LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS

According to a recent survey Halloween can be a source of anxiety for young children. Approximately 68 per cent of parents admitted that their little kids are frightened by Halloween, with spooky masks (51 per cent), creepy monsters (48 per cent), and scary decorations (44 per cent) being the primary culprits.

So it may be good to know that some Christian churches are offering an alternative approach to the traditional spooky celebrations by organising “light parties” that incorporate games, fancy dress, and party food to present a more upbeat and positive atmosphere.

“Light parties” aim to attract non churchgoers, especially children, and provide a safer and more controlled environment than traditional trick or treating. Some churches use Halloween as an opportunity to promote All Saints’ and All Souls’ days, helping children come to terms with death and overcome their fears in a constructive manner.

Stop The Stigma

Over the years supermarkets and Halloween event organisers have come under fire for offering Halloween costumes and attractions that mock people dealing with mental health issues or illness. Politician Norman Lamb has spoken out, “Everyone should be able to enjoy Halloween but I urge all retailers to behave more responsibly –don’t demonise mental illness.” zerosuicidealliance.com

And the Zero Suicide Alliance have worked with leading UK events organisation Corporate Entertainment Professionals (CEP) to tackle the potentially lethal effect of stigmatising language in addressing mental health issues.

Ididn’t truly know I was trans until a few years ago. I was a quirky kid who preferred dolls and dressing up to boys’ toys – and I had zero interest in sports.

The clues were always there. At 14 I read a book by Caroline Cossey called ‘My Story’ – she was a Bond actress and model who had been ‘outed’ by the media – she went through hell, and I felt that quite deeply.

This and other experiences over the years were dead giveaways that I was trans, yet I couldn’t see it. I only fully realised at 48.

I came out and never looked back, but it hasn’t been easy. Telling my mum was tough. She’s 84 and has a wicked sense of humour. I knew I was loved, but it was like dropping a bombshell. I said, ‘Remember that book I told you about with the Bond girl – well that’s me’.

“There was a pause, then she smiled and said: ‘We always thought you were eccentric.’ We talked about my childhood, how I loved the dressing up box, and how I was often