EssentialsMAG November 2024 – South Wrexham Magazine
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Welcome to our November issue!
Here we are in another November, and it feels like just yesterday we were welcoming the New Year! As I write this editor's letter, I can’t help but be amazed at how quickly 2024 has flown by. And do you know what that means? The most wonderful time of the year is approaching - Christmas is just around the corner!
November brings two significant occasions that hold a special place in the hearts of many across the UK. First is Bonfire Night, a time when our skies sparkle with vibrant fireworks. On a more solemn note, Remembrance Day falls on 11th November, a day when we pause to honour and remember the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who served our nation.
As always, I invite you to share your thoughts, stories, news, and events. Your contributions are the lifeblood of our publication.
May this month be one of reflection and gratitude as we honour our traditions and celebrate the remarkable individuals who strengthen our community and nation.
Cover Image: Lest we forget
December copy deadlines: Editorial - 7 November
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Local News
The Director of Christmas
Local author, Leighton Williams, will release his first children's novel, ‘The Director of Christmas’, just in time for the festive season. Set in the magical Beninstines toy shop in central London, the story follows six contenders competing to become the next Director of Christmas. Leighton, who spent over two years writing the book, said, "I hope children and adults alike will be drawn into the world of Beninstines and its characters." This is Leighton’s second novel, following ‘According to Him’ (2022), which tackled male mental health. ‘The Director of Christmas’ will be available to purchase on Amazon from 1st November.
Wrexham Markets
Wrexham's Butchers and General Markets are set to reopen on 28th November, following some delays due to issues with the older buildings. This reopening will align with the city's largest seasonal event, the Victorian Christmas Market, which this year has been extended to four days and will feature traditional wooden chalets. The Victorian-themed launch will celebrate the renovated markets, offering a boost to local businesses and attracting increased foot traffic to the city centre.
Gold for Wrexham
Wrexham has officially been awarded gold in the 2024 ‘Wales in Bloom’ competition for the second consecutive year, recognising the county-wide team efforts to improve the local environment. This achievement was showcased during a judges' tour that highlighted community involvement in initiatives like sustainable gardening, recycling, and volunteer opportunities, further enhancing Wrexham’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Y The Lab Wrexham - Multi-Art Form Venue
The Lab, Wrexham's new multi-arts space located in Eagle's Meadow Shopping Centre, offers a diverse range of community activities, including creative workshops, social events, and performance opportunities. It features a café and bar, a Hip Hop fashion and book shop, and spaces for hire, designed to engage people of all ages. Supported by Wrexham Borough Council, the National Lottery Community Fund, and local creatives, The Lab is home to regular sessions like rap and breakdancing classes, Hip Hop jams, belly dancing, and Afro-Latin dance workshops, with new events and activities added frequently. For details, visit: www.avant.cymru
Wales Air Ambulance Serving Wales, Saving Lives
By DEBRA SIMA, Regional Fundraising Manager, Wales Air Ambulance
Wales Air Ambulance is a crucial service that provides emergency medical assistance across Wales, ensuring rapid response to life-threatening situations. Established in 2001, the charity operates three helicopters strategically stationed throughout the country, allowing us to reach patients in even the most remote areas quickly. Our service is available 24/7 and staffed by our highly trained paramedics and doctors, equipped to deliver advanced medical care at the scene and during transport.
One of the unique aspects of Wales Air Ambulance is our commitment to providing the highest level of care tailored to the specific needs of patients, often involving complex medical procedures in the air. Our team work closely with local hospitals to ensure seamless transitions for patients requiring further treatment.
Community generosity
Funded entirely by charitable donations, Wales Air Ambulance relies on the generosity of the public and local businesses to maintain operations and enhance its capabilities.
The charity also engages in community outreach, educating the public about safety and emergency response. The impact of Wales Air Ambulance is profound, saving lives and providing vital support to those in need during critical moments, making it an indispensable part of Wales’ healthcare system.
Lifesaving Lottery
We run a ‘Lifesaving Lottery’ with a top prize of £1,000, and we need enthusiastic volunteers to help promote it and raise awareness of this crucial initiative. Whether you’re distributing flyers or engaging with the community at events, your efforts will make a real difference. Join us and help keep our helicopters flying!
Wendy’s story...
“I have been promoting the Lifesaving Lottery for some time, and I am incredibly proud to be part of such a remarkable charity. My role involves visiting various hospitals, stores, and venues to promote their Lifesaving Lottery. I thoroughly enjoy being part of this incredible organisation and have the opportunity to meet some wonderful people along the way. It’s rewarding to contribute to a cause that makes such a significant impact on our community.”
- Cllr Wendy O’Grady
Wales Air Ambulance
For more information on how to get involved or to make a donation, please visit: www.walesairambulance.com
Breaking the Cycle of Delay
By HELEN CONWAY
I don't want to sound like a downer, but this year is really flying by. In just a few weeks, we'll be ringing in 2025 and wishing each other a happy new year!
My mum used to say that a sign of getting older is when the years start flying by. She might have been right because it's a little unsettling how fast this year has gone by.
As I've gotten older, I've become more aware of how easy it is to keep "putting things off" and constantly saying I'll do something "when the time is right."
There are many reasons why we might put something off - household responsibilities; work responsibilities; children; illness; lack of confidence; lack of finance.
I’m no different to anyone else. I had planned, (in my mind, of course), all the things that I was going to do this year. The new skills I was going to learn. But for one reason or another, it simply hasn’t happened. And now we’re heading to the end of another year.
So I’m making my promise to myself that I will get these things into my diary for 2025. There are things I want to do; places I want to go; shows I want to see; skills I want to learn, etc.
But if I delay them again, what do I really gain?
Nothing - just another year of not keeping the promises I made to myself. So, I’ve got my 2025 diary, I’m doing my research, I’m making bookings, and I’m putting plans into place.
Don’t put off the things that bring you joy, expand your mind, improve your health. Engaging in new and challenging activities is a great way to develop and maintain cognitive skills. Your brain can continue to learn and grow as you age, thanks to a process known as "brain plasticity." However, to support this growth, it's essential to train your brain regularly. So grab your diary, and get planning.
Bodywork-Pilates was established in 2002. They offer the very best in pilates, yoga and holistic fitness, with over 20 classes a week to choose from in and around Wrexham and Chester.
Versus Arthritis Arthritis Support
By VERSUS ARTHRITIS WREXHAM
Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, often leading to reduced mobility and difficulty in performing everyday tasks. Arthritis can affect people of all ages, and its impact can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain, limiting a person's ability to move freely. Without proper management, the condition can worsen over time, making it crucial for individuals to access the right care and support early on.
Versus Arthritis
At Versus Arthritis, we are proud to be a charity offering vital support to people in Wrexham living with arthritis. With over 10 million people in the UK affected by arthritis and related conditions, we understand the daily challenges that come with managing this condition, and we are dedicated to helping individuals improve their quality of life.
Support group and services
In Wrexham, we provide a range of services designed to support those living with arthritis. Our local support group gives people the opportunity to connect with others who are facing similar experiences. These groups offer a safe, understanding space where people can share their stories, find encouragement, and combat the isolation that often comes with living with arthritis.
In addition to our support groups, we run workshops and self-management courses in Wrexham aimed at helping people take control of their condition.
These sessions cover topics such as pain management, staying active, and mental wellbeing, empowering individuals and improve their day-to-day lives.
We also work closely with healthcare professionals in the area to ensure that our community has access to up-to-date information about treatments and ongoing research. Through these partnerships, we help people communicate more effectively with their doctors and ensure they receive the best possible care.
You are not alone
We encourage anyone affected by arthritis in Wrexham to get in touch with us. Please visit: www.versusarthritis.org for information. Whether you're seeking support, information, or a listening ear, our team is here to help. You are not alone - our compassionate community is here to support you on your journey towards better health and wellbeing.
Wrexham Support Group
We meet every third Tuesday of the month at Bethel Presbyterian Church, Kenyon Avenue, Wrexham LL11 2SP, 2pm to 4pm. If this is your first visit to the group, please contact walessupport@versusarthritis.org or telephone 0800 756 3970 to ensure that the group is meeting on the day you intend to go.
CREATE TRUE CONFIDENCE FROM WITHIN
YOUR PRO-AGEING JOURNEY
with Amanda Azzopardi
Have you ever thought about how you want to age?
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Dates for your Diary
SAT 2 NOVEMBER
Gresford Fireworks
Gresford Trust Memorial Trust, Gresford LL12 8PS
Gates open 6:30pm
WED 6 NOVEMBER
Hotpot Supper
The Golden Lion Tipi, Chester Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0HN
Hotpot supper in the tipi. Proceeds to Rossett Church & Food Cupboard. 7pm
£15.00 (book in advance) Tel: 07484 156522 (Lesley)
FRI 8 NOVEMBER
Garden Village Remembers
St. Margaret's Church Hall, Chester Road, Wrexham LL11 2SH
A special event of words and music prior to Remembrance Sunday. 7:30pm
£10.00 Tel: 01978 312805.
FRI 8 & 22 NOVEMBER
Trivia Quiz
The Trotting Mare Inn, Grange Road, Overton, Wrexham LL13 0LE
Pat's quiz nuts trivia quiz! 8pm
£10.00 (teams of 4)
Tel: 07923 485492 (Pat)
SAT 9 NOVEMBER
Holt Christmas Craft Fair
Kenyon Hall, The Cross, Castle Street, Holt, Wrexham LL13 9YL
Flower demonstration with Julie Pearson, theme: "It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas”. Visitors welcome or become a member. Meetings held third Tuesday of the month. 7:30pm Tel: 07857896496 (Christine)
WED 20 NOVEMBER
Pulford & Poulton Local History Group
Pulford Village Hall, off Burganey Court, Pulford, Chester CH4 9ES
A talk by Dr Kevin Cootes: "Update on the Poulton Dig.” All welcome. 7:30pm
£3.00 members/£5.00 non pplhg.org.uk
For a comprehensive list of local events, scan the QR code:
THUR 21 NOVEMBER
Dodleston Local History Group
Dodleston Village Hall, Pulford Lane, Dodleston, Chester CH4 9NN
A talk by Phillip Harrison: "Building Paddy's Wigwam” construction of Liverpool’s Roman Catholic Cathedral. 7:30pm
£5.00 (non member) andrewbettley@gmail.com
SAT 23 NOVEMBER
Rossett Christmas Fair
Rossett & Burton Village Hall, Station Road, Rossett LL12 0HE
Trinity Presbyterian Church, King Street, Wrexham LL11 1LE
Cantorion Rhos and Coleg
Cambria Jazz collective’s “A Winter Showcase”.
7pm
£10.00/children free Tel: 07944 143119 (David)
SUN 24 NOVEMBER
A Christmas Celebration
William Aston Hall, Mold Rd, Wrexham LL11 2AW
Nightingale House return with another popular Christmas spectacular!
7:30pm
£25.00 williamastonwrexham.com
WED 27 NOVEMBER
Licensing of New Vicar
All Saints' Church, Gresford LL12 8RG
Licensing of the new vicar, Reverend Vicki Burrows, by Bishop Gregory Cameron. 7:00pm
THUR 28 NOV - SUN 1 DEC
Victorian Market
St Giles’ Church & Wrexham city centre
Wrexham Victorian Market returns, but over 4 daysfeaturing entertainment, live music, seasonal gifts & treats, hot food and drinks. 12pm - 8pm (Sat 12pm - 4pm) Free
THUR 28 NOVEMBER
Rossett Christmas Lights Switch On
Chester Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0HN
Hot drinks and mince pies available. 4:30pm
While every effort has been made to ensure all the details are correct at the time of going to print, it is advisable to check details with the venue concerned.
FRI 29 NOVEMBER
Homage, a Celebration of the Nativity
All Saints' Gresford School, School Hill, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8RW
The Phoenix Theatre Company presents: “Homage, a Celebration of the Nativity”.
Bringing a Christmas market to Chirk town. Unique handmade gifts, and delicious festive treats, live music, entertainment, food and drink.
12pm - 8pm Free
SUN 1 DECEMBER
Gresford Christmas
Artisan Market
Gresford Trust Memorial, High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS
Christmas Fair featuring great food and craft producers from the region - plus some extra Christmas fun for everyone!
12pm - 4pm Free
Ningaloo Reef An Australian Gem!
By LIZZIE WATTS, Australia Specialist at Delmar World, Gresford
Chances are you’ve heard of the Great Barrier Reef - but have you heard of the Ningaloo Reef? Situated on the opposite side of Australia and less than two hours by plane north of Perth are the most spectacular turquoise lagoons I’ve ever seen - stretching as far as the eye could see. At almost 300km in length, Ningaloo Reef is the world's longest fringing reef and, in many places along the coast, you can explore it just a few metres from the beach.
Over 250 species of coral and 500 species of fish call the Ningaloo reef home, and I spent hours snorkelling, paddle boarding and sea kayaking over spectacular coral gardens and sea life communities: and I lost count of the turtles, stingray and reef sharks I saw, along with a multitude of colourful fish.
Whale sharks, (not actually a shark - the largest fish in the world and entirely vegetarian so perfectly safe to swim alongside!) along with manta rays and humpback whales also call Ningaloo Reef home at various times of the year and you can arrange a tour to view and/or swim with these incredible marine creatures.
There's plenty to do on land too The striking red soils of Cape Range National Park run alongside the coast
and there you can find various trails, canyons and creeks to explore. Spotting wildlife above ground was just as much fun - I saw kangaroos, wallabies and emus.
The best way to explore the area is by car I rented an SUV and stayed in Exmouth - a delightful little town with a choice of accommodation. There are several food outlets, grocery stores and shops and one delightful restaurant which also acts as the local pub, live music venue and general meeting place!
It may be off the normal tourist route but it’s certainly worth the journey and I can’t wait to return one day.
Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises. Tel: 01978 853 886, www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE
Wrexham Tourism News
By JOE BICKERTON, Tourism Manager, Wrexham County Borough Council
No sooner has summer ended, than we start looking forward to our winter events and new products that are due to further grow our tourism offering in 2025.
Wrexham Larger Tasting Experience
We recently completed the trial runs of a new tour – for both locals and visitors –that will showcase several of our hospitality businesses and one of our other globally known products, Wrexham Lager! Devised by Wrexham Lager and local businesseslaunching at the end of October, ½ day tours will be bookable which will take in the Bank Bistro on the High Street, where a tasting paddle of the three Wrexham Lager beers will be matched with three unique dishes for lunch. This will then be followed by a private tour of St Giles Church; a bespoke tasting experience at Vault 33; a brewery tour at Wrexham Lager; finishing with a visit to Jones’ Chip Shop for some tasting! For dates and more details, contact: tourism@wrexham.gov.uk
Victorian Market
It’s also been announced recently that the refurbished Butchers and General Markets in town will officially re-open to coincide with the new, four-day Christmas Victorian Market! Starting on 28th November through to 1st December, the Victorian Market will once again be in St Giles Parish Church courtyard, and snake through Hope Street to Queen’s Square, with wooden chalet style stalls featuring gifts, food and drink and much more!
The refurbished markets are also promising to be a real spectacle, with many original features uncovered and a diverse array of independent traders.
Christmas light switch on Wrexham also has it’s official Christmas light switch on – taking place between Queen’s Square and Eagles Meadow on Saturday 16th November from 4pm.
Finally, last month our tourism team met up with the new operators of the proposed Wrexham to London train service, which is due to launch in 2025. Subject to approval, the three-hour service using a fleet of modern trains will link Wrexham and London directly several times a day. Not only that, but the team behind the project are really keen to link in with us to highlight Wrexham on-board the train and bring as much local produce to the catering side of things which is really exciting. Ultimately, it’s great to have such attention focussed on Wrexham right now, but infrastructure investments such as this and the creation of more accommodation (such as the Old Registry on Chester Street – opening in the new year) will only serve to enhance the welcome we’re able to provide!
Keep up to date with event and tourism news via the @thisiswrexham social pages on Instagram and Facebook alongside the website with ideas of places to visit, stay and eat at: www.thisiswrexham.co.uk
By Joe Bickerton, Tourism Manager at Wrexham County Borough Council
T. 01978 292015
www.thisiswrexham.co.uk
Gardening Tips and Advice
November - Winter is on its Way
Leaves are falling rapidly, and wind and rain are on the increase. Tender plants will need protecting from frost, gales and freezing rains. Move plants into the greenhouse, or into a sheltered spot, but if you can't, it is worth wrapping plants or pots. Remember winter can be a tough time for birds in terms of water and food, so keep supplies well topped up.
TOP 10 JOBS TO DO IN THE GARDEN THIS MONTH
1. Clear up fallen leaves - especially from lawns, ponds and beds.
2. Raise containers onto pot feet to prevent waterlogging.
3. Plant tulip bulbs for a spring display next year.
4. Prune roses to prevent wind-rock.
5. Plant out winter bedding.
6. Cover brassicas with netting if pigeons are a problem.
7. Insulate outdoor containers from frost - bubblewrap works well.
8. Stop winter moth damage to fruit trees using grease bands around the trunks.
9. Put out bird food to encourage winter birds into the garden.
10. Use a seasonal bonfire - where this is allowed - to dispose of excess debris unfit for composting.
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Latest News From Ysgol Sant Dunawd, Bangor-on-Dee
It's wonderful to see our school back open and buzzing with activity after the summer holidays. The staff and I are thrilled to welcome all our pupils back and begin another fantastic year of learning. A special welcome goes out to our 11 new nursery children, who have settled exceptionally well into their new class and routines. It's always a joy to see the youngest members of our school community find their feet and embrace the school environment.
Both girls shared manifestos filled with exciting ideas for the school, including some wonderful initiatives focused on giving back to the wider community. The next step for Evie and Georgia is to form their ministries, selecting pupils from across the school to work together on projects that benefit everyone. It's an exciting time, and we are confident that these roles will empower our pupils to take on leadership responsibilities while fostering a strong sense of teamwork.
We've had a busy and exciting start to the term. One of the highlights has been our very own Senedd Election, where the pupils took part in the democratic process to elect two school leaders. We're delighted to announce that Evie has been elected as our First Minister, with Georgia as her Deputy.
We also have our Family Learning Days to look forward to this half term. This is where our families are invited into school to come and learn with their children. Dosbarth Clywedog are looking forward to their first trip of the year to Agrication where they will be learning about farming and sustainability.
Diolch yn fawr to all the parents, carers, and community members for your continued support. We look forward to another successful year of working together to make our school a special place for all our children.
EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe
Cranberry, Apple & Spinach Salad
Cranberries are tart, bright red berries that are rich in vitamin D. This refreshing cranberry, apple and spinach salad is simple to prepare with fresh ingredients, tossed in a quick apple cider vinaigrette
SALAD INGREDIENTS
150g fresh baby spinach
2 small apples, cored and thinly sliced
⅓ cup dried cranberries
½ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
Half of a small red onion, thinly sliced
85g crumbled goat cheese
VINAIGRETTE INGREDIENTS:
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove, peeled and minced
A generous pinch of salt and black pepper
4-6 SERVINGS
METHOD
Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a bowl, combine all the vinaigrette ingredients and whisk vigorously until well mixed. Alternatively, you can shake them together in a mason jar.
Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, add the spinach, apples, red onion, walnuts, dried cranberries, and half of the goat cheese. Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining goat cheese. Enjoy!
Seasonal Treats in November
In November, the food scene is all about cosy, comforting flavours. Here's a glimpse of what's in season during this month:
Root Vegetables and Squash
Think potatoes, carrots, and turnips. They're super tasty and perfect for roasting or making mashed potatoes. Butternut squash are also at their best. Roast them or turn them into soups for that hearty, Autumn feeling.
Cranberries
These little guys add a tangy pop to your meals. They're great for making cranberry sauce or adding to baked goods.
Apples
Apples are still crisp and delicious in November. Make apple pies or enjoy them fresh as a snack.
Citrus
Oranges, grapefruits, and clementines start coming into season, adding a burst of freshness to your meals.
Game Meat
November marks the beginning of the game season in the UK, when pheasant, partridge, and wild duck are readily available. These meats have a rich, earthy flavour and are often used in hearty stews, pies, and roasts.
Venison
Venison is a lean and flavourful meat that can be used in a range of dishes, from steaks to slow-cooked stews.
Lamb
Lamb is available year-round, but it's especially good in the autumn months. You can find cuts like lamb shoulder or leg for roasting or braising.
Mussels
November is a great time for mussels, when they are plump and at their best. Use them in a variety of dishes, including ‘moules marinières’ and seafood paella.
Pollock
Pollock is a sustainable fish that's in season in the UK during November. Enjoy it baked, grilled, or used in fish pies.
November Shopping List
Apples and Pears (late varieties), Quinces, Cranberries, Sloes, Figs.
Sandwiches, Homemade Scones and Festive Cakes, with Tea or Coffee
£19.95 per person
Monday - Saturday
INCLUDES: Champagne Cocktail on arrival, a 4-course meal, live acoustic performance by the popular singer and guitarist, Jack Woodward, and dancing into the early hours with our resident DJ.
£89.00 per person Booking essential
SUNDAY DINING: Cosy, delicious, a perfect treat
Two course: £19.95
OSCAR'S AT ROSSETT HALL HOTEL
Oscar's is the perfect space to relax and unwindfor morning coffee, afternoon tea and lunches or a romantic meal for two! Our contemporary and comfortable space serves bar meals and snacks throughout the day, as well a great range of wines and beers.
Market Research Drives Success
By GEORGIA NOLAN
In today’s fast-paced business world, understanding the value of market research is more important than ever! With consumer preferences constantly changing and new competitors popping up, market research serves as a fundamental guide for creating effective marketing strategies.
As marketers, we find that, by delving deep into consumer behaviour and market trends, we can develop strategies that truly connect with our clients’ audiences and boost overall business growth.
To successfully market a product or service, it’s essential for our clients, the business owners, to grasp what motivates their consumers, the challenges they face, and the solutions they’re looking for. Market research provides key insights into these areas, allowing for the development of personalised campaigns that sit well with the wants and needs of the audience.
Understanding consumer behaviour goes beyond just tracking buying habits though; it involves looking at the emotional and psychological factors that influence decision-making. By tapping into these insights, we can anticipate changes in consumer preferences and adjust our strategies in order to stay relevant.
With market research tools such as surveys, focus groups and customer feedback, we can gain great insight into what drives consumer motivation and their expectations.
We all know the experience they receive is more important than ever. Therefore, this insight enables us to create messages and offers that speak directly to the audience’s specific desires - and pain points! The result is a more engaging marketing approach that captures attention and builds stronger relationships with customers.
Keeping an eye on market trends is also a key part of market research. This helps businesses stay competitive in an everchanging environment. By analysing consumer data and feedback, marketers can spot emerging patterns and shifts that could impact their client’s industry. This kind of foresight lets companies proactively adjust their strategies, seize new opportunities, and navigate potential challenges.
Ultimately, by continuously monitoring and analysing the market, businesses can stay one step ahead, adapting quickly and staying relevant in a dynamic marketplace.
If you need help with your marketing strategy, don’t hesitate to contact us today: 07474 333004. Or why not check out our website: www.timeformarketing.org
EssentialsMAG marketing contributor is Georgia Nolan of Time For Marketing georgia@timeformarketing.org
Tel: 07474 333004
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Will Paying for Long-Term Care Affect my Inheritance Planning?
By WARREN HADLOW
It’s hard to think of ourselves or our parents as being dependent as we get older, but when we do, the figures can make us wince. The cost of social care can quickly swallow up any inheritance that we planned to pass on to loved ones, however, with careful forward planning, you can mitigate the impact that care fees can have.
How long might I need to pay for care?
None of us can know for sure how long we will need care, however more of us are expected to live to 100 and it’s unlikely to reach that age without needing any care at all. The longer you live, the higher the bill will be and the less money there will be for family and the longer they will have to wait for it too.
Some older people are now taking a multigenerational approach and choosing to pass their wealth directly to grandchildren rather than their children during their lifetime. This approach can keep money flowing through families in the most tax-efficient way.
When should I make a long-term care plan?
It’s important to discuss and plan for a range of scenarios earlier in life; when children are still living at home, for example. It’s important to share how your social care would be funded, if and when it’s needed, for everyone’s peace of mind. It can be an unwelcome surprise to learn that an expected inheritance has been swallowed up by care fees.
Talking to your family about long-term care
Conversations between loved ones around growing old and dying can be difficult with emotions running high and lots of feelings to be considered. One way to overcome this could be bringing in someone who is one step removed, such as a financial adviser, who can help to find common ground. Having conversations early
means everyone knows what to expect and they’re comfortable with it well before long-term care might be needed.
Will I need a Power of Attorney if I need long-term care?
All too often, we hear from client’s families who suddenly need to help their parents with their finances, but they can’t because they don’t have a Power of Attorney (POA) in place. A POA means that someone can act on your behalf if you lose mental capacity and can no longer look after your finances or your own health and welfare. Having a POA in place proactively, and as part of your financial plan, can mean avoiding unnecessary distress and delay further down the line.
Financial planning for the whole family
If, or when, you need to put long-term care plans into action, it’s a decision that affects everyone in the family. Having a multigenerational financial plan with the long-term future of your family in mind, as well as your own later-life care, helps to protect your future, and theirs.
If you would like to discuss your later-life planning, please feel free to get in touch.
Advice relating to POAs necessitate the referral to a service that is separate and distinct to those offered by St. James’s Place. POAs are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Long term care planning may involve a referral to Karehero (previously Care Sourcer), a comparison and care matching provider, whose services are separate and distinct to those offered by St. James's Place.
By Warren Hadlow of Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited
The hustle and bustle of running your business can sometimes often feel overwhelming. You wear many hatsmarketer, accountant, customer service representative, and more. While this can be empowering, it can also lead to burnout and limit your growth potential. One essential skill that can help you manage your workload is effective delegation.
Recognising the need to delegate
The first step is recognising which tasks can be delegated. Assessing your daily activities can reveal areas where help is needed. Identify routine tasks that consume significant time, such as bookkeeping, social media management, or customer follow-ups. These tasks, while important, can often be delegated to freelancers or part-time staff.
Choosing the right people
Hiring freelancers or part-time employees can provide the expertise you need without the commitment of a full-time hire. For instance, consider hiring a virtual assistant to manage your emails or a social media specialist to enhance your online presence.
Trusting your team
Trust is a critical component of effective delegation. Once you've handed over a task, step back and allow your team member to take ownership. Avoid the temptation to micromanage, as this can stifle
creativity and initiative. Instead, empower them to make decisions, fostering a sense of responsibility and engagement.
An example: Sarah from Wrexham, runs a successful online handmade jewellery business. To manage her increasing workload, she delegated customer service to a skilled virtual assistant, ensuring timely responses to inquiries, and hired a parttime social media expert to boost her online presence. This strategic delegation freed up valuable time for Sarah to focus on product design and explore new growth opportunities, leading to increased sales and enhanced brand visibility.
Focusing on growth
By effectively delegating tasks, you free up valuable time to focus on strategic initiatives that drive growth. Whether that means networking, exploring new markets, or developing innovative products, having the time to think critically about your business is crucial.
Whether you’re starting a new business, working for yourself or managing a team, EssentialsMAG Learning Hub is home to a growing collection of jargon-free marketing and business resources. Visit: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/learning-hub
By Vicky Heathfield, Editor of EssentialsMAG
vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk
www.essentialsmag.co.uk
Tel: 01978 855459
Little Scholars Day Nursery
The Centre for the Child, Glyndŵr University, Mold Road, Wrexham LL11 2AW
For information about places please contact KIM or BECCA
Tel: 01978 314912 littlescholars@activechildcare.co.uk Why not pay us a
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• Purpose built nursery
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• Open to the general public as well as students and staff at GlyndŴr University
• Holiday Club provision for ages 4‐12 also available
St. Peter's Playscheme
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We offer wrap around childcare for all our pupils, including those of nursery age. We are open from 7:45am to 5:30pm during term time. We also offer childcare during the school holidays.
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For details contact Mrs Sophie Cannon 07958 915685 playscheme381@gmail.com
Acton Park Primary School
Acton Park Primary School
Lesley Griffiths MS
Member
Senedd
The Wrexham Gateway project is something I have long-championed as I believe it can deliver something truly transformational for our city. Working with local partners, the Welsh Government invested £25m in 2021, with the scheme aiming to regenerate the Mold Road area – a key corridor into the city. Frustratingly, there have been bumps in the road so I asked the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy & Planning, Rebecca Evans MS, for an update on its progress.
The Cabinet Secretary confirmed the Welsh Government’s enthusiasm for the Gateway project is “unquestionable” and the partnership remains focused on delivering the project in full. She also revealed Wrexham AFC intend to have the Racecourse, including the new pitch and Kop stand, ready for the UEFA under-19 championships in the summer of 2026, with North Wales hosting the competition in the Football Association of Wales' 150th anniversary year.
Gwenfro Valley Adventure Playground is a valuable, much-loved resource that offers crucial support to the community. I recently visited the facility to see firsthand the impressive progress being made on rebuilding play structures, as well as the newly installed toilet facilities that have been partially funded by the Welsh Government. More than 400 children visit Gwenfro Valley Adventure Playground every year and the latest improvements aim to further enhance its offerings for children and families.
During my visit, we also discussed the importance of the Welsh Government’s Holiday Hunger Programme, which Gwenfro
Wrexham
Valley delivered throughout the summer holidays. It was lovely to meet the hardworking staff and trustees and after speaking with some of the families that regularly use the facilities, it is clear the new improvements will make a positive difference.
Towards the end of September we marked the 90th anniversary of the Gresford Colliery disaster. A number of commemorative events took place including a poignant service at the Gresford Colliery Memorial, which was very well attended. I delivered a statement in the Senedd and it was an honour to be invited to a special memorial service at All Saints’ Church in Gresford.
We must never forget the 266 men and boys who lost their lives that fateful night and the devastating impact it had on the local community. Fortunately, we have the Friends of Gresford Colliery Disaster Memorial and the Wrexham Miners Project helping preserve our mining history, and I pay tribute to all those involved.
If you’re a constituent in Wrexham and there is an issue I could help you with, please do not hesitate to contact me.
If you want to find out the answers they will be published in next month’s edition.
Here are the answers from October:
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