Konect Calders April 2022 by Konect Magazines

APRIL 2022

MONEY MATTERS:

LOCAL CHARITY:

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT:

PLUS: HEALTH & beauty, Puzzles, and MUCH morE inside!

P26

ur charity this month is Braid Health and Wellbeing. They are based in Livingston and serve people all over West Lothian and beyond, providing vital quality-of-life services for isolated, vulnerable or older people in the community. It’s all about enhancing lives with social connections and meaningful, enjoyable activities. Check the article on pages 8-9 and get in touch with them if you know someone who could benefit. Health and beauty expertise; having the care conversation with older loved ones; investing in turbulent times; smart property marketing; a new pump track in West Lothian to discover for the kids; to name a few, just so much local and expert advice packed into this magazine by our fantastic local contributors. And for a smile –just look at the photo of the puffins in the Local Environment column. Wishing all readers and customers a lovely Easter. Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

THIS ISSUE Charity: Braid Health & Wellbeing.......................8 Health: Seasonal Yoga.........................................14 Hair: DIY Colour Remover...................................14 Living Well: The Care Conversation.................15 Local Environment: Roll up, roll up!..................18 Property Matters: Quick Response Property Marketing...................................................................26 Money Matters: Investing in turbulent times....29 Sudoku Puzzle.........................................................30 Wine Tasting: The Ugly Ducking.......................33 Parenting: It’s wheelie good!..............................34 Film Review: Spiritwalker......................................36 Community: Eco-Ableism....................................38

COVER IMAGE: Easter Sunday, 17th April 2022

All enquiries, E: editor@konect.scot M: 07854 492638 @KonectMagazines

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Sensory Room - available for hire

If you or anyone you know is struggling with isolation, neurological or age-related conditions, there may be a Braid Health & Wellbeing service that can help.

Braid Health & Wellbeing has been providing support to enhance the quality of life for elderly, isolated or vulnerable individuals in the community for over 40 years. They are a lifeline and a highly valued resource for the many people who come through their doors, with services and activities aimed at improving physical and mental wellbeing. They provide opportunities for socialising, learning new skills and promoting independence. Based in Livingston, Braid Health & Wellbeing support people all over West Lothian, and with digital access to some services, from further afield too. The goal for 2022 is to develop different ways for people to access help with a variety of support options. DAY SERVICE - The Day Service is specialist care and an opportunity for the over 55s to make friends, socialise and receive wellbeing support through individual care and support plans.

Run from the day care centre in Livingston, there are various stimulating activities including bingo, reminiscence workshops, light exercise, quizzes, brain games, arts and crafts, Magic Table, cooking classes and even a top-class train set for any railway enthusiasts! Staff will support you to identify personal needs and interests to match the activities available. There is a resident artist based within the centre, and frequent visits from entertainers. Funded places are available for those eligible for a West Lothian Council Day Service referral. Either social work or your GP can make the 8 | CALDERS

referral. For those who do not meet the criteria for council support, you can attend as a private client. You, a family member, your social worker or a healthcare professional can contact Braid Health directly to arrange a start date. LIFE SKILLS WORKSHOPS - Life skills are vital for helping people maintain their independence, promote mobility, balance and coordination and reduce deconditioning; any activity that is meaningful, useful or rewarding to an individual can be considered a life skill. Braid Health runs Life Skills Workshops for individuals living with dementia or neurological conditions, mental health conditions or learning difficulties, and for individuals in the ageing process. They cover skills such as cooking, cleaning and everyday living skills. With assistance from an occupational therapist, Braid Health Life Skills Workshops help people to reach specific goals to maintain, improve or learn new life skills, whether this is cooking a meal, making the bed or safely using the shower or bath. Life Skills Workshops are held at the Braid Health & Wellbeing Centre in Livingston and are free for over 60s.

TEA AND CHAT GROUPS - Tea & Chat is for anyone in the community to come together and socialise, meet new people, enjoy some free tea and biscuits, and have a chat with others. Free of charge, and held at Braid Health & Wellbeing on the last Monday of the month at 2.00pm. @KonectMagazines

CARERS’ SUPPORT GROUP

Tea & Chat

ROOMS FOR HIRE, INCLUDING SENSORY ROOMS - We now have several rooms available for hire including a dark and light Sensory Room, along with a Reminiscence and Life Skills room. There are also 3 meeting rooms available which can accommodate up to 50 people. All rooms are available 7 days a week 8.30am - 10.00pm For more information on any Braid Health & Wellbeing service, or to enquire about room hire, please contact Sophie at: sophieq@braidhealth.scot

Services and activities aimed at improving physical and mental wellbeing Developing access to a variety of support options

Braid Health & Wellbeing, Labrador Avenue, Livingston, EH54 6BU.

www.braidhealth.scot @BraidHealthandWellbeing

Braid Health and Wellbeing is a charity registered in Scotland, number: SC012574 @KonectMagazines

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SPRING FORWARD Looking to nature, we see buds just beginning to open and bloom - the trees are not quite green yet but leaves are on the way.

The “upward, outward” energy of spring is visible as bulbs sprout up vigorously and trees seem to reach towards the sky. There is a “newness” to everything, and an emerging lightness, too. It is a great time to begin new projects, to plan ahead and be decisive about your direction for the coming year. SOME IDEAS FOR A NOURISHING SPRING: * Meditate regularly (contact me if you would like a free audio recording to use) * Get outdoors if possible * Be kind. Laugh! * Add plants to your space * Spring clean SEATED TWIST (Please listen to your body and only do what feels good!)

• Sitting on the floor, extend both legs out in front of you • Bend right knee so that the foot comes flat on the floor; a comfortable distance from your body • Right hand behind you for support, inhale deeply as you raise the left arm, creating length in the side body • Exhale, and twist to the right, bringing left hand (or outside of elbow) to right knee • Inhale to lengthen spine, exhale to deepen into twist • After a few breaths, gently release and repeat on the second side

This can also be done in a chair - just bring your hand across the body to the opposite knee and continue to spiral into the twist. This article was contributed by Linda Keys. As a Seasonal Yoga teacher in the area, Linda tries to bring her life and classes into alignment with the rhythms of nature. See www.lindalovesyoga.co.uk 14 | CALDERS

After a year of experimenting with hair dyes, one of the buying trends we’ve seen is DIY hair colour remover with a staggering 234.4% growth in sales. So what we can gather from that is during last year’s lockdowns there was a real need for that feeling of change that you would normally get from a hairdresser with professional advice and approach. With the growth of home colour remover on the market there are now plenty over-thecounter options to remedy that dark dye, with more and more appearing everyday. How does it work? A good colour remover should never shift your natural base, it should work to remove the top coat of a dark or brightly coloured dye and that is it. If it’s something you’re considering then this is the ideal scenario. The cons? A lot of what is on the market currently is essentially bleach and can be damaging and lead to uneven and very warm undertones in the hair. This can be difficult to fix due to condition, without making the hair very dark again or embracing much warmer/copper tones. The bottom line… colour doesn’t remove colour. If you want to be lighter your best bet is to book for a consultation with a professional, keep your hair in the best condition possible; and if you’re not 100% sure about going dark then don’t do it!

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston.www.wonderlandlivingston.com @KonectMagazines

LIVING WELL

Home Instead’s research found that despite a third of adults saying they were concerned about their parents’ physical health, 81% were reluctant to speak to them about care.

Graham Stevenson, owner of Home Instead Livingston is encouraging anyone with an elderly family member to have the care conversation. He says: “Too many people put off the care conversation with older loved ones, whether that’s because it’s an uncomfortable subject or because we think it’s not urgent. It’s best to broach the subject early on, even when it isn’t necessarily needed. That means that if you later require care, you’ve already established what kind of support you want and all you need to do is put the wheels in motion.

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“We are a team that supports families as they explore the care options available. We know that it’s a big step, so we work with you to develop the best care plan and make your transition into care as easy as possible.” Home Instead provides care services to ageing adults across West Lothian, enabling them to live safely and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible. Services include companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, personal care, and medication reminders.

Home Instead is looking for Care Professionals to join the team, seeking caring individuals who can make a difference to the lives of local older people. Full training is provided, and Home Instead is with new recruits every step of the way as they settle into their role. The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead Livingston. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046 or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/livingston

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

The circus is coming to town! Did you know that “circus” is the collective name for a group of puffins? They are after all called the clowns of the sea (amongst many other things) so it’s only fitting. I’ve been looking forward to writing this for many reasons but the main one is that it signifies that puffins will be back on our shores for the first time since last August. They’ve not touched land since they left, instead spending the whole winter in the Atlantic Ocean and return to coastlines up and down the U.K. for the breeding season. I know what you’re thinking, there’s no puffins in West Lothian or Edinburgh you silly billy! Well, you are technically correct but you can get a short boat trip out to see some of our puffin colonies from South Queensferry, North Berwick, or take a jaunt over the bridge to Anstruther and get some award winning fish and chips whilst you’re there. There’s a small population on Craigleith Island but the highest numbers are on the Isle of May, which is a wonderful place to visit and you’ll also find other 18 | CALDERS

seabirds such as razorbills, guillemots, and kittiwakes. A word of warning though, if you go in artic tern breeding season make sure to pack a hat or stand beside someone tall as you run the gauntlet through the nesting colony. I’m spending a week with the circus in July and maybe I’ll see you there. This column is contributed by Clare Harte and Kate Stevenson, who grew up in Edinburgh and now live in West Lothian. Together they run Scottish Sisters Photography and travel around the country to watch and photograph amazing wildlife and scenic landscapes. Follow them on Facebook @ScottishSistersPhotography @KonectMagazines

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Quick Response Property Marketing Whilst not new, QR codes have become increasingly familiar in our lives over the past couple of years, mostly thanks to Test & Protect check ins, covid testing and so on. This has created an opportunity for us to re-introduce QR codes to benefit home buyers even more now by linking directly to every individual property listing.

ABOVE: Brochure and Window Card examples 26 | CALDERS

We first introduced QR codes on our brochures, window cards and property adverts 10 years ago, when very few people had heard of them or were familiar with how to use them. (We were the first estate agents to do so and believe we are still the only agents using them). Each property we offer for H ER E AN sale has a unique QR C S code. By placing this on all sales materials property adverts, newspaper columns or magazine editorials, property brochure, window cards - potential buyers have a quick and easy way of viewing all the property details such as photos, videos and floor plans instantly. This saves time having to search on the Agent’s website or property portals such as Rightmove (or even remembering to search for it later). This in turn often leads to an enquiry being sent directly to us with a viewing @KonectMagazines

request, simply by giving the buyer easy access to all of the information on the spot. QR codes are a great example of how new marketing technology not only sits well alongside traditional products but improves them with a new level of customer experience.

relying on browsers to try and find the property online via their smartphone or at a later time via another device. By displaying the QR code on the window card, the potential buyer can instantly access all the property details and make an enquiry directly. QR TO SHOWCASE ONLINE AND INTERACTIVE DETAILS

We regularly hear of agents advising sellers that there is no requirement for a printed property brochure or a high street office. This advice is generally offered in order to cut costs or from an online or ‘out of town’ agent with no visible high street presence. However the examples below demonstrate why both of these traditional marketing channels are important, and how modern technology works alongside them to enhance the user experience and campaign effectiveness. QR TO GRAB IMPULSE INTEREST Highly visible window displays on a busy street attracts passers by to stop and look at the properties being advertised in the window. They may not be looking for a property or thinking about selling, or they may have a particular or specific location in mind when searching online. Seeing a property in the window often sparks interest, and can trigger an instant response via a QR code - rather than

ER E NH

Similarly, when someone has viewed a property with one of our agents, they are always given a printed brochure.

This acts as a constant visual reminder of the house they have viewed. It can often be several days before a buyer decides to take further action, often after seeing the brochure again perhaps on their coffee table or breakfast bar. A unique QR code printed on the brochure allows the buyer to access the online property details instantly without having to search multiple websites to find it again. Ultimately, it makes it easier for buyers to view your property. This is particularly effective when accessing property videos, virtual tours, drone imagery, animated walkthroughs and the other innovative tools we use to showcase properties. That’s why it’s called Quick Response and it’s just one of the many ways we aim to make house buying and selling as simple and pleasurable as possible.

Use your smartphone camera to scan QR codes

The monthly Property Matters column is contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of the West Lothian Property Market and over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing. @KonectMagazines

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MONEY MATTERS

When geopolitical tensions are high, it’s hard to ignore the fact that our world is a volatile place. The images, videos and sounds of war can affect us deeply, no matter how far removed we are from it physically.

At such times, the movements of financial markets may seem trivial, nevertheless it is understandable that investors will be searching for answers and solutions. There is no clear precedent for predicting the impact of war on markets. There are many examples from history where the impact has been localised or short lived, and, over the long-term, markets are resilient.

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Markets often fall during times of conflict and uncertainty, but data shows that they have bounced back significantly. Stock market falls of more than 10% happen in more years than they don’t. Despite short-term fluctuations caused by events, including conflict, history shows that investing in assets such as equities has proved the best way to grow capital and protect it from inflation over the long-term. Past performance is not a guide to the future and may not be repeated. The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the fund selected. The Money Matters column is contributed by Lucy Logan. Lucy lives in Calderwood and is Principal of Calderwood Financial, an Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place.

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PUZZLE

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WINE TASTING

April 14TH is Tannat Day. Tannat is a lesser known red grape variety. Compared to easy drinking Cabernet and Merlot, Tannat is the ugly duckling. Deep, dark and dense in colour, intense on the palate and mouth puckeringly dry. Pinot Noir grapes have thin skins and low tannins, Tannat grapes have thick skins producing a deep purple opaque wine with coarse tannins. High in acidity the flavour is dominated by blackberry, black plum, black licorice and chewy wood spice. What’s so special about this obscure, unapproachable grape and why does it deserve its own calendar day celebration? Like the ugly duckling in the story, the key to success with Tannat is time. Over time tannins, alcohol and acidity harmonise. Rough edges soften resulting in a complex, mellow and rich wine. Tannat, aged for ten

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years or more develops leather, tobacco, cigar box notes which pair amazingly well with cassoulet, fattier cuts of beef cooked low and slow and rich game dishes. Grown in Madiran, Southwest France, it’s often blended with other grapes. It is also grown in Uruguay where it is considered the national grape. If you have a sweet tooth, one of the most beautiful dessert wines I’ve ever tasted is produced in Uruguay from 100% Tannat grapes. A real treat and another reason to celebrate Tannat Day! Dry red for aging: Madiran ‘Les Noyers’ Domaine Sergent 2017, available from de-burgh.com Sweet wine: Alcyone Tannat, Bodega Pablo Fallabrino, Uruguay is available online and from Great Grog. The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her husband and three children. For wine recommendations, reviews and details of future tasting events, please go to swirlsipsocialise.com

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PARENTING

Weeeeee!

It’s Wheelie G D!

n! Family fu

So with spring finally in the air we decided it was time to get the kids bikes out of hibernation. My eldest has been dying to get back on her bike for ages and she’s not been shy about asking (nagging) us to take her out. My youngest on the other hand is still at that awkward stage where she can ride her bike like a pro… as long as it’s flat, but throw in a hill and suddenly it’s far too much like hard work. So she’s picky about where she wants to ride. We love going cycling as a family. It’s a great way to explore and the kids always feel like we are going on an adventure. But I’ll be honest we don’t do it in all weathers so during the winter we don’t get out much and it can be hard to get back in the habit of it after a few months off. It seems like every weekend we’ve been free it’s been teeming with rain but we finally got a break and decided to head out and do something a bit different to hopefully appeal to both of them and get them back in the swing of things. 34

We headed to the new pump track that is now open at Balbardie Park in Bathgate. It’s not far from Xcite Bathgate for anyone who doesn’t know the area and it was just opened this year, which is how I heard about it. I didn’t even know what a pump track was so if it is a mystery to you too I can tell you what Google told me. A pump track is basically designed to be ridden without needing to pedal, so you just use your bodyweight to ‘pump’ yourself round the track. It sounds weird but it makes sense once you see the kids in action. When we were there we saw kids doing it with bikes, balance bikes, scooters, and skateboards. I was amazed at the speed some of them were able to go round. It was a great place for the kids to build skills and confidence, especially after the winter when they’ve not been on their bikes as much. My youngest will be much

happier heading back to the off-road trails at Beecraigs having had a go at this.

It was lovely as well seeing kids of all ages and stages giving it a go, and doing their own thing depending on what they were capable of. I even spotted an adult or two! The new track is apparently the longest pump track in West Lothian and is the area’s first floodlit track as well so will be great in the winter too. But summer is on the way first, and here’s to getting plenty of time on two wheels! The parenting column is contributed by Laura Archibald. Laura lives in West Lothian with her family and their campervan Hank. She is mummy, wife, blogger and full-time personal assistant to her two girlie girls.

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SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

What happens when you mix the iconic Quantum Leap with John Wick?

You get Spiritwalker Spiritwalker,, a truly special South Korean action thriller. Waking up with no memory and learning that every 12 hours he switches bodies, our main character has one mission - uncover the truth and find out who he is! Spiritwalker simply grabbed me with its opening scene. You are dropped into this situation just like the main character. You have no idea what is happening and the way the film pulls back its layers to reveal the truth is expertly done. What stands out in this film is that it’s a masterclass in editing; while it’s a very serious film there are moments of levity that expertly uses cuts to make you burst out into laughter. While I wished there was more action, the action we get is nothing short of incredible and expertly done. The final action scene alone will go down as one of the best action scenes of the year and contains fantastic choreography and is amazingly shot. All the performances are great but Yoon Kye-Sang as the lead is a true stand-out. He is amazing and brings his character to life. Spiritwalker is truly special film. It’s a film I can’t wait to watch again, and it’s a film I want to share with everyone. It’s another prime example of why I love Asian cinema and how some of the most exciting and original films come from Asia. Spiritwalker is available on digital platforms from 31st March 2022. The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton. 36 | CALDERS

ACROSS: 1. Cash, 3. Chess set, 9. Upbraid, 10. Email, 11. Spring greens, 14. Let, 16. Bongo, 17. Hip, 18. Rollerskater, 21. Riots, 22. Bayonet, 23. Pedestal, 24. Golf. DOWN: 1. Counsels, 2. Sober, 4. Hid, 5. Skeleton keys, 6. Staunch, 7. Tale, 8. Cannibalises, 12. Goner, 13. Aperitif, 15. Twofold, 19. Tango, 20. Grip, 22. Boa.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 30

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher. Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. Magazine Design: Alan Stewart t/a Universal Appeal M: 07729 911858 E: alan@universal-appeal.com

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Eco-Ableism Greener, more sustainable lifestyles are a topic of conversation across our communities, from schools to community groups, to businesses and policymakers. But what about people with disabilities? The different needs and lifestyle adaptations of those with disabilities are often not considered when it comes to changing government policies to reduce carbon emissions and improve the planet. Researchers at Heriot-Watt University are working on a new project, Eco-Ableism, in collaboration with West Lothian Council’s Libraries Service and The Ability Centre in Carmondean, to address just this. The ‘Eco-Ableism’ project aims to identify the challenges and barriers that people with disabilities in West Lothian face in trying to adopt greener, more sustainable, lifestyles. The research project will engage with local groups and individuals to identify the potential discrimination they face, as efforts are made to enact new eco-friendly policies at local and national levels. Professor Kate Sang, from the School of Social Sciences at Heriot-Watt University, is co-leading the project and aims to work within communities, with people’s voices and personal experiences at its heart. Kate has vast experience in working with underrepresented communities, researching disability, gender and gynaecological health at work.

individuals to have a voice when developing environmental aspirations, enabling sustainable lifestyle choices to be as equitable as possible. The project seeks to identify practical support mechanisms that can be rolled out across the community in West Lothian and beyond. Do you have a disability of a long-term health condition and would like to get involved? Would you be interested in finding out more? We’d love to hear from you!

Get in touch: eco-ableism@hw.ac.uk This article was contributed by Heriot-Watt Engage

The project team will work with groups to identify the difficulties disabled people face in their daily life choices, exploring how this impacts upon their ability to engage with policy and process changes as councils and other government organisations seek to align with post-COP26 agendas. The team will examine how to empower 38 | CALDERS

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SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE... LADIES CIRCLE - Dave King Community Centre, Main Street, East Calder. Second Thursday of every month at 1.30pm-3.30pm SEASONAL, PREGNANCY, AND POST-NATAL YOGA CLASSES in your area with Linda Keys - My classes are genuinely inclusive of all bodies and levels of experience. They can support you in getting in harmony with the seasons, and help bring a sense of balance and connection. Please see my website for up-to-date class info, and use the contact form if you have any questions about beginning or returning to a yoga practice. www.lindalovesyoga.co.uk POTTER AROUND AT POTTER AROUND - Potter Around is a local pottery and ceramic painting studio based in Kirknewton. We offer taster sessions on the potter’s wheel for ages 5+. We also do clay imprints – a great memento to keep forever and we have a huge range of premade ceramics which are great for handprints, but also for people of all ages to paint. Our shop sells gorgeous handmade gifts including pottery and jewellery. Check our website for details. www.potteraround.co.uk SUKHA YOGA - Getting back on your mat with real yoga every Wednesday 7.00 - 8.30pm, Dave King Partnership Centre, East Calder. Feel the benefit from strengthening practice and regular relaxation. £6 per session or book 5 sessions for £25. All Covid-safe measures are in place. Bring your own mat and any other yoga equipment you need. Please confirm booking by pre-paying for your class. any further information, please contact me on 07767 777044. Everyone welcome. EAST CALDER SCOUT GROUP Providing fun and exciting scouting programmes for children in the local area, from age 6 upwards. We meet on a Monday or Tuesday, depending on the child’s age. Adults interested in becoming leaders will be made very welcome. We also hire the scout hall for one off occasions or for other groups to use, to benefit the local community. Find out more at our website: www.eastcalderscouts.uk KIRKNEWTON SCOTTISH WOMEN’S INSTITUTE - Anyone interested in meeting the ladies of the

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village, having a convivial evening once a month, and perhaps taking part in craft and other home skills. Contact Libby at l1i9b4b6y@gmail.com for more information SLIMMING WORLD - East Calder Bowling Club, 255 Main Street, East Calder. Tuesdays: 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30pm, Wednesdays: 9.30 & 11.30am New and returning members always welcome. Contact Sue: 07803 520781 CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS LADIES' CHOIR - Missing singing? We're back, following Covid restrictions that apply, but still having fun! Why not come along and join us? We meet in Mid Calder at 7.30pm on a Wednesday. Our music consists of a wide range of material from musicals, traditional, pop favourites and lots more. To find out more or to join us please contact John Rankine on 01506 880029. We'd love to see you! CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS HUB - Dedicated yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston. Build strength, flexibility and resilience, and support mental health, joint pain/illness/injury recovery. Iyengar Yoga - Mon 7.30-8.45pm; Vinyasa/ Yin - Tues 6.00-7.00pm and 7.208.20pm; Seasonal Yoga (gentle) - Wed 5.30 – 6.30pm; Yoga in Polish Wed 9.30-10.30am, Tai-Chi - Thurs 9.30-10.45am; Iyengar Yoga - Thurs 7.30-8.45pm; Yoga in Polish Fri 6.007.00pm. Carmondean, Livingston. Email: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk Tel.: 07810 824 195 www.chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on Facebook CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. Services currently via Zoom/ phone: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Virtual Power of Attorney Clinic & Benefits Advice and Counselling. For information: T.: 01506 448000 E: office@carers-westlothian.com W: www.carers-westlothian.com

GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs. Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all. Contact generationarts.coordinator@ gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information. MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre - call to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £10. Follow our Facebook page, visit www.westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.

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