We pride ourselves on having happy homes, where residents and their families can enjoy spending quality time with each other and develop new friendships along the way.
Our homes in Bristol are located close to local shops and amenities, and benefit from strong connections with community groups. We offer a busy and varied activities programme that includes something for everyone and ensures residents get the most out of every day.
We care for individuals with a variety of care needs including Residential, Nursing and Dementia Care.
Our homes in Bristol: Osborne Court Care Home, 0117 321 9289
Bishopsmead Lodge Care Home, 0117 321 9269
Call our friendly team today, or visit: www.fshc.co.uk
Valley Fest, the family-friendly festival has announced The Kooks, Bananarama and Scouting for Girls will play over the 3rd – 6th August. The music and food event takes place alongside Chew Valley Lake, near Bristol.
Altern 8, Crazy P (DJ set) Norman Jay MBE, Krafty Kuts, The Legends of Goldie Lookin Chain (live show) Plump DJs, Booty Bass, Hippo Soundsystem, Samedia Shebeen, Shaka Loves You and the Chemical Prodigies are also on the bill, with more acts to come.
Arcadia’s Alchemist Playground will return - much to the delight of everyone. By day, this field is a hive of activity. The Woodland Tribe will be on hand to help build a playground, upon which the kids will dance, when constructed. The welding workshops were so popular last time that they’ve been expanded. WTF, the experts running them will be catering for all ages.
New for this year, Elly Phunk, will offer DJ lessons for kids and teens. Not only that, there will be eco-bubble making and Junkfish inflatables for the little ones. Plus more craft activities than you can shake a felt-tip pen at.
By night, the iconic Afterburner fires up. Expect flares, flames and cutting-edge, heart-in-your-mouth performances. Plus the Lord of Lightning will return – shooting multi-million-volt bolts of electricity from his body, a spectacle like no other.
Built from a Rolls Royce jet engine called an Afterburner, the stage is surrounded by a circle of metal trees and flames. The dancefloor is designed with the DJ in the middle, so you can party with beaming faces all around you.
Now in its ninth year, Valley Fest is going from strength to strength. The small, family friendly festival is becoming a firm favourite in the Bristol and South West calendar. Edged by the rolling Mendip hills, Chew Valley Lake provides the sparkling backdrop, which, some say, give it ‘the best view of any UK festival.’
Luke Hasell, festival founder says:
‘Guaranteed good times ahead! And we’ve only just started. Families, you’ll find something for your toddlers, teens, parents and grandparents! Everyone needs to GET ON MY LAND!’
The best-tasting music festival in the South West will be revealing more acts and chefs later in February.
Expect hedge-to-hedge Somerset sparkle and spectacle with a whomping soundtrack.
Weekend Tickets are £175 (plus booking fee) and can be bought in instalments to spread the cost from www.valleyfest. co.uk.
Heralding the start of spring, Bristol Beacon are once again staging a performance at Bath Forum with the renowned London Symphony Orchestra (LSO). This time, the mesmerising performance will be conducted by the LSO’s Artistic Associate, Barbara Hannigan.
The programme will feature blissful visions of heaven from Messiaen and Mahler, with Hannigan herself singing the soprano line at the end of Mahler’s Symphony No 4. Described as an artist who ‘shoots straight for the heart and never misses’, Barbara Hannigan will leave audiences in awe as she embodies the music in this concert as both conductor and vocalist.
Incorporating complex rhythms, harmony and melodies, Messiaen is known for his unique composition style. His spiritually uplifting L’Ascension begins the evening’s programme and depicts the ascension of Christ into Heaven. Originally composed for orchestra in 1932-33, Messiaen described the four brief movements as “meditations for orchestra.”
Mahler’s 4th symphony gets inside the mind of a child, with a dynamic ride through blue skies, jangling bells and rapturous visions. Exploring themes of childhood and innocence, the symphony ends with a solo sung by Hannigan - a poem presenting a child’s vision of heaven.
Lousie Mitchell, Chief Executive of Bristol Beacon, said: “We’ve had such wonderful responses to the previous concerts from the LSO in Bath. Having Barbara Hannigan conducting and singing this March is going to be an incredible moment and a performance that will be remembered for a long time.”
Following the national broadcasts of the previous LSO concerts from Bath Forum, Bristol Beacon are set to live stream the forthcoming concert with Barbara Hannigan to care homes across the country, thanks to sponsorship from Bristol Care Homes. Any care home can tune in for free and homes are invited to screen the concert for staff and residents. Care homes wishing to access the live stream can find further information at: bristolbeacon.org/care-homes
Tickets are on sale now for the London Symphony Orchestra on Mon 13 March and can be purchased on the website. Tickets start from £15 including booking fee with a £10 ticket offer for the under 26s
FEBRUARY 3
FEBRUARY 4
Description: Share in community, connect with each other and immerse in the high vibration of spiritual ancient music as dance is a primal source of joy.
Venue: The Dance Space
The Island, 1st Floor Bridewell Street, Bristol BS1 2QD
Mike Dennis
Description: Mike Dennis is a classically-trained violinist whose boyhood love of Run DMC, Beastie Boys and Gangstarr led him to create a unique kind of string-heavy hip hop music he refers to as Violinica.
Venue: The Cloak and Dagger
182, 184 Cheltenham Rd, Cotham,Bristol, BS6 5RB
Karnivool: The Regeneration Tour
Description: One of the most original forces in modern progressive music, Karnivool are renowned for their breath-taking live shows and the Perth five-piece bring their vast melodic soundscapes to UK shores on The Regeneration Tour.
Venue: O2 Academy Frogmore St, Bristol BS1 5NA
Six Nations - Wales vs Ireland / England vs Scotland
Description: Our massive screen is back again for the 6 Nations. If you came to any of the World Cup games you will know that the Crane Room is the best place for atmosphere to watch the games live. Tickets are limited and come with a FREE DRINK*. 14:00 - 21:00
Venue:The Propyard
39-46 Feeder Rd, Bristol BS2 0SE
FEBRUARY 5
Macrame Plant Hanger
Workshop
DescriptionCome and join MAKE Creative Workshops at Creative Space for a creative morning of macramé. In this 2.5 hour session, you’ll learn a variety of macramé knots giving you the skills to be able to make a macrame plant hanger or a hanging macrame hoop. It’s much easier than it looks and you will be amazed with what you can achieve. 10.30am1.00pm - £32
Venue: Creative Space
Bristol
56-58 North St, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 1HJ
Guy Shotton Plays Jazz
Description: Join us this Sunday for a special edition of Jazz at The Stag and Hounds, this week featuring the hard-groovin’, hip and horrendously good Guy Shotton, Guy will be joined by an all star band.
Venue: Stag and Hounds
Public House
74 Old Market Street
Bristol, BS2 0EJ
Ministry of Science
Description: This year saw Science lead the way in getting our lives back to normal! Now, the UK’s favourite science team are back and more explosive than ever!
Venue: Playhouse Weston
126-130 High St
Weston-super-Mare BS23 1HP
Class in Nailsea
Description: OvDa dance presents “A journey through the world of Dance”. Come and explore different dance styles including African, Jazz, Contemporary, Russian folk, Bachata, Salsa, Reggaeton, Samba, just to name a few.
Venue: The Nailsea Link Mizzymead Rd, Nailsea, Bristol. BS48 2HN
Story Time in the Park
Description: Come and enjoy Story Time with us in Ashcombe Park. Nurture your child’s love of stories and books in a relaxed, natural setting. There will be different stories each week followed by an activity before finishing with a song.
Venue: Ashcombe park Weston Super Mare
Loz Speyer
Description: Three wonderful improvisers begin our 2023 programme. Loz Speyer is a fabulous trumpet player with an immediately r ecognisable musical voice and a yard long CV playing with the UK’s finest improvisers. Joined by an incredible rhythm section and in support of new album ‘Open Territory’, Loz says of this group:
Venue: The Bristol Fringe 32 Princess Victoria St, Clifton,Bristol BS8 4BZ
Description: The hot jazz jam returns to the Hare on the Hill on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. This jam session celebrates acoustic pre-swing era jazz and ragtime. Bring your instruments/ears to the Hare on The Hill and play/listen to the music of the start of the 20th century.
Venue: The Hare on the Hill, 41 Thomas St N, Cotham, Bristol BS2 8LX
Jerry Bergonzi Quartet Live Description: After a sell-out appearance at Strange Brew in 2022, Jerry is back again with the same prodigious Quartet for another evening of melodic mastery and colossal improvisation. A ‘Jazz masterclass’ will also be held by Jerry in the afternoon (3:00pm)
Venue: The Nailsea Link 10-12 Fairfax St, Bristol BS1 3DB
FEBRUARY 9
Bristol Careers Fair
Description:
Are you looking for a new career? The Bristol Careers Fair will offer candidates from all backgrounds, experience and education levels the opportunity to speak to representatives from an abundance of local employers, all in one place.
Venue:Novotel Bristol Centre
Victoria St, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6HY
Breach & Incurzion
Present: Koherent
Description: We’re starting 2023 off correctly - with a high-caliber display of sonics - at Lost Horizons HQ. Alongside Incurzion Audio, who are celebrating five years since conception, we’ll be exhibiting raw sound, the finest local selectors, and two unruly headliners to continue the regular tear-up of the Bristol’s underground scene.
Venue: Lost Horizon
1-3 Elton St, S
t Jude’s, Bristol BS2 9EH
Growing up in post-World War II era Arizona, young Sammy Fabelman aspires to become a filmmaker as he reaches adolescence, but soon discovers a shattering family secret and explores how the power of films can help him see the truth.
The team and homeowners based at Brio Retirement Living’s Beechwood Park in Stow-on-the-Wold enjoyed an exciting weekend as they hosted their very first book launch event at the development – with author and businesswoman, Christine Marsh, putting on a fabulous show.
Christine is a proud homeowner of a Brio Retirement Living apartment at Beechwood Park, located in the beautiful Cotswolds, and has just released her brand-new book entitled Flashpoint Transformation: Life’s Choices.
Christine hosted two sessions, welcoming members of the business community, journalists, friends and work colleagues old and new and of course her family – including her new family at Beechwood Park. Impressive custom-made ‘Flashpoint’ cocktails were served by Damaine Hinds of Cocktail Barman, with guests enjoying both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions.
Trish Staite, General Manager at Beechwood Park, commented: “Christine’s book launch was a huge success! It was so lovely to open up our beautiful development and host such an exciting event. We enjoyed a day of socialising and learning all about Christine, her fabulous life experiences and of course her brand-new book.
“Guests were also keen to hear about the offerings at Beechwood Park – so I was happy to share details of our stunning development in Stow-on-theWold and welcome them to have a look around.
“I, alongside her audience, was in awe of Christine and this huge accomplishment which we’re all very proud of her for. We all wish Christine the very best with her new book.”
Christine is thrilled with her home at Beechwood Park and shares: “If you can’t be happy here, you won’t be happy anywhere!”. Her positive outlook on life is infectious – and thankfully she’s now sharing some of her experiences and wisdom in her brand-new book.
“I’m a great believer in embracing life,” Christine says. “Hence my decision to do exciting things – like deciding on my future direction and a new home at Beechwood Park last year.”
“I was living in our family home, a stunning large 4-bedroom Cotswold stone property on a country estate. It was our dream home – one both my husband and I had ogled for 16 years as it was being renovated, and eventually we moved there 30 years ago. I met my husband Colin when I was 17, but sadly lost him just before Christmas 2020.”
Christine revaluated her life, and shares her experiences from when she decided it was time to move. “I was advised to put my home on the market, sell up and then find somewhere to live – but that’s not me! I did lots of research and visited lots of properties – many of which I found very depressing as they seemed to be a one-way ticket to nowhere. I’d written down my wish list and was thrilled when I visited Beechwood Park as it genuinely ticked every one of them!
I craved space, a balcony, stunning views, within walking distance of a village, plus a lively community spirit – and that’s exactly what I’ve got. It really is perfect here.”
Breaking the mould, Christine has used her move to a retirement community to advance her career as an author. Her new 96-page book is designed to be a taster, to give you easy access to her accumulated wisdom and provoke you to take stock of your own life’s path. Plus, the bonus of three inspiring true-life stories from her respected friends and colleagues, who have achieved their desired goals.
Christine’s believes life is not linear but circular. She reflects on her life spanning 18 years of age to 81 - when she re-kindled her artistic talents.
The book also contains extracts from her challenging nomadic childhood. Christine’s father served in the military, and she was born during his time in India. She had a variety of educational experiences in both Singapore and the UK, as his postings determined where her family moved to, but this also meant she had the wonderful opportunity to experience life in different countries and explore different cultures.
Her book focuses on the impact of her life’s experiences as a daughter, sister, wife to Colin, mother to Alison and Rachel, her life as a corporate highflyer, and starting her own business – Prime Objectives – at 50.
Christine feels age should be embraced and, more importantly, what life learnings can bring to the younger generations and those fearful of the negative connotations age can bring: “What’s age got to do with it? We have no sell by or best before date!” adds Christine with a youthful grin. I’m in a very happy place. Life is good and I have no intention of stopping – life is for living and that’s exactly what I’m doing here at Beechwood!”
Beechwood Park is an age-exclusive community, situated in the picturesque market town of Stow-on-the-Wold, in the Cotswolds. This highly acclaimed ARCO (Associated Retirement Community Operators) registered integrated retirement development, features a stunning new collection of homes, where the one, two and three-bedroom apartments and two and three-bedroom bungalows, are now available to buy, rent, or part buy, part rent.
All homes come with their own outdoor space as well as access to landscaped gardens; there is also an extensive range of facilities including a contemporary wellness suite, hobby room, roof terrace, landscaped gardens, fitness studio and outdoor exercise trail, plus the Slate & Grain brasserie, bar and coffee lounge –the venue of the Warm Hub.
Brio offers modern retirement that is attainable for all, and each development has staff on hand as well as a range of care and support packages which can be delivered by a local and qualified domiciliary care provider with personal assistants who can help with everything from washing, bathing, dressing,
preparing meals, attending medical or other appointments as well as providing management of medication or short-term care during illness or recuperation to palliative care.
Christine’s book entitled Flashpoint Transformation: Life’s Choices book is available to purchase at Borzoi Bookshop in Stow-on-the-Wold, or online for £15 via Christine’s dedicated website: https://thechristinemarsh.com/
For more information on Brio Retirement Living visit: www.brioretirement.co.uk/
A 54-year-old super slimmer from Bristol has reached the semi-finals of a competition to find the UK and Ireland’s most successful female slimmers, after losing a life-changing 9st 5.5lbs.
Sally Bundell secured her place in the semi-final of Slimming World’s Woman of the Year competition after members from her Ashton Vale group voted her as their representative in the annual contest. She was then delighted to be one of 37 women from across the UK and Ireland invited to share her story at Slimming World head office in Derbyshire and be in with a chance of taking the overall title.
Sally, who slimmed from 18st 6.5lbs to 9st 1lbs, says: “Before I joined Slimming World, losing weight just felt like an uphill struggle. I felt self-concious all the time and would get out of breath doing the most simple things and, although I was desperate to do something about it, I had almost resigned myself to the fact that I would always be overweight and unhappy.
“I tried a few ways to lose weight before Slimming World and the difference this time was that Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan showed me a way of eating that fits so easily around my life, without me ever feeling hungry or like I’m missing out or restricting myself. Throughout my weight loss journey I’ve been able to still enjoy all my favourite meals like curries, roast dinners, stir-fries and burgers and chips I just prepared and cooked them differently.
“The best thing is that I feel confident that I’ve formed new healthy habits that will stick with me, like filling my plate with plenty of veg and cooking without lots of added oils and fats. These new habits have enabled me to finally take control of my weight and find the confidence I’ve been lacking all these years – it doesn’t feel like an uphill struggle anymore.
“With my new-found confidence I started thinking about ways I could become more active and took up walking. Slimming World has a physical activity support programme called Body Magic and it helped me to gradually increase how much I was doing and how often, so I could take it up a gear at a pace that worked for me. I enjoy every minute of it too.”
Sally says that the supportive environment of her Slimming World group has been key to her success. She says: “The group really made me feel welcome from the very first day I joined. We share tips and recipe ideas and cheer each other on when we need it –and even when we don’t realise we do. Ultimately, when I was at my lowest ebb it was a place I felt safe, included and free to be myself. My Consultant Susan has been amazing and really helped me to believe in myself and stay motivated, too.
“At the start of my journey if you’d have told me I would be representing my group at the finals of Slimming World’s Woman of the Year competition, feeling the way I do, I would have laughed. I still can’t believe this is my reality. I’m looking forward to a brighter, happier and heathier future and ready to seize life with both hands.”
Susan Hook, who runs the Ashton Vale Slimming World group that Sally attends, adds: “Sally’s incredible transformation has inspired so many of her fellow slimmers and she gives them so much support each week, so when it came down to voting for our group’s Woman of the Year it was really
lovely to see so many people supporting her and putting her forward. We couldn’t be prouder of her. I hope that Sally inspires other people in Bristol who might’ve been feeling the way that she did to pop along and join one or our warm and friendly groups in South Bristol.
Hengrove
Centre Fortfield Road
BS14 9NX
Tuesday 9.30am
Sarah: 07879 443888
Bridgefarm
East Dundry Road
BS14 0LL
Wednesday 5.30pm and 7pm
Sarah: 07879 443888
slimmingworld.co.uk
Christ
Hall Petherton Road
Hengrove
BS14 9BP
Saturday 9:30am
Keesa: 07399 597267
Ingredients
1 pack ready rolled all butter puff pastry
2 tbsp Sundried tomato paste/ pesto
Couple of handfuls of cherry tomatoes
¼ tsp dried oregano/ basil
200g feta, crumbled
Egg wash
Method
Preheat oven to 220C/ fan200C.
Divide the pastry into 6 even pieces.
Place the pastry on a lined baking tray.
Make an incision 1/2 cm from the edge of the pastry.
Spoon 1 tsp of the paste/ pesto onto each of the tarts and smooth out over the pastry.
Slice the tomatoes in half across the equator and place seed side up on the pastry
Divide the feta on the pastry and sprinkle with the herbs.
Brush the edges of the pastry with egg wash.
Bake for around 20 minutes in the top third of the oven until pastry is golden and puffed up at the edges.
Enjoy whilst warm with a side salad.
On Saturday, February 4th we come together to celebrate World Cancer Day 2023! A three-year campaign called "Close the Care Gap" kicked off in 2022 to raise awareness and help provide access to life-saving cancer treatment. This year's focus is on “uniting our voices and taking action”. Tomorrow marks the start of a wonderful initiative that will finish up in 2024 with the theme “we challenge those in power.”
We encourage organizations, governments, individuals, and healthcare providers all around the world to join us in making this day memorable by hosting in-person or online events. To make it easy for everyone, WorldCancerDay has lots of downloadable materials--including tool kits, infographics and posters--as well as a map of activities so you can find events worldwide!
Let's work together to help make a difference!
For The Cakes:
2 tsp instant coffee
175g unsalted butter
175g caster sugar
3 eggs, beaten
175g self raising flour
2 tbsp semi-skimmed milk
For The Topping:
2 tsp instant coffee
100g unsalted butter
150g icing sugar
1 tbsp cocoa powder
Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/ Gas 4 and line a 12-hole cupcake tin with paper cases
Mix the coffee with 1 tbsp boiling water and then leave to cool
Cream the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy
Add the coffee and beat again, gradually adding the eggs, along with a little of the flour
Add the milk and remaining flour and mix together
Spoon into the cases and bake for 10-15 mins, until a knife inserted comes out clean
Take out of the tin and cool on a wire rack
Meanwhile, mix the coffee for the top- ping with 1 tsp boiling water, then cool Beat the butter, sugar and coffee togeth- er to make the icing
Spoon on top of the cakes and dust with the cocoa powder
Cutting energy costs and making savings, wherever possible, is on everyone’s minds at the moment. Here are some simple and cost-effective methods that you can adopt right now. Remember all those small savings soon add up!
This is a simple one. For each degree you cut the thermostat, expect to cut bills by about 4%.
The World Health Organisation says that 18 degrees is enough for healthy adults and, as a landlord, you are required to provide temperatures of at least 18 degrees in sleeping rooms and 21 degrees (centigrade) in living rooms, (when the outside temperature falls below zero). However, we all know properties which feel like “hot houses.” Having those conversations with your tenants, could be very worthwhile.
A common debate is whether it is cheaper to leave the heating on low all day, rather than just turning it on when you need it.
The Energy Saving Trust is adamant that you should only have your heating on when required, otherwise you are paying for heating that you are not using. Even if you turn your thermostat down, your boiler will keep firing up and using energy.
Finding those draughty spots in the house can make a big difference. Draught-proofing can cut 2% off energy bills. An un-noticed draughty spot can often be the loft hatch, if this is an issue in your property, then you can buy some effective and inexpensive rolls of draught excluders that are really simple to fit to the sides of loft hatches.
All curtains and blinds go some way to preventing heat escaping but it’s worth going one step further and investing in full length, thermal curtains, which will really help to keep the heat inside. They can look stylish and, are like a duvet for your windows!
Cutting just a minute off your shower time could save £75 a year in energy bills, and a further £105 a year in water bills if you have a meter – £180 a year for an average four-person household.
Some even go as far as to turn the water off to lather and back on to rinse, there is also the famed Wim Hof cold shower method – but this is a bit of a stretch for us personally!
Try to do one fewer load of washing a week and make sure you fill up the machine each time. No more washing just one or two items of clothing.
Saving around £10 a year for modern machines, but could be more with older ones. Also, switch to a colder setting. Dropping down to 30 degrees, from 40 means that you could get 3 washes instead of 2, using the same amount of energy.
Tumble dryers use a lot of energy. The Energy Saving Trust calculate that you could save £40 a year if you never use it. If you are going to use it, use a lower setting, partially dry clothes where possible and remove all lint from the filter and empty self-condensing dryers regularly. If using an airer, make sure to leave a window open, as this could contribute to condensation, which in turn could lead to mould.
The more water you boil, the more energy you use. Be conscious about this when filling the kettle, so you don’t overfill. Not overfilling your kettle could make a saving of £8 a year (it all adds up). You could even try buying a smaller kettle.
Most electrical appliances in the home will use power continuously unless unplugged. Turn off the power switch at the socket, or unplug when not in use.
The Energy Saving Trust says you can save £40 a year by switching your devices off standby mode.
Don’t heat the whole house when you’re spending all day in one room. Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) are an extra control which can be used to set the temperature of each individual room.
Installing them and using them with your thermostat allows you to control the temperature room by room, and could save you almost 6%, so about £85 a year, on average, for a typical home.
If you are renting properties where you, as the landlord, pay the bills – like in some HMOs (Houses of Multiple Occupation) for instance, have you considered a fair usage policy? Some of our landlords use them and have never had to act on them, as they are adjusted fairly, discussed with the tenants early on (using at the viewing) and form part of the contract. If bills are an issue between you and your tenants, these may well be worth considering.
• Insulate hot water cylinders
• Reduce the temperature on your boiler (should be set to 60 degrees to prevent legionella)
• Turn off the “pre heat” function on your combi boiler
1. Bleed radiators at least once (if not twice) a year
• Power flush your systems every 5 years and use a good quality Magna clean
• Regularly service your boiler (if this is a rental property this should be done by the landlord every 12 months
A fantastic opportunity has presented itself for children in need of care in Bristol. Two new homes will open soon, just for them! These homes will provide a safe haven to teenage boys with criminal records and those who are dealing with tough mental health issues. And the funds from the Department for Education make all this possible. Not only does this grant cover everything required to be ready for business - it also makes sure that kids seeking care don't have to reach far beyond our city limits. This is great news for Bristol families, but most importantly, it means everyone can find joy here.
Labour Councillor Asher Craig, cabinet member for education, said: “The care population in Bristol is growing. It’s likely to rise by 5% in the next year, and we are already struggling to find placements to meet the needs of our most complex children. This spend will help us to try and reduce the number of children who are placed in expensive placements outside of the city, improving outcomes while also reducing our overall expenditure.
“The [first home] will enable medically fit children who require clinical and social care to be discharged from hospital settings within suitable timescales. The second is a home for adolescent boys aged 15 to 17 with challenging and aggressive behaviour. This will provide a therapeutic setting for restorative care for young men with criminal justice involvement, and where exploitation is part of their risk profile.
“We need to develop more in-house provision in Bristol because we are currently at the mercy of the market — and the market is killing us financially. It’s so expensive to send some of our children outside of the city.”
Over the past three years, increasingly more children in Bristol needing care have been sent at least 20 miles away from their home, according to a cabinet report. This rose from 21% in 2019–20 to 23% in 2021–22. There are relatively few children’s homes in Bristol, partly due to the very high general cost of accommodation in the city.
There are 727 Bristol children in care currently, with more children expected to need care in the next few years. The council already struggles to find care placements for children with very complex needs, and these are often extremely expensive. At the moment 17 young people aged over 15 are placed in residential care outside of Bristol, each costing the council between £300,000 and £830,000 a year.
Marvin Rees, mayor of Bristol, said: “We have a growing population, our young people have been under phenomenal pressure, and families have been under phenomenal pressure, particularly over the last few years. That pressure is still with us, so we anticipate more need coming through the system, so we have to begin to increase our ability to support people.
“Existential threats in 20 years time are very real. But we want to create the emotional and financial space for the people, who are too easily left behind and left out of council debates, to think about more than the next week of their existence in this city and on this planet.”
Coinciding with national hedgehog day on 2 February, people in South Gloucestershire are being asked to become hedgehog heroes as part of South Gloucestershire Council’s efforts to help halt the severe decline in the species over the last 20 years.
As part of the council’s nature recovery vision, it is working with 15 town and parish councils in South Gloucestershire to encourage people in the area to create a target of 3000 ‘hedgehog holes’. Hedgehog holes are typically 13cm holes in garden fences, walls and gates to enable hedgehogs to safely access gardens. These hedgehog holes or ‘highways’ will help form a garden network of places for them to find food, shelter and even other prickly pals.
Under the scheme South Gloucestershire will become a hedgehog friendly zone, leading the way to improve this vital species’ recovery as part of the council’s long-term climate and nature emergency strategy.
There are both urban and rural hedgehogs, those in built up areas seem to be showing signs of stabilising and it is hoped this project will mean the more rural populations can recover.
The council will be coordinating the project through its Local Nature Action Plans (LNAPs) which support town and parish councils to draw up their own action plans to help tackle the climate and nature emergency.
Councillor Steve Reade, cabinet member responsible for the environment at South Gloucestershire Council, said: “We want as many people as possible across South Gloucestershire to take part in this initiative and help create hedgehog holes in their gardens.
“Residential gardens linked by hedgehog holes or highways provide safe routes for hedgehogs, away from busy roads, and can become important connected habitats and food sources.
“Often small acts can combine to make a big difference, so working with local town and parish councils, we’re hoping to encourage thousands of residents to get involved and do their bit to help hedgehogs and the environment.”
The project will actively run for one year and is expected to continue passively for several further years.
Anyone who takes part and creates a hedgehog hole highway can log it on the big hedgehog map www.bighedgehogmap.org
This is South Gloucestershire Council’s first joint nature restoration project with LNAP partners. The work is part of the council’s Big Switch towards being carbon neutral by 2030 and increasing biodiversity in South Gloucestershire. For more information visit www.southglos.gov.uk/thebigswitch
South Gloucestershire Council is also working with Hedgehog Rescue in Yate who help care for injured hedgehogs and have worked in the community for more than 20 years raising awareness of hedgehog welfare. For more information visit http://hedgehogrescue.info/
Well done to everyone who took part in this weekend’s Jubilee-athon, including all the swimmers, cake-bakers, sausage-sizzlers, merch-makers, life guards, and everyone else involved. This fantastic community effort should hopefully help our pool keep going during these difficult times. More details here.
The Brislington Tesco store manager has been in touch regarding the damaged fencing alongside Brislington Brook. New fencing materials have now arrived, and the Tesco maintenance team is due to start work on the fence next week. Initially, Tesco wanted to erect quite a high fence, but we have managed to get it lowered so that hopefully it will not detract too much from the natural beauty in the area. There will also be 2 gated access points to the brook for further maintenance or for community litter picks.
Just a reminder of the White Hart consultation, which we first told you about last week.
The consultation is on behalf of Meadow Care Homes regarding proposals to redevelop the former White Hart in Brislington Village. The proposed redevelopment of the existing Grade II listed building/site would provide an 80-bed care-home and some key-worker flats, along with some public facing uses. Meadow Care Homes and their project team are currently working up proposals and would like to share the plans and invite feedback from neighbours and stakeholders in advance of submitting a planning application at the end of February. Public consultation will run until Saturday 11 February 2023. The consultation material is available to view online at https://bit.ly/WhiteHartLodge
Feedback from the consultation and other key stakeholders will then be considered by the project team as they finalise the proposals and prepare the planning submission.
There will be a face-to-face event on site at the White Hart tomorrow (Tuesday) 31 January 2023, from 4pm – 7pm. On the day, representatives from Meadow Care and their design and planning team will be available to talk through the application scheme and answer any questions.
Once the application has been submitted, there will be a further consultation period, led by the Council, when there will be another opportunity for you to comment before a formal planning decision is made. If you would prefer a printed copy of the consultation material, or have any further queries about the project, please contact ABC by emailing info@abc-pr.co.uk or calling 0117 977 2002. We would also welcome your feedback on the proposals.
A local resident has set up a petition for an inquiry into the costs of refurbishing the Bristol Beacon. It appears the original contract was badly set up and managed, and it would be good to have an independent perspective on what has gone wrong and what the city can learn from this. The link is here:
We need an inquiry into the costs of refurbishing Bristol Beacon | 38 Degrees
SUPPORT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING:
Are the pressures of the cost of living crisis having an impact on you?Are you feeling stressed, anxious or low? Please talk to family and friends about how you’re feeling and check in on people who you think may be struggling.
THERE IS ALSO LOTS OF HELP AVAILABLE FROM LOCAL ORGANISATIONS:
• Every Mind Matters give expert advice and tips to help you look after your mental health: https://www.nhs.uk/everymind-matters/
• 24/7 Support & Connect is a free NHS confidential 24/7 helpline for immediate emotional and practical support, call 0800 012 6549
• The Community Access Support Service can signpost to organisations across Bristol for all groups of people and communities, call 0117 304 1400 or visit the website: https://www.cassbristol.org/ useful-information/
• Changes Bristol run wellbeing groups across Bristol, call 0117 941 1123 or visit the website: https://changesbristol.org.uk
• Vita Minds is an NHS Mental Wellbeing support service here.
If you start to feel that daily life is getting too much to cope with, you can contact The Samaritans. They offer support 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 0330 094 5717.
If you need help, please reach out. There is advice, support and information available across Bristol.
For more cost of living advice and support visit www.bristol.gov.uk/costoflivingor call the free We Are Bristol helpline on 0800 694 0184 Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm
Hundreds of Brislington West residents have signed up to receive our monthly newsletter via email. You can register using this link: http://www.bristollibdems. org/efocus.
By Jos Clark, Liberal Democrat Councillor
(Brislington West) Email: cllr. jos.clark@bristol.gov.uk
Mobile: 07584 370429
& Andrew Varney, Liberal Democrat Councillor
(Brislington West) Email: cllr.andrew.varney@bristol. gov.uk
Mobile: 07584 183381
It's with a heavy heart that North Somerset Council has made the difficult decision not to reopen Churchill Sports Centre. The centre – which includes a swimming pool, gym, and studio – closed in March 2020 at the onset of the coronavirus pandemic and remained closed as funding could not be sourced to sustain its operation.
Despite three years of consultation and investigation into all possible funding options, it hasn't been possible to secure a viable future for this extensive leisure service. On the bright side, Churchill Academy will still operate sports pitches and sports hall for community use.
A decision paper published on (Monday 30 January), states that the leisure service at Churchill Sports Centre, the only sports centre to require council subsidy, cost over £100,000 a year in management fees and running costs. The subsidy would be considerably higher now due to inflationary increases, the rise in energy prices and the slow recovery of the gym market post-pandemic.
Councillor Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s executive member for neighbourhoods and community services, said: “Churchill Sports Centre has been subject to prolonged and extensive engagement with our executive, local ward members, parish councils in the area and local stakeholders. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Churchill Sports Centre Working Group, ward members and council officers who have worked hard to explore all options.
“Despite all this hard work, no-one has been able to find the money necessary to reinstate services and to keep the centre running. Regrettably, we’ve now been left with no alternative but to confirm that it will not reopen.”
No redundancies are associated with the decision and there is no operator contract to negotiate.
The decision notice can be found on the council’s website at www.n-somerset. gov.uk/januarydecisions.
A list of leisure centres in North Somerset, ways to get involved in sports and physical activities, and the council’s Sport and Leisure Facilities Strategy 2020-2036 can be found at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/leisure.
It’s no secret: First dates can be stressful. Before you head out the door, you’ll likely be replaying your and your date’s text conversations, brainstorming a few ice-breaker questions, and memorising an exit line should things go south.
But one of the trickiest things to do is assemble your first date outfit. Obviously, you’ll want to get an appropriate level of “dressed up” for the destination and put your best foot forward. But did you know there are clothing items you should avoid at all costs on a first date? Read on to discover the one piece of clothing that personal stylists recommend you skip to help you and your date feel more comfortable.
A crisp white shirt can make many of us feel our best. However, these pieces come with an important caveat: They get messy easily and can create an unnecessary stressor on a first date. “I would tell my clients to avoid anything that is ‘fussy’ or difficult to keep clean,” says Molly, a local personal stylist and image consultant.
She notes that a white shirt could set you up for an embarrassing stain moment. “You don’t want your date distracted by the taco sauce that just dripped all over your bright white shirt,” she says. While a great date will laugh with you (and not at you), it could make you feel uneasy for the rest of the night.
You should also apply Molly’s non-fussy tip to the rest of your outfit. “Loose-fitting shirt straps, pants that are too tight, or a skirt that is prone to blow in the wind might also be items to stay away from,” she says. “A wardrobe malfunction is a recipe for a date ruiner.”
Additionally, you may want to reconsider those super high heels no matter how trendy they are. “You want to be able to focus on your confidence and your date, not how bad your feet hurt,” says Molly. Not to mention the fact that if the date goes well, you may want to take a stroll after Wand you won’t want to call it off due to a blister.
A great first date outfit should be less about fashion and more about you. Because of that, you may want to skip extremely bright colors, patterns, puff sleeves, and over the top ruffles. An easy way to check is to look at yourself in the mirror. If the first thing that grabs your attention is your outfit, then you need to simplify it.
Now that you know what not to wear, there’s a certain item you should always sport on a first date. Wear something that telegraphs a bit about your personality and perhaps even acts as a conversation starter. This could be an interesting piece of jewelry or other accessory or colorful socks with an otherwise sober look.
As soon as you arrive, you’ll feel confident knowing you’ve worn an item that makes you feel like yourself and don’t distract. In other words, you’re one step closer to this being your last first date.
Here are this months puzzles designed to test your mental skills during your lunch break or after tea.
Good luck!
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7 differences between these two pictures. Are your eyes good enough to see them all?
Look no further! Here’s five of the highest ranked steakhouses, according to TripAdvisor reviews 2023. From Pasture to Steak of the Art, these eateries will satisfy even the most discerning of steak lovers. So don’t wait any longer and head out to one of these delicious places right away!
1. Pasture is your one-stop spot for top-notch steak and late night revelry! Our passionate team has handpicked the finest ingredients and meats from farms in the south, which our talented chefs use to create delectable modern dishes. But it’s not just about fine dining-we want everyone to join in on the celebration! With engaging service, delicious food, and a knowledgeable team, you’ll have a blast at Pasture.
2. Mugshot is your go-to spot for delectable steaks, scrumptious pizzas, and delightful cocktails in Bristol. Our elegant 1920s-inspired restaurant provides the perfect atmosphere for a romantic evening out, a cozy gathering with friends, professional meetings, and family celebrations. We’ve got built-in booths and tables to accommodate different sized parties as well as two fully stocked bars to keep everyone’s favorite drinks flowing! Need an excuse to come visit? We’re currently accepting reservations of five people on weekends and six people during the week. So raise a glass and come join us at Mugshot!
3. Make your way over to Bar + Block and experience a taste of steakhouse perfection! Our expert chefs will hand-cut your steak, just the way you like it. Choose from classic cuts or try something unexpected--either way, you'll leave feeling delighted. And when dinner's done, why not extend the joy with one of our delicious cocktails? Visit us now at one of our fine locations and have a night to remember!
4. It’s time to celebrate! The Ox is the best place in Bristol to get steak, but they offer much more than that - vegetarians, vegans and everyone else can enjoy their amazing small plates and delectable desserts. Bring your friends for a few drinks and cocktails, carefully crafted by some of the best mixologists in town. And don’t forget about their signature Sunday roast: it’s one of the best you can find! Looking for an unforgettable dining experience? Look no further! Come to The Ox and make memories that will last a lifetime!
5. Let your taste buds explore the delightful options available from The Ashville! From starters to something sweet, you’re sure to find something delicious. Take a look at the menu conveniently posted with prices so you know what to expect. Then indulge in the flavourful wonders that await - we guarantee your mouth will start watering before you even take your first bite!
You’ll feel the love when planning your next special occasion at one of these well-known steak houses. From perfect birthdays or Valentine’s dates, you can be sure to get top-notch service and mouthwatering meals. It’s time to celebrate in style:
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This year, Bristol Airport is expecting to serve around 10 million passengers due to the high demand for travel. To ensure that customers have an enjoyable travelling experience, the airport has invested four million pounds into enhancing its shopping and catering facilities. In addition, the airport has also introduced a variety of media formats such as digital screens, lightboxes, external 48-sheets and roundabouts.
Rachel Davies, Managing Director of Eye Airports, shared her enthusiasm when signing a new five-year contract with Bristol Airport: "We're so excited to continue this great working relationship with Bristol Airport and deliver thrilling initiatives using state-of-the-art digital technology both inside and outside the terminal."
Rupert Lawrie, Commercial Director, Bristol Airport, said: “We are delighted to appoint advertising specialist Eye Airports to manage and sell our advertising assets. The award of this new contract follows a competitive tender process and we look forward to working with Eye Airports over the coming five years and seeing the creative advertising campaigns across the airport.
“Last month saw the beginning of a £4m investment into the retail and catering facilities at Bristol Airport and we are proud of the environment that we have to offer to advertisers. We believe this new partnership will create an even stronger platform for advertisers to inspire our passengers over the coming years.”
Be Astute is delighted to announce the arrival of Mark Tanner to the team, an expert business coach in his own right.
Be Astute is a business consultancy, based in Somerset, found ed by a husband-and-wife team, who combine their individual talents to create a business support company with a difference. Julia and Bill Stock are business-focused IT specialists, but their selling point is not the technology, or selling their clients’ gimmicks, but rather a practical plan of action.
Mark has stated that his purpose is to “help startups and small business owners successfully achieve their life and business desires”.
With bountiful experience, Mark works on creating incisive marketing and business strategy planning, as well as providing expert coaching and tips for business development. He is the perfect addition to the Be Astute team because he is another immensely credible fountain of knowledge, one that can really help to push Be Astute in the right direction. With over 22 years experience in business and being qualified as both a Life Coach and a Business Coach in 2011, Mark has coached single business owners C Level Leadership teams. He has a focus on getting the mindset right first, and then the marketing strategies to follow, supporting them with creating strong, resilient and sustainable growth.
Julia Stock has 20 years experience running a vocational training business. She is also a qualified Management and Leadership trainer. Julia is great at collaborating to help teams identify and describe the business issues they face, and then work to create an innovative cost-effective solution that brings the whole team along for the journey.
Bill Stock has 30 years experience as a database expert, he has a natural ability to see your IT and data needs in relation to your whole business. To him, data is the blood supply of your business, he believes that better data is better business, and he has the skills to make it happen.
Taking both Mark, Julia and Bill’s wide variety of skills, Be Astute are so excited to share that they will be bigger and better than ever, ready to help businesses to take the next step in their growth journey.
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