleg recordings, an instruction he followed religiously. Tom was the same where Gordon was concerned: he never forgot what Gordon said.

When they weren’t singing, they would talk about music. Elvis once suggested they could do a concert together, with The Beatles as their backing group. They could do their own songs, followed by a few duets and the Fab Four could play all the instruments. Elvis asked, ‘Do you think there is a chance we could get them to do it?’ Tom, who still laughs about that conversation, responded:‘It would be fantastic.’

The pair were such good friends, they exchanged rings. Elvis gave Tom a splendid black sapphire ring, which annoyingly disappeared from his hotel bathroom one night on tour – along with the young lady who was using it. Tom, in turn, presented Elvis with a tiger’s eye ring that he knew he liked.

Elvis, for whom death threats were a way of life, was obsessed with firearms and would make sure he was armed even when he used the toilet. He gave Tom a gun with ‘Tom Jones’ engraved on the barrel. Tom has never had to fire his gun, although he made sure he knew how to use it. Perversely, Elvis also gave him a book that he’d enjoyed, entitled The Impersonal Life, a famous text about selfdiscovery and leading a spiritual life. 

Tom Jones: The Life by Sean Smith (HarperCollins)

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H E A LT H The true cost of Dementia is ‘insufficiently appreciated’ at present. One must understand the overall costs to include ‘informal’ care as well.

Written by ARUP BANERJEE

The ‘calculated’ cost presented in the Report is simply staggering : £388 billion in 2010 amounting to approximately 1% of the world’s Gross Domestic Product !

THE BUSINESS OF DEMENTIA Health Care in every country is expensive. Whether provided largely by the state from general taxation, or funded by individuals either entirely privately or supported by Health Insurance schemes, in the end it costs money. And with increasing technological and pharmaceutical advancements, the overall costs are likely to escalate even further, everywhere.

a price; and someone has to find the resources to get it.

In the UK , we are fortunate that the Health and Social Care are key areas within the political and Governmental system mainly funded by the exchequer with clear and close accountability.

But this does not reduce the costs of care ! The ‘profit’ elements may be comparatively less but the funds will have to be found from somewhere.

The ‘’costs’’ of care are becoming an increasingly important national issue. Irrelevant spendings are being discontinued, unnecessary staff are being made redundant and everyone, as ultimate consumers of health service, are being asked to remain alert and to reduce the burden of care.

Like simple ageing, dementia , mostly encountered among the very aged, is a public health issue or it should be considered as such. Its overall effects involve the whole society – just not the individuals and the care professionals.

And all these will foot huge bills to governments and countries.

Such ‘’balance sheets’’ for health spending , although sometimes considered unnecessary, irrelevant and not conducive to an ethical caresystem, are, however very necessary and relevant. In life, everything has 38

Dementia is a very sad condition; with dreadful consequences on lives , families and societies. Despite world wide deep and serious research, no cure has yet been found. And with people living longer, the incidence is due to increase several fold within the next few decades – everywhere !

Let us look at it in slightly more details. The recently published ‘’World Alzheimer Report 2010’’ published by two top international research bodies – the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm and the King’s College in London comments on the Global Economic Impact of Dementia which makes very alarming reading.

Currently 35.6 million people globally are known to be suffering from dementia; and this is going to increase to 65 million in 2030 and to 115 million in 2050 !

Should Dementia be thought as an economy, it would be the world’s 18th largest economy, higher than countries like Belgium, Sweden or Indonesia.

If it were a company or a commercial business, it would be the world’s largest - topping Wal-Mart or Exxon Mobil!

Individual care costs vary a great deal from country to country - $868 dollars annually per head in poor low-income country to around $33000 in richer countries.

The Report goes on commenting on various issues and recommends that ‘’in every country , the government must make Dementia a health priority and make national plans to deal with this disease’’ It also calls for fair and equal access to health and social care for all with the disease , as also recommended by the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities and the Madrid International Plan for Action on Ageing.

Other recommendations being – more emphasis on chronic disease in current medical practice, more international collaborative research, emphasis on long term care and eligibility of victims to receive adequate benefits.

In summary this stern Report draws everyone’s attention to the Dementia Challenge and the sheer enormity of the problem. Perhaps the new Govt. would take even more seriously to diagnose the condition early and to manage it properly.

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Getting to know your elderly care options A guide to help you plan for your needs in later life.

If you’re concerned about the care of a loved one, it can be difficult to know where to turn. It’s not always easy to talk about elderly care and you may go through a range of emotions, or feel that you’re on your own.

Aside from the emotional strain, families also have to get to grips with the implications of paying for care, which can be complex. There’s also the decision about which care to choose, which will depend on a number of factors, including the level of care required.

There are several types of care that homes can provide, such as short-stay, residential, nursing and dementia, each of which offers a specific kind of support to meet individual needs.

It’s common for someone needing a care home to feel a burden and for relatives to feel guilty about not being able to provide the care themselves. However, life in a care home can bring great benefits; helping people to stay independent for longer in a safe and homely environment, while ensuring help is at hand when needed.

Care homes can also offer a real community spirit, where people can interact with their fellow residents, families and friends and enjoy a more active social life based on their interests and hobbies.

Many care homes provide a range of care types at one location giving the home the ability to meet individuals’ changing care needs within a single setting. This means that residents may not need to relocate to another care home should their care needs change in the future.

Choosing the right care home is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. For this reason, it is important that you research and fully understand all the different options available to you, including the likely costs, to ensure you make the right choice.

If you would like advice based on your personal circumstances, or you are just not sure where to start, whether it’s queries about funding, getting help to look after someone at home, or just starting the conversation with a loved one about care, Bupa offers a free advice service run by experts.

They are there to listen to your circumstances and, by explaining your options, help you to make choices that are right for you and your loved one.

To discover what care could mean for you in Liverpool, Southport and West Lancashire talk to an expert today.

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READER OFFER For your free ‘A Guide to Making Choices for the Years Ahead’, send this coupon to: Care Journey Experts, Bupa Care Services, Bridge House, Outwood Lane, Leeds, LS18 4UP Name: ........................................................

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†Calls from any line are charged at no more than local rates and count towards any inclusive minutes from mobiles.

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H E A LT H

When New Directions was established in Sefton in 2007 it was the first local authority social care trading company in the country.

Eight years on, the organisation remains at the forefront of the care sector across Sefton Borough and beyond, with a team of almost 500 staff providing a wide range of services for older Sefton residents and other adults with disabilities and enduring mental health needs.

Each year New Directions provides more than 150,000 hours of care for people at home and in the community.

A key feature of this service is the emphasis on reablement and rehabilitation support, helping clients to return home from hospital quickly, avoid readmission, and live independently for as long as possible.

New Directions also offers a day service for older people at a number of locations across Sefton, including those with dementia, helping them to live fulfilling lives both at home and in the community.

AgeAge Concern_Befriends Ad_190x125mmV5.pdf Concern_Befriends Ad_190x125mmV5.pdf 1

Activities on offer include music, sensory stimulation, recall therapy, gardening, and social outings.

New Directions Chief Operating Officer, Penelope Fell, commented: “The last few years have been challenging for us - and indeed the wider care sector - because of changing commissioner priorities and reductions in funding in some areas.

“I am sure there will be further pressures in the years ahead, but I am equally confident that New Directions will rise to the challenge, and continue to fulfil our mission which is to provide the highest-quality care to the most vulnerable people in our community.”

1 12/01/2015 12/01/2015 09:20 09:20

Some people feel lonely and isolated atat particular times throughout their lives, if if you feel Some people feel lonely and isolated particular times throughout their lives, you feel this is is you oror someone you know, Age Concern Liverpool && Sefton may bebe able toto help.

If If you this you someone you know, Age Concern Liverpool Sefton may able help. you are aged 5050 and over, live inin the borough ofof Sefton and have Sefton GP, you can access the are aged and over, live the borough Sefton and have Sefton GP, you can access the free Befriending and Re-ablement service.

Giving you the opportunity toto increase your free Befriending and Re-ablement service.

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www.ageconcernliverpoolandsefton.org.uk www.ageconcernliverpoolandsefton.org.uk

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Personal attention and service guaranteed Is old age getting the better of you or a loved one? Do you want assistance from experienced professionals?

Then look no further than Castletown Homecare.Your mobility matters to them and they can help!

Founded over 18 years ago, the business based in Southport twon centre has gone from strength to strength. Castletown are specialists in the mobility industry and offer a second to none advice/ supply service for a whole range of mobility and nursing equipment. Their services include sales and delivery of mobility and continence products, from a ÂŁ1.50 walking stick tip to a ÂŁ2000 scooter, rentals of wheelchairs / high seat chairs / walking equipment are available, free home demonstrations, free at home trial periods. Free professional advice and home visits. Castletown will endeavour to deliver your item on the same day with no delivery charge. Their staff offer a confidential continence advisory service and have over 35 years experience in the healthcare industry.

Owned and managed by Caroline Rodwell, Castletown Homecare offers the customer a personal caring service that bigger stores and catalogues can't offer.

Caroline said "Our customers are going to get personal attention, they are going to get experienced advice and all our products are competitively priced. We are also starting to offer some homecare services to our regular customers who need a little help with the shopping and daily chores"

Castletown Homecare really is Southport’s leader when it comes to personal service and experienced advice to help you with your independence!

Quality Customer Service Experienced Friendly Advice Free Home Demo/ Trial Full Warranty

We stock a wide range of:

Scooters Wheelchairs Rise/Recline Chairs Stairlifts Bathlifters Adjustable Beds Daily Living Aids Healthcare Products

15 Union Street, Southport PR9 0QF Tel: 01704 532567 www.castletownhomecare.co.uk

CARE Initial home visit by a home care company During the initial home visit by the home care company, they will carry out a detailed risk assessment of your home, as well as a manual handling assessment. This is important, as it will identify how the company staff will move you safely around your home, if assistance is required.

All staff should be fully trained on using equipment such as a hoist, to help bear your weight safely, if needed.

Keeping you safe and secure in your own home

How to choose the right Home Care Whether you’re choosing a home care company for a family member or starting to plan for your own future, there are several important things that you should consider. Here are a few useful pointers to help you along the way.

Your chosen home care provider is there to look after you. They should help you to make your own decisions and support you in maintaining your own independence. That also means treating you with respect, valuing you as a person and respecting your privacy. If you need assistance with tasks such as dressing, bathing and toileting, you have the right to choose your carer, whenever possible.

Remember, it’s your care and you have the right to be involved in every aspect of your care. Don’t ever be afraid to ask for a family member or friend to be kept informed about your home care too.

Home care company standards All companies have a ‘Statement of Purpose’ that sets out their aims and objectives and the type of the services they offer. If you’re employing a company, they should give you a contract explaining all terms and conditions. This will include things such as their confidentiality policy – for example, how they will hold and use 42

personal data. All home care company employees should also have clear written guidelines and follow robust procedures on how to administer and assist with any medication needs.

Before your home care starts It’s important to always make sure that the home care company you choose visits you at home, before care starts.

This will give you the chance to discuss your requirements in detail to ensure that you’re happy with your choice of provider. A good home care company will answer any questions you may have during this visit. The visit will also give the company the opportunity to see the environment in which they will be working. If possible, arrange for a family member or friend to be there when the home care company visits.

So you’re thinking about using a company to provide home care? But how can you make sure that the home care provider you choose treats and cares for you in the right way?

It’s the job of the home care company staff to make sure that you are safe and secure in your own home when they are working with you. Every home care company must have procedures in place to protect those using home care services, to reduce the risk of accidents, and protect people from any form of abuse including physical, emotional and financial abuse. This will also include an agreement about gaining access to your home. Care workers should have ID cards to show their photograph, their name, the company’s name and contact details.

Home care companies must also have a policy in place that sets out how staff should handle money, if you ask them to buy things, or to pay a bill for you.

Paying for home care It’s important to know the cost of home care and you should always be provided with a clear idea of costs for home care services. In most cases, companies will charge different rates for home care on weekday, evenings and weekends.

There is also often a higher rate on Bank Holidays. Remember to ask if there will be any additional costs that you need to know about.

If you have been assessed by Social Services as being eligible for care and support at home, and Social Services have agreed to, fully or part fund your care (dependant on your financial assessment), you can choose to have the Care Company Social Services appoint, or you can choose to have Social Services provide the money to

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Age

buy, some or all of, the support you need using something called a “Direct Payment”. The Direct Payment option allows you greater flexibility and freedom in how your care is provided.

You can choose to employ your own ‘personal assistant’ or decide to work with the care provider of your choice.

Your local Social Services team will be able to advise you further.

•

•

Check what you are being charged

•

All costs should be written into the contract between you and the company and you should be invoiced at regular intervals for the previous months’ service. In most cases, the home care company will keep timesheets that you will need to sign.

Always check that they have logged the correct length of visits. It may seem easier to sign only once a week but if you do this you may be charged the incorrect amount and it will prove difficult to prove otherwise.

Automated care worker monitoring Some home care companies have electronic monitoring so care workers can ‘check in’ using their mobile phone Concern_Befriends Ad_190x125mmV5.pdf 1 12/01/2015 or put a pin number into your landline phone.

09:20

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Do all care workers undergo a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check before being employed?

And what ongoing training do they receive?

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What charges will you be expected to pay (Is there a minimum charge)? And how you will be invoiced?

Does the company have a copy of its latest inspection report available for you to look at?

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Can the company be contacted outside office hours or in an emergency?

Is the company insured to protect your safety and interests?

•

Will the company give you a copy of their standard contract to read before signing?

How do they match the most suitable care worker to your needs? Will they arrive at the time you have requested. Will you always have the same person caring for you. What happens if they are sick or go on holiday?

At Age Concern Liverpool & Sefton, we make sure that you are given all the attention you deserve at the time you want it.

Our friendly, experienced, trained staff are dedicated to ensuring that you get all the support needed with no half measures - the time you pay for is the time you receive.

We create a plan oftheir support toifmeet your needs, aiming for your me people feel lonely and isolated at particular times throughout lives, you all feel There is no cost to you when they use maximum independence, upholding is youthis or someone you know, Age Concern Liverpool & Sefton may be able to help. If you dignity at all times. system and it records the exact e agedlength 50 and live in the of over, time that your care borough provider of Sefton and have Sefton GP, you can access the ree Befriending and Re-ablement service. Giving you the opportunity to increase your has been with you. This system also Age Concern Liverpool & Sefton Homecare Service has been designed helps the home care company to your confidence and overcome loneliness. independence, improve according to exactly what older people have told us they have been highlight any missed calls by the care looking for. We arrange for dedicated carers to visit your home, at times reducing the6risk of you of not FREE support plus subsequent weekly visits ou canworker, access up to weeks you decide to help with the tasks you choose. We cover the tasks below getting a call. rom our volunteer befrienders who are carefully selected to support you. around your needs. plus many more.

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Top 10 key questions to Age Concern Liverpool & Sefton can help you to: ask when choosing a Home Age Concern Liverpool •&Keep Sefton Homecare Service has been designed according to • Get to• activities & in touch with people Care company • Personal Care Domestic/Household Services exactly what older people have told us they have been looking for. We arrange for • Can the company provide your money medical appointments • Manage dedicated carers to visit your home, at times you decide to help with the tasks you • Dietary Care • Shopping and Errands the care needed, and have • Feel positive Feel safe oose. We cover the tasks• below plus many more. We fit the service around your needs. they provided care before for • Be treated someone with similar needs? with dignity and respect

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Have they taken the time to 8-10personal Hoghton Street, Southport, PR9 0TF understand your likes and dislikes? www.ageconcernliverpoolandsefton.org.uk

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43

David Barrington: “I was brought up around the funeral business, ​the cars were parked at ​our family home​,​​so when growing up I spent most of my time playing in limousines and hearses and for a young boy these cars were quite exciting.​"​ ​ "When I was 11 years old my mum became ill, she had a fast growing brain tumour. Three months later she died, there was nothing that the doctors could do to help. I was devastated, my world had fallen apart and I felt very alone.

Unfortunately, although my dad was in the funeral business, he ​struggled dealing​with a grieving child. I left home to go to college when I was 18 and at that stage had no intention of ever going into the family business. Six years later though, I had been made redundant and my dad wanted to retire. He offered me the business and I came home to take it over. The rest is history!”

“Our ​intention is to stay very much in touch, and enthusiastically so, with the way funerals are going and keep abreast of what people now want.

Today, 21 years on - ​I have been joined by my wife Claire and a small team focusing on every aspect of a persons' life and the wishes of that family in great detail. I now also teach the National Diploma in Funeral Directing to ​other funeral professionals to aim to push the standards within the industry higher and higher.”

“We believe the service and contribution we can offer here at Barrington's, makes us stand out from the crowd. ​Listening, effectively building a relationship of trust with family members and understanding how reassurance and communication can help.”

“Our ​premises are light and contemporary with a relaxed atmosphere, neutral yet inviting, which can be a huge help when families want to meet and talk. We have a children's toys box for small hands to be entertained and involved and good coffee always on the go. Our aim is for one person to look after a family from the first point of contact to the day of the funeral and often for a time afterwards too.”

“It is my family's business to look after your family at a difficult time and we consider this a ​privilege t​ o take on this very important rol​e​.”

PROUD TO BE LOCAL AND INDEPENDENT l

Family Owned and run by David and Claire Barrington

l

All aspects of Funeral Planning and advice

l

Wide range of Ashes Caskets and Keepsakes

l

In-house printing.

We are dedicated professional Funeral Directors based in north Liverpool who provide a personal service to you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We are here to help and advise in any way we can. We would be happy to discuss any questions you may have at our funeral homes, by phone or in the comfort of your own home, to arrange an appointment please call us:

0151 928 1625 Barrington’s Independent Funeral Service 28 Crosby Road North, Waterloo, Liverpool, Merseyside L22 4QF. www.barringtonsfunerals.co.uk

Only Funeral Director’s in Merseyside to be included in this book!

What’s in a name?

What’s in a name?

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Postcode: Tel no: Email: Postcode: Tel no: Use of data: Both Golden Charter and the Funeral Director may use your details including your email address to keep Email: you informed about other products and services. If you would prefer not to receive this information, please tick here: Email:

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Asmall Hall Care Home

“Excellence Comes as Standard” Providing Short Term or Long Term Care for adults including Day Care Our 17th Century, prestigious building set in 5 acres of gardens and, opened as a care home more than 20 years ago. Whilst retaining its many original homely features and comforts, we have adapted to provide a luxury, caring facility. Situated within 2 miles of Ormskirk centre, only half a mile from the bus stop makes us within reach of many other community activities by mini-bus or taxi.

Inspection invited without obligation where some of our devoted staff have worked at the home since its opening in 1991. We at Asmall Hall pride ourselves in the delivery of high quality, Person Centered Care by providing regular training and supervision for our staff as we aim to maintain and continually improve our services for your benefit.

A Quality Service is the only acceptable one!

Proprietors and Managers are Mrs. Jennifer and Mr. Allen Chapman with Unit Manager Mrs. Tracey Farrington.

To achieve and enhance our high standards of care on a continual basis, we are working towards the National ‘Gold Standard Framework’ for end of life care.

• Open Visiting • On Site Chapel/Prayer Room • Own Minibus for use of regular outings • Full social calendar (by our activities co-ordinators) • Own Hairdresser Asmall Hall prides itself in offering home cooked food wherever possible and choice of menu is available including special medical diets as medically prescribed and the majority of bedrooms are single although we also offer 3 double rooms, if this is desired.

Short term care is available if someone is recovering folloing surgery or hospital stay and requires that extra support in the time whilst they recover enough to live independently again at home.

Registered and caring for both male and female clients we offer a relaxed but staff competent environment including Qualified Nurses on duty for each 24 hour period with the majority of Care Staff having N.V.Q. qualifications or equivalent.

Registered and inspected regularly for the Quality Standard BS EN ISO 9001:2002, Asmall Hall Management are continually looking to improve the delivery of care standards to ‘Best Practice’ levels.

Tel: 01695 579548

QUALITY GUILD

Asmall Hall Care Home, Asmall Lane, Scarisbrick, Ormskirk, Lancashire L40 8JL. www.asmallhallcarehome.co.uk Fax: 01695 579978 email:asmallmatron@aol.com