DARLING MAGAZINE SW LONDON SPRING 2021 by Darling Magazine UK

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17/04/2018 16:45

EDITORS‘ LETTER

GREEN SHOOTS

Cover Girl Ruby Wax OBE

in conversation at WOMEN OF THE WORLD UK FESTIVAL 2021

Publisher Darling Magazine UK Ltd Karine Torr & Marja-Leena Toseland

Editors

Marja-Leena Toseland

In these unpredictable times, at least we can all bank on the sure signs of spring, with daffodils outside our windows and blossoms on the apple trees. This issue is bursting with promise and potential with a focus on getting back to business as our high streets spring back to life. Leading the way is our inspiring woman Rohini Finch and her amazing life journey in a man’s world. Campaigners Gina Miller and Nikki Williamson tackle the big issues - a fair deal for the ExcludedUK and the importance of the new Environmental, Social and Governance protocols for our lives and businesses.

07802 949836

Here’s to the end of bubbles, but not the ﬁzzy kind. So until summer... EDITORS Karine & Marja-Leena

See the very latest in our online magazine and what’s new in Shop with Darling at darlingmagazine.co.uk

Karine Torr 07930 396356

Advertising

Our passion for supporting female entrepreneurs continues. Meet the founders behind our beautifully curated products on Shop with Darling online and don’t miss our special features on the best South West London schools, home and fashion, beauty and mental health. And a preview of the amazing WOW Festival, celebrating International Women’s Day, featuring ﬁrebrand Ruby Wax.

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CONTENTS

Inspiring Woman, Rohini Finch makes her mark

Time to dress up again! Darling spring picks

info@darlingmagazine.co.uk editor@darlingmagazine.co.uk

Have you been “Excluded”? Gina Miller reports

Find the right school for your child

WOW, celebrating women around the world

Want to look slimmer after lockdown?

Savvy spring reading

Taking the pressure off parents. Kerry’s tips

Hermina Williams design@herminawilliams.com

Be-kin, ethical & creative design for your home

New Victoria Hospital’s private GP service

Printer

Responsible investment has arrived with ESG

Direct Colour mark@directcolour.com

Painting for the planet

Distribution

Meet the people behind our online products

Pam Custers’ de-stress solution

Therapist Emma Parr helps families move forward

Schools and the law - Russell Cooke Solicitors

Cook’s Corner – a creamy chicken delight

Buy To Let Hunter – property advice

Seasonal bridge with Paul Mendelson

The shame of domestic abuse

A walk in the park with Kate’s dad

Contributors

Kate Greenhalgh Paul Mendelson

Photography Taylor Torr

Design Director

Right Distribution Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Darling Magazine does not ofﬁcially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form – electronic, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from the publisher.

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 21

We’re still catering for you • NEW Drop and Go service with safe doorstep delivery • Private dining occasions catered • Themed menus available including Alice in Wonderland and Harry Potter • Business catering available including breakfast and lunch delivery • COVID-19 food and safety guidelines strictly followed

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INSPIRING WOMAN

Rohini with Sir David Attenborough

Rohini Finch on careers and staying true to yourself When we first asked Rohini to write in this feature, she was reluctant. She doesn’t see herself as inspirational in any way. “I am just someone who made the most of the opportunities presented and had a lot of luck along the way. All I have is a few insights to share as an Asian woman of a certain age, who has negotiated male dominated environments”, she says. Here’s her fascinating journey.

imbledon-based Rohini Finch spent her early career working in the oil industry, as a chemical engineer and an oil trader at Texaco and Vitol. She has served as Chairman and trustee to the World Land Trust. With her husband Bob, she founded Generations, a charity donating to causes

supporting children, sport and environmental issues. The charity supports several local causes, including Regenerate, Momentum, Stem4, Homestart Merton and Jigsaw4u. Rohini is also co-founder of Talis Capital, a Wimbledon-based venture capital firm.

I was born a British Indian in Tanzania, and my family moved to the UK when I was nine in 1972. The UK was a very different world in the 70’s. It was tough for many, in fact most people. Racism was overt and ugly. It felt as though we immigrants dreamt small and held our communities close. But

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

INSPIRING WOMAN I wholeheartedly thank the UK for a state funded, well-rounded education, which included metalwork, woodwork, needlework alongside academia. I went on to study chemical engineering at UMIST. Upon graduating, in 1985, after a struggle to land a job as a female engineer, I joined Texaco as a process engineer at their refinery in Pembroke, Wales. I was the first female engineer and the first person of colour onsite. The first few months were the most unpleasant experience of my life with racism, sexism, bullying so overt that I was openly reduced to tears. But that was one person only. The other 150+ people onsite were Team Rohini and could not have been kinder and more supportive. I have nothing but fond memories of that time. What did I learn? That racism exists in the ignorant and small minded at every level of society. I learnt never to accept it or internalise it. I learned to stand tall and selfassured knowing that the vast majority of people are kind and respectful and always try to speak to that part of them. I am disappointed in myself that I did not make lasting changes in the places that I went, and I am in awe of today’s young people who are fierce in demanding change. In 1987, age 24, I transferred to Texaco’s head office in Knightsbridge to trade oil for the company and simultaneously study for an MBA at the London Business School. The LBS was nothing short of transformational. A next level education that 6

was engaging and insightful delivered by inspirational lecturers to us, as adults not troublesome undergraduates. I continued to enjoy a career in oil trading, eventually joining the energy trading giant Vitol in 1992, as their first female trader. What did I learn about sexism from my years as a trader? As with racism, it manifests in overt ways and subtle ways. Often, you are not even aware that you are considered ‘less’. It is subtle and insidious and runs through every part of society from the workplace to ones’ own household. There is no magic bullet but a daily challenge. And, I am certain that change will only come if we women support and encourage each other, leading by example. I eventually left the markets when my best friend took her own life in the throes of a nervous breakdown. I could not talk of this without crumbling for almost a decade. It was a wakeup call that forced me to properly value what is important and what is not. My ever-supportive husband and I set up a family foundation, Generations, that allowed us to support the causes that are dear to us. My husband is a Wimbledon born and bred family man, so we have the privilege to be able to support the many people working tirelessly for our local community. I have always loved the natural world, and studied at UMIST as they offered a pollution control module. I had donated monthly from my meagre student allowance to WWF and Greenpeace since 1983 and continued to

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

do so throughout my trading years. I deepened my support through a wonderful charity called The World Land Trust. They raise money to save the most critically endangered biodiversity rich hotspots in the world. We became supporters in 2006 and I was fortunate enough to serve as trustee and Chairman with Sir David Attenborough as our patron.

Change will only come if we women support and encourage each other, leading by example In 2008, we set up our own Wimbledon based family office, which has grown into the venture capital business Talis Capital. We invest in exciting entrepreneurs that are leading the technology revolution that is transforming every aspect of our society. And finally, lessons learnt from a long career are in place. At Talis, CSR (corporate social responsibility) is centre stage. Our team is multinational representing Italy, Portugal, Russia, Slovakia, Ukraine and of course India. We are more than 50% female led and maternity and paternity policy is shaped to understand that to keep talent, especially female talent, we must offer access to a different career path. n

To read more please go to darlingmagazine.co.uk

Living The Dream

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Shop With Darling Supporting outstanding independent businesses You’ll find fantastic brands with conscious credentials at darlingmagazine.co.uk

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FASHION

Luxe Felix trousers £95 wonderlustlondon.com

Jennie chambray dress £165 irisfashion.co.uk

Dania red cotton dress £340 Moda de la Maria modadelamaria.com

Black velour fedora with half moons £450 Marzi darlingmagazine.co.uk

Light mahogny knit £93 Second Female numbersixcobham.co.uk

Aromatheraphy necklace £145 OYL’E London darlingmagazine.co.uk

Roma square sunglasses £245 Fendi

Let’s give track suits a run for their money! “Dressing up will make you ready to take on anything! Dress up or down with clever layering, accessories and a pair of trainers or low heels” - Anita Feron Clark, multi award-winning personal stylist with Colour Me Beautiful @feronclarkstyle Gianni cotton poplin shirt £125 irisfashion.co.uk

Highwood black natural glogs £62.50 lottafromstockholm.co.uk

Diorissima, purple leather tote pre-loved £1100 Dior phoenixstyle.co.uk

Print cream skirt £155 Scotch and Soda numbersixcobham.co.uk

Patterned blouse £125 Scotch and Soda numbersixcobham.co.uk

Pink crochet detail dress size 10, preloved £150 Self Portrait phoenixstyle.co.uk

Fucsia pink silk pumps 2” heel pre-loved £150 Manolo Blhanik phoenixstyle.co.uk

Black Art Camo poncho recycled PET £69 69bboutique.com

Alveomesh natural parme eco shoes £130 Veja Condor 2 vejastore.com

BIG NEWS for little ones in Kingston.

On September 7th 2021 Holy Cross Prep School will be introducing a Pre-School for 3-4 year old girls. holycrossprepschool.co.uk T: +44 (0)20 8942 0729 E: admissions@holycrossprep.com

The Head, Sarah Hair says: “Our Pre-School girls will enjoy all the advantages of our school specialist teachers, renowned care, fabulous facilities and grounds. All in the heart of Kingston.”

NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL Independent Nursery & Preparatory Day School for Boys & Girls from 3 to 13 Years

INNOVATE N U RT U R E INSPIRE F LY. . .

WELCOME MORNINGS 26 February

19 March (virtual events)

Newland House School Waldegrave Park, Twickenham TW1 4TQ T.020 8865 1305 E.admissions@newlandhouse.net www.newlandhouse.net

Are you EXCLUDED? Campaigner Gina Miller makes a passionate appeal for the three million

t is tragic to hear individual stories from the three million suffering due to no financial support during almost a year of the Coronavirus pandemic. People of all ages, from all areas and different industries in utter desperation, having to decide how to feed, clothe, house their families. I first heard of their plight in July 2020 and never thought they would still be begging for support now. It makes no moral or monetary sense. Three million people who are essential cogs in the economic and social machinery of our country and will be needed to build back after the pandemic.

those who have fallen through the gaps, but they continue to fall on deaf ears. For example, the proposed Targeted Income Grant Scheme (TIGS), proposing parity payments of £3,500 to £7,500 which would be easy to administer, fraud-resistant and offer long-term economic benefits.

…a disproportionate number of under 25s and women are being denied parity. We all have a duty to speak up against injustice

My campaigning work over the last 30 years has included policy solutions to address the pathways that lead to poverty, so I am acutely aware of people who live with financial fragility and the hardship and desperation it causes. I am also aware of the diversity of those who make up Excluded UK and that there are a disproportionate number of under 25s and women being denied parity. We all have a duty to speak up against injustice. To support people who are being victimised, discriminated against, and denied fairness. Hardworking people who paid taxes and hoped the state safety net would be there in times of crisis. Think tanks, businesspeople, an All-Party Parliamentary Group on Gaps in Support have suggested pragmatic constructive solutions for

The profound changes to our way of life, the economic toll and the shared national struggle resonate with us all but whilst Prime Minister Johnson promises not to ‘pull the rug out from under business’, he and his Government appear happy to bury over 3 million Excluded under the carpet.

The rich tapestry of our country needs this diverse, talented group of people to survive and thrive post-pandemic. But how can they if they have to face another four months without access to money? I hope Messrs Johnson and Sunak have the courage to put this wrong right. Gina Miller – Co-Founder of SCM Direct and campaigner n For more information on ExcludedUK excludeduk.org/excluded-uk-an-inclusive-alliance-forthe-excluded

To read more, go to: darlingmagazine.co.uk read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

Where next in your child’s education journey? Top independent schools to consider in South West London and Surrey The girls are well prepared for senior school. Holy Cross ignite a spark; the spark that will shape the life. holycrossprepschool.co.uk

Feltonfleet Preparatory School, Cobham - co-ed 3-13 What makes Feltonfleet the first-choice school for so many parents is the integrity and practice of their core belief that individuals really matter. This conviction is underpinned by their valuesdriven ethos and a strong sense of community. Once again Feltonfleet was rated ‘excellent’ by the ISI in September 2018, and shortlisted for both the ‘Wellbeing initiative of the year’ and the ‘Sports award’ in the prestigious TES Independent School Awards 2020. The school provides an outstanding holistic education, both on the stunning 25-acre site and through their sector-leading Remote Teaching and Learning Programme. feltonfleet.co.uk New ‘Little Sparks’ Pre-School at Holy Cross Prep, Kingston-girls 3-4 Holy Cross Prep School for girls is excited to be launching ‘Little Sparks’ Pre-School in September 2021. The pre-school girls will enjoy all the advantages of our school, specialist teachers, renowned care, fabulous facilities and unrivalled grounds all in the heart of Kingston. Come and join our award winning school. The school’s mission is to ignite the spark that will change the lives of all their girls. We set high academic standards and we are very proud of our sporting, musical and artistic achievements.

Newland House School, Twickenham - co-ed nursery 3-4 and prep school 4-13 Launched in 2017, Newland House’s Nursery School has proved incredibly successful and popular with its surprising range of amenity and outdoor space. The Nursery offers a nurturing and stimulating environment for and is a place where children can develop their own style of learning. The focus is on increasing confidence and working with parents and children to create an individualised experience. Parents are quick to positively endorse their children’s experience praising the inspirational teaching, the range of stimulating activities and the progress that their children make. Prospective parents are welcome to visit. newlandhouse.net Parkside School, Cobham - co-ed nursery from age 2 and boys only 4-13 years old At Parkside School children’s curiosity is awakened and their talents and passions are nurtured and developed. The ‘Parkside at Home’ programme during Covid 19 has delivered a full day of ‘live’ lessons, extracurricular clubs to reduce screen time, extra booster and scholarship groups and

SCHOOLS PROMO

exceptional communication via virtual coffee mornings, parents’ evenings and workshops. Shortlisted as the Best Independent Boys’ School in the UK in 2020. Academic excellence, outstanding sporting achievements, dynamic technological enterprise and exciting performing arts are all underpinned by exceptional pastoral care. Parkside pupils flourish and are valued as individuals. Open Event: Saturday 24th April. Bespoke individual tours also available. parkside-school.co.uk

performing arts. All the girls progress to outstanding senior schools of their choice, equipped with life skills and knowledge for the next stage of their learning journey. Spring Open Morning: Friday 12 March 2021 at 9.30am rowanprepschool.co.uk

The Study Prep School, Wimbledon - girls 4-11

Reed’s School, HMC Independent School, Cobham - boys 11-16 and girls 16-18 Set amongst 40 acres of countryside in Cobham with excellent facilities, being part-boarding allows Reed’s to offer huge advantages for day pupils, such as wrap-around care and outstanding pastoral support, allowing each and every child to be known and valued. The values-driven education that pupils experience at Reed’s equips them not only with excellent academic qualifications and the interpersonal skills they will need for the future, but it ensures that when they leave they will possess a strong moral compass and a desire to go into the world and improve it. reeds.surrey.sch.uk

Rowan Preparatory School, Claygate - girls 2-11 Rowan Preparatory School in Claygate, is a vibrant, friendly and nurturing community, with traditional values and a forward-thinking approach to education. For girls aged 2 to 11, Rowan offers a broad and adventurous curriculum. It has excellent sport facilities with a ‘sport for all’ approach and a highly developed arts programme spanning both creative and

The school is at an exciting stage in its history, with the news that its new building based at the school’s Wilberforce House site is now complete. The building will enhance the educational facilities for its current pupils, and preserve the school for the future generations of girls. The two storey structure is an impressive performing arts centre, six new classrooms, a bright and airy library and a new visitors’ entrance. The Study has long been renowned for its excellence in the creative arts and the performing arts space will be the central hub of music, drama and performance. We cannot wait for the girls to be at school and enjoy these superb new facilities! thestudyprep.co.uk

Woodcote House School, Windlesham – boys aged 7-13 A family-run boarding and day school set in 30 acres of beautiful grounds in Surrey, offering flexible boarding and two daily bus services from and to London. Woodcote is a school where boys really can still be boys. The school provides a happy, secure environment where boys can live, learn and flourish as individuals. Small class sizes and excellent pastoral care ensure each boy derives maximum benefit from the diverse curriculum of academic subjects, sports, music, drama, art and extra-curricular activities. Woodcote boys are confident and respectful with a good sense of humour and balanced perspective on life. n woodcotehouseschool.co.uk

The WOW goes digital in celebration of women around the world The WOW Foundation announces a major programme of festivals and events addressing gender inequality across the globe in March 2021

he WOW Foundation was created by Jude Kelly CBE in 2018 to run the global movement that is WOW - Women of the World Festivals at the Southbank Centre, where she was Artistic Director, to celebrate women and girls, taking a frank look at what prevents them from achieving their potential, raising awareness globally of the issues they face, and discussing solutions together. To date, WOW has reached over two million people in 17 countries on six continents, in locations including Australia, Brazil, China, Egypt, Finland, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Somaliland, the UK and the USA. In 2018/19 WOW was in Rio de Janeiro, Cardiff, Bradford, Bangladesh, Brisbane, Janakpur (Nepal), Baltimore, London, Exeter, Norwich, Perth, Beijing, Ghana and Nigeria. In June 2020, WOW held its first ever worldwide online festival focused on women and girls — 14

HOW DO YOU WANT ME? by Ruby Wax

Her latest book, a memoir, is one about good news. It was published with a new introduction in April 2020. Ruby says, “I began writing it in 2018, back when the world’s worries were somewhat different. Climate change, greedy bankers, exam results, crap politicians, mental health: these are still HUGE ISSUES, but even the ancient soothsayers reading pig entrails couldn’t have predicted this. This is my new mission: to share the green shoots of hope peeping through the soil of civilization. Literacy is at an all-time high, world-hunger is likely to be eradicated this century, technological improvements are saving lives – just to scratch the surface. I’ve talked to everyone from leaders to scientists to tech geniuses. I’ve done the research and practiced what I preach. And my conclusion? Behind the clouds, the sun still shines.” To date, Ruby has sold over one million copies of her books worldwide. Ruby will be in conversation with Fearne Cotton at the WOW Festival 2021

WOW Global. The festival travelled around the world everywhere from the UK to Nigeria, and Pakistan to Australia exploring the intersectional impact of COVID-19 on gender inequality and responding to Black Lives Matter. Over the last 10 years the Festivals have developed a reputation as a space for world renowned artists, activists, thinkers and performers including Angela Davis, Malala Yousafzai, Annie Lennox, Patrick Stewart, Baroness Doreen Lawrence and Salma Hayek, to come and participate, alongside thousands of women and girls who don’t have public profiles but are doing amazing things. WOW provides platforms for people of all kinds, changes attitudes, brings communities together and provides a unique space for people to work together towards gender equality in their own communities. One example of the impact the festival has had is the founding of the Women’s Equality Party by Sandi Toksvig and Catherine Mayer.

Kimberle Crenshaw In Conversation

Sheila Heti and Avni Doshi in Conversation

Natalie Haynes to discuss What can we learn from Ancient Greek Women

©AELTC

On 1st March 2020 digital WOW Festivals went live from the UK, New York, Nepal, Pakistan, Istanbul, and Bangladesh, and WOW Think Ins take place in Taiwan and Western Australia 2021’s WOW Festival UK takes place 1-21st March to mark International Women’s Day and includes: • Over 30 digital events - available on demand

until 28th March

• Guest speakers Kimberlé Crenshaw, Ruby

Wax, Arundhati Roy, Sheila Heti, Avni Doshi and Bryony Kimmings • WOW pioneers new networks for different groups and generations - from grandmothers to mothers in COVID and under 10s feminists • Workshops and discussions on themes including mental health, sex in lockdown, women in Greek myths, grief and intersectionality • Available to book worldwide, WOW UK 2021’s programme includes special sessions from WOW Australia and WOW Rio de Janeiro

• WOW and Google Arts & Culture to

launch an online exhibition featuring 100 trailblazing women from 10 cities and countries around the world

• WOW and BBC ‘Children in Need’ will

launch a major new project connecting over 100 marginalised girls aged 8-16 across the UK

• WOW launches Shameless!, a new festival

in November to confront attitudes towards sexual violence - a partnership with Birkbeck and The Wellcome Trust n

We at Darling have always loved and supported what the WOW Festival has been doing over the years. Join us and book your tickets for events and talks at thewowfoundation.com

Lucy Anne Holmes to discuss Sex in Lockdown 2021

Everyone’s an artist – Bryony Kimmings

Photograph Hayley Posener 2020 ©AELTC

Photograph Alex Lake

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

BEAUTY PROMO

Longing to lose your lockdown love-handles? Mr David Gateley advises

espite all the walking many of us are doing, we’ve generally had a more sedentary existence this lockdown. We’re all at our desks, on our sofas and in our fridges a bit more often than normal! Now is the time to act. Things are on the move, summer is around the corner; we will be seeing more of each other so will want to look our best. If you are exercising and eating sensibly but having trouble with the odd extra bulge you might consider Coolsculpting as the perfect solution. Body fat, whether tummy, thighs, hips, knees or chins, can be hard to lose despite dieting and exercising. Men and women who work out and eat sensibly can be frustrated by the fatty bits that just don’t go. Many treatments claim to help and this can cause confusion. Louise Stewart and her colleague, plastic

surgeon, David Gateley chose world #1 fat freezing system Coolsculpting, 5 years ago. The results are impressive with many clients choosing to sculpt multiple areas when they see how well it works. There are numerous benefits of having CoolSculpting, not just the great results. The avoidance of invasive surgery, anesthesia and downtime, the longevity of the effects and the skin firmness. Millions of treatments have been performed worldwide and it is proven to be safe and effective. CoolSculpting will not help you lose weight. However if you want to eliminate unwanted fat and look slimmer in your clothes, then CoolSculpting may be right for you. Coolsculpting is a medical procedure and the team of therapists have worked with David Gateley for years to ensure optimum results through ongoing training and case reviews. The clinic is CQC

registered and has rigorous COVID safety measures in place for your peace of mind. You can have the treatment any day of the week or in the evening. The results are not instant. It can take 3-6 months to see the final result so it’s sensible to get booked in as soon as possible for an assessment to find out whether the treatment will work for you and to get an idea of cost and Nakedhealth’s interest free payment scheme. n

Nakedhealth MEDISPA 020 8944 5454 nakedhealth.co.uk 261-263 Coombe Lane Wimbledon SW20 0RH

To read about our other treatment options and products: darlingmagazine.co.uk/ HAIR & BEAUTY

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

RAY STEVENS ACADEMY

Martial Arts classes for all ages

“Our dedicated and qualified team oﬀer the very best in teaching techniques with the emphasis on fun” Ray Stevens Olympic medalist

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07552 774111

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For more on the benefits of martial arts for kids go to darlingmagazine.co.uk/KIDS/activities

Self improvement books to read now Our shortlist

Hope with OCD: A Guide to Love and Addiction, Lynn Crilly

It Starts With Me, Dani Wallace and Nicki James

The experience of Lynn’s daughter’s anorexia helped her to learn about and deal with OCD. For anyone who has suffered, or known sufferers, with OCD or related illnesses, this feels like a hug from a friend. An insightful guide to understanding OCD and helping those you love.

An anthology of the magic that happens when women reclaim their strength and their stories. It’s also about overcoming adversity and walking your own path. The book climbed within hours up the Amazon book chart, with praise coming in from all directions.

Speak Your Truth, Fearne Cotton Fearne dives into how we learn to stay quiet for the wrong reasons, and explores how to find your voice, assert yourself and speak out with confidence. The idea came when she was at risk of needing a throat operation followed by two weeks of being unable to speak. It made her consider the times her voice had gone unheard and ignored as a young woman.

Work Like a Woman, Mary Portas A refreshing take on the ‘women in workplace’ genre. She doesn’t make excuses, patronise nor talk down to the reader. Witty, fast moving and powerful, it will make you angry in places. Mary knows how we can lead the change calling out dysfunctional and outdated workplace norms.

PROMO

Surrey mums ask - how do we keep everyone happy? Kerry Barnham has years of experience and great advice

alance is a word that comes up in almost every conversation. Finding the balance and getting it right for your work and family can be difficult. My advice is always the same and that’s to manage everyone’s expectations including your own. No two families are the same however we all want to be a ‘super mum’ and balance too much, ultimately leading to the spinning plates falling down. Our advice is that prevention is better than the cure. It’s okay to ask for help and it’s fine to need some rest. The guilt we feel as mums for not being able to juggle working from home, running a busy household and keeping our children happy along with being a taxi driver and party planner, it’s no wonder we’re under so much pressure.

So what can we do? 1. Manage expectations of availability for clients, work and family. If you know you are going to have to spend the morning working tell your children, set them an activity and plan ahead for when you’re working from home. 2. Try to stop looking at what everyone else is doing and feeling bad that you aren’t doing the same. 3. Make a list of where you would like to go as a family and make time for the fun stuff. Use it as a reward for the kids and rest for you.

an out-of-office reply on to say that you will be checking emails at specific times and if it’s urgent, to message you. Stick to these times so that your day is structured. 5. Chances are you have friends in the same predicament. Set up a WhatsApp group where you can all communicate childcare requests for help. 6. If you need to be in an office – Call Hummingbird Homestaff about finding the right nanny or housekeeper to support you, it’s okay to ask for some help! Managing everyone’s expectations will go a long way in supporting a work life balance. Remember your circumstances are unique and you shouldn’t feel guilty you can’t do everything. After many years of experience, I know that having some part time help at home can make it a happier place. PS Keep calm it will be summer soon! n info@hummingbirdhomestaff.co.uk hummingbirdhomestaff.co.uk

4. If you work from home for yourself, put read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

PROMO

Interior design with a sense of well-being, Interior design beauty, and sustainability at it’s core

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Feel inspired? be-kin.com wren@be-kin.com

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antiques and transformed into afor space that “Be-kin helped me unlockmy myhome passion mid-century is supremely comfortable and antiques and transformed mymatches home my intoaesthetic a space that beautifully.comfortable I truly enjoyed the of working with Wren is supremely andprocess matches my aesthetic as my guide as we ideated. I’d recommend Wren beautifully. I truly enjoyed thehappily process of working Be-kin to anyone wants toI’d re-design their withLoucks Wren and as my guide as wewho ideated. happily home.” recommend Wren Loucks and Be-kin to anyone who — Andrew Baca wants to re-design their home.” About

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Approach As a be-kin client, you will learn how Be-kin is led by Wren Loucks, a curiously spaces affect how you feel, so that we can unconventional award-winning designer, with Be-kin is led by Wren Loucks, a curiously As acollaboratively be-kin client, create you will learn how spaces affect interior environments a unique background in architectural interior unconventional award-winning designer, with how you feel, so that we can collaboratively aligned to your unique requirements. We love create to design, mental health advocacy, and access a unique background in architectural interior environments your unique dream up layouts thataligned optimise to your space, play consultancy. She braids her creative sensitives interior design, mental health advocacy, accessprocess, torequirements. We lovepalettes to dream with different colour untilup welayouts land on that of these experiences into and her design compose spacesher thatcreative provide asensitives deeply integrated ones that you love, and materialscolour from consultancy. She braids optimise your space, playdiscover with different ethical suppliers whoon work as harmoniously as and sense of well-being. of these experiences into her design process, palettes until we land ones that you love, possible with thefrom natural world. suppliers For us, beauty, to compose spaces that provide a deeply discover materials ethical who work sustainability, and well-being are intertwined. to founding be-kin, Wren worked at the integratedPrior sense of well-being. as harmoniously as possible with the natural world. renowned Studio Indigo, where she designed For us, beauty, sustainability, and well-being are lavish and imaginative private homes, offices and If you feel inspired, please have a peak on our Prior to founding be-kin, Wren worked at the website and drop us a note to say hi. restaurants. She also held the position of Head intertwined. renowned of Studio Indigo, where she designed Design at Motionspot, where she worked lavish and with imaginative private offices If you feel inspired, please have a peek on our website large global brandshomes, on inclusive design and restaurants. She also held the position strategies. and be-kin.com drop us a note |towren@be-kin.com say hi. n of Head of Design at Motionspot, where she worked with large global brands on inclusive design strategies.

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read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

New Victoria Hospital unveils new GP Service In the wake of the pandemic and the ongoing strains placed on the NHS, Kingston-upon-Thames’ charity-owned private healthcare facility launches its new private GP Service. With its extended appointment options and fast access to specialist care it’s welcome news in the current climate

ingston upon Thames’ New Victoria Hospital has launched its new onsite dedicated private GP Service for both adults and children, offering patients a range of appointment options, quick referrals and fast access care. The move comes in the wake of the pandemic, which continues to put huge pressures on the NHS.

“Unique Approach” “We are excited to unveil this brand-new offering to the local public,” says New Victoria Hospital’s Chief Executive, David Marshall. “Our unique approach enables us to provide a wide range of multi-speciality surgical and medical care all under one roof. Face-to-face or virtual consultations can be booked for a one-off fee cost of £95 with fast access to onsite ultrasound, X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans as well as imaging and physiotherapy. Should they be needed, more specialist investigations can be opened up for patients, cutting down that anxiety-inducing waiting time and avoiding further health complications.” 22

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

Virtual Appointments or Face to Face Virtual appointments have become part of the new normal of healthcare, a convenient and safe way to conduct an initial consultation. Face to face appointments are also still an option for the patient’s first consultations and if necessary, diagnostic examinations and treatments are conducted at the hospital. New Victoria Hospital is a well-regarded medical facility in the community, recently winning the Excellent Patient Experience Award by Doctify, the healthcare patient review platform where the Hospital consistently achieves a 4.87 out of a 5-star rating.

Beneﬁts This new self-pay GP service offers benefits including; same-day 20 minute appointments six days a week (Monday to Saturday), with the option of booking extended appointment slots if patients want to discuss their health concerns in more detail. Thanks to the Hospital’s facilities, it also enables fast access to specialist

HEALTH PROMO

consultants, quick path diagnostic services such as Imaging and blood testing and quick referrals for Physiotherapy appointments. There is also an onsite pharmacy for same-day prescription pick-ups.

Advice Aside from general healthcare assistance, New Victoria Hospital’s new GP Service will also offer specialist advice including: • Acute medical complaints • Children’s health • Postnatal health • Vaccinations • Blood tests such as: - Cholesterol - Glucose - Iron - Liver function - Thyroid profile - Female and male hormones - Vitamins

Speaking about the new service, accessible online or by telephone appointment, Mr Marshall added: “We thought carefully about the most significant barriers patients face when booking and undergoing a GP appointment and worked hard to eradicate these, particularly in light of the pandemic as issues such as homeworkout injuries and delayed diagnoses may arise”. We want to reassure patients that we have enhanced our prevention control measures to ensure the Hospital is Covid19-safe and that treatment plans are made accessible quickly and easily with specialist Consultant appointments. n To access the new Private GP service and book an appointment please visit New Victoria Hospital’s website: newvictoria.co.uk/services/ gp-services or call 020 8131 7277.

About New Victoria Hospital New Victoria Hospital is a private, charity owned hospital based in Kingston upon Thames, Surrey and is one of the few remaining independent hospitals in the country. It has provided a high level of service to the local community for over sixty years and is frequently ranked by patients as one of the top private hospitals in London. The Hospital is registered with and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and is fully compliant with their standards. The current CQC rating for the Hospital is “good”. The Hospital was proud to achieve this rating across all five categories – safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-managed. The Hospital is owned by its parent charity The Victoria Foundation. This charity helps to transform lives where there is

an opportunity to do so - either through medical provision or by ensuring that young people destined to become the future generations of doctors are not prevented from doing so through lack of finances. newvictoria.co.uk read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

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Major changes in how we shop and how we invest Environmental, Social and Governance. ESG made simple with Nikki Williamson

fter years of humanitarian work, trying to make some kind of difference in neglected communities around the world, I returned to London a few years ago to work in financial services. A leap, some would say, with a fair amount of ethical ground between. But in fact, I find myself amongst a swelling momentum for ‘responsible investment’, where decisions of big influential investment houses are taking environmental and social matters into account. What this means in reality is that the owners (institutional shareholders – like pension funds) of those large companies listed on the stock exchange are asking for a different set of results from the business. They are no longer single minded about financial returns, but demanding reporting on the likes of carbon emissions, labour rights, waste management and board diversity. These are just a handful of hundreds of indicators being increasingly considered to show a company is operating sustainably. And the best news is, the motivation is not only ‘a good show’. It is becoming increasingly proven that taking this stance of sustainability is the key to achieving the longterm economic stability required for investment professionals to meet the needs of their clients.

So, as many of us are changing our consumer behaviours and making ethical choices for our shopping basket, we might also therefore pay attention to this new option in our pensions, ISAs and investments. Given the scale of the investment market, this means tackling our most pressing social and environmental issues from top down as well as on the ground. No longer does simply having a pension mean that you are inevitably part of activities that are damaging the environment or conducted in poor working conditions, and I can say from my perspective, I hope to make more of a difference this way than I did working in the field. And this influences at home as well as globally, as corporate behaviour such as data security, diversity programmes and supply chains are being scrutinised under the same measures. Typically, language used when it comes to naming funds is not particularly relatable, so if you do want to look at your own pensions and investments, some key terms to look for might be ‘sustainable’, ‘responsible’ or ‘ESG’ funds. ESG stands for Environmental, Social and Governance, which are considered the pillars of economic sustainability. But not all funds will be labelled this way, and your pension may well be looking at ESG in parallel to its core objectives. If you can, speak to your provider or an advisor to find out how your money can be working positively for the future. n read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

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Left to right: Charissa Risley, founder of Artfully Sorted, presenting our cheque from proceeds raised, to Rohini Finch, trustee of World Land Trust, and award-winning artist, Jo Holdsworth

Artfully Sorted, going the extra mile Charissa Risley tells how twenty two artists contributed to climate change awareness

rt has the power to benefit lives in so many ways. From brightening walls in people’s homes, to providing an outlet and profession for those bursting with creativity, to boosting one’s wellbeing through the uplifting sensory experience when looking at a beautiful piece of art. 2020 saw another incredible result from working with art, namely saving eco-systems and conserving our planet. Our art consultancy Artfully Sorted held an online art exhibition ‘Nature Reflected’ last year featuring work from 22 artists, many of whom are award winning, inspired by nature and the environment. The show coincided with the UN World Environment

Day and was in support of international conservation charity, World Land Trust, through a percentage of art sales. The idea to support World Land Trust as our chosen charity, which counts Sir David Attenborough as its patron, actually came from one of our artists, Wimbledon based Jo Holdsworth. What a superb choice that was, as through our virtual art exhibition, we found artworks new homes and contributed to the groundbreaking work this amazing charity does in protecting our planet’s most threatened habitats and species with our fundraising. In fact, World Land Trust featured Artfully Sorted as one of their Inspiring Fundraisers of 2020 in a newsletter

thanking those individuals “who went the extra mile to raise funds for nature and helped deliver staggering conservation wins”. This trailblazer of a charity in 2020 alone saved over 2 million acres of land, protecting Cameroon’s Great Apes to the Choco Forest in Ecuador – incredible! There was good news from 2020 after all. With the UN’s assembly on the Environment upon us, the importance of raising awareness around the issues of climate change come to the focus again. What our own experience at Artfully Sorted shows is even the smallest of actions, such as an art sale raising funds for a conservation charity, can lead to lasting positive effects on our environment. n

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

Shop With Darling Meet the founders behind the products Most of our indie brands are run and founded by women

Arya candles and diffusers Lina and Jenny are the mother-daughter duo behind Arya Candles. They create beautiful, luxurious home fragrance products in Suffolk, using only natural ingredients. Combining art and science, Arya brand was created in Lina’s kitchen, after an unexpected power cut which was the start of their candle journey. Their dream has been not only to create a socially responsible business but also to bring nature into our homes. They believe that natural products benefit every home and all their scent blends use only high-quality essential oils which bring beautiful, mood-boosting, therapeutic scents into your sacred space.

Totally Derma – cellular skincare for anti-aging from within Anita came up with the idea to develop Totally Derma® whilst taking the hero ingredient Arthred®, to help with her joints and bad back but quickly realised the wider benefits. Her skin, hair, nails, gut and menopausal health all improved. With so many collagen supplements on the market, she knew that it was important to develop one which is pharmaceutical grade quality and stands head and shoulders above the rest. Totally Derma tackles the root causes of ageing within the deepest layers of the skin with a holistic approach.

OYL’E London - combining aromatherapy and sustainably made jewellery OYL’E London’s story started when Sumera, who as a mum of two under two, feeling over-whelmed and exhausted pledged to explore a more holistic approach to self-care. Searching online, she found a blend she could make at home using essential oils. It helped to relieve the stress and the angst. She was hooked! She started to experiment with mixes to relieve stress, sore muscles, colds, sniffles, and they worked every time! Soon she had her own essential oil blends with great healing properties. Jewellery is her second passion so it was only natural to mix the two to create a perfect mix of style and self-care. 28

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

1of1 Design - original art prints

Titfertat Hats - fabulous designer hats

Kate Winskill rediscovered herself as an artist and designer ten years ago, when she returned to university in Kingston to study Fine Art & Fashion & Textiles. The spur to this move was a brush with cancer. Prior to her diagnosis, Kate had worked in the medical & pharmaceutical communications industry, running her own successful specialist PR agency. Kate had studied art at A-level, and throughout her early life poured her creativity into house renovations, fashion and collecting art by other people. Kate now concentrates on fine art, working in print, digital collage and mixed media painting.

Mary has run a bespoke millinery design business from her store off Richmond Green since 1998. Her eye for design and a gregarious personality come together perfectly in her passion of making beautiful hats and working with people. She first sold only ready to wear hats but really wanted to fulfil her dream of designing her own creations. She still sells ready to wear hats, but only carefully sourced, from the very best worldwide manufacturers. They are either supplied exclusively to her or only available in a handful of other outlets in the UK. Inverni Firenze cashmere beanies and exclusive Eric Javits of New York packable fedoras are some of her best sellers.

Dad Gary with sons Matt and Nick (uncle Johnny missing)

72 Hair - salon quality hair care for home Hairdressing is in the Green family’s DNA. Meet the four Greens; Gary, Matt, Johnny and Nick, from three generations of hairdressers whose love of hair flows through their professional-grade collection of hair 72 Hair products. Their capsule collection contains all you need to create beautiful, shiny hair that’s easy to manage and looks fantastic, day after day, and it’s suitable for all hair types. Not only are salons using their products, but so are bloggers, influencers and the general public – and they are loving them!

ILU Fitwear - made for real life ILU was born way before COVID19 made working from home a way of life. Mary, the founder, was in the gym most days in activewear, but didn’t like what she was wearing. The fit, the style, the fabric and/ or the price, there was always something that wasn’t right. So she set out to create her own brand ILU which means beauty in Estonian. Fitting to ILU’s feminine, functional and flattering clothes which are sourced responsibly, made in Europe and priced sensibly. read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

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Militza Ortiz Jewellery - handcrafted gold and silver jewellery Militza personally designs and creates each piece of fine handcrafted jewellery in her Wimbledon studio, using 80% of recycled gold and sterling silver. Her work is about creating organic forms using noble metals like silver and gold and precious stones that speak for themselves in pieces that are treasured for generations to come. The pieces are inspired by her native Venezuela and the Caribbean underwater world.

Bowe Organics - beauty for your well-being Diane started to dissect all her beauty products at home and realised that a lot of fillers were included unnecessarily. She wasn’t happy about this and wanted to make her own products which are good for her body, skin and overall well-being. In 2015, she was working in an organic hair salon where her clients commented on her lashes looking longer, thicker and healthier than before., asking what she was using on them. So, she researched a bit deeper into the oils she was using and found what was helping hair growth. She wanted to share the product with others in order to help them feel happier in the way they look. She launched her company in 2017.

Sens8ate Natural Skincare Botanicals Clean and healthy skincare was an organic transition for us says Gomolemo Shirley, the co-founder of Sens8ate Natural Skincare Botanicals. This new premium, natural and vegan friendly brand is based in London. The products are blended with the finest botanical ingredients and superfood and CBD oils that have been formulated to repair, nourish and rejuvenate. Eco packaging using wood and glass. Recycled plastic used only where necessary eg. pumps.

‘Women of Inspiration Candles’ limited edition aromatherapy candles Created by Darling Editors Marja-Leena and Karine We love candles and promoting women, our limited range of bespoke candles celebrate some of our favourite female icons. Our candles are 100% natural, non-gm modified soya wax blended with wonderful essential oils. We found Alice, an expert candle maker, in Crystal Palace. She hand pours our favourite fragrance blends into classic glass jars in great colours. Candles are not just for mood, they create magic and mystery. Each candle is inspired by a heroic woman: we have Gloria, inspired by a trailblazer in equality Gloria Steinem, Indra Nooyi - former CEO of Pepsico, Oku Mumeo - Japanese politician and Maya Angelou - civil rights activist. n read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

sep-oct 2013 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

MENTAL HEALTH

Coping with COVID and distress With renowned therapist Pam Custers Are you struggling with an anxious knot in your stomach? Are you feeling overwhelmed and exhausted? Finding that COVID is taking over your life and your mood? Pam can help COVID has taken away much of the control we have over our lives. The one thing we do have is the ability to create calm and resilience in our inner world. Pam has worked with the BBC, Huffington Post, Grazia and The Telegraph and has some great tips for our Darling readers.

Relationships under threat Our relationships have been stripped back. The scaffolding that we rely on has been taken away. The support that we would have gained from family friends and gym buddies, to name a few, are not available. Apart from not having the support structures we are now battling with uncertainty, anxiety and the stress that we are all living under. Couple this with home schooling and the impact of the prolonged time spent in each other’s company and we are facing the perfect storm.

Managing anxiety We have to add another component which is our own personal style of managing stress and anxiety: our attachment styles. Are you the one reminding everyone to socially distance before you walk out the door? Or perhaps you may be the one that would really like your partner to stop nagging as you are abiding by the rules? Our attachment style is nature’s way for us to keep safe in times when we may be triggered by anxiety and stress. There is a way to find our own internal equanimity by mastering our response to stress and using techniques that work in a matter of minutes.

Simple online course ‘Coping with COVID’ Expert psychotherapist Pam Custers has cofounded Relatability, a start-up focussed on

helping you to build amazing relationships with yourself and others. Their online course ‘Coping with COVID: create calm and build resilience’ will help you overcome, overwhelm and reduce triggers in a matter of moments.

Modules include: • Discover your brain, anxiety and you. • Sneaky anxiety triggers you probably have every day • Create calm in minutes using neurological hacks • Optimise yourself for long term resilience • Discover the golden tipping point to build a more positive mindset This online short course, ‘Coping with COVID’ includes video instruction, exercises and an online workbook so that you can fully integrate this into your life. n

Exclusive Discount Code: DARLING course only £69.99 *usually £79.99 relatability.co.uk If you’re looking for individual or couples counselling, visit pamcusters.co.uk Pam holds an MA, BA (Hons)BACP

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Read more on darlingmagazine.co.uk read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

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MENTAL HEALTH

How can we allow hope to blossom when we are in a painful and isolated place? Emma Parr, our therapist specialising in mothers and babies As I sit and write this I am aware of two realities, the outward progress in the vaccination process and the at home struggle of so many. We have the realisation of something positive on the horizon but it is not reaching us yet. So many families are under huge strain trying to balance work, young children, home schooling, as well as the day to day tasks of cooking, cleaning, washing and so on. A common theme that I am seeing, is within all of this a deep sense of isolation.

Illustration by Muriel Clarke

An area that I am consistently aware of are first time mothers. Becoming a mother for the first time brings us a new identity and add to this COVID-19, it can become complex. There may be firsttime mothers reading this who had their baby during lockdown. How was it for you to give birth at this time? Were you able to have someone support you? How was the birth? If it was traumatic did you get the support you needed at the time or has the experience made it hard to bond with your baby? What do first time mothers need particularly in the 4th trimester? Ultimately they need support. Not only from family but from other mothers who are experiencing what it is like to have a new born, as well as those crucially important support groups such as breastfeeding clinics. For so many mothers they have not

had family support due to the restrictions that COVID-19 has brought. All the support groups were of course unable to run and while we could meet 1:1 outside, in winter with shorter days and the need to wrap up warm, this may have made it an impossible task. In times like these it is important to find rewards for ourselves, can we notice what feels special to us. With life so limited, it is about seeking out the small joys in life that in the past we might not have noticed. Can we allow ourselves to put on some perfume even if we are not leaving the house? To wear something that makes us feel good, cosy, or soft against our skin. Perhaps there is a food or recipe that makes us feel really good at the moment. Look back at what you have achieved, you have survived and it is time to celebrate your success. We need to hold onto the fact that life is ever changing and we have the potential to move forward in a new way. n Emma Parr is an experienced therapist who works with individuals covering a range of issues. MA. MBACP, PG Dip Couns. DBS Certificate.

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To read more, go to: darlingmagazine.co.uk/WELLNESS read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

LEGAL PROMO

Legal lessons in pandemic education Lenka Wall and Sarah Inchley, education team at Russell-Cooke Solicitors

id you know that neither World War II nor the Spanish flu of 1918 caused as widespread a disruption to learning as coronavirus has? Suffice to say, pupils, parents and teachers alike are grappling with huge challenges that give rise to novel legal questions.

Is my child entitled to attend school during lockdown, and, if so, do I have to send them? During lockdown, only two categories of children can attend school: • children of critical workers and vulnerable children such as those with child protection issues or an education, health and care plan (EHCP) 36

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

• children who have difficulties engaging in remote education at home. It is unlawful for a school to refuse to admit a child that is entitled to attend and local authorities have an obligation to deliver special educational provision in an EHCP. Other children should not attend school and should be educated remotely. Government guidance encourages critical workers to keep children at home if they can, whereas parents of vulnerable children are ‘strongly encouraged’ but not required to send them to school. Attendance at school during lockdown periods is therefore an entitlement, not a legal obligation.

When schools open again, I am worried about sending my child back. Do I have to? Whilst some families have been counting down

the days until schools re-open, others have anxieties about their child’s safe return to school. Those with a clinically vulnerable family member in particular, may worry a child’s return to school exposes them to additional risks. Despite these legitimate concerns, when schools are open, a child’s attendance on the school roll returns to being mandatory. Parents have a legal duty to ensure their child regularly attends school. Schools have to record absences and state whether this is for an authorised reason. Currently, if your child is self-isolating or is clinically extremely vulnerable, this is an authorised absence. If a parent chooses to keep their child home for a prolonged period without an authorised reason, a Local Authority may issue a fine or instigate a criminal prosecution. However, this does not mean you have to send your child back to school.

I would like to continue educating my child at home. Can I do that? School closures have led some families to realise that home-based education works much better for their child than school and is more conducive to their child’s mental or physical health issues or learning style. Parents have the right and responsibility to choose how and where their child is educated, including at home. This is known as elective home education. Parents have a legal duty to ensure that their child receives efficient suitable full-time education. This does not mean at school and there is no requirement to follow a specific format or the National Curriculum. If a parent makes the decision to permanently home educate their child, they must formally request their child is removed from the school register. The parent will bear the financial and practical burden of educating their child. However, where a child has an EHCP and receiving education provision at school is inappropriate, a home-based package of tuition and therapy funded by the local authority can be secured.

What is happening with GCSEs, AS and A-level exams this year?

For the second year running in England, most nationwide exams are cancelled on account of the huge disruption to learning. It is not possible or fair for exams to go ahead as normal. That’s the simple part. More complicated, following the algorithm exams fiasco of 2020, is what the alternative arrangements will be. At the time of writing, we await the final guidance from DfE and Ofqual. We know results will be decided by teacherassessed grades likely to be based on “the standard at which the student is performing.” But it appears exams may not be ‘cancelled’ altogether. Mini exams set by exam boards, marked by teachers together with coursework, may inform how schools will determine a grade. Responsibility for getting those grades right will fall to the teachers. Concerns persist around how disparities based on deprived or disabled children’s access to education during lockdown, or race and sex-based teacher bias will be fairly mitigated. For students disappointed with their grades, there will be a right of appeal. If this right remains limited to the school itself, to determine if the original grade is found not to be legitimate or exam boards for procedural errors, parents may also need to consider bringing Equality Act claims or applying for Judicial Review. Results day is always full of nerves for students and their families and this year will be no exception. If you have questions about your child’s education, specialist lawyers at Russell-Cooke can help. n

Sarah Inchley

Lenka Wall

sarah.inchley@russell-cooke.co.uk lenka.wall@russell-cooke.co.uk

Read more online at darlingmagazine.co.uk read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

COOK’S CORNER Carole Cory

Chicken Dijonnaise Ingredients 4

Chicken breast (skin off)

12 Baby mushrooms or as many or as few as you prefer (optional) 2

Large onions

4-6 Tablespoons of sunflower oil ¼ Bottle white wine 2

Dessert spoons Dijon Mustard or grainy mustard – I use grainy mustard as I prefer this

1 x 600ml Double cream Salt and pepper

Method 1. You can either cook each as a chicken breast or dice each breast into cubes. 2. Heat the oil in a saucepan and brown each breast on both sides or if in cubes, fry until they have gone golden brown. 3. Remove the chicken from the pan and add finely chopped onions to the pan and cook till golden brown. 4. Add the mustard and stir into the onion mixture. 5. Add the cream and white wine, chicken, mushrooms, salt and pepper to taste and stir it all together. 6. Turn heat down to simmer and cook for approximately 15-20 minutes. 7. Check it is cooked by sliding a knife down the middle of the chicken to make sure it is cooked through. 8. I serve this with Spicy Basmati rice or creamy mashed potatoes and a mixed salad. Serves 4 people. Yummy! Enjoy... Carole xx

One of my favourite dinners is Chicken Dijonnaise. It is a very quick and absolutely delicious meal and all my family love it. You can always swop around and substitute pork fillet instead of chicken to add variation to this very versatile meal. I know this recipe is Chicken Dijonnaise, hence the Dijon mustard but I prefer my own take on this and use grainy mustard instead. 020 8947 5337 carole@partiestogo.co.uk | partiestogo.co.uk

PROPERTY PROMO

From Plastic Straws to the Great Outdoors

Buy To Let Hunter is a fresh approach to property purchase Lucy of Buy To Let Hunter recently sat down with one of our early investors to catch up with him

affi is a local business owner doing a great thing for our planet – he arrived in Richmond with enough money for just 8 months. He followed a hunch and set up Bantam Materials - providing Prevented Ocean Plastic, that’s recycled plastic collected from at-risk coastal communities, and created a research centre on Richmond Green. We think he is marvellous, and we are not the only ones! He just won: “Sustainable Initiative of The Year”. Whoop! Raffi realised that he wanted to invest in property but preferred a professionally managed structure run by trustworthy people to allow him the freedom to focus

on the craziness in his own world. Raffi approached us and asked us to help. Through Buy To Let Hunter, Raffi has purchased a pure investment property and a holiday home which he uses in conjunction with renting it out to paying guests. Raffi says: “For me there wasn’t a second choice when I met the Buy To Let Hunter team. It was about working with someone trustworthy and when speaking to one of the directors, a local guy, it was clear he was someone I could trust. I didn’t need to look any further. And my expectations have been more than met.” Obviously investing in anything is risky, but understanding that, Raffi feels he has enhanced his lifestyle greatly. He has a free holiday home that pays for itself, in fact it pays Raffi just to own it!! Raffi says: “My kids have a pool, access to nature, the cottage overlooks a lake…..

LUCY SYMONS

And it’s just an hour and a half from London.” “It’s absolutely no hassle…. The team at BTLH do absolutely everything, checking in guests, housekeeping, making sure everything is perfect for my family and visitors. I just turn up. Oh, and cash the cheques!” n Contact the team on 020 7550 9396 or hello@buytolethunter.com For more information check out buytolethunter.com Quadrant Road, Richmond, London, TW9 1DH

£700 a night rental price in peak season Gross yield 12% £52,000 annually Shared spa, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis court and restaurant 75% year round occupancy

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

BRIDGE

Spring Bridge with Darling guru, Paul Mendelson Multiple lockdowns have led to an explosion of online bridge and, with programs like the British-designed ‘RealBridge’ offering the face-to-face tables with live video of all players, the facility to chat or discuss the hands, and for a teacher or director to come to the table and give advice, bridge at home has taken on a highly enjoyable new meaning.

♠

North S J76 H 542 D J3 C A10987

West S 54 H AKQ9 D Q964 C 653

South S AKQ83 H J87 D A52 C KQ

♦ Dealer South N E 2S

Love All S 1S 4S

♥ East S 1092 H 1063 D K1087 C J42

claire@healthyincome.cc

rvice Mobile Fashion Seany occasion

W NB

Bespoke tailoring

West got off to a flying start by leading ♥AKQ, and she then switched to 4 ♦. Now, declarer cannot afford to lose a diamond trick, or she will be down. To succeed, South must score all North’s clubs, but entries are strained. Declarer should win A ♦, cash ♠AK and then, crucially ♣KQ. These cards must be unblocked before declarer ends up in dummy with his one outside entry – the trump jack. South now plays a low spade to dummy’s Js and then lays down A♣. When J♣ falls, the rest of the clubs are good and the contract is home. n

CMY

♣

With 3-card support for partner’s major suit and a shortage outside, the correct response is definitely 2 ♠ opposed to 1NT. South, with 19pts, leap to game.

aceoftrumps.com

♥♣♦♠

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

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IT CAN’T HAPPEN HERE The shock and the shame of lockdown’s most terrible secret. More than two women die every week in the UK as a result of domestic abuse

omestic abuse counts for a quarter of all violent crime in the UK and two women die every week as a result of domestic abuse. Lockdowns are not helping, according to a report by the North Surrey Domestic Abuse Service, a charity under the Citizens Advice Elmbridge West umbrella. Certain communities or groups are less likely to report domestic abuse and engage with support services. One such group is affluent women. It could be that there is a perceived stigma among some women. Perhaps some women feel a sense of shame in requiring help, or feel that they are partly to blame. Others may believe that speaking out is letting their families down. Sometimes victims do not register that

the treatment they are receiving from a partner counts as domestic abuse. Manipulative behaviour or coercive control is a form of abuse. Imagine being constantly belittled and sworn at. What if your partner continually called you on your mobile, harassed you through texts or social media, controlled your bank account and passwords, or stopped you leaving the house? Since March 2020 and the first lockdown, the North Surrey Domestic Abuse Service has seen an increase in demand for its confidential advice and emotional and practical support. The cases have been more complex in nature than ever before, due to survivors being locked down with their abuser. With school closures, children have

also had more exposure to abusers and have witnessed escalating abuses, both in terms of severity and frequency, at the same time as the routes to support and opportunities to seek help have been reduced. Sometimes a survivor will say that with a partner in such a position of responsibility or status at work, no-one would believe them. You will be believed and helped to make the change you need. n North Surrey Domestic Abuse Service. Telephone: 01932 260690 Email: nsdas@caew.org.uk Webchat: nsdas.org.uk

Please read the full article at Darling online

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

THE LAST WORD

A Walk in the Park By Kate Greenhalgh

Photo by Bharat Kumar

f I’m honest, I’ve got quite a snotty attitude about local parks. Growing up in the ‘70’s, if you didn’t get concussion falling off the slide onto concrete or lose a finger in the hinges of the Witch’s Hat, you would definitely step in a dog poo. Then young motherhood - cramming screaming toddlers into swings, pulling screaming toddlers out of swings, lobbing bread at listless ducks. No wonder we all saved up for Disneyland. My great-uncle, Idris Brain, was a Head Park Keeper in Wales. His chrysanthemums grew in military rows. He was the No Loitering, No Ball Games kind of park keeper, whom naughty boys ran away from in fear. He was also lay minister at the Chapel, breaking out of Welsh to draw the congregation’s attention to ‘the little girls from Oxford who are here today’ - an experience my sister and I agree was traumatic, as dozens of Welsh Methodists swivelled in their pews to inspect us. And apart from chrysanthemums, Idris’s other contribution to horticulture was his famous red daffodil. ‘I planted the bulb set within a beetroot’ he recounted. ‘And when it flowered, it was the most magnificent yellow.’ I dearly hope that by the time you are reading

read more at darlingmagazine.co.uk spring 2021

this, your memories of dark skies and endless lockdown are receding, along with Donald Trump. Spring is bursting out again in yellow daffodils and - no greater symbol of optimism - Easyjet might soon be airborne once more. (If none of this has come to pass, apologies. What am I? A fortune-teller?) But before you head off into the sunset, with me right behind you, we should take a moment - Tooting Bec, Brockwell, Richmond, Greenwich. Primrose Hill, Telegraph Hill, Putney, Cannizaro.....thank you, thank you. The parks and playgrounds of our purdah. In the absence of a fortnight in Vale do Lobo, these were our paradise, rekindling our appreciation of the humbly local. Shame upon our greed for the exotic and far-flung. (Ahem, yes I was hoping to get off to Mallorca soon, since you ask.) My daughter was sad to miss out on a milestone birthday. Five mates on a muddy walk round Peckham Rye wasn’t quite how you’d plan it. But imagine the tales for the grandchildren: ‘In 2020 we had to drink tinnies on a bench. Holidays? A bike ride through Walworth, if you were lucky. Waitrose vans were rationed, and we only had Netflix to pass the long evenings... but, you see kids, we were HAPPY.’ Uncle Idris would approve. n

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DARLING MAGAZINE SW LONDON SPRING 2021

Articles inside

A walk in the park with Kate’s dad

Schools and the law - Russell Cooke Solicitors

Meet the people behind our online products

Painting for the planet

The shame of domestic abuse

Therapist Emma Parr helps families move forward

Pam Custers’ de-stress solution

Responsible investment has arrived with ESG

New Victoria Hospital’s private GP service

Savvy spring reading

Taking the pressure off parents. Kerry’s tips

Find the right school for your child

WOW, celebrating women around the world

Have you been “Excluded”? Gina Miller reports

Want to look slimmer after lockdown?

Inspiring Woman, Rohini Finch makes her mark