Reading issue 40 by 50 Plus Magazine

FREE Please

take on

OCTOBER - DECEMBER

READING BRACKNELL WOKINGHAM MAIDENHEAD & WINDSOR EDITION 40

Elaine Paige STRIPPED BACK

Yo u

Get better sooner

THE MASTER OF ITALIAN COOKERY

CircleReading Hospital helps Doreen get back to ballet

Antonio Carluccio

EALTHCA IH

r M in d At

FAST ACCESS TO EXCELLENT HEALTHCARE

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

FOR ALL YOUR HOME IMPROVE

We do miracles and the impossible just take

HOME TRANSFORMAT Â© Crown Products

by Jason

EXTENSIONS: Make extra space from conception to completion we can help with everything you could need. CONSERVATORIES & ORANGERIES: For that extra bit of room to enjoy all year round, bringing your garden in. BATHROOMS: Designed, supplied and installed with a full range of furniture and fittings. KITCHENS: Fully designed, supplied and installed with a full range of appliances from all the main brands.

MENT NEEDS

es a little longer

IONS

254 Silverdale Road, Reading, Berkshire RG6 7NB Tel: 0118 935 3275 | 07411 489703 jason@crowns-kitchens.com

www.crowns-kitchens.com

ANGELA

PONDERINGS

KELLY

know) but because of how important Lottery money has become to sport in this country. The figure announced on the radio the other day was £340 million going from the Lottery to Olympic and Paralympic sports between 2013 and 2017. That was in the same news’ programme as a round-up of the amazing haul of medals won by Team GB in the Rio Olympics. And these two facts are not un-related.

Thanks for the golds, Lottery fans IS buying a few Lottery tickets a weekly habit for you as you rely on your “special” numbers and mentally plan how you’d spend your £20 million?

The sports fuelling the rise in Britain’s position in the medals’ table over the past eight years – like athletics, boxing and cycling – were rewarded with more investment. Oddly, swimming, which had its funding cut, performed very well in Rio, but perhaps that just means that swimmers are a particularly hardy breed, determined to win under all circumstances.

In the bigger picture, what it definitely means is that you are doing a pretty If it is, you’re one of almost 45 million remarkable job by buying a Lottery ticket people around the UK filling in Lottery or five. So, along with that wonderfully tickets each week. stomach-churning, heart-stopping weekly moment when those balls bounce down I mention this interesting fact not because the chute and you wonder if your life will I’ve just won the roll-over (we stopped change forever, just bear in mind that you doing the Lottery 20 years ago when we have already helped change the life of fell out badly over how we would spend a budding athlete somewhere. Just by our imaginary winnings - ridiculous, I buying a Lottery ticket.

Hands off the cash – I’m spending it I HAD a real Victoria Meldrew moment the other day when I read a headline in a national newspaper about “Selfish Baby Boomers”. The “baby boomers” are generally those born between 1947 and 1964 and as I fall into that category my interest was piqued. The rest of the headline, however, had me seething “I don’t belieeeeeeve it!” as it read “Generation wants to spend, spend spend, rather than leave cash to kids.”

inside

TRAVEL...

FLORAL TOURS AND CRUISES PAGES 6-7

ELAINE PAIGE

STRIPPED BACK PAGES 12-13

ANTONIO CARLUCCIO

THE MASTER OF ITALIAN COOKERY PAGES 27-29

| WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

6th Floor | 120 Bark Street | Bolton | BL1 2AX Sales Enquiries : T: (01204) 860 194 E: john@mcgrathmedia.co.uk

The story was about a new study which revealed that one in four 18 to 34 year-olds questioned said they were relying on inheriting the money built up by their parents so they can retire in financial security. What makes the developing situation interesting is that two out of three of the “baby boomers” questioned said they would rather spend their inheritance than pass it on, and they won’t bankroll the future security of their children. I should think not! While I’m all for helping our children as much as I can and in the way I want, I’d like to think they weren’t making firm future plans based on my bank balance. That way lies tripwires and unusual-tasting mushroom soup. Personally, I think there’s nothing wrong with spending the money I’ve earned. And if I want to fritter it away on wine, a Hollywood smile, young men called Sebastian in tight trousers, holidays to Paphos or a trout pout then I will. I always thought the greatest “legacy” you could leave your children was the work ethic and a decent set of values. That currency doesn’t change.

Saucy incident left me red-faced I’M not allowed those little cartons of sauce you’re given in cafes and restaurants any more. The reason is simple. My husband and I were having lunch in a pleasant café which was full of families and office staff obviously on their lunch break.

I was having my usual HP sauce on my chips (this is the King of Sauces and I will brook no argument) and it was brought in generous little plastic packs that you ripped off and then squeezed out. Unfortunately, I got my ripping and squeezing a bit muddled and suddenly, a plume of sauce sped over my left shoulder. As it happened, a rather pretty girl in her teens was sitting with a couple of young men, obviously on their lunch hour, at the table directly behind us. It was a nice day and she was wearing a snowy white blouse. In a kind of terrible slow motion, as I turned towards her I could see globules of HP settling in an artistic arrangement all over the back of her pristine top. I felt terrible! I started apologising profusely but she couldn’t really see the damage. “Don’t worry”, she told me, kindly. “Is it very bad?” she asked one of her colleagues. Eyeing my shocked face, he gamely said: “No, not really” even though the brown mess had now turned nicely into a map of Australia. They all got up to go back to their office – the girl still oblivious of her brown “backpack” - but for some reason my appetite had deserted me. When we got outside, my husband, who had been serious-faced and sympathetic throughout, doubled up in a heap laughing. We still can’t talk about this incident without the tears coming – his not mine – and I am now only allowed sauce bottles when we eat out. Shaken very slowly, of course.

Love socialising?

Don’t let hearing loss hold you back

We could help you get those events back in your diary. Book a free initial assessment with one of our hearing experts today.

Find out more at www.maryharehearingcentres.co.uk or Come in and see us in Weavers Walk, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 1AL Call us on 01635 523343 or email newburycentre@maryhare.org.uk

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

circlereading helps doreen get back to ballet Doreen pechey is a spritely woman in her early seventies who loves to keep fit and has a passion for ballet. When a nagging knee injury refused to go away, she was left with no option but to undergo knee replacement surgery. like a real person. He encouraged me to get back to what I was like before my knee started playing up.” Following a consultation, Doreen initially underwent a knee arthroscopy. “Things started getting better, but they were never really right”. Her treatment at Circlereading hospital by a specialist surgeon has meant that she has managed to get back on her feet. “There wasn’t really an initial injury. every so often, I’d get a nasty twinge, as if something in my knee had got caught.” For Doreen, and many others like her, this lead-up to a knee replacement is common. The wear and tear of age can weaken the joints, and serious injury becomes more likely. a twisted knee was enough to cause lasting damage. “It vaguely went away, but never properly. I wasn’t walking correctly.” Like many people, she sought help from her physiotherapist. But, after two weeks of treatment not producing results, it was advised that she see a specialist. Her physiotherapist suggested she see Mr sean O’Leary. “Mr O’Leary was great. He explained everything properly, and treated me

at a ballet class in London, Doreen noticed something strange. “every time I lifted my right leg, my left knee would bend in order to protect itself.” Doreen’s body was still adapting to a long-term injury. she was no longer in any pain, nor was she completely cured. upon the advice of a gp, she went back to Mr O’Leary for a follow-up consultation. It was there, having X-rayed the injury, that he advised her to undergo a knee replacement. “I didn’t want to be an old woman. I’m 71, but I feel more like 21.” Two weeks later, she was at Circlereading hospital, preparing to go into surgery. “I was happy with the timing of the surgery. It meant that I wouldn’t miss many ballet lessons. The hospital was lovely, and I was made to feel very welcome by the staff. It was filled with little comforts that made it feel just like home. The tea even came in a real teapot.”

| WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Following successful surgery, but in need of further rest, Mr O’Leary advised that she stay overnight. “I was frustrated because I was walking unaided, but Mr O’Leary was quite clear. I didn’t mind staying longer. It was made more comforting having my husband stay the night with me.” One day after she entered Circlereading hospital, Doreen walked out again. she did so unaided. “I saw a big improvement quickly. now I can do just about anything.” The choice to undergo surgery was easy, but for many others, the choice can be a more difficult one. Mr O’Leary has this advice for any potential patients: “One of the most important aspects to consider is that, initially, it is an uncomfortable procedure. The leg muscles will need ‘waking up’ and strengthening in the time after the operation. The patient has a key role to play to supplement the surgery. In order to achieve the optimal result, they will need to be determined and work hard.” In Doreen’s case, this proved true. It only took two months of rest before she was able to, gently, take up dancing again. “getting back to fitness was always my priority. Before the operation, even getting around the supermarket

tired me out. If I hadn’t done this, I’d be sitting at home, doing crochet. I would be unable to do any ballet.” Doreen has since returned to her active lifestyle as an avid walker, swimmer, leader in her Beaver scout Colony, and weekly ballet practice.

If you require treatment on your knee, ask your Gp to refer you to the Knee Unit at circlereading hospital for a consultation. For more information or to book an appointment, please call 0118 922 0026 or email enquiries@circlereading.co.uk

Sean o’Leary MB BChir, Ma, FrCs (Tr&Orth)

Consultant knee surgeon

circlereading.co.uk

The hospital was lovely, and I was made to feel very welcome by the staff. It was filled with little comforts that made it feel just like home. The tea even came in a real teapot. doreen pechey knee surgery paTIenT

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

HOME websites on the big screen. There are Blu-ray players sound bars and laptops all offering programmes and films in your own home and to the highest specs of sound and vision. Or opt for a home cinema system and bring the latest films right into your living room. The choice on the high street is endless but a good place to go for impartial reviews of what is on offer before you buy is Which? magazine on www.which. co.uk

HOME LIFE Have you noticed how more and more of us are homebased as our lives unfold? In fact, there has never been an easier time to enjoy life at home, all underpinned by the latest technology, gadgets and services that encourage us to make the most of our lives. But, how do you make your life at home happier, healthier and easier? Well, reviewing your lifestyle and deciding how to improve it is an excellent start. Begin with your HOME itself. Is it too big or too small? Maybe it has outgrown your family’s needs now that your children are adults. Although grandchildren may come to stay for some weekends, it’s likely that you may not need a house with all the accommodation you had when their parents were young. You may have quite the reverse of this problem and want to EXTEND your home with extra rooms, perhaps as a sewing room, a gym or a spacious TV room.

| WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

If you need a reliable builder either get someone you know who has had work done to refer theirs (and see the work in situ first) or to find local builders go to the websites of either the Federation of Master Builders at http://www.fmb.org.uk or the National Federation of Builders at http://www.builders.org.uk/ The same principle applies to CONSERVATORIES or ORANGERIES. There are plenty of trustworthy companies dotted around the country but try to get one referred locally whose work you can view first. Many installers actually have examples of their work onsite or may suggest homes where they can be viewed. It’s definitely worth seeing what they can do first, and talking to current owners about long-term satisfaction. HOME ENTERTAINMENT has never been more diverse, or accessible. The latest Smart TVs access apps like BBC iPlayer, stream films on Netflix or surf

Now may be the right time to invest in a new KITCHEN or to modernise your current one with better units or a revamp on doors and the latest handles. It’s surprising just how modern a kitchen can look with small improvements although there is nothing to beat the sheer style of a brand new kitchen with the latest streamlined and built-in units. We all spend a large proportion of our lives in the kitchen and for many it’s the heart of the home so it’s worth getting it just right. Open up dark spaces with bright paintwork and new window blinds. Invest in some new, comfortable kitchen furniture to make mealtimes or just reading a pleasure. Kitchen appliances have never been more user-friendly. Even kitchen sinks and taps are designed to make life as easy as possible and the latest gadgets make every task – from peeling and slicing to boiling and frying – as easy as can be. Have you, for example, got a small TV in the kitchen? Even this addition to kitchen life alters every task you do and encourages you to spend more time there – perhaps emulating TV’s MasterChef and trying out new cookery ideas! DECORATING rooms not only brightens them up but gives them a new lease of life that can make an under-used room suddenly somewhere you want to sit or work. Use lighter shades to open up dingy hallways and add mirrors to maximise space – a trick you can use all over your home. Take a fresh look at your FURNITURE. Is it dowdy and past its best? If your sofa

mattresses that mould to your body shape, supporting and ensuring a better night’s sleep. Décor and lighting can be geared to enhancing that relaxation and toning bedding can blend in with your new décor and add to that somnolent atmosphere. You may feel that you want to enjoy your GARDEN far more now that you have the time to make the most of it. Getting in an expert to re-design your garden isn’t as expensive as you might think or you can get advice from your local garden centre on creating new areas in which to sit or even work.

is looking a little threadbare or your dining table and chairs scuffed and well-used, it’s definitely worth investigating buying new ones. Just fitting new covers for a threepiece suite can make all the difference, although the latest furniture designs span every sort of décor, from ultra modern to comfortable traditional. And with new furniture you will need to realistically assess your curtains and blinds. New additions here to complement any new furniture or decorating can make that special difference that easily give a room the “wow” factor.

If you’ve had the same bathroom for many years, you will be amazed at what contemporary styles and fitments are now on offer.

We spend large parts of our lives in our BEDROOMS so this might be just the right time to improve yours. Beds have never been more varied or dedicated to your comfort with Memory Foam

A new patio or wooden decking can make all the difference to gardens of all sizes, as can the latest garden furniture, a new shed or greenhouse or perhaps a hot tub to take advantage of the outdoors while staying warm and cosseted in the warm, bubbling water. Often, it’s not the big differences but the small ones that make our lives more enjoyable on a daily basis – and promote a sense of wellbeing that makes us smile every day.

Could your BATHROOM do with upgrading? If you’ve had the same bathroom for many years, you will be amazed at what contemporary styles and fitments are now on offer. Large tubs, free-standing taps, walk-in showers and clever storage space ideas are all on view at your local suppliers once you start looking at what’s available. The whole concept these days is built around making bathrooms use not only functional but relaxing and stress-free, and even small alterations can move towards this.

WWW.BUXTONOPERAHOUSE.ORG.UK

The pitfalls of playing the multi-generation housing game It’s estimated that more than one million British households have three or more generations living together under one roof. Multi-generational living – also called intergenerational living – is a rising trend, one which has seen an estimated 30% increase in the past decade.

Mike Wragg, an associate in the residential property team at Buckinghamshire law firm B P Collins LLP, says: “As life expectancy increases, often so do care needs, and while for some this may mean moving into an assisted living facility or a care home, others are relying on the support of their adult children.

The difficulties for the younger generation in getting on the housing ladder has resulted in a generation of “boomerang kids” coming back home to live with mum and dad; while at the other end of the age scale, elderly parents are living longer and often need more care.

“There are several different options – one is to sell both homes and buy one larger property together; another is to sell the parents’ home and use that money to build a ‘granny flat’ at their son or daughter’s home; while the third is for an adult child to buy their parents a suitable property nearby.”

For an increasing number, pooling the family resources together to either buy one larger house or extend an existing property can help to save money and benefit everyone involved.

The biggest challenge says Mike, is to realise that although plans can be made with the best of intentions, circumstances can change, leaving living arrangements that seemed like a good idea at the time no longer viable.

Before taking the plunge however, it’s important to take both legal and independent financial advice in order to avoid potential family disputes in the future.

Take, for example, the case of a middle-aged couple who build a granny flat extension to accommodate the wife’s parents. If, some years later, the couple run into marital difficulties and split up, then the entire property may have

10 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

LEGAL to be sold as part of the divorce settlement – leaving her parents effectively homeless and with no equity of their own. In addition, if an elderly couple’s money has been invested in a property rather than being set aside to pay for care fees, the authorities could potentially take a charge over the family house in order to recover money when it is ultimately sold. This means it is a decision that could come back to haunt the family in years to come and one which may also have inheritance tax implications in the longer term. “Investing in an existing property or buying a new home together which is big enough to cater for all your needs might seem like a good idea but it can be a legal minefield,” continued Mike. “If the property is sold, there could there be disagreement about the ownership of part of the house or, alternatively, if the elderly parents need to liquidate some of their own money in years to come to pay for care home or nursing fees, they could find it very difficult to do so as you can’t sell ‘half’ a house.”

agreement is properly and legally documented to avoid future confusion within the family,” he said. “What these examples show is that what seems like a simple solution can be a legal minefield. As you get older, moving house becomes so much more of an upheaval and what you don’t want to do is unintentionally force more stress and pressure onto your parents at a time when they should be able to relax and enjoy their retirement years. “I can’t urge strongly enough the importance of seeking advice before making such a momentous decision. We offer families the chance to talk through initial advice without charge, enabling them to understand why it is so important to get it right. After all, if you’ve worked hard all your life and invested in property, you want to make sure you all reap the right rewards.”

It can also complicate matters if elderly parents have several children to whom they wish to leave their estate. If their money has been poured into an extension to live with one son or daughter, then the remaining children could effectively each claim a share of the extension, but only recoup their inheritance such time as the house was sold – potentially putting undue pressure on the couple who opened their doors to look after their elderly parents. Another scenario may be if the middle-aged couple has to move for any reason – perhaps work-related, in which case the parents will feel duty bound to pack up and move with them. And of course, on a work-related theme, if the husband or wife runs a business which gets into financial trouble, then the whole property may have to be sold by creditors. This can also be the case if, rather than having them live together in one house, a son or daughter has bought their parents a suitable property nearby. If at some stage their financial or personal circumstances change, then it is entirely possible the parents’ property may have to be sold.

For expert advice call Mike Wragg property lawyer at B P Collins LLP

t: 01753 279021 email: resproperty@bpcollins.co.uk

Mike also recognises that in order to broaden their options, some older people may want to access cash from their property by way of an equity release scheme, but he cautions against the “very high” interest rates and says it can be more cost effective to look for an alternative. “There are different options available, for example, if you are unwilling to move in with your family, you may be able to borrow a sum of money which could make a difference to the way you live. If so, then it’s important to ensure the

www.bpcollins.co.uk WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 11

HEALTH ”When we walk, we walk through two landscapes: an exterior land of trees, seas, cities, mountains and fields but we also follow the paths that lead into our own interior world.” All in all then, walking is good news. So how can you make the most of your new healthy hobby? Here’s our top tips on walking technique, the best tools, and the most scenic routes to discover the best bits of Britain’s beautiful countryside.

Count your steps The first step is to get a pedometer (or download an app to your phone) to find out how many steps you take during a normal day. Track your steps for the week and work out a daily average. Even if you have a sedentary desk job, you might be surprised by how many steps you take walking to the water cooler!

GET MOVING & IMPROVE YOUR LIFE BEING fit and over 50 goes together far more these days than it once did and for all sorts of reasons. Our parents may not have gone to the gym as part of their weekly routine, played a sport or watched their diet, but tougher times in particular didn’t lend themselves to this kind of self-awareness. Today, we are all expected to live far longer, thanks to a better diet, healthcare and improvements in technology and medical research. However, just how we live our lives is entirely up to us. It’s a fact that we have never before had sport and healthy activities more available and accessible to everyone. Of course, you don’t necessarily have to pay for these pastimes. One of the best exercises of all is entirely free: walking. Forget hydro-cycling and doga classes (that’s yoga with dogs) — one of the best types of exercise you can do comes completely for free, and you can do it absolutely anywhere. Researchers have found the simple act of walking to have a whole host of health benefits, from reducing cholesterol, lowering blood pressure and decreasing the risk of diabetes to improving self-esteem.

12 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

“The benefits are wide ranging — and they go above and beyond making people more physically active,” says Sarah Hanson, health practitioner and researcher at UEA’s Norwich Medical School. “What’s more, people find it relatively easy to stick with this type of exercise regime.” Walking can even increase creativity, as a study from Stanford University discovered in 2014. “Many people anecdotally claim they do their best thinking when walking. We finally may be taking a step, or two, toward discovering why,” wrote Stanford doctoral graduate Marily Oppezzo and Professor Daniel Schwartz in their study, published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory and Cognition. “We’re not saying walking can turn you into Michelangelo,” says Oppezzo. “But it could help you at the beginning stages of creativity.” As Peter Owen-Jones, Walking Correspondent at The Sunday Times and author of Pathlands: Tranquil Walks Through Britain, puts it:

The NHS recommends that you should aim to take 10,000 steps a day. There are plenty of ways to gently introduce more steps into your daily routine — getting off at an earlier bus stop, for example, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Why not try taking a stroll during your lunch break, or visiting a colleague at their desk instead of emailing them?

Perfect your posture Even though walking is something everyone can enjoy, there are still some guidelines you need to follow. You not only need to pay attention to how far and fast you walk, but the way in which you do it. Whether you’re trying to stay fit or just go out for a stroll, walking with the proper form can help you move more efficiently and prevent injuries and stress to the body. ‘Learning to use good walking posture will help you breathe deeper, relax your shoulders and neck, and avoid back and hip pain,’ says marathon coach Wendy Bumgardner. ‘Imagine a string attached to the top of your head. Feel it lift you up from your hips so you are tall and straight,’ explains Bumgardner. ‘Now engage your core muscles by slightly sucking in your stomach. This will help you maintain good posture while walking.’

Buy the proper shoes Walking shoes come in many varieties and it’s important to find a pair that will offer you support, flexibility and cushioning to keep your feet comfortable and protected. While there is no one best shoe for all walkers, there are certain things to

look for in your shoes that will ensure your feet are happy wherever they roam. As you’ll be on your feet for a long period of time, shoes with ample cushioning are essential to prevent foot fatigue. If your walking shoes aren’t flexible enough, your ankle and shin muscles won’t be able to fulfil their natural movements, and you may set yourself up for an injury. In contrast, too little flex can lead to injuries such as plantar fasciitis and heel and foot pain caused by over-stretching the foot’s tissue. This is especially true for older walkers, whose feet may be losing their natural flex.

Adult swimming

Joining a gym Working out at a gym can improve your health. In addition to helping you to burn fat and calories, cardiovascular exercise also helps to strengthen your heart and can even prevent against risky medical conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, some cancers, type 2 diabetes and obesity. Cardio exercise can also help you sleep through the night more soundly, relieve stress, have a more positive attitude and increase energy levels. Gyms offer a wide variety of cardio choices through both machines, like the treadmill, elliptical trainer and stationary bike, and group exercise classes, such as cardio kickboxing, aerobic dance and group indoor cycling. At a gym, you can also enlist the help of a personal trainer, who can guide you on the best methods and techniques in order to reach your fitness goals.

Swimming When it comes to swimming we all have different ideas about what we want from the water. For some it’s the thrill of splashing in the sea or pool on holiday and for others it’s the great feeling of vitality that you get after doing a few laps. Whatever your reason there’s no doubt that swimming is a fantastic form of exercise for everyone. It is gentle on your joints, great for your heart and lungs AND works all the major muscle groups of the body. Whether you fancy getting a few tips or are a complete beginner, it’s never too late to get in the pool and learn how to swim - no matter how nervous or uncomfortable you may be. Bracknell Leisure Centre has 3 amazing pools which cater for all ages and abilities. You will find the toddlers in the Learner Pool which is kept at a balmy 32 degrees. In the Competition Pool there are “slow, medium and fast” lanes for swimmers who like putting in a few laps. Then in the middle, there’s the Training Pool which is used for recreational swimming and the majority of the swim school lessons. Adult lessons are held at convenient times and are devised to get you swimming as soon as possible. Furthermore, water confidence can help make holidays more enjoyable, give you the opportunity to swim with friends/family and give you a great low-impact way to keep fit. So why not join one of Bracknell’s courses? • • • • •

Learn how to swim Improve technique Gain confidence in the water Be part of a small class of like minded people Enjoy our friendly and qualified instructors

There’s also L’eau Robics (or water aerobics) and “Swimfit” sessions every week. Bracknell Leisure Centre has something for everyone, so come and make a splash. We can show you that “The wetter the better”!

Whatever your age or ability, we can help you move forward. 4 Non-Swimmers 4 Beginners 4 Improvers 4 Intermediate 4 Advanced

4 Stroke & Stamina 4 Deep Water Confidence 4 Day & Evening classes

If you’re looking for a water based workout or to develop your existing skills further then we have plenty to offer at Bracknell Leisure Centre: • Swimfit • L’eau Robics • Splashfit

• Adult only lanes • 50+ exclusive swims

Bracknell Leisure Centre Bagshot Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 9SE

Tel: 01344 454203 Email: blc.enquiries@bracknell-forest.gov.uk Web: www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 13

Elaine Paige

Stripped Back WHEN it comes to singer Elaine Paige we think we know her so well – but the reality is that this multi-talented performer constantly surprises her fans. While this year alone she is preparing for a lengthy series of weekend concerts around the country, she also hosts her regular – and very popular – Radio 2 programme on musical theatre and film music each Sunday and earlier this year she starred in a new TV version of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream as part of the Bard’s 400th anniversary celebrations. All of which should really be no surprise as Elaine, now 68, has had one of the most varied and glittering careers of any musical theatre entertainer. Especially for one who has always considered herself an actress rather than a singer. It is music, though, which has always figured largely in Elaine’s existence. As she explains now:

“I don’t know what I’d do without music in my life.” Growing up in Barnet, North London, young Elaine was actually used to the world of showbiz from quite early on. Her dad was an amateur drummer and his daughter was born possessing quite a voice. To encourage her to be an all-rounder and to gain confidence, her parents sent Elaine to a theatre school although show music had already entered her young life to stay there forever. She set her sights on a musical career and, after touring in shows, made her West End debut in the then controversial musical Hair as a member of the “tribe” - and thus, at one point, naked.

Various other roles in stage musicals followed but it was when she was chosen for the much-coveted part of Eva Peron in the first stage production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Evita that Elaine came to national prominence. “It was an amazing thing, really,” she recalls. “They had searched all over the world for the right person and I was pretty much an unknown then so to take that role was just wonderful. It was a perfect piece for me. For once, even my height (5’ 1”) was right for the role!” This part won her a clutch of awards, including the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Performance in a Musical and, at the age of 30, made Elaine a star. It also kickstarted a remarkable collaboration with Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber during which she played some of their most notable characters, including Grizabella in the original production of Cats. This not only

Please call Rachael, Lorna for an application form or chat 0118 942 9889, visit www.chrysaliscareathome.org

14 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW cemented her professional reputation but gave her a Top Ten hit with the iconic song Memory. She had another top-seller with Barbara Dickson in I Know Him So Well from the musical Chess, and enjoyed many wonderful stage appearances in some of the best-known musicals – from Anything Goes and Sunset Boulevard to The King and I and Sweeney Todd. Ask her what her favourite role is and she admits that it’s a difficult choice. “I’ve loved so many of them,” she states. “Evita has to be a favourite because it was so important in my career and because I loved it, but I also loved being in Piaf and in Sunset Boulevard.” She has recorded 18 solo albums – four multi-plantinum and nine consecutive gold awards - and been in seven cast albums, picking up a number of music awards along the way. Her theatre work has brought her a whole cabinet full of awards, including Best Actress in a Musical and a Variety Club Award for Show Business Personality of the Year. She was awarded an OBE in 1995 and given an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters by the University of East Anglia in 2012. Her acting has also been highlighted on several notable occasions. She worked twice with Sir Peter Hall’s Theatre Company in The Misanthrope and Feydeau’s Where There’s A Will and is quick to say how grateful she was for the chance. “Peter saw something in me that others hadn’t and cast me in these productions,” she says. “I so enjoyed them!” While Elaine has long had a high-profile theatre career, she has also become a TV favourite. She’s been a guest on dozens of shows, had her own Sky Arts TV show and also acted in programmes including drama series Lady Killers,Tales of the Unexpected, Agatha Christie’s Marple and Where the Heart Is. She was Mistress Quince in Russell T Davies’ version of A Midsummer’s Night Dream – “which I really enjoyed. It was brilliant seeing Matt Lucas at work and to reacquaint myself with my old friend Bernard Cribbins from Anything Goes.” Last year, Elaine celebrated 50 years in showbusiness with a lengthy tour and, although she prefers not to put herself through such a tough touring schedule anymore, she is looking forward to the series of weekend concerts entitled Stripped Back which start at the beginning of October. These involve her performing her favourite tracks with a small group of musicians in venues from Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall to Cheltenham Town Hall and finishing on December 18 at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. “It will have a real cross-section of music,” she explained. “I spent my teenage years listening to Cilla, Lulu, Helen Shapiro and Patti LaBelle. There were some wonderful songwriters around then like Randy Newman, Harry Nilsson, the Beatles and Carly Simon so I’ll be singing lots of those

along with plenty of what I call my ‘potboilers’ to keep everyone happy!” She was busy preparing for these concerts when we chatted – “singing every day like I always do to keep my voice strong and trying to fit in playing tennis a couple of times a week.” Elaine particularly enjoys her weekly radio programme, Elaine Paige on Sunday, in which she highlights famous and not so famous musical theatre tracks. The formula is obviously a successful one with more than 2.3 million listeners each week. “I get to play some of my favourite music each week – what better way is there to spend a Sunday?” she laughs. And, as someone who has already had such a long and varied career, are there other areas of entertainment she would still like to do? “Oh, yes,” she asserts. “I’d definitely like to do more drama. But I guess we will just have to wait and see what comes up.” And for the country’s First Lady of Musical Theatre it was then back to rehearsals – and dreams of having a tennis back-hand like Roger Federer’s!

* For more details of Elaine Paige’s Stripped Back weekend concerts go to www.elainepaige.com WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 15

EALTHCA IH

n g W ai ting

Yo u

t Acce ss

Fas

sts

Get better sooner

DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T WAIT, PAY FOR YOUR OWN PRIVATE TREATMENT.

EALTHCA IH

PRIVATE HEALTHCARE

r M in d At

Your Local Private Hospital in Windsor BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital Fast access to excellent healthcare Call 0800 533 5087

PRESS P L Serious about health. Passionate about care.

IVATE. PR

AND GO Y A

I H e a lt h c ar

AT BMI THE PRINCESS MARGARET HOSPITAL WE WANT TO HELP YOU GET BACK TO WHAT YOU LOVE BEST. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we offer: BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital offers: n Fast access to diagnosis and treatment at our hospitals n Consultant surgeons with proven expertise in their field n Specialties include: Orthopaedics, Urology, Gynaecology, Cancer Care and General Surgery n Treatment to patients from all major insurance companies n Fixed price packages for patients wishing to pay for themselves so there are no worries about unexpected bills

For further information or to book an appointment contact 0800 533 5087 or visit www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/pay-for-yourself

BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital Osborne Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 3SJ

Serious about health. Passionate about care. 0297 MKT ADV / CL06.2016

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by

BHUTAN:

The Land of the Thunder Dragon What’s the name of a country the size of Switzerland, landlocked too, with a constitutional monarchy, located in South Asia and only recently connected to the internet, where the king insists on measuring Gross National Happiness each year? Oh yes, and visited by the Cambridges in April 2016, with great success. Where?

The answer is indeed, Bhutan: a country bordered in the north by China, and India in the south, west and east. So just a tad inaccessible, and mountainous to boot. It really was pretty closed for centuries and has only recently encouraged tourism, although numbers are somewhat controlled. This is, in part, because the number of pilots licensed to land at Paro airport, Bhutan’s only international airport, was just eight, for some time. Flying in from Kathmandu is recommended as you can see Mount Everest if you sit on the left hand side of the plane. And wherever you come in from, Delhi, Mumbai, Singapore or Bangkok, the landing is almost vertical, after an approach through deep valleys, with towering mountains above.

18 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

How?

You can only visit as part of a group with a designated local guide, and there’s a daily fee for tourists, so it’s not the place for free-wheeling backpackers. Tourist infrastructure is rudimentary as it’s a new-ish development, so signs are not in English and trails not always wellmarked when trekking. Guides take charge and add much to the visitor experience. One of the most popular expeditions is to hike in the central region, through the Himalayan foothills, taking a trip for 3 or 4 days, sleeping in tents, passing through traditional villages and immersing yourself in the pristine natural environment.

Why?

This is a country that rewards the visitor time and again: it has been compared to Shangri-La, the mythical utopia of James Hilton’s 1933 book, Lost Horizon. The way of life is happily traditional, staying the same for centuries, and now the outside world is arriving in the form of tourists, television since 1999 and the internet (still only in Thimphu, the capital): so if you wish to experience authentic Himalayan Buddhism in a living culture before it dies out, this is where to go. Even now, there is inevitable change as this society strives to cope with the influences beamed in by satellite. However, there is no doubt that here, ceremonies, practices and Buddhist culture are still of paramount importance. The monthly festivals held

TRAVEL

around the country are noisy, colourful and steeped in history, they are full of music and dancing, with ancient stories enacted and celebrated by dancers in extraordinary masks. Tourists are welcome to be part of all this: the Bhutanese love to share the Tourism Council says. Try archery, but maybe not yak riding! Schoolchildren dress traditionally, in the gho for boys, a knee-length, brightly coloured, belted coat with knee-high socks and smart brogues. For girls, a kira is worn, often a full length skirt and neat jacket, equally brightly coloured. The Duchess of Cambridge wore an approximation of the kira during her visit to Bhutan. What is striking about the people in Bhutan is their love for the king, who they truly revere, the Buddhism that defines them and their general joy in life. The current King’s father, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, was responsible for introducing the measurement of Gross National Happiness, which considers the individual and society in many ways – economic, religious, communal and cultural. It is an intrinsic part of Bhutan, which gives rise to a unique people, whose principles include no harming others and intense reflection. In each town and city centre is the dzong, a fortress-like buildings that acts as a monastery and administrative centre. It is seen as a symbol of the community and very much part of daily

life. They are splendid buildings, said to have been created by llamas, without formal plans, or use of iton or cement. Even the airport terminal is built in this style. Nature too is astonishing here: the landscape is diverse and dramatic: the plunging valleys are often filled with fast flowing rivers. The wildlife is abundant, with little to have encroached on it and the Buddhist beliefs protecting it. Bengal tigers, red pandas, snow leopards, black bears and takins, the national animal, are just a few of the species to be seen. Many rare birds live here too, making it a birders’ paradise. The climate in the south is subtropical, leading to abundant and lush vegetation, poinsettias grow almost as tall as an adult, whereas in the north it is decidedly chillier, almost polar in fact. This gives rise to real contrasts when travelling around. And just a world about the food, it is not all vegetarian, with chilli cheese (Ema Datshi) being a real favourite locally. Should you choose a homestay with a Bhutanese family, which is a popular tourist option, red rice will be frequently eaten too!

When?

There are 4 clear seasons here. Spring is magical for wildlife and acres of mountain flowers, including the famous blue poppy which is the country’s symbol. And in autumn the harvest takes place, so you can really appreciate the agricultural way of life outside the cities. The best time to visit is October to April, which is the dry season. The Tourism Board is keen to encourage visitors from December to February when, whilst cooler, days are bright and sunny, and there are fewer visitors. From June to September, there is rain for 2 or 3 hours a day, and conditions can feel almost like a monsoon.

Who?

The Tourism Council recommends Bhutan for everyone who wants a unique experience, beautiful nature, geography and people with perhaps a few spiritual insights along the way. In fact, it employs the phrase ‘Happiness is a place’ to describe the country. Can there be any better recommendation? With many thanks to Amit Verma of Cox & Kings and Damcho Rinzin of the Tourism Council of Bhutan.

FACT BOX

Cox & Kings offer group and private tours to Bhutan. Visit www.coxandkings.co.uk. For reviews on this wonderful country, visit www.silvertraveladvisor.com, and type Bhutan into the search box.

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 19

TRAVEL and Het Loo respectively. And there’s no doubt that the gardens at Alhambra in Spain may not follow traditional lines, they are truly stunning, and fitting for a Moorish palace, with dancing, sparkling fountains, lacy stone work and shady courtyards. It’s peaceful outdoor space in a harsh, hot climate which has been carefully created.

Floral Tours and Cruises B y J ennie C arr f r o m S ilv er T rav el A d v isor As the great Gertrude Jekyll reputedly said: ‘The lesson I have thoroughly learnt, and wish to pass on to others, is to know the enduring happiness that the love of a garden gives.’ And how right she is! Brits are known worldwide for their love of gardens and tours to some of the world’s most fabulous are really popular. You can stay in the UK and travel by coach to take in the likes of Heligan, Alnwick and Wisley. Or cruise to Honfleur, perhaps, to visit Monet’s deservedly revered waterlilies. And for the adventurous, trips to China to follow the footsteps of the Victorian plant hunters are on offer. Near and far, there are gardens and superb examples of horticulture to behold! The UK: We are actually very spoilt indeed in the UK, with most of us living within close proximity to a gorgeous garden. The Royal Horticultural Society has its own wonderful estates at Wisely, Rosemoor, Harlow Carr and Hyde Hall, each are different and have a magnificent range of plants. The RHS also have 195 associated gardens to visit and there are, reputedly, more than 800 places of horticultural interest in the UK! Their Garden Holidays have great opportunities to go to some of the remarkable gardens on the Sicily Isles and Channel Islands, both of which have kinder climates than the mainland. These tours are often arranged as cruises, with guest botanists giving talks, on Minerva from Swan Hellenic or Voyager from Voyages of Discovery. Both are small

20 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

ships, with a friendly atmosphere, that allow passengers to tour in comfort, whilst unpacking just once! Many National Trust properties often boast the most spectacular grounds which are continuously maintained and improved. Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, Vita Sackville-West and of course, Gertrude Jekyll are creators of extraordinary gardens, often attached to architecturally important houses, now in National Trust stewardship. VisitEngland have designated 2016 as Year of the English Garden, so there is much going on to celebrate this across the land. Europe: Italy immediately springs to mind when thinking of gardens, and particularly the Italian Lakes where the climate is just perfect for gardens. And they exist in abundance. Both the Royal Horticultural Society Garden Holidays and Kirker Holidays offer tours around the lakes, where there’s the opportunity to take in magnificent villas as well as the flora. Camellias are a favourite near Lake Maggiore, and the islands of Isola Bella and Isola Madre showcase stunning planting: the former more formal and Italianate, the latter known as highly diverse and British in style! Whilst France and the remarkable vegetable plot, albeit stunning and very large, at Villandry or the Scottishdesigned La Bagatelle in Paris are wellknown, Germany and The Netherlands also have glorious gardens at Wurlitz

Many capital cities have botanical gardens as part of their civic offering, and so it is in Prague, although the nearby Castle Gardens and Wallenstein Garden should not be missed either. Portugal’s quintas have the most extraordinary horticultural reputation, and the Atlantic islands of Madeira and The Azores are destinations of great interest. Many cruises, including Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and Cruise and Maritime Voyages, dock here for a day or two for this very reason. Or you could stay with Sunvil on one of the islands, and immerse yourself in the plant life. Worldwide: North Africa and in particular, Morocco have some unexpected gems, Yves St Laurent’s Majorelle Gardens are truly inspiring as are many of the riad gardens, decorated with tiles and dainty fountains amid lush greenery. Further afield, the gardens in China have long filled the imaginations of those searching for exotic plants. There are many botanical gardens to be explored a well as adventures to be had, following the journeys taken by plant hunters in the I9th century. Think Indiana Jones cum Alan Titchmarsh! These journeys are usually led by horticultural experts, so you can really benefit from their knowledge and find out if the Chinese tree peony will really grow well back home in York. RHS Garden Holidays have fabulous tours to South Africa, Chile and New Zealand: with very different growing conditions and some quite bizarre plants. Voyages Jules Verne offer a trip to Costa Rica which has one of the most biodiverse environments in the world, with over 2,000 species of orchid for starters and several micro-climates too. Wherever you may choose to go, in the world’s gardens there is beauty, tranquillity, formality, surprise, wildness and plants ranging from small and discreet to nature’s real showstoppers, bold and brash. Contact service@silvertraveladvisor.com for more information.

FOOD & DRINK

Antonio Carluccio’s PASTA Antonio Carluccio shares his love of Italy’s favourite food, providing innovative and exciting recipes. Here we share three from the ultimate book on pasta from the master of Italian cookery!

Minestrone di Verdure Vegetable and Pasta Soup This version of minestrone is influenced by those served in Lombardy and Liguria, but you will find similar soups – and some surprisingly different kinds – throughout the country. Most minestroni use bits and pieces of vegetables left in the fridge, such as courgette, aubergine, carrot, celery, cabbage, quartered Brussels sprouts, etc. You could add some potatoes as well, to add thickness.

SERVES 4 4 tbsp olive oil 1 garlic clove, peeled and finely chopped 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped 2 litres chicken or beef stock about 1kg vegetables (see above), prepared and cubed 150g dried tubettini pasta 1 x 400g can borlotti beans, drained 3 tbsp fresh pesto salt and pepper, to taste 40g Parmesan, freshly grated

Put the oil in a pan and fry the garlic and onion for a few minutes. Add the stock and prepared vegetables, and cook for about 12 minutes. Add the pasta and drained beans, and cook until tender, about another 6–7 minutes, then remove from the heat.

ALTERNATIVES If you don’t want to have a vegetarian soup, you could add some Parma ham, prosciutto, cooked ham or bacon chunks. You could also use rice instead of pasta, or any other shape of pasta.

Mix in the pesto and salt and pepper to taste, and heat very gently. Serve straightaway, sprinkled with Parmesan.

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 21

FOOD & DRINK

Culurgiones ~ Plaited Sardinian Ravioli Every region has some sort of stuffed pasta on the menu, which is often made in order to use up leftovers. Sardinia has a different kind of stuffed pasta, a so-called raviolo whose filling can vary from potato to cheese. Also known as culurzones (and a number of other names), these ravioli even look different from those of other regions. They are delightful anyway, despite the fact that a little more work is involved.

SERVES 4 fresh egg pasta salt and pepper, to taste 60g pecorino cheese, freshly grated FILLING 30g unsalted butter 200g spinach, blanched, squeezed dry and finely chopped 300g fresh ricotta cheese 2 medium eggs, beaten 80g pecorino cheese, freshly grated 1 sachet powdered saffron a pinch of ground cinnamon SAUCE 50ml olive oil 1 small onion, peeled and finely sliced 120g minced beef 120g lean minced pork 50ml dry Vernaccia white wine 500g canned crushed tomatoes 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh sage leaves

Make the filling by melting the butter in a wide pan, and frying the dry squeezed spinach for a few minutes. Let it cool, then add the ricotta, beaten eggs, grated pecorino, saffron and the cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and work everything thoroughly together to a wellmixed paste.

parsley and sage. Cook slowly for 30 minutes, then taste for salt and pepper.

Meanwhile, make the sauce. First of all, heat the oil in a large saucepan and fry the onion for about 5 minutes to soften. Add the two meats and brown a little, about 5 minutes, then add the Vernaccia followed by the tomatoes,

Cook the pasta in plenty of boiling salted water for 4 minutes or until al dente. Drain, mix with the sauce and serve sprinkled with pecorino.

Meanwhile, roll the pasta dough out thinly, by hand or machine, to 1mm thickness, and cut into 8cm circles. Make and fill the culurgiones .

Pasta by Antonio Carluccio (Quadrille ÂŁ10) Photography: Laura Edwards

22 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

FOOD & DRINK

Ravioloni Dolci con Marmellata ~ Baked Pastry Squares Stuffed with Jam In our household, when I was a child, this was the best way of using up some of the huge amounts of jam my mother used to make during the season. It was always a delight to come home from school and find these stuffed baked parcels for tea. With six of us to cater for, huge quantities were made each time. The addition of butter to this basic pasta dough (flour and eggs) makes the dough shorter, which makes it more like a pastry and enables it to be baked.

MAKES 24 PARCELS PASTRY 300g Italian ‘00’ flour a pinch of salt 3 medium eggs, beaten 75g unsalted butter, melted and cooled, plus extra for greasing TO FINISH 400g jam of your choice icing sugar, for sprinkling

and let the dough rest for an hour in the fridge. Preheat the oven to 180°C/Gas 4. With a rolling pin or a pasta machine roll the dough out to sheets 3mm thick and as long as you can. Cut into bands 12cm wide and position a tsp of jam at 5cm intervals (each tsp placed closer to one edge of band than the other). Brush some water around the jam.

To make the pastry, sift the flour into a bowl with the salt, and make a well in the middle. Put the eggs in the middle along with the melted butter, and start to mix the flour from the sides into the liquid ingredients. Mix with your fingers until everything is amalgamated, and you have a smooth pastry. Wrap in cling film,

Cover the dollops of jam by folding the other long side of the pasta over the filling and press with your hands all round the jam dollops to seal the ravioloni. Cut with a pastry cutter and put the parcels on a greased baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes. Serve hot, sprinkled with icing sugar, or leave to cool. Either is delicious.

JOIN. SHOP. SAVE. Costco is a membership warehouse club that sells a wide selection of top quality brand name merchandise at low warehouse prices.

Trade Membership* You qualify for Trade Membership if you are a bona fide business owner or manager, or are self employed. To join Costco and start saving please provide one piece of business evidence which is valid or dated within the last 3 months, plus 1 piece of photographic identification. Please call for details of accepted documentation. The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is £22 ex VAT (£26.40 inc VAT). The annual membership fee for Executive Trade Membership is £56 ex VAT (£67.20 inc VAT).

Individual Membership* You qualify for Individual Membership if you belong to specific employment groups – please call for details of qualifying categories. To join Costco and start saving please provide your employee ID card or current pay slip to prove your employment, PLUS a current utility bill (electricity, gas, telephone, water) or a bank statement addressed to your home. The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership is £28 ex VAT (£33.60 inc VAT). The annual membership fee for Executive Individual Membership is £62 ex VAT (£74.40 inc VAT).

Costco Reading, 100 South Oak Way, Green Park, Reading, Berks, RG2 6UE

T: 0118 920 7100

E: marketing114@costco.co.uk

www.costco.co.uk

*Membership Criteria applies. Accepted methods of payment: cash, debit card, cheque or American Express. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made. JN13279

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 23

OUT & ABOUT KNITTING GROUP

Would You Like To Make a Difference? The Link Visiting Scheme is a befriending service for those in our community who feel isolated and lonely. We are looking for friendly faces to cheer someone up and give some much needed quality time. Social isolation and lack of contact is more worrying to many elderly people than health or financial pressures. Weekly visits from someone interested and willing to listen makes a huge difference to someone’s life. Please get in touch if you’d like to make a difference to someone’s life. We would love to hear from you and welcome you into our team! Contact: Mandi Eagle, Volunteer Coordinator 0118 9798019 or 07823 772716 Visit: www.linkvisiting.org or write to us Unit B, 9 Easthampstead Road, Wokingham, Berkshire. RG40 2EH

24 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

November 7,14,21,28 December 5,12,19 10am to 12 noon Bracknell Library, Town Square, Bracknell RG12 1B BRACKNELL 01344 423149 Experienced or a beginner, bring your current project or start knitting something new.

2pm to 5pm Bracknell Library, Town Square, Bracknell RG12 1B All abilities and formats. Cole along if you enjoy taking and sharing photographs. WWW.BRACKNELL-FOREST.GOV.UK/ LIBRARIES

Reading Winter on ice

WWW.BRACKNELL-FOREST.GOV.UK/ LIBRARIES

Saturday 14 November 2015 – Sunday 3 January 2016

FAMILY HISTORY DROP IN

Forbury Gardens ,Unit A2, Forbury Retail Park, Kenavon Dr, Reading RG1 3HS

November 8, December 13, January 10 2pm to 5pm Bracknell Library, Town Square, Bracknell RG12 1B Need help with researching your family tree? Drop in to our friendly session with advice given by members of the Berkshire Family History Society WWW.BRACKNELL-FOREST.GOV.UK/ LIBRARIES

CAMERA CLUB November 17, December 22, January 10

Forbury Gardens will be transformed into Reading’s very own winter wonderland with a 450m² real ice rink (even bigger than last year!), over 25 rides and attractions, including reindeer rides, and Santa’s Grotto. Festive chalets will serve up delicious food and new for this year is the Alpine Ski Bar for the ultimate Après Ski experience. Reading’s real ice rink offers hour-long sessions on the ice, seal skate aids for children and beginners’ lessons. Reading Winter on Ice is free to visit – you just pay for the attractions you use.

THE STARS OF STRICTLY AT THE HEXAGON THEATRE, READING.

Anton & Erin ~ Friday 17 February 2017 Ian Waite & Natalie Lowe ~ Saturday 1 April 2017 Pasha Kovalev ~ Thursday 4 May 2017 Aljaz & Janette ~ Friday 5 May 2017

Queens Walk Reading RG1 7UA

Box Office 0118 960 6060

www.readingarts.|c25om

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

OUT & ABOUT Discounts for groups of 10 or more and special rates for school trips. Opening hours 10am - 10pm daily (closed Christmas Day) Skate bookings - www.readingwinteronice.com Apine ski bar hire - www.ApresReading.com More information - readingwinteronice@gmail.com / 07464727918

Lighting up Christmas 14 November Reading’s Christmas lights are switched on • Broad Street – Super festive live music and CHOW street food stalls on Broad Street and Market Place from morning till 4 pm. • Broad Street Mall - The Mall is gearing up for a day of entertainment, free competitions, amazing prizes and fun; the Christmas fun begins at 10am culminating at 4pm with Santa and mystery celebrities pushing the plunger to transform the Shopping Centre into a festival of twinkling lights. Broad Street Mall is working with Jack FM to put on a fantastic event for a whole family hoping to see as many visitors as possible on that wonderful day! com • The Oracle – The Christmas Glitz event is back on Saturday 14 November from 7pm, with an amazing high-energy firework display, hosted by Heart FM! • Reading Winter on Ice will be open on the 14th November too!

DIRTY DANCING

ENFRE TR E Y

Hexagon Theatre Mon 21 Nov to Sat 26 Nov DIRTY DANCING IS BACK! Exploding with heart-pounding music, breathtaking emotion and sensationally sexy dancing. Seen by millions across the globe this worldwide smash hit tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds, who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives. Featuring 35 hit songs, including “Hungry Eyes”, “Hey Baby”, “Do You Love Me?” and the heart stopping “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life”. Don’t miss your chance to see this sensational new production. For more information, visit www.readingarts.com/hexagon/whats-on/dirty-dancing

Make Reading HANDMADE

Wednesday 25 November – Sunday 6 December Jacksons Corner

IN BRITAIN

Visit Jelly’s makers, designers, recyclers to celebrate The 12 days of Christmas at Jacksons, once home to Reading’s iconic family department store and now a hub for an extended family of creatives. Make RDG embraces the seasonal spirit with a beautiful pop-up shop offering unique & handmade gifts, a retro sweetshop, festive workshops, activities, crafty events for all ages brought to you by jelly & friends and back for its second year the only Santa that truly brings the Christmas spirit to Reading in our magical grotto created by Berzerk Productions. Follow #makeRDG (and the Christmas sparkle) on social media for event updates.

SOUTH HILL PARK CRAFT & DESIGN FAIR 2016 Sat 12 & Sun 13 Nov · 10am–5pm Visit www.southhillpark.org.uk/craftfair2016 or call 01344 484123 for details South Hill Park Arts Centre · Bracknell · RG127PA #SHPcraftfair

www.facebook.com/southhillparkartscentre

26 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Open: 11am – 6pm plus special evening events during which we will also be open for browsing. jelly.org.uk

Thu 27 – SaT 29 OcT · 12nOon & 4pm Wilde Theatre, Bracknell rG12 7pa £15, cOnc £14, memBerS £13, Family £45 South hill Park PreSents the uk Premiere of

BOx OFfice 01344 484123 · Www.SOuThhillpark.OrG.uk/maGicFinger #shpmagicfinger

STEVEN BLAKELEY

/southhillparkartscentre

KEVIN CRUISE

FEATURING THE VOICE OF

BRIAN BLESSED AS THE GIANT

PANTO STAR CASTING TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON!

OV 19 N T A S 5TUE 1

-8 V 16 30 NO

7 JAN 1

7 FEB 1 4 N 25 JA

01753 853888 | theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 27

OUT & ABOUT BOOK GROUP FOR ADULTS December 2 1.30pm Bracknell Library, Town Square, Bracknell RG12 1B An informal group, reviewing a different title each month. WWW.BRACKNELL-FOREST.GOV.UK/ LIBRARIES

LIBRARY SEWING AND QUILTING GROUP December 6 2pm to 4pm Bracknell Library, Town Square, Bracknell RG12 1B Novice or experienced quilters welcome. Come along with your current project and share, ideas tips and a cup of tea! WWW.BRACKNELL-FOREST.GOV.UK/ LIBRARIES

Santa Run 6 December The second Reading 5k Charity Santa Run, organised by The Rotary Club of Reading, takes place on Sunday 6th December starting at 9am. The great town centre route starts and finishes at Forbury Gardens and takes in Broad

Street, The Oracle shopping centre and Kennetside paths. There will also be a Mini Santa Run at 8.30 over a course of Approximately 1 mile for under tens. readingsantarun.co.uk

The World Premiere of a festive family panto... THE CHRISTMAS FAIRY’S TALE 8th -10th December Caversham Park Theatre Milestone Centre, The Phase two building. Northbrook Rd Milestone Way, Reading RG4 6PF Have you ever appeared in a school play? Ever had dreams of being David Tennant or Judi Dench ? Do you like skulking in the dark making rude noises or blowing things up ? Are you addicted to the sound of laughter and applause ? If the answer to any of these is “yes”, then come and join us ! We are a community theatre group based in Caversham Park Village, in the leafy suburbs of Reading, on the border of Berkshire and South Oxfordshire. We usually put on two shows a year - one in May and a panto in December. We’re always on the lookout for new talent both onstage and behind the scenes.

Story time

Christmas Singing Afternoon 11 December 2016 Charvil Village Hall The Hawthorns, Charvil, Reading RG10 9TR Time: 2 to 4pm Price: £10 or £7 for under 18s - includes music and refreshments Fun singing afternoon for female voices led by local music teacher and choir director Suzanne Newman. Come and sing some great Christmas songs arranged for SA choir - songs include Do you hear what I hear?, Christmas in about three minutes and The Christmas song. Contact: suzanneynewman@btinternet.com www.charvilmusic.co.uk

ADS Charity Santa Fun Run 2016

Sunday December 11th 2016 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm Dorney Lake Windsor, Berkshire A family friendly event raising vital funds to support local People with Dementia,

Reminiscence sessions

Author visits

Bounce ‘n’ Rhyme

Arts & crafts Coffee mornings

Puzzle hour

Check out our What’s On Guide at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/librariesevents

bracknell.library 28 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Camera club

bracknell-forest.gov.uk/

libraries

their Carers & Families in Windsor, Ascot, Maidenhead, Slough, Langley & all points between. We are delighted to announce that the very popular ‘ADS’ Annual Santa Fun Run will take place on Sunday 11th December 2016 from 12 noon (with starters’ orders at 12.45pm) What is it? It is a 5k Run (walk, wheel or jog) which is approx 3.1 miles once round Dorney Lake – Home of the Olympic Rowing events 2012. This is a major fundraising event for ADS, so please encourage as many people to take part and/or sponsor you as you can. Everyone can participate, including Dogs on leads and kids on scooters (both with responsible owners though please!), all are very welcome. There will also be activities and background entertainment to make your day more special whilst doing some good by raising valuable funds to help make a difference for the people we choose to support. For more information, please visit www.2016santa.eventbrite.co.uk

Civic Carol Service 15 December

Reading Minster Chain Steet, Reading RG1 2HX

Is there someone at your club, school or college who has achieved something special this year?

Time: 6.30pm. Price: Free A traditional service of lessons and carols. Contact: 0118 937 2771

The Winter Giant Saturday 19 December Broad Street Mall to Forbury Gardens (via Broad Street) A spectacular new, free outdoor performance for all the family comes to Reading this Christmas. A weary traveller makes his way through Reading looking for a place to call home. Will you be there to greet him? The Winter Giant is a large-scale processional event filled with lights, music, magic and hope. The Winter Giant is brought to Reading by Beautiful Creatures Theatre, Otter Produces and Nature Nurture with support from Reading UK CIC and Reading Winter on Ice.

Or perhaps you have a long serving member who deserves recognition, or you feel your club deserves an award for their outstanding achievements. This is your chance to nominate them for an award. The 2016 Reading Sports Personality of the Year Award takes place on Sunday 15 January 2017, at the Reading Hilton Hotel, Drakes Road, Reading. The annual gala is sponsored by Simple Recruitment Services Ltd, Field Seymour Parks, The Oldfellows, Reading Hilton, Get Reading and supported by Reading Borough Council.

5pm start Queen’s Walk (next to Broad Street Mall) with the finale in Forbury Gardens around 5:40pm More info - livingreading.co.uk

Nominations are now being invited from clubs, schools and individuals - the only criteria is that the nominees must either live in the borough of Reading or be a member of a Reading-based club. Closing date is Sunday 20 November 2016.

Reading Sports Personality Awards 2016

For more information contact 0118 937 2771 or email communications@reading.gov.uk

15 January 2017 The Hilton Hotel, Reading

Book NoW Before it’s too late!

Written by Bart Lee Music by Ron McAllister

Wed 30 Nov 2016 — Tue 3 Jan 2017 01344 484123 · www.southhillpark .org.uk Wilde Theatre, Bracknell RG12 7PA #SHPcinderella

/southhillparkartscentre

V Th isit ww u 8 Fa w. – S the tic un r C k or ets 11 & hri ca ou Th stm ll 0 rce u 1 a 13 .co 5 – s’ 44 .u Sa Gr 48 k/s t 2 ot 41 hp 4 D to 23 gr ec ot to

South Hill Park presents

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 29

Who is eligible for a blue badge? If you are disabled, you may be able to park in restricted areas under the blue badge scheme. The scheme is for drivers and passengers.

Who can get a blue badge? Some people can get a blue badge automatically. This is called being eligible without further assessment. You fit into this group if one or more of the following applies to you: • you are registered as blind/severely sight impaired

Dick Whittington – The Hexagon Saturday 5 December 2015 - Sunday 3 January 2016. Cbeebies Superstar JUSTIN FLETCHER returns to Panto at The Hexagon. A Swashbuckling Adventure! Meet our hero, Dick, a young lad who sets out on a journey to London in search of fame and fortune. Once there though he discovers that the streets are overrun with rats who terrorise the town night and day. With the help of his trusty cat, some hilarious antics from Dame Sarah the cook and her son idle Jack along with a spectacular voyage to the shores of Morocco, Dick soon manages to rid London of the rats and become Lord Mayor. Add to this great story some lavish Costumes, spectacular sets, toe tapping music and bags of knockout comedy you have a recipe for the ‘purrfect’ Christmas Show! Tickets £12 - £25 readingarts.com or on 0118 960 6060 or in person at the Hexagon Theatre Special Shopping Evening 7 December Special Shopping Evening for the Elderly and Disabled. An evening to help make Christmas shopping extra special, easy and enjoyable for older and disabled people. Expect strolling entertainment on Broad Street., 5pm – 7pm

Civic Carol Service

17 December Enter into the spirit of Christmas at this year’s Civic Carol Service at Reading Minster Church from 6:30pm (free entrance). A traditional service of lessons and carols is offered.

30 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

• you receive the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement • you receive the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) • you receive the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and you scored at least 8 points in relation to the ‘moving around’ activity in the PIP assessment, or least 12 points in the mobility activity for planning and following journeys • you have been awarded a lump sum benefit from the Armed Forces Compensation scheme (tariffs 1 to 8). You have also been certified as having a permanent and substantial disability which means you can’t walk or find walking very difficult • you receive a government grant towards your own vehicle. If you were on higher rate mobility component of DLA, but you had to claim PIP instead and didn’t get enough points to be eligible for a blue badge, you can continue to use your badge until it expires. If none of these apply to you, you may still be eligible. This is called being eligible subject to further assessment, and will apply to you if you meet one of these criteria: • you have a permanent or substantial disability which means you can’t walk or find walking very difficult • you are a driver and have severe upper limb disabilities • as a result of a mental disorder you are unable to follow the route of a

familiar journey without the assistance of another person. Anyone aged over two years can be eligible under this condition, including people over 65.

• you are applying on behalf of a child under three with a medical condition that requires them to be close to a vehicle for emergency medical treatment or transporting bulky medical equipment. If you have any queries about whether you’re eligible for a blue badge, you can contact the national blue badge helpline on 0844 463 0215.

How are you assessed? If you are eligible subject to further assessment, your local authority will look at the evidence of your disability to decide whether you can have a blue badge. You may need to have an independent mobility assessment. If you have applied for or held a blue badge previously, your GP may have carried this out. Assessments may now be carried out by an independent mobility assessor. This is usually a medical professional such as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist, who has never treated you before. If your local authority wants you to have a mobility assessment, it will refer you to the assessor. You will not be charged for the assessment. You may not be required to undergo an assessment if your council says it is very obvious that you are eligible or ineligible.

Blue Badge (disabled parking permits) Fraud: Disabled Parking Permits or Blue Badges are issued by your Local Authority to persons with a genuine need to access facilities and park within easy reach of these. However there are some people who are prepared to misuse or fraudulently acquire these badges. The Investigation Team are committed to fighting fraudulent activity but need your help to do so! If you suspect someone of committing Blue Badge fraud please call us in confidence.

CALL 0500 500 777 or report online www.reading.gov.uk/fraud

BLOW THE HOUSING WHISTLE ON CHEATS

HOUSING BLOW THE

NRP REFEREE-RBC-A42.pdf 1 10/05/2012 13:28

CHEATS WHISTLE ON When somebody with a council or housing association home rents it out

without permission or obtains a home through providing false information, they

When somebody with a council or not fair. housing association home rents it out If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting without permission or obtains a home call us on 0500 500 777 or through providing false information, report online www.reading.gov.uk/fraud Your report will be treated in the strictest confidence and can be given anonymously. they are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up valuable housing spaces and depriving families and vulnerable people on the waiting list. It’s not fair. are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up valuable housing spaces and

WHISTLE ON

depriving families and vulnerable people on the waiting list. It’s

T U O K A SPE

IONS USPIC S E V HA If yOU

When somebody with a council or housing association home rents it out

without permission or obtains a home through providing false information, they are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up valuable housing spaces and depriving families and vulnerable people on the waiting list. It’s

not fair.

If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting call us on

0500 500 777 or www.reading.gov.uk/fraud

report online

Your report will be treated in the strictest confidence and can be given anonymously.

HOUSING

CHEATS If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting call us

When somebody with a council or housing association home rents it out

T U O K SPEA

CIONS SUSPI E V A H IF Y OU

Your report will be treated in the strictest confidence and can be given depriving families and vulnerable people on the waiting list. It’s not fair. anonymously. If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting call us on 0500 500 777 or report online www.reading.gov.uk/fraud

without permission or obtains a home through providing false information, they are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up valuable housing spaces and

Your report will be treated in the strictest conﬁdence and can be given anonymously.

We are committed to fighting fraudulent activity The Blue Badge (Disabled Parking) Scheme currently has around 2.5m badges issued Nationally, to eligible applicants. Blue Badge fraud is estimated to cost the UK £46 million per year!

The Investigation Team are committed to fighting fraudulent activity but need your help to do so! If you suspect someone of committing Blue Badge fraud please call us in confidence.

CALL 0500 500 777 or report online www.reading.gov.uk/fraud

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 31

HEALTH getting work done. HIAs will advise on grants for older people and assist in the process and will also advise on building works including builders’ lists, specifications of work, and, for a fee, can provide full agency services organising and supervising works on site. Repairs for Homeowners • Your local authority may offer grants or loans. Under the current legislation each can set their own grant programmes and means testing may apply. Their provision may include energy efficiency grants, grants for minor repairs, loans and equity release schemes, practical help e.g. carrying out home survey, small repairs • Your local HIA will know the local situation, or contact your local Housing Advice Centre if there is no local HIA.

Living independently for longer As long as older people stay healthy, they can continue living independently and won’t need much care. But if their health takes a turn for the worse, they may require specially adapted housing or extra care. The government is keen to promote suitable housing and healthcare facilities for older people. Enabling the elderly to live independently A person is able to live independently if they are able to perform basic day-to-day activities and run their household adequately. Basic day-to-day activities that are important for living independently are: l

getting in and out of bed getting dressed and undressed l moving around l walking l sitting down and getting up again l personal hygiene and grooming l using the toilet l eating and drinking l taking medication l relaxing l engaging in social contact. l

If someone can’t perform these activities because of their physical and/ or mental limitations, they will require assistance.

Help at Home If you are finding it difficult to manage, but would prefer not to move, there may be ways in which life can be made easier or safer. If you have

32 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

recently been unwell, or are coming out of hospital, you may be concerned about coping in the future. A variety of organisations can help on a range of options, depending on your needs and circumstances. If you are finding it difficult to cope with daily tasks or think you may need help with care, special equipment or meals, contact your local authority’s social services department or the hospital social worker if you are in hospital, and ask for an assessment of need. Local councils must assess anyone who appears to be in need of a community care service that they provide. Each local council sets eligibility criteria for whom they will provide services and many will only assist people who have critical or substantial care needs.

Help with Repairs and Maintenance Home Improvement Agencies (HIAS), often called Care and Repair or Staying Put agencies, help older or disabled homeowners and private tenants arrange and/or obtain finance for repairs and adaptations and assist people through the whole process of

Equity Release • If you are a homeowner, you may wish to consider releasing some equity in your home to adapt it or carry out necessary repairs. • The Home Improvement Trust 0800 783 7569 www.houseproud.org.uk is a not for profit organisation working throughout England, Scotland and Wales. They guarantee no repossession and no negative equity. Security and Safety • Handyperson services can assist with security works to your home, including security equipment, locks on doors and windows, fitting smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. The Crime Prevention Officer at your local police station can also advise of similar local services. • Alarm systems: For a small weekly charge you can have a personal emergency alarm system, operated via your phone line. When the alarm is pressed it will automatically put you in touch with an operator 24 hours a day. Alarm systems are available from your local council and also from charities and commercial providers. • Telecare: There is a wide variety of equipment to help people remain living independently or more safely known either as telecare or assistive technology. Examples include sensors to detect intruders, gas, carbon monoxide, smoke/ fire, flooding or drops in temperature, and monitors for movement (or lack of it) falls, opening doors, including the fridge, taking medication etc. Telecare may be offered by Social Services to meet your assessed needs. If not, much is available to buy privately. Advice on this can be obtained from the Disabled

Living Foundation 0845 130 9177 www.dlf.org.uk

• Good lighting is very important, particularly on the stairs.

Most of us feel pretty safe in our homes. Yet more accidents happen at home than anywhere else.

• Fitting handrails to your stairs can make them easier and safer to climb. Make sure your stairs and floors are free of clutter. Don’t leave items on the stairs to be taken up later.

Many accidents in the home are caused by slipping, tripping and bumping into things. In this section we look at ways to improve your balance and make moving around your home safer. A lot of this advice is common sense - but even small adjustments can make life easier. • Keep as active as possible. Regular physical activity helps to improve your balance and keep your muscles strong. • Eating a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and taking regular, weightbearing exercise will help keep your bones healthy and reduce the risk of breaks or fractures. • Keeping an eye out for things that could cause you to slip or trip can make your home safer to live in. For example, remember to keep the floor clear of trailing flexes and rucked-up or fraying carpets that you might trip over or slip on. If you have a pet, take care not to let it get under your feet.

• Does the layout of your home help or hinder you? You could think about rearranging your furniture so that you can move around your home more easily. • Have your eyes checked regularly. Eye tests are free if you are aged 60 or over. Remember that reading glasses or bifocal or varifocal lenses can make objects and surfaces appear closer than they really are. This could cause you to trip or lose your balance. If you think this could be a problem for you ask your optician for advice. • Raising your arms and tipping your head back: for example, to clean windows or change a light bulb, can make some people light-headed and dizzy. If this happens to you, avoid this sort of task and ask for help from a friend, neighbour or relative. Bracknell Forest and Slough Borough Councils have recently commissioned

a brand new service provided by Solutions4Health called FallsFree4Life which is specifically for those living in Bracknell Forest aged 65+ and Slough age 60+. This service is truly preventative as it targets not only those who have fallen but also those who haven’t fallen but may be at risk of doing so in the future. FallsFree4Life provides a free in home falls risk assessment by a physiotherapist that calculates risk levels for each of the risk factors for falls (strength and balance, falls history, health conditions, medications, home hazards, footwear and foot care, continence and sensory impairment). After assessment results are simply explained and information or referral to local services (such as our free Well Balanced classes) is arranged to reduce any future falls risk. To arrange a falls risk assessment for you or a loved one please contact us via: Telephone: Bracknell - 01344 534019 Slough - 01753 373585 Email: info@fallsfree4life.co.uk Website: www.fallsfree4life.co.uk

FREE FALLS PREVENTION SERVICE

A FREE brand new service aimed at preventing falls in older people Those aged 65+ living in Bracknell Forest and those aged 60+ living in Slough are eligible for a FREE falls risk assessment and possible referral to our FREE Well Balanced classes by contacting us via:

Telephone: 08002461239 Bracknell: 01344 534 019 Slough: 01753 373 585 Email: info@fallsfree4life.co.uk Website: www.fallsfree4life.co.uk

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 33

CARE Initial visit by homecare provider During the initial home visit by the homecare provider, 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 required. All staff should be fully trained in using equipment, such as a hoist, if needed, to help bear your weight safely.

Keeping you safe and secure in your own home

Choosing the right homecare Whether you’re choosing a homecare company for a family member or starting to plan for your own future, there are several important things that you should consider to make sure that the provider you choose treats and cares for you in the right way. Here are a few useful pointers to help you along the way. Your chosen homecare provider is there to look after you. They should help you to make your own decisions and support you in maintaining your 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 homecare too.

Homecare 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

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

Funding homecare conditions. This will include things such as their confidentiality policy – for example, how they will hold and use personal data. All carers should also have clear written guidelines and follow robust procedures on how to administer and assist with any medication needs.

Before your homecare starts It’s important to always make sure that the homecare provider 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. A good homecare company will answer any questions you may have during this visit. The visit will also give staff 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 they visit.

ng to care for a loved one? ing that a Care Home is the only option for loved one? 34 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK you remain in your own home with support.

It’s important to know the cost of homecare and you should always be provided with a clear idea of costs. In most cases, companies will charge different rates for homecare 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.

Direct Payments If you have been assessed by your Social Care team as being eligible for care and support at home, and Social Services have agreed to fully or partfund your care (dependent on your financial assessment), you can choose to arrange and pay for your own care and support services instead of receiving them directly from the local council. The ‘Direct Payment’ option allows you greater flexibility and freedom in how

Join a successful team

We are looking to recruit full-time/part-time field care supervisors, senior carers, and carers. Great salary and benefits.

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 Social Care team will be able to advise you further.

Check your charges 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 homecare provider will keep timesheets that you will need to sign. Always check daily 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 be difficult to prove.

Are you trying to care for a loved one? Are you trying to care for a love one? Are you feeling that a you Carefeeling Home that is thea only forthe Are Care option Home is yourself or a lovedonly one?option for yourself or a loved one? Automated care worker monitoring We caninhelp you remain in your own We can help you remain your own home with support. Some homecare companies have electronic monitoring so care workers can ‘check in’ using their mobile phone or putcould a pin number into your landline phone.

home with support. be the answer you’ve been waiting for.

chrysaliscare could be the answer you’ve been

We are a family run, independent, Care Provider. We support waitingexperienced, for. There is no cost to you when they use this system and it Independent Living for the Elderly and adults with disabilities in the familiarity records the exact length of time that your carer has been We are a family run, independent, experienced, with you. This system also helps the homecare of your company own home. We provide quality, person-centred, individual Care. to highlight any missed calls and reduces the risk of this WE OFFER: happening.

Care Provider. We support Independent Living BENEFITS: for the Elderly and adults with disabilities in the • Assistance familiarity of your own home.with Webathing, providedressing, quality, person-centred, individual Care. feeding and Medication etc

• 24hr aLive-in Care Top 10 key questions to ask when choosing Homecare company • Day/night Care l Can the company provide the care needed, and have • Respite Care • One-to-one personalised Care they provided care before for someone with similar • Emergency Care • Consistency of Carer AreOFFER: you trying to care for a loved one? needs? BENEFITS: WE • Nursing • l How will the company and staff respect Care Stay in your own Home Are you feeling that a Care Home is the only option for your privacy l Assistance with l 24hr Live-in Care and dignity? yourself or a loved one? • Home from Hospital Rehabilitation • Peace of mind bathing,dressing, l Day/night Care l Have they taken the time to understand your personal • Competitive and fair rates We can help you remain in your own home with support. feeding and Medication l Respite Care likes and dislikes? could be the answer you’ve been waiting for. etc l How do they match the most suitable care worker l Emergency Care We are a family run, independent, experienced, Care Provider. We support l One-to-one personalised to your needs? Will they arrive at the time you have for the Elderly and adults with disabilities in the familiarity l Independent NursingLiving Care requested. Will you always have the same person caring of your own home. We provide quality, person-centred, Care individual Care. l Home from Hospital for you. What happens if they are sick or go on holiday? BENEFITS: WE OFFER: l Consistency of Carer l What charges will you be expected to pay? Is there a • 24hr Live-in Care • Assistance with bathing, dressing, Rehabilitation l Stay • in your own feeding and Medication etcHome Day/night Care minimum charge? And how you will be invoiced? l Competitive and fair • Respite Care • One-to-one personalised Care l Is the company insured to protect your safety and l Peace of Mind • Emergency Care • Consistency of Carer rates interests? • Nursing Care • Stay in your own Home l Do all care workers undergo a Criminal Records Bureau • Home from Hospital Rehabilitation • Peace of mind • Competitive and fair rates (CRB) check before being employed? And what ongoing training do they receive? l Does the company have a copy of its latest inspection If you would like some advice, answer to questions or a no obligation free initial visit report available for you to look at? to discuss how we may be able to help with your particular requirements please do not l Can the company be contacted outside office hours or hesitate to call: Rachael on 0118 942 9889 or email rachael.bulpitt@chrysaliscare.org. in an emergency? l Will the company give you a copy of their standard www.chrysaliscareathome.org contract to read before signing?

Chrysalis Care at Home provide excellent care locally, supporting older people living with Dementia, Parkinson’s as well as those living with disabilities, or needing extra support after surgery, all provided in the comfort and familiarity of the client’s own home. They provide a minimum or one hour calls.

to discuss how we may be able to help with your particular requirements please do not If you would like some advice, answer to questions hesitate to call: Rachael on 0118 942 9889 or email rachael.bulpitt@chrysaliscare.org. or a no obligation free initial visit to discuss how we www.chrysaliscareathome.org may be able to help with your particular requirements please no not hesitate to call:

Based in Reading, they offer day, night, respite and emergency care. Priding theirselves on delivering dignified, consistent, person-centred care by local carers with compassion and respect.

Rachael on 0118 942 9889 or email rachael.bulpitt@chrysaliscare.org

If you would like some advice, answer to questions or a no obligation free initial visit

Recent comments received regarding care provided:

“I would like to thank Chrysalis Care for giving my mother a whole new lease of life”

www.chrysaliscareathome.org WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 35

GIVE YOUR HOME AMAZING KERB APPEAL

BUY NOW

PAY LATER

0% CREDIT

AVAILABLE

We will pay your VAT when you purchase a Drive, Path, or Patio from our new and exclusive range.

Why you should install a Resin Drive? That’s simple; our product naturally drains water through it which means no puddles. Also, with a slip resistant surface it provides better traction for tyres and gives more grip for when you walk on it, making your drive a safe place to be!

0% Available - representive example.

Borrow £3,000 Over 12 months. 12 monthly repayments of £250. Interest rate of 0%. Representative 0% APR. Total repayable is £3,000. *Credit is subject to status. Current rates as at April 2016. Written quotations available on request.

OVER

NO OBLIGATION

FREE

QUOTATION

YEARS EXPERIENCE

CALL THE DRIVEWAY, PATH AND PATIO SPECIALISTS TODAY!

0800 007 5733 OR VISIT RESINDRIVES.CO.UK