Retirement Today Jan/Feb2012

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The magazine for pre and post retirement www.retirement-today.co.uk

January/Feburary £2.90

R E T I R EME N T TOP TIPS For retirement overseas

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Competitions see p24

Plus: A month in Unst – Britain’s most northerly hotel t A taste of Mey – Recipes and Memories t Keeping pet chickens – Handy hints

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WELCOME TO RETIREMENT TODAY MAGAZINE

CONTENTS 4 A Month on Unst Madeleine Ferrar, a retired social worker writes about her experience of volunteering in Britain’s most northerly hotel on the island of Unst in Shetland.

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6 Top Tips for Retiring Abroad Whether you want to spend your retirement enjoying sunnier weather, fulďŹ lling a desire to join other family members who’ve already moved overseas, or to start a new adventure, Neil Bowie, Relocation Consultant at Crown Relocations, has put together some practical tips to help you along your way.

8 Our New Life in France Read how retired bank executive, Rupert Dawson and his wife Greta, started a new life in France, immersing themselves in rural French life in the Limousin region.

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12 The Taste of Mey In a new book, published by The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust, A Taste of Mey takes readers on a superb culinary journey down memory lane.

16 Keeping Pet Chickens 12

s 0UBLISHED BY Amra Media Solutions Ltd The Old Lavender Mill 46a Brook Street Aston Clinton Buckinghamshire (0 %3 s 4EL s &AX s %MAIL info@amramedia.co.uk s WWW RETIREMENT TODAY CO UK s $ESIGNED BY Tom Evans Design All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Although every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information and the advertisements contained within the magazine, the publishers cannot accept any liability. Retirement Today would be pleased to receive your articles and photographs for possible publication. Although all reasonable care will be taken the magazine can assume no responsibility and contributors are advised to retain a copy.

If you are considering keeping chickens there are many factors to bear in mind, such as the size of your garden and where you are going to keep them as well as what to look for when buying a chicken. Here are some guidelines and handy hints.

19 Out and About

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Read about events taking place nationally

20 Malta 12

In the heart of the Mediterranean is Malta, just three hours away; read how the Maltese Island offers a wide range of attracions and grand examples of architecture.

21 Subscription Subscribe and have Retirement Today delivered direct to your door.

23 Update Divorce rates amongst the over 60s in the UK are on the rise; Managing the estate of a loved one after death is as stressful as buying a house; Spending cuts putting older people’s health at risk; The bank of mum and dad .. and nan..and granddad; ScotClans demand the tartan truth.

24 Competitions

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Your chance to win theatre tickets and DVDs.

26 Why Your Will Matters None of us likes to think about death, but failing to write a will can leave 20 a mass of problems for your survivors. Read about how making a will ensures your family’s security.

29 Charity News Read what’s happening within the world of charity.

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30 Grey Hairs The regular pensions column. The second in a series of articles on Annuity Awareness Campaign RETIREMENT

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A month on Unst

Seaweed

A retired social worker’s experience of volunteering in Britain’s most northerly hotel by Madeleine Ferrar

images courtesy of www.shetland.org

A month on Unst

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aving retired earlier this year, just after my sixtieth birthday, I decided that the time had come to ‘put SOMETHING BACK ) WOULD JOIN $AVID Cameron’s Big Society and become a volunteer. I searched the internet looking for someone who might be able to use my skills. But I’d been a SOCIAL WORKER DID ) HAVE ANY SKILLS Quite by accident I found a hotel – Britain’s most northerly, in Baltasound, on the island of Unst in Shetland – and they wanted a housekeeper. Not YOUR USUAL BENElTING THOSE WORSE OFF THAN YOURSELF TYPE of volunteering, admittedly, but I have always quite liked housework, so I sent an email to the owners. Describing myself as a ‘recently retired social worker’ did not, perhaps, make me sound all that suitable for a cleaning job, but to my surprise, they replied almost immediately, and suggested that I come to their hotel for the month of February.They would give me board and lodging in exchange for ďŹ ve hours’ work a day. I set sail for Shetland on the overnight ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick. From Lerwick, the journey to Unst consisted of three bus journeys and two ferry crossings, but was reasonably straightforward.When I told the bus driver where I was going, he dropped me off at the entrance to the hotel. I walked into the hotel with my suitcase, and looked AROUND THE PLACE APPEARED TO BE DESERTED %VENTUALLY ) came upon an elderly gentleman, the owners’ father, and RETIREMENT

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The accommodation for the guests is in pine chalets in the grounds of the hotel, and, as housekeeper, I had my very own chalet in the far corner of the grounds. It was my job to clean these chalets and get them ready for the tourist season. It was rewarding, making everything spick and span. I worked all morning and in the afternoon I was free to do as I wished. With no private or public transport at my disposal, my free time was spent walking along the scenically rugged coastline. Occasionally I walked to THE SHOPS n THERE ARE THREE OR THE Leisure Centre. (In the Leisure Centre ) PAID a FOR A SWIM AND HAD THE pool, and two life guards, entirely to myself.) But walking could be hazardous, as the weather was not good, even by Shetland’s standards. It must be said that February is probably not the best time of year to visit Shetland. The wind howls at night, preventing you from getting a good night’s sleep. It gusts in the daytime, meaning that even the simplest task has to be done the Shetlandic way. For example, when opening and closing a door, do not

It must be said that February is probably not the best time of year to visit Shetland. identiďŹ ed myself. It turned out that they had forgotten I was coming. The Baltasound Hotel is not a normal hotel. It had been up for sale for several years before the current owners, a brother and sister, bought it three seasons ago. These new owners are originally from Greenock, but have lived for many years in Wolverhampton, and could not have known what they were letting themselves in for. The hotel WAS SERIOUSLY RUN DOWN WHEN THEY took it over, to the extent that locals had become accustomed to drinking their pints with a bucket on the table to catch the rainwater from the leaking roof. The hotel is now in the process of being upgraded, but I can’t help feeling that the owners HAVE MISSED A TRICK HERE 0EOPLE GO to Shetland to commune with the ELEMENTS A LEAKING ROOF CAN ONLY add to the experience; and provide A SALOON BAR TALKING POINT FOR MANY years to come.

– under any circumstances – let go of the door handle. When you go out, hold tightly onto your hat, or go NATIVE AND BUY A FUR LINED WATERPROOF bonnet with ear aps which fastens under the chin. In other words, at all times follow the simple principle that if something is not ďŹ rmly tied down, it will blow away. Indeed, on several occasions, when out walking, I feared that I would be blown away. But Shetland can blow you away metaphorically, too, with its unique, PARED DOWN BEAUTY 4HE MINIMALIST

...on several occasions, when out walking, I feared that I would be blown away.

(ELLY !A THE 6IKING INSPIRED lRE festival, which begins with a torch procession and culminates in the burning of a handmade, wooden galley. Lerwick’s Up Hellly Aa is the largest and most famous, but Unst has two such festivals of its own, with the one in Uyeasound, in the south of the island, having a history almost as impressive as Lerwick’s. Standing in the midst of the crowd, dangerously close to the blazing ship on a bitterly cold but clear evening, I wondered whether there was a Health and Safety ofďŹ cer on the island. Now back in the relatively gentle climate of Edinburgh, and surrounded by shops, trafďŹ c and people, what are MY THOUGHTS ON MY MONTH ON 5NST It has been said that when you travel, all you are doing is seeing where other people live. I saw where 600 people live, and it was well worth it. I met AN INTERESTING CROSS SECTION OF THOSE inhabitants, experienced weather at its most extreme, set my eyes on some stunningly beautiful scenery, and learnt something about running a hotel in a place that is literally out on a limb. And my cleaning skills are now second to none â–

Roads

A month on Unst

Viking, Unst

landscape is largely one of horizontals, muted colours and expansive skies, punctuated by lines of telegraph poles and electricity pylons stretching into the distance, and beyond. I knew next to nothing about Unst before going there, which surprises me now, as it is a remarkable place, and not only because it is Britain’s most northerly inhabited island. About twelve miles long and ďŹ ve miles wide, Unst has a population of around 600 people, and boasts the poorest soil in Europe. It is this exceptionally poor soil that supports some rare plant LIFE LITTLE ROCKERY PLANTS WHICH LOOK as though they are clinging on – like the rest of us in Unst – for dear life. In fact, there is one species, the Mousear Chickweed that is found nowhere else in the world. 5NST IS ALSO HOME TO THE WORLD famous bus shelter – the bus shelter Shetland ponies which has been turned into a kitsch sitting room, complete with such home comforts as artiďŹ cial owers, books, a television set, a little rocking sofa, and a visitors’ book. I caught the bus from this shelter on several occasions, as it was the one nearest to the hotel. I never saw anyone else use it, however. A shortage of people, a shortage of people who don’t have cars, and a shortage of buses have turned the bus shelter into a place of pilgrimage. With space for pilgrims to park their cars. If you can brave the weather, there is an upside to SPENDING &EBRUARY IN 5NST YOU GET TO ATTEND THEIR 5P

Top tips

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for a happy retirement abroad

etiring oversees is an exciting and attractive proposition for many people, with the numbers of people leaving the UK to retire in sunnier climes increasing every year. The allure of a better climate, or a better quality of life abroad can make retiring abroad very appealing. Whether you want to spend your retirement enjoying sunnier weather, fulďŹ lling a desire to join other family members who’ve already moved overseas, or see retirement as the chance to start a new adventure, exploring new places and experiencing new hobbies or interests; in order to have a successful retirement relocation, there are some crucial things to research and consider before you set off to enjoy your twilight years overseas. Neil Bowie, Relocation Consultant at Crown Relocations, has put together some practical tips to help you along your way.

Research

Top tips for a happy retirement abroad

Time is a luxury that many people don’t have in abundance when it comes to relocating, but the more time you can put aside to do some research, the better. Whilst the thought might be OFF PUTTING IT WILL PAY DIVIDENDS LATER ON AND HELP you to avoid mistakes. #ONSIDER WHAT YOU WOULD SET UP IF YOU MOVED house in the UK, such as a phone line, utilities and council tax, and ďŹ nd out what information you will be required to provide in order to do this in your new location. If you are using relocation specialists, your representative will be able to advise you accordingly and direct you to informative websites such as www.moveoverseas.co.uk; otherwise you should be able to ďŹ nd out more details and legal requirements from government and service provider websites.

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Pensions and Finances

Property in the UK If you decide to keep your property in the UK and it is going to be empty or rented out, you will need to let your mortgage lender and insurance providers know.You would also need to declare any income from rent to HM Revenue & Customs. If you intend to leave your property empty while you are away, you will need to make sure that it is secure. It’s advisable to give the Land Registry an address where you can be contacted abroad, as empty properties or those with tenants can be targeted by fraudsters.

Informing institutions Your local Council’s council tax department and electoral registration unit will need to know when you are leaving and a forwarding address. You will also need to inform banks, building societies or any ďŹ nancial institution that you have a policy or agreement with that you are moving abroad. With prior arrangement, THE 0OST /FlCE WILL RE DIRECT YOUR MAIL to another address so that you don’t miss out on any vital correspondence.

It is important to know that you will be comfortable ďŹ nancially in your RETIREMENT 0ENSIONERS WHO RETIRE ABROAD need to manage their ďŹ nances and be able to have a comfortable living from their savings and pension income in another country’s economy. Before you go you will need to check the status of any funds from pensions, whether you will still be able to access them in the county that you are retiring to, and whether you will beneďŹ t from any incremental increases to UK pensions. For those retiring abroad, there are a number of options available to maximise your existing UK pension oversees. A ďŹ nancial adviser would be able to advise on what the best course of action would be. Seeking ďŹ nancial advice is incredibly important as there are a number of ďŹ nancial products and pensions schemes available to expatriate retirees that you might not otherwise be aware of.

Tax Different countries have different laws and taxes on property and income. To avoid any ďŹ nancial surprises, you should get detailed ďŹ nancial advice, so that you fully understand your tax obligations to both the country that you are leaving and the country that you are repatriating to. A ďŹ nancial adviser can also inform you about the beneďŹ ts of offshore banking, as this could reduce your tax liability depending on where you are living. HM Revenue & Customs can also provide information and advice about your tax liability on any income over the UK personal allowance. UK tax payable from abroad can vary depending on where you decide to live.

It is important to ďŹ nd out about your health and welfare rights abroad; some UK beneďŹ ts are not payable outside the UK, others apply only in the EU or in countries which have agreements with the UK. You should also ďŹ nd out about healthcare costs in the country you want to move to and take out health insurance

if appropriate to cover private medical and dental treatment, as well as medical REPATRIATION TO THE 5+ 9OUR '0 DENTIST and other relevant health practitioners will also need to be informed of your relocation.

Finding local places of interest Locating places in advance that you will need to visit once you have arrived, such as a supermarket, can be a great time and stress saver. It would be worthwhile marking them on a map so that you can ďŹ nd your way around when you’re out and about. Crucially, it also means you won’t need to rely on the internet when you arrive. After all, it could take some time to organise phone lines and internet access for your new home. This is also a useful way to help you establish elements of your current lifestyle that you wish to continue, such as keeping ďŹ t, attending clubs and societies, theatre or restaurants. Doing the activities that you are used to will help you to avoid feeling homesick. If you do ďŹ nd yourself feeling down or disillusioned about the relocation, try to be realistic about the issues you are facing and don’t stay at home, instead join social clubs and organisations where you will meet like minded people. Find places you enjoy and establish routines that will work for you.

Learn about your new country It is perfectly natural to experience culture shock when you arrive so it can be very beneďŹ cial to prepare yourself for those differences. You may think that some countries have similar cultures to the UK, but that doesn’t mean you won’t feel the effects of culture shock. No matter how alike the countries are, it can often help to take part in an intercultural training course to get a true understanding of the new culture. The more you know about your new surroundings the better placed you will be to connect with the locals and understand the way the country is governed. If you can, visiting your new location before you move will also help you to know what to expect.

Explore Once you are over the jet lag, you will undoubtedly be excited and full of enthusiasm about your new destination. You really should harness this energy as MUCH AS POSSIBLE NOW IS THE TIME TO GET your map out and explore the local area. This will immediately give you a sense of where you are, which will help to build your feelings of comfort and familiarity. It will also give you ideas of where you can take friends and family when they come to visit you.

Don’t let distance keep you apart Keeping in touch with loved ones back home can help to reduce the feeling of homesickness. Nowadays, there is a wide variety of low cost, QUICK AND USER FRIENDLY WAYS TO MAINTAIN CONTACT The internet is a great way of keeping the cost of staying in touch down. Software such as Skype, allows you to phone people through the internet so you can make free calls for as long as you like and, if they have a webcam, you will be able to see whoever you’re talking to. This is a great way of communicating with all family members; if your children or grandchildren already keep in touch with their friends over the internet, they would be able to help you to familiarise yourself with using different approaches keeping in contact before you move. Social networking websites such as Facebook allow you to share photos, have live chats and catch up on what is happening back home. Make sure YOU KEEP YOUR PROlLE UP TO DATE SO YOUR LOVED ones back home can see what you are up to and in turn, keep you posted on the latest from them.

Join expat groups Investigate local expat groups and, when you arrive, make an effort to join as many as possible. The members of these groups can be a vital source of encouragement, practical assistance and information to help you settle in. Expat groups can also be a great way to build your support network and make friends, which can be particularly important if you are in a country with a different ďŹ rst language to your own. Expats will be able to help you practice the language, as well as learn the local culture.What’s more, you can use their experiences of local services, from dentists to tap classes, to ďŹ nd out the best places to use. 2EMEMBER THEY HAVE BEEN through the same process as you and will therefore know and understand what you are going through, as well as the needs you might have. Don’t be shy about asking for help.

Finding the perfect pad

Make it work for you

You will feel more settled if you have somewhere to call your own, but that doesn’t mean you need to buy a house! Simply ďŹ nd somewhere that you can use as a permanent base rather than relying on a hotel. Remember to take into account the local area when choosing YOUR NEW HOME 0ICK SOMEWHERE THAT has easy access to local amenities and allow time to familiarise yourself with the area before you purchase to check that it suits your lifestyle and how you get out and about.

Simply put, there is nothing quite like research to set your relocation in the right direction; seek as much assistance as you can to help to ease the burden and get your friends and family involved in the process – they will be more than happy to help you get the best start you can.

Research and seek advice Research is the key to a successful relocation, gather as much information and seek advice from SPECIALISTS FOREWARNED IS FOREARMED &OR MORE ideas about what you should think about for your relocation, head to www.moveoverseas.co.uk/ mymove for an interactive planner and get started ON THAT TO DO LIST â– The Crown Worldwide Group was established in 1965, and has 250 locations in 55 countries including ofďŹ ces across the UK.

www.crownrelo.com RETIREMENT

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Top tips for a happy retirement abroad

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WE DID IT

Maria Hann meets a British couple who have taken the plunge and retired to France and ďŹ nds that life couldn’t be better for the retirees.

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etired wine importer, Rupert Dawson and his wife Greta originate from Woodstock, Oxfordshire. They always felt that they wanted to retire overseas, seeing retirement as a chance to embark on a new exciting era. After considering a number of countries they ďŹ nally decided on France due to the excellent health care system and its proximity to the UK. Six years ago they bought a camper van and headed for France, via Germany. They spent two months on a campsite in the Limousin, in central France. They settled on the region because of its rural French lifestyle, avoiding EX PAT ENCLAVES SUCH AS THE $ORDOGNE “We chose the Limousin because of its unspoilt charm, we really wanted to immerse ourselves in rural French life. The ďŹ rst house we viewed bowled us over – but we were reluctant to make a decision after only viewing one property. After countless viewings we decided the ďŹ rst HOUSE REALLY WAS PERFECT FOR US )T WAS A BEDROOMED year old property in the village of Tiernac, with fantastic views over the surrounding ‘countryside’. ‘It’s very much a family village and the villagers have been very welcoming’ Rupert explains. ‘There has often been a knock at the door with a farmer bearing gifts of local produce’. The couple have adapted to their new life perfectly but put a huge emphasis on learning the language. Greta and Rupert feel that unfortunately too many British people come to live in France making little or no effort with the language missing out on the opportunity to

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emerse themselves in village life. They have made great friends, and really feel part of the community attending village fetes, weddings and markets on a regular basis. ‘Once a week, we attend French lessons organized by the tourist ofďŹ ce in Limoges. Life just couldn’t get better!’ says Greta. The Dawsons are great animal lovers and recently bought some extra land from a retired farmer. Greta now keeps Silkie Chickens, Guinea Fowl and Aylesbury Ducks. Rupert is emersing himself in breeding rare breed sheep and feels that life is busier than ever, ‘but in a great way’ he explains ‘as we are totally in control of just how much we do’. Six years on, the Dawsons are blissfully happy with their new life in France. It hasn’t always being easy and of course they sometimes miss family and friends in the UK but they always ďŹ nd they have plenty of people willing to visit, ‘sometimes a little too many’ laughs Rupert. When asked if they would consider returning to the UK they both answered with a resounding ‘No!’ â–

We did it

etirement Today travelled from Portsmouth to Caen by Brittany Ferries. The company operates a travel club, Club Voyage Travel Club, ideal for people either living in France or those with a second home. For an initial joining fee AND ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE OFFERS INCLUDE UP TO DISCOUNT ON TRAVEL AND DISCOUNTS ON BOARD 4HE WHOLE ETHOS OF THE company is that your holiday starts from the moment you arrive on board, with the ship offering everything the modern DAY TRAVELLER WOULD REQUIRE FROM IN HOUSE ENTERTAINMENT TO lNE DINING IN A RELAXING AND LUXURIOUS SETTING 0ETS ARE ALSO WELCOME WITH SEPARATE ON BOARD FACILITIES FOR DOGS â–

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'/$'34*+2 +0(13/#5+10 #0& 4#7+0)4 )6+&' &-B1 A< @;

;: @41 .1?@ >;A@1? @; >-:/1 -:0 &<-5:

For more details visit www.brittany-ferries.co.uk Tel 0871 244 0744 RETIREMENT

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Down-Sizing? Holiday Home?

Tired of the British Winter and thinking about sunnier climates?

FOR SALE ÂŁ84,950 ono

Park home on quiet friendly site in beautiful Dumfries umfries and Galloway, 5 miles from Dumfries. Stunning scenery, fantastic bird watching, amazing walks. 2 bedroom home built 2008 with 10yr warranty. Double glazing, LPG central heating, excellent condition. Immediate occupancy. 'PS GVSUIFS JOGPSNBUJPO 5FM t &NBJM "TIDPU !UBMLUBML OFU

Spanish Architects are looking to do a house swap for 6 or more months in North-Central London We are looking to swap our luxury 3 bed/ 3 bath Marbella apartment, located in Los Lagos de Santa Maria Golf, for a house in North-Central London, minimum of two bedrooms and within 40 minutes commuting distance of Islington. It is a ground oor apartment with no stairs, facing south and golf in Elviria area. It has a large terrace and the property is completely new. There would be use of a car (a cute green Fiat 500). References provided, including one from a London Employer. If this is of interest and you would like further information please contact Dolores Victoria Ruiz Garrido via email at rgrm@rgrm.es

Fairlakeliving’s latest Over 55 Scheme is launching Saturday 1st October

¡ Stylish 2 bedroom apartments and maisonettes exclusively for those aged over 55 ¡ A range of purchase options available ¡ Great access to Cardiff, Newport, Bristol and beyond

Join us for the launch at Parc Eglwys (Lovell development) 11am - 4pm and be among the first to see this exciting new development Parc Eglwys, Off Viaduct Way, Bassaleg NP10 8FN visit

www.fairlakeliving.co.uk call 01633 233876

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Fantastic F i subscription offer only ÂŁ

BE INSPIRED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

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See page 21

Learn French with the French

VOLUNTEER WITH KIYA SURVIVORS Kiya Survivors supports over 200 children and young people with special needs in Peru. Our volunteer programmes give you the opportunity to travel and live in Peru whilst making a positive difference to lives of disadvantaged young people and their families

Group classes starting week commencing 18th September Beginners, intermediate and advanced One-to-one lessons also available daytime & evening All ages all levels including business French Further details from Parlons Francais

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YOUR VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME IS TAILOR MADE TO YOUR SKILLS AND INTERESTS

Some of the areas where the support of volunteers is needed: Teaching Physiotherapy Psychology Music and Art Workshops Building Maintenance Fundraising and Publicity Farming Community and Outreach Projects Your Programme can include any of the following exciting options: Visiting Macchu Picchu, the famous 4-Day Inca Trail, stay in Lima with a city tour and many more!

www.kiyasurvivors.org Kiya Survivors is a UK registered charity no. 1121519 10

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My volunteer experience By Maggie Glastonbury

Sewing

inhabitants of the Rainbow House have special needs. The children are cared for by two substitute mothers, who ensure they are well fed and nurtured in a loving, supportive and stimulating environment. Most of the children now attend local schools, but all attend the Rainbow Centre for lunch and to make use of the facilities there. I have no personal experience of the two other centres that Kiya 3URVIVORS HAS OPENED IN 0ERU BUT they are equally important to the work of ensuring that children with special needs receive appropriate care and education. The Mama Cocha house and the Early Bird Centre in Los Organos enables Kiya Survivors staff to attend to the needs of local communities. As well

AS THE %ARLY 3TIMULATION 0ROGRAMME and workshops on Emotional Well "EING #OGNITIVE 0ROCESSING AND Body Stimulation, the Centre also offers programmes for adults in THE COMMUNITY -AMA #AFĂ? FOR single mothers to have a safe and open space to share knowledge and concerns about their home life) and THE 0ARENTS 3CHOOL OFFERING BOTH mothers and fathers advice on special needs, how to care for their children and how to improve relationships in the home and in the community). 3INCE +IYA 3URVIVORS HAS RUN a successful volunteer programme to ensure there is enough support for the dedicated and extremely hard WORKING ON SITE TEAM OF TEACHERS therapists and social workers at the Rainbow Centre. The volunteers bring along new ideas and constitute the main source of vital funds for all OF THE PROJECTS IN 0ERU ) NOW FULLY

Cusco trip

understand the crucial role Kiya Survivors plays in the lives of the families it supports – an ever evolving group with wide ranging challenges TO FACE 0ERSONALLY ) lND IT HUGELY rewarding to spend time here. I would recommend volunteering with Kiya Survivors to anyone seeking to give their time, energy and love in a beautiful part of the world – so they too can witness the positive changes to the lives of all of those involved. If you want to learn more, take a look at www.kiyasurvivors.org. Like me I suspect you will be in awe of what Suzy has created and I hope that it will inspire you to come and visit the Rainbow Centre or support Kiya Survivors in whatever way you can so that they can continue their vital work ■RETIREMENT

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My volunteer experience

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eeling a strong desire to travel and be useful in countries less privileged than my own, I researched opportunities to volunteer in South America and became aware of the work of Kiya Survivors. My initial reservations were due to the fact that I lacked the conďŹ dence in my ability to cope with the level of disability of the children and young people. Now, I understand how we can ALL CONTRIBUTE TO THE WELL BEING OF THE CHILDREN UNDER +IYA Survivors’ care and I fully appreciate how my volunteer experience has enriched my life and made a difference to the lives of the children who attend the Rainbow Centre. I have volunteered with Kiya Survivors on three occasions now, and have grown very fond of Urubamba and its inhabitants. Over ten years ago Suzy Butler, a young "RITISH VISITOR TO 0ERU WAS SHOCKED BY the attitude to and treatment of children aficted with physical and/or learning disabilities and difďŹ culties. Suzy decided to act for these seriously disadvantaged children, and Kiya Survivors was born IN /NLY A TINY PERCENTAGE OF THE 0ERUVIAN GOVERNMENT S BUDGET FOR education is dedicated to children with special needs. By founding Kiya Survivors AS A "RITISH 0ERUVIAN .'/ 3UZY AIMED to provide a proper education, love and support to ensure a brighter future for these children. Kiya Survivors and the team at the Rainbow Centre have worked incredibly hard over the past ten years to eradicate the social exclusion and abuse these children were experiencing. Such was the extent of the stigma attached to these individuals; they were often abandoned by their families or mistreated at the hands of parents who didn’t understand how they could communicate with their children. Today Kiya Survivors operates four centres for children WITH SPECIAL NEEDS IN 0ERU OF WHICH ) AM VERY FAMILIAR with two.The ďŹ rst centre was the Rainbow Centre (CEBE !RCO )RIS WHICH OPENED IN )T IS A SCHOOL WORKING WITH MORE THAN CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE FROM Urubamba and the surrounding villages who have some form of disability or have suffered abuse, or in some cases both. There is no alternative support for these individuals or their families in Urubamba, so Kiya Survivors is fulďŹ lling a crucial role in their lives. By attending school, the children not only receive education, love and support, but also receive a hot and nutritious lunch every day. For many of these children, this is the only substantial meal they receive on a daily basis. The Rainbow Centre also

offers physiotherapy and speech AND LANGUAGE THERAPY HAS AN ON SITE psychologist who works with the children and their parents. Kiya Survivors also runs an Outreach programme in Urubamba CALLED 0ROYECTO DE 6IDA 4HE Rainbow Centre’s social worker visits the families of some of the poorest students and other children at risk to help the parents ďŹ nd jobs, put younger siblings into nurseries, ensure that the parents understand the importance of keeping the house clean and tidy, and to check that the children are being fed and are healthy. The second project in Urubamba is the Rainbow House, which is a small children’s home for 6 children. There were no orphanages in existence to offer help to children with special needs, so Kiya Survivors responded to the problem with practical and enduring support. Three of the six

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‘A TASTE OF MEY’ RECIPES AND MEMORIES The affection that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother felt for Caithness and The Castle of Mey was well understood and appreciated, not only by those closest to Her, but also by the people in the Far North. In a new book, compiled and edited by Christina Murray, and published by The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust, this enduring affection is reciprocated through a fascinating series of anecdotes and recipes dedicated to the memory of the much loved owner of The Castle of Mey, who, over a period of fifty years, bought it back to life. Her Majesty’s legacy lives on through the Trust and thanks to the annual visits to the Castle of HRH The Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay and the North Highland Initiative, which He launched in August 2005 to promote and develop the economy and to support the rural communities of the North Highlands. A Taste of Mey takes readers on a superb culinary journey down memory lane – here are a few of our favourites. A TASTE OF MEY’ RECIPES AND MEMORIES Compiled and Edited by Christina Murray Foreword by HRH The Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay Published by The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust on 8th September 2011 Hardback Original, price £20.00 from www.castleofmey.org.uk ISBN 978-0-9569604-0-5

Savoury Pancakes SERVES 4 For the filling: 1 onion, chopped 8 rashers bacon, chopped 1/2 lb, 225g mushrooms, chopped 1 tub creme fraiche

A taste of Mey

1 teaspoon wholegrain mustard

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mixed herbs (optional)

today

For the filling, heat oil in a frying pan and add onion until softened. Add bacon and cook until ready. Add mushrooms and cook until soft. Add crème fraiche and mustard and cook mixture until heated through.

4 oz/100g plain flour

Fill pancakes with the filling and arrange in greased ovenproof dish. Any spare filling can be put over top of pancakes.

1 egg, beaten

Cook in oven until heated through.

1/2 pint, 300ml milk

Marjorie Isgar and Pat Maguire

For the batter:

RETIREMENT

For the batter, place the flour in a large bowl, make a well in the centre, and then gradually add the egg and milk, whisking continuously, until you have a smooth batter, Allow the batter to stand for 30 minutes.

SERVES 4

Cullen Skink

2 large undyed smoked haddock fillets 1 large onion peeled and chopped 2 large potatoes peeled and chopped 1 oz/25g butter 16 floz/450ml milk Poach the haddock in pan with 10 floz/300ml water for approximately 20 minutes. Remove the fish and add the potatoes and onions with some pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender. Remove from the heat and mash roughly. Add the milk and fish and reheat gently. Serve with Scottish oatcakes. Lance Purcell – chef at the Castle of Mey Visitor Centre This thick soup originates from the Scottish village of Cullen in Morayshire. Lance buys his smoked haddock from Colin at McKays the Fishmonger in Thurso, who used to supply The Queen Mother with fish when she was at Castle of Mey.

SERVES 4 8 thin slices of uncooked haunch venison 1 carrot 1 small turnip 1 celery stalk 1 onion 1 tablespoon chopped parsley 3 oz/75g fresh breadcrumbs Bouquet garni 3/4 pint/450ml beef stock 2 oz/50g butter 1 oz/25g flour, seasoned 1 oz/25g suet 1 egg Creamed potato Cut the vegetables into small pieces and fry lightly in the butter. Remove from pan. Mix the suet, parsley, breadcrumbs, and seasoning with the egg. Spread on the venison slices and roll up. Tie with string, roll each olive in seasoned flour and brown in pan. Place the olives in a casserole dish with the vegetables, cover with the stock and add the bouquet garni. Simmer for 11/2 to 2 hours. Remove the string and bouquet garni. Place in warm serving dish. Pipe creamed potato around the edge and garnish with parsley. Betty Watson RETIREMENT

today

A taste of Mey

Venison Olives

13

Kick out fat to lose weight – it’s simple arithmetic! We become overweight, and ultimately obese, if we consume more energy than we burn. In order to lose weight, we must control our calorie intake by eating less and burning more. It’s pretty straightforward, but extremely challenging to achieve without help. Fat contains more energy per gram than carbohydrates and protein. The energy you don’t burn off is stored as fat in your body. Therefore, fat is a natural thing to cut down if you want to reduce calories.

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Why do we love fatty foods? Fat is important for the taste of food as it acts as a carrier for a range of avourings. For example, it is able to make a piece of meat taste satisfying, by highlighting the subtle avours within. Flavour from fat is released slowly, meaning that it can PROVIDE A LONG LASTING AFTER TASTE 4HIS IS THE REASON WHY LOW FAT FOODS CAN SEEM less tasty.

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Keeping pet

chickens BUYING A CHICKEN Where to ďŹ nd chickens

PREPARING YOUR GARDEN Size Matters When you start thinking about getting chickens, you must make sure that the number of birds you buy is right for your garden. However much you want to keep c a window box is not Handy Hints chickens, s suitable! As a rough rule around Hazardous chemicals SQUARE METRES FOR TWO BIRDS i sensible, so it is quite possible is If you must use weedkiller or t keep chickens in many town to other chemicals, such as slug pellets, g gardens. With this much space in the garden, make sure that your a a mixture of ground types, and chickens are kept well out of the y your chickens and garden plants way. Don’t let them back into the W WILL HAPPY CO EXIST treated area until you are absolutely sure that it is free from these potentially lethal hazards. Suitability S

Flowerpot Dustbaths If you have a small garden and don’t have anywhere for your chickens to dustbathe, a large owerpot full of sandy earth can do the trick. Not only does it allow them to clean themselves but it is also very amusing to watch.

Watch the water

Keeping pet chickens

Chickens can’t swim! Their feathers tend to soak up water rather than causing it to run off like it does from a duck’s back. Chickens will probably just drink from a pond rather than trying to swim, but it pays to keep your eye on them the ďŹ rst few times they approach one.

16

I you garden has perfectly If manicured lawns and tidy m owerbeds, you must prepare  yyourself and the garden for a llittle bit of messiness. So what DDO CHICKENS LIKE IN THE GARDEN They love scrubby areas with T bbushes and shrubs to hide and sshelter under. Chickens clean tthemselves by making a dustbath sso your chickens will enjoy areas of loose earth, such as the back of o a owerbed. If there is nowhere obvious to take a dustbath they o may well scratch a bath into your m llawn – be warned! Chickens are not housetrained so they will poo n aall over the place. Chicken manure iis great mixed into compost but ccan be too harsh and caustic if pput straight onto plants.

Chicken ProoďŹ ng ! TWO METRE FENCE WILL KEEP THEM IN NICELY BUT REMEMBER that although chickens don’t y, they can do some impressive powered jumps, so anything left near the fence will enable them to hop up and over. Chickens love to nibble at new shoots and can be a real pest in the vegetable patch. To prevent this you can section your precious seedlings off with some exible fencing or use smaller wire cages to protect individual areas. Encourage the chickens to make a mess where you want them to by giving them an area of rough ground with bare earth to forage in. RETIREMENT

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It is unlikely that your local pet shop will sell chickens. Try instead the classiďŹ ed adverts in your local paper, specialist magazines and asking your vet or a local supplier of chicken feed. If possible, it is always better to go and see the chickens for yourself in their surroundings and you can ask the seller any questions you might have. Choosing chickens that have been reared together and are of the same age should ensure that they are already good friends and unlikely to ďŹ ght. Before you go along, you should decide how many chickens you want, whether you can keep a cockerel and if you want a chicken that will be easy to look after and lay lots of eggs (a hybrid or crossbred) or a pure breed that looks exotic but will require more attention.

What to look out for A healthy chicken will havee bright eyes, glossy feathers and d be perky and active. A pullet willl not yet have a big red comb, thiss will develop when she begins to o lay. The legs should be smooth h and the breast ďŹ rm. You should d check the bird’s beak and avoid d any that have a discharge; wateryy eggs and a dirty vent area are also o SIGNS THAT THE BIRD IS NOT PER R cent ďŹ t.

What age to buy

Handy Hints Looks or eggs? Don’t just go for the prettiest bird you see – often the chickens with the most amazing plumage don’t lay very well. Remember as well that chickens with feathery legs will get muddy and you will have to spend time cleaning them.

Who are the parents? If you are buying a pure breed hen, ask to see the parents. It will give you a good idea of what your chickens will look like when they are adult and whether they will have a friendly, docile character.

Adverts may describe a chicken’ss age as being at point of lay – OFTEN ABBREVIATED TO 0/, 4HIS S means that the chicken is about to start laying but doesn’t necessarily mean that this will be the chicken’s ďŹ rst laying period. You should always ask the age of the chicken as some people will sell their chickens after two years to make room for new hens. A chicken that has not yet laid an egg is called a pullet. It is possible to tell the sex of some crossbreeds at just a day old, while others can only be reliably sexed when they are at least four weeks old. Ideally buy your CHICKENS WHEN THEY ARE AT LEAST WEEKS OLD AS AT THIS AGE THEY CAN still be tamed and there can be no doubt as to whether or not they are male or female.

CHICKENS’ DAILY ROUTINE Morning

Bringing your chickens home You can transport your hens in a spacious cardboard box, lined with straw and with holes cut in the side for ventilation. Alternatively, you could use a wire pet carrier such as you would use for a small dog. Make s that the container you use has plenty s Handy Hints sure o ventilation; you can cut holes through From box to run of a cardboard box for his purpose but make If you are unsure about handling sure you do it before you put the chickens s your chickens, open the box you in i the box! On long journeys check that the brought them home in inside their chickens don’t get too hot, warning signs c new run. This guarantees that you are a panting and trying to cool down by won’t spend the afternoon chasing spreading their wings.You should stop every s chickens round the garden if one couple of hours to give then some water. c leaps out of the box unexpectedly.

Bedtime The ďŹ rst right your chickens may not know where they are supposed to sleep; to solve this try putting inside their house. They should be drawn to the light and once inside you can close the door and take the torch out.

The ďŹ rst few days To make sure that the chickens know where to roost, keep them inside the house and run for around ďŹ ve days. Now if you let them out into the garden, they will have learned that the coop is a nice safe place to roost and will come back to roost at dusk.

Other pets O A a general rule chickens get on ďŹ ne with As o other pets, such as cats and dogs. Try to let yyour chickens settle in for a few days before iintroducing them to other family pets and make sure that you only introduce them m ggradually when they are safely inside their rrun. Initially the chickens may ap around making them even more interesting for m aan inquisitive dog, but given time they will usually get along ďŹ ne in the garden, w ppottering around with a healthy respect for one another. o

Wing Clipping W

A Although most chickens are unable to y high o or over long distances, it is quite common aand painless to clip their wings, it is only necessary to clip one wing to unbalance the n cchicken and prevent it from being able to y onto or over fences.The person you bought your chickens from may have already done this for you. Alternatively, ask someone to help you by holding the chicken while you from the long primary ight feathers on the edge of the wing. Using scissors cut the ďŹ rst six or seen feathers back to the point where the next line of feathers starts.

Daytime Chickens will eat mostt of their food in thee morning so make suree that they have plentyy of layers mash to ďŹ lll up on before you givee them any treats. Eatingg will be followed by a good preening session.. w A dustbath will allow sand and earth to ďŹ lterr through their featherss so dislodging anyy mites. If it’s a hot sunnyy day, they may well liee outside looking likee they’ve melted with onee wing outstretched! Thee rest of the day will bee d spent pottering round d scratching for bugs and tasty morsels.

End of the day

Handy Hints Check for eggs Don’t forget to check for eggs at AROUND O CLOCK )F YOU FORGET to collect your eggs for a few days, you run the risk of your chickens going broody. This behaviour can last for six weeks so it is well worth remembering to check for eggs daily!

Droppings Make sure that there aren’t too many droppings in the house. As a general rule, weekly clearing IS ENOUGH BUT A BUILD UP OF droppings can make life very unpleasant for the chickens so a quick daily check will be appreciated.

Weather watch If you keep your chickens in a relatively small run and the weather is at all extreme, snowy or sunny, spare a thought for their welfare. In both conditions they will be glad to have some extra shelter.

A very useful habit off chickens is that theyy never fail to go and roostt at dusk. Make sure thatt you remember to leavee R THE CHICKEN HOUSE DOOR open in the evening. Iff ďŹ d they h can’t’ get in, they are ready to go to roost andd ďŹ nd they will make a bit of a noise and then ďŹ nd alternative accommodation.This is likely to be an unprotected branch which will leave them vulnerable to ending up as a fox’s NIGHT TIME SNACK â–

A extract from Keeping Pet An Chickens by Johannes Paul C aand William Windham, ppublished by Interpet Publishing. IISBN 978-1-84286-103-5

RETIREMENT

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Keeping pet chickens

THE FIRST DAY AT HOME

Your chickens will have had a completely inactive night simply holding on to a perch with their eyes shut. As soon as it gets light, they will be awake and ready to be let out to start feeding. Assuming your chickens are more than ABOUT WEEKS OLD THEY WILL PROBABLY LAY AN EGG IN THE next few hours. If they live in a house with a nestbox, THEY WILL MAKE THEMSELVES COMFY IN IT THEN STAND UP minutes or so later having laid an egg. If you let your chickens out free range, then the next part of your day will consist of a hunt to ďŹ nd the eggs!

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Out&About...

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National Museums Liverpool

Age of the Dinosaur Until 15 April

Amazing life-sized moving dinosaurs descend upon Liverpool as six animaltronic dinosaurs emerge out of the darkness as visitors immerse themselves in the vanished world of 65-million-years-ago. Visitors travel from beneath Jurassic waves, walk through a Jurassic forest, and finish their journey in a Cretaceous desert, passing fossil specimens along the way as they journey through time. The exhibition combines stunning imagery, as well as the animatronic dinosaurs and film footage with more than 60 specimens including real dinosaur bones making this a thrilling exhibition that brings alive the prehistoric world. For further information:

STUDY, DESIGN & CREATE: THE 98 LACE GROUP

Tel. 0151 478 4393 www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk Farington, Joseph RA (1747-1821) View of Falmouth, engraving Image courtesy of Falmouth Art Gallery

Saturday 28th January until Sunday 15th April 2012 Stunning works of art by some of the UK’s greatest makers of contemporary lace are to go on display at The Bowes Museum in Durham.

Master and Commander Lord Cochrane by James Ramsay

National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh Until 19 February 2012 The neglected story of one of Scotland’s great naval heroes is being told in a new exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland. Admiral Cochrane, the Real Master and Commander telling the amazing story of the real-life figure who inspired famous fictional heroes like C.S. Forester’s Hornblower and Patrick O’Brian’s Jack Aubrey, famously played by Russell Crowe in the film Master and Commander. Showing only at the National Museum of Scotland, this exhibition draws together a host of objects which have never before been on public display. www.nms.ac.uk

Falmouth in the Days of Sail National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Falmouth Until 25 March

Falmouth in the Days of Sail is a pictorial tour of Falmouth and Penryn before the time of photography, illustrating the incredible variety of visiting ships and the evolution of the town. Stunning original artwork including lithographs, engravings, watercolours and oils depict the changing face of the harbour through the 19th century. The exhibition also includes the original town Charter, signed by King Charles II on 5 October 1661.

The Study, Design and Create exhibition has been inspired by the museum’s historically significant Blackborne Lace Collection, one of the finest collections of antique lace anywhere in the world.

For further information:

The contemporary lace makers – called The 98 Lace Group – will also hold a number of workshops where they will teach the mysterious arts of making lace to those interested in learning more about the intricate skills behind this most mysterious of fabrics.

Tel. 01326 313 388 or visit www.nmmc.org.uk

www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk.

Romantic Camera: Scottish Photography and the Modern World

Rosemoor’s Winer Sculpture Exhibition

Scottish National Portrait Gallery Until 3 June 2012 The opening ‘masterpiece’ exhibition of the new Photography Gallery will highlights some of the greatest works in the National Galleries of Scotland’s photography collections. It explores questions of identity, specifically the close relationship between romanticism and photography in Scotland. The exhibition suggests that there is a very strong relationship between the two – indeed, romanticism may be the defining expression of Scottish modernity in photography and other lens-based media. Over 60 works will be on show, ranging from iconic images by Hill and Adamson to new commissions. For further information visit www.nationalgalleries.org

Scottish Potrait Gallery -’The Brave Ones’ Image courtesy of Jack Shainman Gallery, NY

Rosemoor’s Winter Sculpture Exhibition Until 26 February 2012 Follow a sculpture trail around the garden at RHS Garden Rosemoor and marvel at over 65 striking pieces of art by Sculptures from all over the country. Placed among the winter planting of the garden, there is no better setting and the range of sculptures this year are better than ever. Bob Waters,a local artist uses industrial scrap and a range of techniques to create his striking sculptures. Another returning exhibitor is North Yorkshire Sculptor, Michael Kusz, who also works with scrap metal – this time copper – to create a range of sculptures of fantastic creatures – often with a humorous element. Many pieces are for sale. For further information tel 0845 130 4646, or visit www.rhs.org.uk RETIREMENT

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Out and About

The Real Master and Commander

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AVERAGES AROUND # IN summer. Annual rainfall is LOW AVERAGING MM A YEAR and the length of the dry season in summer is even longer than in neighbouring Italy. Summers are hot but often mitigated by cooling sea breezes. June is the ideal time of year to come for sun and sea as the summer season is just getting into full swing and it’s not too hot. July through September is the peak summer months (temperature AVERAGE # & WHILE !UGUST is the hottest and busiest month OF SUMMER AVERAGE TEMPERATURE # & -ID TO LATE /CTOBER IS A great time to visit as the temperatures

and sailing trips to Comino. Malta and Gozo are leading dive destinations in the Mediterranean. The temperate climate permits diving all year round with excellent underwater visibility even in winter. British visitors immediately feel at home when they arrive in Malta, one of the ofďŹ cial languages of the Islands is English along with Maltese and most residents also speak Italian. A range of accommodation is available in the Maltese Islands, from LUXURY lVE STAR HOTELS AND SPAS PRIVATE villas to farmhouse cottages, boutique ocated in the hotels to B&Bs. Dining al fresco is one heart of the of life’s simple pleasures, choose from Mediter ranean romantic palazzos to bustling harbour is Malta, just three hours away restaurants and discover the range of from the UK. The Maltese Maltese Cuisine, wine and beer, for Islands offer a wide range of a lively night out for nothing beats a attractions and grand examples summer ďŹ esta. Saints, ďŹ reworks, food of architecture.Archaeological and fun are all part of this cultural sites and prehistoric remains PHENOMENON ONE NOT TO BE MISSED FROM ITS YEARS OF HISTORY for excitement of a different kind why include the medieval walled not try your luck at one of the islands city of Mdina, Roman ruins casinos. Cuisine in Malta is mostly a and catacombs, and the oldest freestanding temple in mixture of traditional Maltese food the world. The Maltese Islands are made up of not only with Italian and other continental Malta, but also Gozo and Comino. Each of the islands, all cuisines thrown in. Being an island, stunningly beautiful and steeped in history count no less ďŹ sh is obviously very widely eaten than three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a wealth and species are very seasonal. of Maritime History. The Maltese Islands are Fenek (rabbit) is a favourite The Maltese Islands have been invaded and ruled by many races and traces of their various cultures a haven for those seeking national dish, either fried with garlic or cooked as a stew‌ can be found throughout the islands. The latest of the ultimate relaxing and and there are actually farmers course was Britain, stretching back to 60 AD when on the island who specialise in 3T 0AUL WAS SHIPWRECKED ON THE ISLAND WHILE ON HIS pampering holiday breeding rabbits for restaurants! way to Rome and brought Christianity to Malta, The Maltese Islands are a haven for subsequently Arabs, Sicilians and the Knights of St. John of are bearable, the sun still shines, but *ERUSALEM HAVE ALL CONTROLLED THE ISLANDS 5NTIL WHEN the Islands are less populated and those seeking the ultimate relaxing Great Britain prised the islands away from Napoleon, then more serene. Spring can be a season and pampering holiday. The islands formally acquired possession and then ruled the islands up full of surprises; a touch of rain, some boast a number of excellent spa TO WHEN THEY BECAME INDEPENDENT ! DECADE LATER beautiful crisp days and others that resorts offering the latest treatments Malta became a republic. Malta became an EU member are perfect for spending on the beach. and facilities, some of which are Although winters are mild, swimming unique in the Mediterranean. IN -AY OF Malta is fast becoming a centre The Maltese Islands are rightly famed for their climate; from November to February is not the Islands are very sunny with a daily average of more than recommended, as the water and air for wellness and relaxation, not just twelve hours of sunshine in summer and ďŹ ve to six hours tend to be quite chilly, brought about through the development of some IN MID WINTER /NE OF THE JOYS OF BEING ON 4HE )SLANDS BY THE NORTH AND NORTH EASTERLY WINDS of the Mediterranean’s best spas, but also in terms of the local cuisine and is that, no matter where you are, you’re never far from from central Europe. A wide range of other pastimes healthy lifestyle. â– one of the many magniďŹ cent beaches or secluded little coves. There is a choice of both sandy and rocky beaches, are available to the visitor, chartering offering practical areas for the family, scenic spots for the sailing boats is competitively priced, romantics, serene areas for those in want of peace and spots car hire is the cheapest in Europe, for those who are interested in a bit of summer sports fun. public transport is widely available The Maltese coastal waters are generally clean and safe for and easy to use and island hopping is swimming as there are no tides and the sea temperature SIMPLE WITH REGULAR FERRIES TO 'OZO

Malta L

Malta

For more information contact: Tel. 0208 877 6990 Email: ofďŹ ce.uk@visitmalta.com www.visitmalta.com

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Diabetes - Everyday Eating This booklet provides you with help and advice about everyday eating and a four week menu plan.

ASK FOR YOUR FREE COPY TODAY TELEPHONE: 01604 622837 or EMAIL: martin@iddtinternational.org Insulin Dependent Diabetes Trust P O Box 294, Northampton NN1 4XS. www.iddtinternational.org Charity Number: 1058284 Registered Number: 3148360

The Red Squirrel Our National Heritage‌ Recent announcements on Inheritance Tax mean that now is the time to make sure your will benefits those close to you. Now that leaving bequests to charity bring added value to a will, could you please consider a gift to the Red Squirrel Survival Trust? We are the only national charity dedicated to saving this truly iconic species from extinction. A legacy to us is a legacy for future generations – helping to save a special piece of our heritage.

Please visit www.rsst.org.uk for more information on our work and helpful tips on making or changing your will – or call us on 07974 863633. Reg. Charity no. 1116947 (England & Wales) SC039959 (Scotland)

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UPDATE

THE BANK OF MUM AND DAD... AND NAN… AND GRANDAD

MANAGING THE ESTATE OF A LOVED ONE AFTER DEATH IS AS STRESSFUL AS BUYING A HOUSE New research* out today from The Living Probate Company (TLPC), highlights exactly how stressful managing the estate of a loved one is after they have passed away. Over half of people (58%) managing the estate of a loved one after their death, without a solicitor, said they found the process stressful – putting this on par with 57% of homeowners who said they found the house-buying process to be stressful. In addition, just under one quarter (20%) have had to take time off work above and beyond compassionate leave to deal with it. Sophie Armfield, managing director of The Living Probate Company commented: “The impact of taking on the estate of a deceased loved one can be extremely time-consuming, not to mention stressful given the circumstances. The fact that people actually end up taking time off above and beyond compassionate leave to tend to the estate means that it can be an overwhelming experience for them. With the probate procedure sometimes taking anywhere up to 2 years to tie up, this can mean vast amounts of time being spent away from work and other things.” * Opinium Research, 30th October to 11th November 2011, 1,050 online interviews with over 45’s

Divorce rates amongst the over 60’s in the UK are on the rise Pensioners are the only age group where the divorce rate is rising. The latest figures, for 2009, reveal that more than 11,500 over-60s were granted a divorce – up 4 per cent in two years. Tanya Roberts, a partner in the family office at Charles Russell LLP says “The rise in “silver separations” in the press is not really a surprise and certainly reflects what we are seeing in practice. It used to be unusual to see people divorcing over 60 but now it is much more common. People are much healthier, feel younger and are more confident. They see retirement as their next adventure and increasingly that does not always include their current partner. The bond that kept them together for instance, their children, is weaker when the children have left home and are independent and it is a very telling time for couples.Will they enter the next phase of their life together, is there really very little left? Also, when they were busier and working it often masked gaps in the relationship, which become more obvious with an increase in leisure time. Obviously for the partner left behind it can be devastating and shocking and they will feel vulnerable and abandoned and the children will often have to take a very supportive and practical role.”

New research released from WRVS, the UK’s largest charity delivering preventative care for older people, shows that services older people believe are crucial to their wellbeing are suffering as a result of government cuts across the country placing older people’s health at risk and putting an overstretched NHS under even greater pressure. These findings are likely to spark immense concern across Britain’s older community, as the evidence mounts up that the withdrawal of key services designed to prevent health problems amongst older people is contributing to greater pressures on hospital beds. Delays in people being discharged from hospital are now 12,433 above the level since the introduction of the public spending cuts. Cutting the number of older people admitted to hospital could save the health service £2 billion a year.

*Figures from OnePoll. Total sample size was 2,000 UK adults that are parents to children between the age of 0-18. Fieldwork was undertaken on October 17th 2011. The survey was carried out online

ScotClans Demand The Tartan Truth Information is power, misleading information leads to confusion and disappointment. This is the message being relayed by clan expert, Rodger Moffet, who is warning that the missselling of clan merchandise is damaging the Scottish economy and putting clan merchandising jobs at risk. Mr. Moffet, CEO of ScotClans, the ‘guardians of clan heritage’ on the internet, is warning that there are tough times ahead for traditional ‘clan’ businesses unless something is done, and quickly. He says the clan societies and the trading standards authority need to work together so regulations can be put in place to prevent misinformation, mislabelling and ultimately the missselling of traditional Scottish goods. He explains: “The miss-selling of clan-related goods, over the internet and on the High Street, is tarnishing the worldwide Scottish brand. Our highland wear is famous all over the world, with proud Scots showing off their clan related products in every corner of the globe. However, how many of these proud Scots are actually wearing the genuine article? It is now common place for cheap imitations to be passed-off as genuine, or for inaccurate clan information to be given out just to make a fast buck. Something has to be done about this. RETIREMENT

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Update

SPENDING CUTS PUTTING OLDER PEOPLE’S HEALTH AT RISK – NEW RESEARCH REVEALS

New research* from Legal & General Investments, reveals that more than a quarter (27%) of parents think that they will never stop financially supporting their children. Few parents see their child’s 18th birthday as a marker of their financial independence, with only one in five (21%) believing they will stop financially supporting their children at this age. At the other end of the spectrum, some parents are keen on instilling financial independence; more than 10 percent of parents, who do not believe they can fund their children beyond 18, say it is simply no longer their responsibility. It is also clear that parents are not the only stakeholders expected to fund a child’s financial future. The majority of parents are relying on their own parents for financial support for their adult children. More than 65% believe contributions to their child’s ISA will come direct from grandparents. In addition, almost one in six (16%) parents expects to make lump sum payments into their children’s savings via inheritance.

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COMPETITIONS Vanishing V oon 7th Street S m M Momentu taps P Pictures in one of our into most m primal -a a anxieties fear of the dark, fe w with the 20 2012 F February D release DVD thriller il bi of the intense andd nail-biting VANISHING ON 7TH STREET. When Detroit is suddenly plunged into darkness, airplanes crash to earth, vehicles and anything electrical ceases to work and the sun rises to reveal only a handful of survivors battling to stay in the light. Vanishing on 7th Street fuses apocalyptic thriller and horror together to bring us one of winter’s most haunting and genuinely scary ďŹ lms. We have 3 copies of the DVD to give away to readers. For a chance to win a copy send in your details, quoting ref. VS Closing date: 20th February 2012.

For a chance to win any of the prizes, send your name and address (quoting reference code) to: Amra Media Solutions, The Old Lavender Mill, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Bucks, HP22 5ES or email: info@amramedia.co.uk

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO SEE MIDNIGHT TANGO AT THE ALDWYCH THEATRE! M Midnight Tango has enthralled ha audiences on a au record-breaking re UK tour and now, U Vincent Simone Vi an and Flavia Cacace, stars of BBC’s Strictly st Co Come Dancing bring their breath-taking th liv live show into Lo London’s West End. Fo Former World Champions, Vincent Ch an and Flavia are joined bby tten off th the ďŹ ďŹ nestt ttango ddancers iin th the world, ld plus l an internationally renowned tango band, Tango Siempre. Produced by the UK’s acclaimed choreographer Arlene Phillips, this sensational production fuses dazzling choreography with intoxicating Tango rhythms. Competition closes 20 February 2012. Prize consists of 2 top price tickets, valid for Monday – Wednesday performances only 20 February - 21st March 2012. For a chance to win tickets, send in your details, quoting MT. Closing date: 20th February 2012. Subject to availability. Promoter reserves the right to substitute prize for that of equal or greater value if necessary.

The Skin I Live In ON BLU-RAY & DVD Academy Award! winning director Pedro Almodóvar returns with a horrifying yet captivating high-class thriller The Skin I Live In In. Based on the bestselling book Tarantula, The Skin I Live In tells the unsettling tale of Dr. Robert Ledgard (Banderas; Once Upon a Time in Mexico), a brilliant but slightly unhinged plastic surgeon who, after his wife is burned in a car crash, becomes obsessed with creating a new type of skin that could have saved her. In addition to genius, Robert needs three critical elements for his invention to succeed: a lack of scruples, an accomplice and a human guinea pig. The Skin I Live In was nominated for the prestigious Palme d’Or at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival and is tipped for numerous awards in 2012. Step into Dr Ledgard’s laboratory if you dare! We have 5 copies of the DVD to give away to readers. For a chance to win a copy send in your details, quoting ref. SILI Closing date: 20th February 2012.

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The Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) is Scotland’s leading mental health charity. We recognise that everyone needs to keep mentally healthy. So as well as providing expert support every day to people with diagnosed mental health problems, we work hard to promote positive mental health throughout Scotland. A very important part of our work is supporting people who have lost a loved one to suicide. Recently, SAMH launched its Suicide Prevention National Programme. We need to raise funds to deliver this crucial programme: please consider leaving us a gift in your will. Your help could give a future to someone at risk of suicide.

Make their future your legacy. Please get in touch if you would like to find out more about the work of SAMH

Telephone: 0141 530 1000 Email: legacy@samh.org.uk

www.samh.org.uk Scottish Association for Mental Health SAMH is a registered Scottish charity no SC008897. Registered office: Brunswick House, 51 Wilson Street, Glasgow, G1 1UZ SAMH is a company limited by guarantee, registered in Scotland No 82340.

Why your Will matters

Meet Mairi. She’s decided to fight chest, heart and stroke illness to the very end.

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Make the end a new beginning. A gift in your Will of any size can mean life to those suffering from chest, heart and stroke illness in Scotland. Gifts in Wills are crucial to our future. Please contact us on: 0131 225 4800 | fundraising@chss.org.uk | www.chss.org.uk

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Scottish Inheritance Laws

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any people remark in the differences between England and Scotland but nowhere is this more apparent than the Scottish Legal System as anyone who has attempted to buy property in Scotland will be quick to acknowledge. Scotland retains an entirely different legal system as different IN SCOTLAND from the English system as say France. YOU CANNOT It would be impossible within DISINHERIT YOUR the confines of this magazine to HUSBAND, WIFE, tackle all the differences but there are some important points that CIVIL PARTNER OR should be addressed. One of the CHILDREN main differences in inheritance and children, is that it’s almost impossible to disinherit your children unless the estate comprises of only land and buildings. A child’s right to inherit is also unlike England not based on need. Widows in Scotland can also elect to claim ‘Legal Rights‘ meaning that once again it is almost impossible to disinherit a spouse. In England if someone is widowed and the spouse dies without making a will it is very likely that the surviving spouse would inherit the whole estate. In Scotland however limits have been set, this would be the matrimonial home, plenishings and moveable property up to a limit so in essence the surviving spouse might not inherit the whole estate. In England a will is invalidated by marriage but in Scotland a will is not invalidated by marriage or divorce, in essence if someone remarries in Scotland unless they make a new will, their estate could automatically go to their ex wife if that was the intention in the old will. Whatever the problems involved with making a will they increase greatly if there is no will, so make this a New Year priority without fail! ■

WHY YOUR WILL MATTERS

one of us likes to think about death, but failing to write a will can leave a mass of problems for your survivors. Central to any plan to ensure your family’s security or to save tax is making a will. This is the only sure way to exercise control over how your wealth is passed on and to whom. Yet, according to the OfďŹ ce of Fair Trading, FEWER THAN HALF PER CENT OF 5+ ADULTS have made a will.

WHAT ARE THE PROBLEMS? A will is a legal document that says how your possessions (your estate) are to be dealt with when you die. Even if your estate is small and your intentions regarding it extremely simple, you should still make a will. )F YOU DO NOT A NUMBER OF PROBLEMS CAN ARISE FOR EXAMPLE s Your survivors may waste time trying to ďŹ nd out whether or not you did write a will; it may take them a long time to trace all your possessions; and they may have to spend time and money tracing relatives. s If there is no will, it may take longer and cost more to ‘prove’ the estate (an administrative process that has to be completed before your estate can be ‘distributed’ – that is, handed on – to your heirs). s Without a will, your next of kin (often a wife, husband or civil partner) will usually be appointed to sort out your affairs. At the time of bereavement, he or she might prefer not to take on this role and you may, in any case, have friends or relatives who would be more suited to the task. s The law will dictate how your estate is passed on and this may not coincide with your wishes. s The law may require that various trusts are set up. The terms of these trusts may be overly restrictive and, especially where small sums are involved, unnecessarily large expenses may be incurred. s Your heirs may have to pay IHT (or more tax) than would have been the case had you used your will to pass on your possessions TAX EFlCIENTLY Apart from avoiding these problems and ensuring that your possessions are given away as you would choose, a will can be used for other PURPOSES TOO YOU CAN APPOINT GUARDIANS TO CARE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN AND you can express your preferences about funeral arrangements and any wishes about the use of your body for medical purposes after death. Don’t put off making a will for now, thinking that you will sort it out when you get older. First, this leaves the people around you now vulnerable should you die young. Second, to write a valid will, you must be of sound mind. As you age, there is an increased risk of developing mental health conditions that might prevent you from being able to draw up a will later. Sometimes, thinking ahead, people

draw up a power of attorney so that someone else can take over managing their affairs if they lose the mental ability to do this for themselves. But be aware that, although an attorney can take over many ďŹ nancial and other matters, he or she is not permitted to write a will for the person for whom they are acting.

Will facts and ďŹ gures s Although most people living as unmarried couples realise their partner will not automatically inherit from them, only PER CENT HAVE MADE A WILL s Over half of married people incorrectly believe their husband or wife would inherit everything even without a will. The ďŹ gure is HIGHER STILL PER CENT FOR CIVIL PARTNERS s .EARLY TWO THIRDS OF PARENTS HAVE NOT MADE A WILL SO ARE MISSING a straightforward way to ensure that their children are ďŹ nancially provided for and guardians appointed â– E Extract from Giving & Inheriting bby Jonquil Lowe, published by 7 7HICH "OOKS

To buy a copy of Giving T & Inheriting for just ÂŁ8.99 ((RRP (R R ÂŁ10.99) including UK pp&p, & call 01903 828557 and qquote u GIVERT. Offer ends 2299 February 2012

Gift Aid and Inheritance Tax Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt has welcomed an initiative to encourage more people to leave a charitable gift in their Will. “Times are tough at the moment and while people are feeling the pinch, more than half the population still give to charity each month,â€? he said. “What’s surprising is that only seven per cent of people ever leave money to a charity in their will. Including a gift to charity in a will is a great way to recognise an organisation that’s been there for you during your life.â€? Measures to increase charitable giving were announced by the Chancellor in the last Budget. Anyone leaving 10 per cent of their estate to charity in their Will from 6 April 2012 will beneďŹ t from a reduction in Inheritance Tax from 40% to 36%. Rob Cope, director of Remember A Charity, welcomed the tax incentive but said that the “collective challenge is now to reach beyond the top 3% to help create a social normâ€?. RETIREMENT

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Why your Will matters

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Charity N E W S

WHY Y SHOULD ANY YONE LEAVE A LEG GACY TO LOUIS? Simp plyy pu put, t, bec ecau cau ause se you are alr alread ady en enjo joyyiin ngg HIS legaccy to Y YO OU. U.

Arthritis:

Louis Pengelly-Phillips joined the Royal Marines in 1943 at the age of 17. He was chosen to help protect Winston Churchill at the Quebec Conference. Louis was one of the first ashore on D-Day. He also fought the Japanese in Burma. After the war Louis worked as a farmer but broke his neck in1952. In 1980 his health deteriorated & he came to our Richmond Home. Sadly, disabled ex-Service personnel like Louis are often forgotten and it is only with the generous support of the people who remember us in their Wills that we are able to continue our work. Please would you remember Louis and our other residents in your Will and recommend The Royal Star & Garter Homes to others. For further information contact John Ingram: 020 8439 8125 or John.Ingram@starandgarter.org or write to: Legacy Manager The Royal Star & Garter Homes Freepost RLUX-CSXB-KZGG Richmond, TW10 6RR

www..sttarandg dgarte ter.o org

You don’t have to ‘just put up with it’ All too often the ‘more mature’ of us are told that arthritis is inevitable, and that we just have to put up with it. Not so! The Arthritic Association has been providing arthritis sufferers with access to its natural, three-part Programme for nearly 70 years, and many past and present members have told us it has lessened their symptoms. Indeed one member has told us she has been able to leave her wheelchair and take long walks on the South Downs since following the regime.

RCN 210119

“Our founder, Charles de Coti-Marsh devoted most of his life to exploring how to minimise the impact of arthritis” explains Lynda Scott-Williams, the Association’s chief executive. “His Programme consists of an Eating Plan which identifies those foods that have been known to trigger arthritis symptoms in many; physical therapy treatments to keep the body in alignment and help to maintain good posture; and preparations that Charles developed himself. “Whether you have osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or one of the other 200 or so types of arthritis, it is possible that you will find our drug-free Programme of help” Lynda continues. “There are over 9 million people with arthritis in the UK today. 10,000 are children. “I’ve found the de Coti-Marsh Programme to be much more than an alternative to putting up with the pain” Lynda concludes. Maybe you could too? Visit www.arthriticassociation.org.uk or telephone 0800 652 3188 and ask for an information pack.

Charity News

Snowdon500 Welsh 3 Peaks Challenge

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10 years on Orangutan Appeal UK will shortly be holding an Anniversary Reception in recognition of a decade of their life-saving work. In 2005 as Founder and Chairperson of Orangutan Appeal UK, Sue Sheward was honoured to receive the Mayor of Guildford’s Award for Service in the Community. Since then, the Appeal has gone from strength to strength working tirelessly to help transform the lives of hundreds of orangutans by carrying out projects across Borneo, rehabilitating those who have been orphaned and displaced in order to replenish their dwindling populations. Deforestation is happening on a massive scale which is destroying the habitat of the orangutan at an alarming rate, driving this beautiful species close to extinction. The majority of the Appeals projects are carried out at the famous Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah (Malaysian Borneo), where they have previously funded veterinary staff, helicopter translocations and ground-breaking post release monitoring research, amongst others. In January 2012, Orangutan Appeal UK will be holding a celebratory reception to mark the 10 Year Anniversary of the Charity, when a special announcement will be made. Keep your eyes open for news and join the fight to save one of our planets greatest creatures!

New Care Home in Surbiton At the beginning of 2011, The Royal Star & Garter Homes for disabled ex-Service men and women announced its intention to build a new care home in Surbiton, Surrey to which the residents of its home in Richmond will move. The Charity provides outstanding nursing & therapeutic care to the ex-Service Community at its Richmond and Solihull Homes. The detailed internal design and exterior landscaping plans for the Surbiton site have now been finalised, and the building contractor selected. Morgan Sindall is the same contractor that built the Charity’s home in Solihull, West Midlands, which opened in Autumn 2008. Work will begin on the Surbiton site very early in the New Year, and construction is expected to take 17 months with the residents moving into the new home in the middle of 2013. There will be 63 ensuite bedrooms, 26 of them offering specialist dementia care. The Royal Star & Garter Homes’ Chief Executive, Mike Barter, said: “We are very excited about our move to Surbiton and we are determined to become a valued member of the Surbiton Community. We are delighted to be working once again with Morgan Sindall who built our highly successful Solihull Home, which went on to win a Pinders Healthcare design award”. www.starandgarter.org

The Snowdon500 Challenge is well established as the UK´s primary mountain challenge event designed specifically to raise funds for prostate cancer research. Each year 500 participants take part in the Challenge to climb Snowdon, the highest mountain in England & Wales. Snowdon500 is held annually and will next take place over the weekend of 19th & 20th May 2012. For many people, climbing Snowdon provides a stiff challenge, especially for those who may be less experienced. Completing the Challenge with so many like-minded people provides a sense of pride and achievement, underlined by the vital sponsorship to support prostate cancer research. Climbing Snowdon is a serious mountain experience and weather conditions can be tough, even for experienced walkers. But to celebrate the 5th anniversary of the Snowdon500 Challenge they have introduced a Welsh 3 Peaks Challenge which will provide a stern physical test for those with more experience. The Snowdon 500 – Welsh 3 Peaks Challenge involves climbing the most iconic mountains in Wales Pen-Y-Fan, Cadair Idris and Snowdon. All participants will receive a limited edition Snowdon500 5th Anniversary Buff! Registration is £45 and you will need to raise £250 in sponsorship. Register at www.snowdon500.co.uk/threepeaks.html

CELEBRITIES

Feature on The Stroke Association’s Honour Wall Some of the UK’s most prolific celebrities have purchased their special bricks on The Stroke Association’s latest fundraising initiative, the virtual ‘Honour Wall’, to help raise funds for the UK’s first Life After Stroke Centre. Queen of 80s pop, Toyah Willcox joined TV’s Adrian Chiles and film icon, Honor Blackman to buy and dedicate their bricks on the wall. Toyah said: “I’m really delighted to be able dedicate a brick to my father. Well done to The Stroke Association for supporting stroke survivors and their families right when they need it. I hope more people support this fantastic Centre.” The virtual bricks can be bought by stroke survivors or their family members in honour of someone who may have helped with their recovery or in honour of someone who has had a stroke that they want to honour in a special way. The online Honour Wall (www.stroke.org.uk/ honourwall) offers only 350 virtual bricks for a minimum donation of £50 per brick. If you are interested in honouring someone special on The Stroke Association’s Honour Wall, please visit: www.stroke.org.uk/honourwall. RETIREMENT

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Charity News

and still fighting

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GREY HAIRS

THE REGULAR PENSIONS COLUMN

ANNUITY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN In the second of a series of articles aimed at helping readers through the complex ‘annuity maze’, this edition looks at the factors affecting annuity rates and in particular how your health can play a part in the amount of income you receive.

Lifetime Annuity A lifetime annuity (more often simply known as an annuity) is a contract between you and an insurance company under which you hand over all or part of your pension fund to the insurer, who agrees to pay you an income for the remainder of your lifetime.

By Robert Grey, Pensions Specialist

Impaired Life Annuities: An impaired life annuity pays an income for life in the same way as an ordinary annuity. However, it pays a higher amount to those with certain medical conditions on the basis that they have a reduced life expectancy. Medical conditions include (but are not limited to) high blood pressure, diabetes, heart conditions, kidney failure, certain types of cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic asthma and high cholesterol.

An annuity is a one-off purchase that will determine your retirement income for the rest of your life. You cannot change providers once your annuity has started so it is important to ensure that you buy the right product in the first place. As mentioned in the previous edition of Grey Hairs, there are various options available when choosing the type of annuity that best suits your circumstances:

Enhanced Annuities

t ZPVS JODPNF DBO SFNBJO MFWFM UISPVHIPVU ZPVS retirement or you can choose to have automatic annual increases built in;

Research shows that you can increase your retirement income by as much as 40% once any medical conditions have been taken into account

An enhanced annuity is less tailored than an impaired life product and pays a higher income to those with particular lifestyles, including smokers and the obese and may also be available if you have spent a good proportion of your working life in a hazardous occupation (e.g. mining). Currently only 1 in 10 of people who shop for an annuity actually opt for these products, despite the fact that 1 in 3 qualify for them

t ZPVS BOOVJUZ DBO CF TFU VQ TP BMM PS QBSU PG JU JT paid to your spouse or civil partner if you die before them; t JU DBO BMTP CF TFU VQ UP FOTVSF B NJOJNVN payment period - normally 5 or 10 years even if you die before this period ends. The amount of annuity income you will receive depends on two factors - the value of your pension fund (‘pot’) and the annuity rate offered by the insurance company selling the annuity. The annuity rate is the factor used to convert your accumulated pension fund into an income. So, the total value of your pension fund x annuity rate = amount of annuity income

Grey Hairs

Annuity rates are calculated by actuaries using various factors such as mortality (your life expectancy), interest rates, your age/gender and your postcode. Your health is also a relevant factor which may affect the amount of income you will ultimately receive. Rates are generally higher (i.e. will provide more income) the older you get because future life expectancy is less.

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If an insurance company thinks it likely that you will die sooner than average, it can be more generous when setting its annuity rate as it does not expect to be paying you an income for as long as someone in good health. The difference in the amount of annual income can be substantial. Such products are called ‘impaired life’ or ‘enhanced’ annuities (although not all insurance companies offer these). RETIREMENT

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This table shows the potential differences in annual income that are available by shopping around different providers on the open market. For example, an annual pension of £1,000 could increase by up to 40% (to £1,400 per annum) if you have lifestyle or health conditions.

Comparative Tables The Money Advice Service comparison tables (www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/tables) have details of annuity providers. These tables can give you an indication as to how much pension (annuity) income you can expect to receive and which pension companies are offering the best rates at the time. They will help you decide whether you want to buy your annuity with your current provider (who already holds your fund) or if you would prefer to transfer your fund elsewhere to take advantage of the ‘open market option’ (OMO) and a better annuity rate elsewhere. In the next edition, Grey Hairs will explore these comparison tables in more detail to help you understand how they work ■ Wishing all readers of Grey Hairs a Happy New Year and all the very best for 2012.

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Problem with your bank or insurance company? Worried something’s wrong? If you think there’s a problem – the ombudsman can help.

find out more about our free service for consumers phone 0300

123 9 123 www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk

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