MNL
Mersey News Live FROM THE HEART OF THE CITY
Powered by LJMU journalists
February 9-15 2022
SIMPLE STEPS THAT COULD SAVE YOUR SIGHT
CITY SCRIPTWRITER RESPONDS TO THE CRITICS
CITY CELEBRATES LGBTQ + HISTORY MONTH
A CELEBRATION OF LOVE, LIFE AND LOSS THIS WEEK POLITICS
LIFESTYLE
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CONTENTS THIS WEEK 3 4-5
8&9
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New bakery opens in St George’s Hall Liverpool celebrates the Year of the
Tiger
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Spotlight on rising energy price crisis Why students need to talk about politics Celebrating LGBTQ+ history month Childhood mental health
LIFE pg 11
11 Living with Keratoconus
Pg 4&5
12 New proposals for a train station 13 Alan Sugar ‘s Scouse snub 14 Top things to do this Valentine’s Day
15 Fun dating event for singles on Wirral pg 14
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elcome back to MNL. We hope you all enjoyed the festivities as much as we did. Our team have all been busy getting involved in work placements and developing our skills ready for the new term. Zoe Wheeler went to see the vibrant celebrations of Chinese New Year in Chinatown where she saw crowds gather to watch the traditional dance groups. In the world of politics, we learnt that our energy prices will drastically increase in the coming months
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Wecome back to MerseyNewsLive
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- Danny Ball asks if the government are doing enough to support families affected by this. Radvile Sakenaite speaks to a young campaigner for greater democracy rights about the importance of young people sharing their views on politics. This month will be important for many celebrating LGBTQ+ History month, and our reporter Dannielle Jones lets us in on the important events being held at the Museum of Liverpool. A former LJMU student spoke to us about finding out he had a rare
eye condtion called keratoconus. He’s shared his story with MNL and now he’s raising awareness about it. Liverpool’s Baltic Triangle could become busier by 2025 as our reporter Harley Mullen discusses proposals for a train station. Finally, reporter Luke Pollitt and I took over the MNL podcast where we discussed how life is going as final year students with only a few weeks left until we go out into the working world. Saskia Fryer, Lifestyle Reporter
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Homebaked are famous for their award-winning pies
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he story of award-winning Liverpool bakery, Homebaked, has almost become woven into the city’s folklore. Anfield residents’ dogged fight to transform a derelict bakery into a thriving community hub even inspired a musical, which garnered rave reviews at the Royal Court Theatre last year. Now, in addition to its iconic home in Oakfield Road, Homebaked has set up shop in St George’s Hall, where customers can expect to encounter the same spirit, camaraderie and, of course, seriously good pies, that have made the business a household name on Merseyside. “It’s really touching that after all the work that went into saving the building in Oakfield Road – and all the effort and money that has been put in – we’re up to the standard to be able to go into St George’s Hall,” said Angela McKay, Homebaked Bakery’s operations manager. “It’s like a feather in our cap, and we’re really proud that we were selected because we had to put a proposal together and go up against other people that were interested in the café space.” It would have been impossible to predict the profound impact and ever-burgeoning success of the bakery when it opened its doors in 2013. Back in 2002, Anfield was labelled as a ‘market failure’ and designated as a Housing Market Renewal area, with 1,800 residential and commercial properties set to be demolished. Local landmark, Mitchell’s Bakery, was one of those properties, despite the fact that a community bakery had occupied the site on 197-199 Oakfield Road since 1903. Out of despair for the area’s gradual decline and a faint sense of optimism for its future, two organisations were born: Homebaked Bakery Co-operative and Homebaked Community Land Trust. Whilst the latter strives to deliver housing and other community facilities at permanently affordable levels for local people, the bakery has established a reputation for producing some of the best baked goods in the city as well as constantly working to give back to the local community.
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New home for beloved bakery Anfield’s Homebaked Bakery have fired up the ovens at their new St George’s Hall Café. BETH LINDOP finds out all about their new city centre base
“It’s been blood, sweat and tears for a number of years,” Angela told Mersey News Live. “We didn’t have a lot of money behind us to start with, and there was no one backing us so everything we’ve done we’ve learnt from, and it’s been trial and error.” Despite having established itself as an Anfield mainstay, Homebaked has endured a difficult couple of years owing to the Coronavirus pandemic. Whilst the bakery prefers not to be labelled as ‘Red’ or ‘Blue’, the Oakfield Road shop sits in the shadow of Liverpool’s famous Kop, and the return of matchday revenue has provided the business with a much-welcomed boost. “It’s great to see fans back because
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It’s been blood, sweat and tears for a number of years
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Liverpool Football Club is a big part of living in Anfield; whether you’re annoyed because you can’t get in to park your car or whether you’re a supporter,” Angela said. “It’s lovely to see a bit of life back along that road as well after two years of having no one around. It’s a nice feeling to be getting back to some normality.” And Homebaked’s “new normal” involves baking up a storm at their St George’s Hall café, which opened at the end of January. The menu is packed with a whole host of homemade and locally sourced treats, including the bakery’s award-winning Scouse Pies, vegan pies, and a range of freshly crafted cakes and scones.
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n addition to the baked goods on offer, customers can get involved with the Fans Supporting Foodbanks initiative, which supplies a quarter of all North Liverpool foodbanks’ donations. Those wishing to contribute to the cause can either take items to one of Homebaked’s stores or scan a code on-site to donate online. “Fans Supporting Foodbanks is something that we’ve always supported and it’s great to work with them,” Angela told Mersey News Live. “We know that Anfield is classed as a deprived ward so anything that we can do to help combat food poverty is really great. “They do their stuff and we do ours and we help each other which is what communities are all about;
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Homebaked’s shops in Oakfield Road and St Geroge’s Hall (above) and some of the treats on offer (left) Photos: Homebaked Bakery
helping each other in any way that they can.” When Homebaked first opened its doors almost a decade ago, the team aimed to fulfill three key objectives: community employment, good quality food and training. And Angela believes that their new home in the heart of the city is evidence that the bakery has stayed true to those fundamental principles. She said: “After the last two years with covid, getting the opportunity to go into St George’s Hall has been validation that what we’re sticking to what we set out to do.”
• Customers can visit Homebaked’s new bakery at St George’s Hall every Tuesday through till Saturday, from 9am to 4pm.
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Lunar New Year in Liverpool. Photos: Zoe Wheeler
Year of the Tiger comes in with a
ROAR
Dancing dragons and unicorns paraded through Liverpool’s Chinatown, whilst fire performances, traditional Chinese dance groups and even a 3D projection were all part of the celebrations for the Year of the Tiger. ZOE WHEELER went along to see the celebrations
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normous crowds gathered in Liverpool’s Chinatown at the weekend to take part and witness the myriad of performances exploding with colour that were put in place to roar in the Lunar New Year. After last year’s Lunar New Year celebrations were moved online due to the Covid-19 pandemic, organisers, Culture Liverpool, made sure the celebrations came back with a bang. The weekend of celebrations started at St Luke’s bombed out Church on Friday, where a 3D animated tiger prowled around the Church. The event was commissioned by Culture Liverpool and was a collaboration between Focal Studios, Scenegraph Studios and the Bombed Out Church to bring the story of the tiger to life. Mersey News Live spoke to Dennis Outten, the Creative Director of the project and Focal Studios, and David Tully, Co-Director of Scenegraph Studios, about the event and how it came to be. The event, which was held over three evenings, 4th-6th February, racked up over 2000 visitors which Dennis described as “outstanding.” He said: “We are quite literally over the moon with how well it has turned out, and pleased that our hard work, planning and organisation has paid off. We thrive on collaboration and the fact we could coordinate the combined efforts of three companies in such a short turnaround has been a great achievement.” David said: “The reaction has been great to be honest. Great feedback from the council, local Chinese community who have been involved since the start, and Culture Liverpool.” Focal Studios and Scenegraph Studios worked together to create a
project which paired the 3D animation of a tiger seeking to restore peace and harmony to the heavens with 200 3D lanterns designed by the local Chinese community and primary schools in Liverpool. Dennis said: “We have a fantastic relationship with St Lukes (BoC) and both companies wanted to involve the schools and Chinese community in a way that would engage them with the site and its heritage.” The Merseyside studios then set to work to make the vision come to life. David said: “We worked closely with Focal Studios to brainstorm some ideas, create a concept article to present to all parties, who gave feedback and suggestions to make the concept even better.” The actual process of getting the projection onto the Church was a lot more technical and included Focal Studios following a similar process to their snowflake projection which took place at the Church last Christmas. Dennis said: “We took over 360 still images of the tower using our drone in a process called Photogrammetry, which we then supplied to Scenegraph Studios as a 3D mesh for physics and water simulations.” The unpredictability of Covid-19 and uncertainty as to whether the pro-
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ject would go ahead, David, Dennis and the team were left with a shorter than ideal timescale. David said: “A project of this scope should in all honesty take three to six months. But due to Covid and uncertainty, we got the green light three weeks ago. Yep, a three-month project in three weeks.” Despite the speed in which the project was put together, David said: “It is amazing to see how well all teams worked together for a goal and smash it out the park. Hats off to all parties, but a special mention to Focal Studios who managed everything. A special mention to Chris Howard for the bespoke audio (FOLEY) accompanying the visuals.” Dennis added: “We couldn’t be happier with the result - there were hundreds of happy families in attendance, queues around the street and people made their way to the event in the most wintery weather conditions.”
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ollowing the event at the Bombed Out Church, Sunday saw the main celebrations take place across the city. Chinatown was buzzing with crowds of people whilst a myriad of dance performances, Tai Chi tutorials, and fire performances took place.
We are quite literally over the moon with how well it has turned out
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The celebrations began at 11 and carried on into the evening with a fire performance finale at 5pm. Chinatown and its surrounding area were full of funfair rides, food stands and art workshops welcoming in the Lunar New Year. The highlight from the day was the dragon and unicorn parades through Chinatown and saw some of the largest crowds of the day gathering to catch a glimpse of the parade and what it had to offer. Dance company Movema also put together a spectacular contemporary dance routine telling the story of the Water Tiger which was met with great applause and appreciation from the crowd watching at Great George Square. A new mural, courtesy of Zap Graffiti, is underway at Great George Square. The mural is bringing together local young people with Tang Shou, an award-winning Beijing artist, to signify with the Year of the Tiger means to them. Liverpool’s Chinese Arch is the tallest of its kind inf Europe standing at a staggering 13.5 metres high. The arch features 200, hand carved dragons and it is believed to protect Chinatown from evil. The Chinese Zodiac cycles through animals and elemental types which is why this year of the tiger is a Water Tiger. The Tiger is a symbol of strength and braveness, and water tigers are believed to be family orientated. As smoke filled the air and the music faded, the crowd’s dispersed after a day of fun filled celebrations. Lunar New Year celebrations usually last up to 16 days and the ending of the celebrations is signified with the Lantern Festival which falls on 15th February. The Lantern Festival signifies family reunions and society.
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The energy crisis: Is the government doing enough? With energy prices and other household bills soaring, MNL takes a look at whether the government are doing enough to help those most in need. By DANNY BALL
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ith the energy price cap rising as well as general energy prices, this is bound to effect families up and down the country. With this MNL is asking, are the government doing enough to support working families in the Liverpool city region? The energy price cap is rising from £1,277 to £1,971 for someone on typical usage per year. This is in the same week that national insurance will rise by 12% and the threshold for student loan repayments will be frozen. This all comes when inflation is rising and wages have stagnated for the past decade. It is a combination that has caused hardship among many working-class families who were also hit hard by Covid. Young families and young people are a group of people that are being hit surprisingly hard by the rise in energy bills. MNL spoke to Matthew Mitchell, a young dad from Prescot, about the worry of bills and his concerns for the future due to the costs of living.
He said: “I don’t have a house of my own yet and that’s part of the problem, I’m having to contribute more and more to where I am living now and by the time I’m done paying I don’t have much money left to save towards a place of my own.” He added: “When I get there (and own a place of my own) how easy it is going to be to live in comfort without the worry of bills increasing constantly. Especially with a young son I need that stability.” Matthew was also critical of the government on several fronts: “The government really aren’t doing enough to help families, especially young ones. “I work incredibly hard but my wages are staying the same. Like, what am I supposed to do when prices are rising? I am able to keep my head above water but so many families aren’t. “Then for young people it’s so hard to get a house because there are so few of them, the government are not doing enough, I feel like we are being left behind to be honest.”
Photo courtesy Scott Graham via Unsplash.com When asked if being a relatively young father had made him think about the future more and the effect this period could have on the next generation, Matthew told MNL: “It’s a worry, we don’t seem to be heading in the right direction as a country, we have had COVID which was horrible, and it might feel different soon but in the short term I don’t know if I trust anyone to get us out this mess.
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try to stay positive and, in a few years, when my son is older I hope that we have sorted ourselves out as a country!” The government have introduced multiple measures to try and combat rising energy prices this included a total of £350 to help families adjust to rising energy prices. Chancellor Rishi Sunak told the BBC: ““I really believe that what we’re doing, £350, it’s a significant amount of money that will make a
Photo courtesy Jp Valery via Unsplash.com
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big difference to the vast majority of households, and I think people, I hope actually, will be reassured by us stepping in.” However, only £150 will arrive to those in need by the time energy prices rise in April. Another criticism of the £200 rebate is that it is essentially a loan that will have to be paid back by taxpayers. Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves described the rebate as a “Buy now pay later scheme that loads up costs for tomorrow”, as it is due to be paid back over a five-year period. In opposition to such policy by the government the Labour party have proposed cutting the 5% VAT rate on energy bills from April - this has been steadfastly rejected by the government. The suggestion of a windfall tax on energy companies, which has also been supported by the Lib Dems has also been rejected by the government.
I’m having to contribute more and more to where I am living now and by the time I’m done paying I don’t have much money left to save towards a place of my own
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WHY GEN SHOULD CARE MORE ABOUT POLITICS
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rom Brexit to trump to the covid-19 pandemic the world has changed dramatically since I left high school.
Young people born at the turn of the century, and especially students, are seen both as the group which disengages politically, yet is also at the forefront of major political movements. These include the extraordinary response of Liverpool’s reaction on June 21 last year when Liverpool’s students, locals, and LGBT+ community rallied in support of LGBT+ rights, even though multiple members of that community had been viciously attacked only a few weeks before the Pride rally. The year before, following the murder of George Floyd, hundreds if not thousands of locals and students gathered around St. George’s Hall to show their support for the black community and against police brutality.
He aadded: “Coming to university I’ve met people from a variety of communities and cultures I’ve never thought about prior to my time here. Knowing that so many students like myself have had the same experiences we must all become more interested in the daily affairs that govern our and those around us lives. “From immigration laws affecting foreign students, LGBTQ+ rights affecting our mates, spiking threats, and rape culture affecting the women in our lives and a variety of others to numerous to name. We must each, all of us become involved in helping to protect the people who we have come to meet, shape our university experiences and love as friends, course mates, and more. That is why I believe students should be more involved in politics”.
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allum Barrie a 22-year-old campaigner for greater democracy rights ‘North West Power’ and a final year politics student from Liverpool said: “Politics affects everything in our lives from who we vote for, the TV we watch, the friends we make, the universities we study at. “Politics affects every decision whether we realise it or not, it is always present. To recognise that and the effect that our actions have especially as young adults who are expected to change the world, we need to be involved in politics to be aware of what’s going on in our lives as well as what’s affecting the lives of those around us who we care for and love”.
m Barrie
dit: Callu
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hile the world of politics can be intimidating, by getting involved in politics at a young age, students and other Generations Z-ers are creating opportunities to learn and grow. Many young adults already have a foothold in the world of politics and all they need is just a bit of guidance to make them feel more confident about their knowledge and what they stand for. An important thing to remember is that activism isn’t the only way to be politically involved. At every university, undergraduates should be encouraged to listen to debates, read and research current political issues and figure out their perspective on them. The generation of which I’m a part have a powerful ability to make a difference. They need to realise that they will be the backbone of the political landscape in the future and that every political decision made today by the government will affect everyone’s tomorrow, so it is crucial for the younger generations to be involved and have a voice.
Barrie
Words by RADVILE SAKENAITE
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Photo Credit: National Museums Liverpool
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Photo Credit: National Museums Liverpool
Celebrating history with a sense of Pr Pride February is LGBT+ History Month, a celebration of all the people and communities who wave the rainbow flag with pride. MNL reporter DANNIELLE JONES discovers some of the events happening across Liverpool that you can attend
Photo Credit: Dannielle Jones
Photo Credit: Cecilie Johnson on Unsplash 8
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National Museums Liverpool launch new LGTB+ Events to help raise awareness:
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ationals Museums Liverpool (NML) are putting on a variety of events, activities and introducing new online content all relating to LGBT+ History Month. Claire Benjamin, Head of Learning and Participation at NML said: “We are so excited to be able to showcase a series of contributions from members of Liverpool’s LGBT+ community, responding artistically to the important people, places, and events in their lives. “From the links between religion and sexuality in one of our live panel discussions to exciting new online content, we hope that everybody can find something to inspire them throughout February.” During the month, the Museum of Liverpool are hosting live events to raise awareness of LGBT+ History Month, including a panel discussion that explores religion and LGBT+ lives as well
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Big Chat Series: Christianity and LGBT Lives Museum of Liverpool 12 February 2022 – 1-3pm At this event, you can hear the untold stories of three panellists– Chris Butler, Sister Maria Renate and Kieran Bohan – as they talk through some of their shared experiences and discuss whether having a Christian faith is compatible with being within the LGBTQ+ community.
as talks with LGBT+ individuals who express key issues using their art. Alongside the museums live events, they also have a ‘LGBTQ+ Histories Hub’ on the National Museums Liverpool website to give visitors the chance to delve into interviews, opinion pieces, art history and hidden stories all relating to the LGBTQ+ community from the comfort of their own homes. Claire addded: “Liverpool’s LGBT+ history is long and diverse – the city has been at the epicentre of some of the most important leaps forward in the struggle for LGBT+ rights, including the first legal same sex marriage in a place of worship in 2012. “Despite landmark moments such as these, there is of course still progress to be made and the city is still reeling from a series of homophobic and transphobic attacks in 2021.” • For more information on these events and to book tickets, visit: liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/ lgbt-history
Queer Creatives: Art and Activism Museum of Liverpool 19 February 2022 – 1-3pm This event covers the stories and works of three local artists - Ben Youdan, Lo Tierney and Dan Chan - who use their work in different ways to make the LGBTQ+ community and their issues more visible and to campaign for a more equal society. Storytime with Mama G Museum of Liverpool 26 February 2022 – 11am-12pm, 1-2pm and 3-4pm A family friendly event aimed at younger visitors to give them an opportunity to celebrate LGBT+ History month with special guest, Mama G, present-
Photo Credit: National Museums Liverpool
W Photo Credit: Liverpool John Moores University Trans and Non-Binary Student Network Student Life Building - JMSU Development Room G.18 10 February 2022, 4:30-6pm Led by LJMU Trans and Non-Binary Students' Officer, Olian, this event is an opportunity for trans and non-binary students to come together and chat about their ideas, experiences, and things they want to do in the future. Movie Night: LGBT+ History Month Student Life Building 11 February 2022, 5-7:30pm Join Jessi, LGBTQA+ Students' Officer for LJMU at their LGBT+ History Month Movie Night. Ally Workshop: LGBT+ History Month Student Life Building 17 February 2022, 4-6pm An interactive and informative session where you can share top tips about how to be an ally within the LGBT+ community and beyond. Bingo Night: LGBT+ History Month Student Life Building 28 February 2022, 5-7pm To end their LGBT+ History Month event series, Students' Officer Jessi is hosting a bingo night with an LGBT+ twist!
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Social events bring community into the spotlight
ithin LJMU, the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team (EDI) are alhosting a variety of activities to help raise awareness of LGBT+ History Month and celebrate those within the university and beyond. The team have put together different types of social events including a LGBT themed movie night, bingo night, workshops and more taking place throughout the month at the Student Life Building, located near Lime Street Station. Dr Bee Hughes, Co-chair of LJMU’s LGBT+ Staff Network, spoke to MNL about the importance of raising awareness about the LGBT+ community and how the history month can help engage people about the community. Dr Hughes said: “LGBT+ History Month is important because the history of queer people has been misrepresented, misunderstood, or entirely hidden for a very long time. Now we have much more visibility of LGBT+ people and their lives, but there is still a long way to go to ensure the history of our era is better written than the histories of queer lives in the past. “I think people should engage with
and learn about LGBT+ history all the time – not just during history month – but I do think it is a valuable time for our queer communities to be seen and heard, for us to reflect and celebrate, and for those who might think the world is changing too quickly around them to take a moment to learn about all the different expressions of sexuality and gender that have existed across time and around the world… we’re not as new as some people seem to think!” They also spoke to us about things within the community that need more awareness and how LGBT+ History Month can help with this, adding: “One of the most important things for me is that we aspire towards liberation for the LGBT+ community, not just acceptance. LGBT+ history month can help us move towards liberation when it creates space for queer people to tell their own stories and histories, and perhaps counter some of the moral panic and misinformation that tends to swirl in the media.” Tickets for the events occurring within the university can be booked online for free and for more information you can visit: What’s On & Events @ Liverpool John Moores University Students’ Union (jmsu. co.uk)
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Get stuck in for Children’s Mental Health Week EMMA DUKES discusses the importance of Children’s Mental Health Week and how local schools and charities are taking part.
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t’s Children’s Mental Health Week, a time dedicated to shining a light on the importance of children and young people’s mental health. The theme this year is ‘Growing Together’, encouraging children to think about how they’ve grown and how they can help others grow. Place2Be have held the yearly event since 2015 and offer counselling and support training in schools across the UK. Last week, they released their latest research, which shows 86% of those surveyed noted an increase in low self-esteem, a 61% increase in suicidal thoughts and 56% more pupils having eating difficulties. 95% of school staff also highlighted that they’ve seen an increase in students’ anxiety, since last September. Mental health services anc charities across the United Kingdom are under strain, and Liverpool is no exception. By September last year, more than 3.500 children in Liverpool had been referred to CAMHS - Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services - and experienced extremely long waiting lists. Liverpool City Council also noted last year that eating disorders and self harm across children have been on a rapid increase. Paul Whiteman, General Secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, said, “The findings of Place2Be’s latest urvey are truly shocking – but unfortunately, to anyone working in schools, they are not surprising. “These shocking new stats should add real urgency to the call for additional resources to support the mental health and wellbeing of pupils. The government must ensure that every school has fully funded mental health support available for their pupils and it is essential that they increase the capacity of social care, health and other services to meet the growing demand and to reduce waiting times.” The mental well-being of children has been declining since the beginning of the covid-19 pandemic, so Children’s Mental Health Week is more important than ever, and organisations across Liverpool and Merseyside are getting involved.
How are local schools and businesses getting involed? The Blue Coat School
The Student Support team here have launched a ‘My Best Self’ competition, inviting the students to draw themsleves at their best. The idea is to get them to think about what they were doing at their best, and express their feelings. They have also asked old students, or ‘Old Blues’ to send in things that they would like to say to their younger selves.
Ainsdale St John’s School
Safer Internet Day was held on Tuesday, to teach the children how to be kind online and how to be safe. The school also offers a weekly, ‘Mini Confident Me’ group for children struggling with bereavement.
Liverpool ONE
Liverpool ONE is teaming up with local charities to offer activities and advice to young people. Activties range from art classes, on Thursday and Saturday, to a ‘worry jar’ workshop in John Lewis on Saturday.
Young Person’s Advisory Service (YPAS)
On Wednesday, GYRO will be holding a workshop for 12-16 year olds. A local trans performer, poet and activist will be delivering the event, helping them to create poems themed on LGBT+ history and mental health. On Thursday, The Comedy Trust will be joining The Thrive Group to deliver a workshop to promote positive mental health through laughter.
Images via Place2Be Press.Pack.
SUPPORT NUMBERS • • • • • •
Papyrus (Prevention of Young Suicide): 0800 068 4141 Anxiety UK: 03444 775 774 Beat (Eating Disorders): 0808 801 0722 Centrepoint (Homelessness): 0808 800 0661 Childline: 0800 1111 Hope Again (Grief): 0808 808 1677
Image via Liverpool YPAS.
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LJMU graduate puts spotlight on threat from rare eye disease MNL reporter SASKIA FRYER speaks to a former LJMU student about how he copes with the rare eye disease Keratoconus
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former LJMU journalism student has been using his social media to raise awareness about a rare eye condition he suffers from called Keratoconus. This condition is when the cornea, the clear outer lens of the eye, no longer holds its round shape and starts to bulge outward into a conelike shape. This can have a detrimental effect to a person’s eyesight as this can cause blurred vision making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. Also, if not treated immediately can lead to the condition getting worse and even losing your eyesight. David Diangienda, who graduated last year, found out he had keratoconus in November 2021, this was after he went for his regular check-up at the opticians the previous year. From this appointment, the optician found something in David’s eye, yet they were unsure what it was, so they referred him for a hospital appointment. He said: “I had trouble trying to see out of one eye and had to wait over a year to get an appointment at the hospital, which wasn’t until March this year. I knew if I left this any longer something serious might happen.” Due to the covid-19 pandemic, it made the situation difficult to get medical assistance as hospitals across
the nation were experiencing a back log of people needing appointments. However, after finally getting to see a doctor, David was able to get the specific treatment to help his eye condition which was receiving cross-linking surgery. This is the process of using both eye drops and ultraviolet light from a specific machine to help strengthen the eyes cornea. The doctors told him that this procedure would hopefully reduce the effects of this condition by 95%. He said: “Having this procedure was the best thing I did but it came with a price. After the surgery, the pain in my eye was unbearable for two to three days”. Because of the journey having this condition has taken him, he wants to raise awareness to people about how important it is to get your eyes tested regularly and what can happen if you leave it too long.
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hrough using Instagram and YouTube, David has been documenting what is has been like living with keratoconus by posting pictures of before and after having the surgery on his eyes. He said: “I want to show the impact it can have on you mentally as well, but things do get better. I think it’s really important to document this and use my experience to campaign about this.”
Straight after his cross-linking surgery. Photo: David Diangienda
More people are being encouraged to get their eyes tested. Photo: David Travis/Unsplash
The worst thing
that can happen is you losing your eyesight completely
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Keratoconus has affected him in both of his eyes which means that he must have regular checks to ensure the condition isn’t worsening. According to the NHS, this affects 1 in 3000 to 1 in 10,000 people which goes to show how rare this is. The exact cause of this condition is still unknown to health professionals, yet it has been suggested that it can mostly affect those genetically or of a certain ethnicity. He said: “I was never aware of it myself; I’m still learning about it. That’s why I’m raising awareness about it to show how serious it can
be if left untreated, the worst thing that can happen is you losing your eyesight completely.” Keratoconus is a lifelong condition, which may lead to David having to undertake more surgery such as a cornea transplant. This is the procedure where a cornea from a healthy eye of an individual who has died is used to replace a certain layer on a person’s eye: “The worst thing that can happen from all this is me getting a cornea transplant and it’s a thought that goes through my mind a lot.” Moving forward, David still takes medication to help his condition and reduce any further complications. He said: “I pray that it doesn’t get any worse and I can still do everyday activities.” With his daily job working at a café, he is proving to the minority dealing with this extremely rare eye disease, that it doesn’t have to dictate your life and there are ways to prevent this from happening. You can follow David’s journey on Instagram at bantz.david and on Youtube at Madman.TV.
David after a full recovery from surgery. Photo: David Diangienda 11
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Bid to name new Baltic rail station after ‘punk princess’ By HARLEY MULLEN New contenders for the name of a Liverpool train station have gained traction in the Baltic Triangle.
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upport is growing for a new Merseyrail station in Liverpool to be named after a veteran figure in the city’s creative industries. The public have been asked to vote on the name for the soon-to-be reopened St James station, in the Baltic Triangle. The station is scheduled to open to passengers in 2025. Three options were on the shortlist: Liverpool Baltic, Liverpool Parliament Street and Liverpool Riverside. However, the Baltic Market have put forward their own suggestion with a special reason.
A campaign was launched on Change.org for the new station to be named St.Jayne, after Jayne Casey, a ‘70s punk legend who played a part in the creation of the area in the early 2000s. Launched two weeks ago, the campaign has already gathered over 550 signatures. Spearheaded by Daniel Hunt, the page reads: “Jayne Casey played a huge part in the Baltic resurgence; pioneering the creation of the Baltic Creative. “Put simply, without the foresight of Jayne Casey there would be no Baltic Triangle.”
Tristan Brady-Jacobs, owner of the HOBO Kiosk and board member of the Baltic Triangle Community Interest Company (CIC), said he would love for people to vote for Jayne: “One of my great friends is Jayne Casey and she is the punk princess of the city. “She is a woman – a working class girl who came from difficult circumstances and rose to be a global icon – one of our wonderful hidden treasures.” He added:” We’re a city of storytellers. Let’s tell more stories by inventing curious reasons why we call things rather than going on the nose and being a little bit dull and straight forward – that’s not Liverpool, Liverpool is wild-eyed and wonderful!” Jayne Casey was born in 1956 and is best known for her involvement in the Liverpool punk and new wave scene. She featured in bands such as Big in Japan, Pink Military and Pink Industry in the ‘70s and ‘80s. The artist was also involved in the planning and directing of city arts events, including 2008 Capital of Culture. These events led to the setting up of a Liverpool creative area – the ‘Baltic Triangle’. Despite stepping down from her position on Baltic Creative’s Board of Directors in 2018, Jayne remains involved in the area to this day as a Founding Director. The new railway stop will be based at the site of the former St James’ station which was closed during the First World War as a cost-cutting measure. The station was never reopened. Entertainment venues and businesses situated in the Baltic Triangle have been delighted to see more money put into the area.
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CGI images recently released show what the station might look like once its open. Photos: LCR Combined
ussell Gannon, Marketing and Communications Director of the Baltic Triangle Area CIC, told MNL: “The Baltic Triangle Area CIC has been lobbying the local government for the last five years to get some direct transport links into the area. “As you can imagine, parking isn’t the best and with the district now a tourist destination, it makes sense to re-open the St James Station.” Russell added that the company was asked by Merseyrail and Liverpool City Region for ideas regarding the potential name options for the station. He said: “ ‘Baltic Triangle’ won hands down but bizarrely they went with ‘Baltic Liverpool’.”
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The new station will give direct access to the fast-growing pocket of the city and the nearby waterfront. A £1.5m investment by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has allowed the highlyanticipated project to move onto the next stage. Brady Jacobs said: “Mark Lawler, the manager of the Baltic Creative CIC, has been the prime mover of this and he is really positive and optimistic that it’s going to bring in and allow greater activity within the commercial sector, which I agree with”
“Put simply, without the foresight of Jayne Casey there would be no Baltic Triangle” Speaking on Instagram @BalticMarket said: “This station will be a 30 second walk to us! It’s going to be so great for everyone here in @ CainsBreweryVillage and @BalticTriangle” Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “I am ambitious about the future of public transport in our region and Liverpool’s new station – alongside another new station at Headbolt Lane in Kirkby – are only the first step towards an expanded Merseyrail for All network. “I want our region to have what London has had for years - a transport system that is affordable, reliable, and easy to use.” The petition can be found on the Change.Org website at https://www. change.org/p/liverpool-cityregion-authority-rename-liverpooltrain-station-st-james-as-st-jayne-s • The official public vote is open until 5pm on Friday February 18 and can be accessed at https://newliver poolstation.commonplace.is/
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City scriptwriter in war of words over Responder role By HARLEY MULLEN Twitter users outraged over ‘The Apprentice’ star’s comments on new BBC drama
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ord Sugar has been hit with a social media backlash after a tweet about new BBC drama The Responder. The gripping crime drama, created by Liverpool script writer and former police officer Tony Schumacher, stars Martin Freeman as police response officer PC Chris Carson. As he responds to 999 calls, main character Chris encounters the dangers of Liverpool in the dark whilst also fighting a losing battle against the demons in his own head. Lord Sugar, who regularly uses twitter to share his opinions, seemed not to be fan of the show. He asked: “Why did the BBC make Martin Freeman speak with a Liverpool accent in The Responder. “Hard to follow what he and the other cast are saying. No disrespect to the people of Liverpool they are nice and down to earth people. My wife gave up watching she said she could not understand a word.”
But Tony hit back by saying he had Martin Freeman in his mind for the role from the offset. He retorted to Lord Sugar: “I’m going to work my arse off to go on #TheApprentice and every time he says something to me, I’m going to look around all confused.” Freeman, who is said to have spent over a year trying to perfect his northern accent, illustrates the character being pushed to his limits whilst also maintaining he wants to be a ‘good bobby’. Hi performance throughout the series was carried out with outstanding precision and raw emotion. @MavenCasting on twitter said: “#TheResponder Just hand this man the BAFTA, a career defining performance…” The five-part show and its script have been described award worthy by fans. Viewers of the limited series jumped to the defence of the show. Former Hollyoaks actor Matt Littler
Martin Freeman and Myanna Buring in The Responder Photo: The BBC
Martin Freeman as Chris in The Responder responded: “It’s…it’s set in Liverpool. That’s… I’m not sure how to answer.” Actor Dan Ryan said tweeted: “Alan just turn it off. It’s not for you. Stick to Eastenders and Towie and miss out on all the fantastic telly because the UK ends at Watford.” Others suggested Lord Sugar use subtitles to understand the show. Understandably many creatives were upset by the comments of Lord Sugar which opened a discussion about the representation of other accents in TV and Radio. Ellie Phillips, presenter and showbiz journalist told MerseyNewsLive:” I’m a TV and radio presenter whose Liverpool born and bred, and I would never try and soften my accent. I love it! She added: “I’m incredibly proud of my accent because it’s rightly associated with humour, friendliness, and a relentless pursuit of justice.” Phillips continued: “I try to think of my accent as one of my unique selling points and something that makes me stand out from the London crowd in a positive way. How many other national scouse presenters can you name?” The show, filmed in Liverpool, has not yet been confirmed for a second season, but both Freeman and Schumacher seem optimistic about the idea.
Photo : The BBC
Scriptwriter Tony Schumacher Photo: @TonyShoey Twitter
“I’m incredibly proud of my accent because it’s rightly associated with humour, friendliness, and a relentless pursuit of justice” 13
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Legacy of love to mark Valentine celebrations LOUISE LEMOINE
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orget Paris, Liverpool is turning into the city of love this Valentine’s Day. We have rounded up the quirkiest and unique events happening in Liverpool that will appeal to all.
What’s on: Epstein Theatre: A Very Liverpool Love Story
A Very Liverpool Love Story is staged at the Epstein Theatre on the eve of Valentine’s Day this year. The play is described as a moving real-life story of love and loss, and the grief that follows once loved ones pass on. Sandra Richardson from Toxteth was admitted to Marie Curie Hospice in Woolton with stage 4 breast cancer last year. Despite her terminal diagnosis, she and her wife, Clare Beloved, have fundraised over £21,000 for the team caring for Sandra. Sandra’s wife Clare has gathered unpublished words, poems and love notes written by Sandra while in the hospice along with her own musings and diary entries from the time of her wife’s illness and death. Clare Beloved explained her inspirations behind the play: “I promised Sandra we would carry on her legacy that her poetry would contin-
Background via Unsplash by Annie Spratt
available for the event online and are priced at £18.50 per ticket, all proceeds will be donated to the Marie Curie Hospice in Liverpool.
Galentines at 30 James Street
30 James Street Hotel is hosting a Galentines event this Valentine’s Day to ‘Celebrate Friendships’. ‘Galentines’ events have become more popular over recent years, the concept being that Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to feel like the loneliest day if you are single and there are still ways to enjoy Valentine’s Day such as celebrating friendship. The event will be taking place at the Carpathia Bar & Restaurant where attendees will enjoy a bottomless dinner with unlimited drinks for ninety minutes. There will also be a live DJ and Sax player to get you ‘Movin’ and groovin’ all night long.’ The event begins at 7:00pm and ends at 1:00am. Tickets are selling for £55 each.
Electrik Valentines Traffic Light Party
Liverpool’s Electrik Warehouse on Wood Street is known for its unique and sell-out events. Most students in the city are familiar with the venue as it hosts one of the largest student nights in the city every Thursday.
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his Valentine’s they are hosting a ‘Traffic Light Party’ for students in the city. Attendees receive stickers based on whether they’re single (green), in a complicated situation (amber), and those not on the look-out for love (red). The venue has four different floors that will be playing an array of genres for the event. From indie to soul, there’s bound to be something for everyone. Doors open at 10:00pm on Valentine’s Day and the event is set to end at 4:00am. The event is set to be a sell-out, but tickets are still currently available online at £5.00 per ticket. NHS workers can gain a free ticket before 11:30pm if they display their NHS I.D. upon entry.
Liverpool Singles Cocktails Class. Ages 24-36, by SpeedDater events
Photo of Sandra Richardson and Clare Beloved. ue to raise much needed funds in her name.” She also said how grief and the experiences once loved one’s die are not written about enough. Going on to say: “Our night at The Epstein will open up difficult conversations about bereavement, love and loss. [...] As we all know, the love we have for people carries on after someone is physically gone.” The second half of the evening will be hosted by Liverpool-born performance poet Gerry Potter, and there will be an opportunity for the audience to write a special Valentine’s card to loved ones who have died to post into a Marie Curie post-box and light a candle of remembrance. Doors open at the Epstein Theatre at 6:30pm on Sunday 13th February 2022. Tickets are still
For all those who find themselves single this Valentine’s Day, SpeedDater events have partnered with Revolution de Cuba Liverpool to host a cocktail making speed dating event for singles aged between 24-36. Upon arrival, the SpeedDater team will welcome attendees and they will be given a welcome cocktail and will be given a badge number that will match a table in the room. Ladies will stay seated whilst men rotate from table to table until they have met all the women. Each date will run across 3 minutes to ensure everyone has had the chance to meet. You will also be able to write down the individuals that you like. After the dates, the Albert Dock Revolution de Cuba team will be hosting a cocktail making masterclass. The class will run over 90 minutes, and you are able to pick from a wide variety of cocktails to learn how to perfect your favourite tipple from the experts! After the event, attendees can log in to their SpeedDater account where they can find their ‘matches’ tab. You will find out who you have mutually matched with and get in touch via their
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messaging system. They also guarantee that if you do not meet someone you liked the first time, your next singles event is free. The event is taking place on Thursday 10th February at 6:30pm, tickets are still available until the day of the event and are priced at £25.00 each.
Paint and Sip- Picasso Kiss, Liverpool Arts Bar
Liverpool Arts Bar on Hope Street is hosting a Valentine’s Paint and Sip event on Thursday 17th February and runs from 6:45 to 9:00pm. The event is set to be a creative evening of drinking and painting which can be enjoyed by all, with a two for £12 cocktail offer also running for the event. No painting experience is needed as there will be a 2-hour step-by-step painting tutorial led by their experienced artists and assistants. Materials will also be provided by the organisers, including acrylic paint and a high quality stretched canvas. The event will be an opportunity to explore your creative side this Valentine’s and create a one-of-a-kind piece of art to take home- without having to do the clean-up yourself. Tickets are priced at £29.00 each and are still available online via DesignMyNight.
Open Air Cinema: Pride
In celebration of Valentine’s and LGBT+ History Month, St. Luke’s Bombed Out Church is hosting an open-air cinema over the 10th, 11th, 12th & 14th of February. Over the course of the four days, they will be showing Pride, Romeo and Juliet, The Bodyguard and Casablanca.
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hether you take a partner or friends, the venue is a beautifully charming setting and is the perfect backdrop to a Valentine’s date or a friend’s night out. There will be a bar at the event, with boozy hot drinks, beers, spirits, wine and fizz on sale. Alongside soft drinks and a selection of movie snacks, all delivered straight to your seat. However, the bar is cashless, but they do take payments via Apple/Google Pay. Audience members are encouraged to bring their own blankets to stay warm underneath the Liverpool sky and to wrap up warm. Tickets are still available and are selling for £10.00 each.
Photo by Paint and Sip events.
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Dating agency comes to the Wirral in time for Valentine
All about Spring into Action • They have been awarded the LGBT Working Towards Quality Mark. They have been improving their services to ensure the needs of everyone in the LGBT community, volunteers and staff are being met. • A variety of experiences are available through funded projects. • It is for young people up to the age of 25. • Spring into Action set up the project, Meet ‘N’ Match aiming to reduce social isolation and increase connections. • The organisation has many other services which provide support to people who may be facing different problems.
Photo by: René Ranisch on Unsplash
Meet ‘N’ Match launch their first ever event to get us into the Valentine mood. MAIA NODEN reports
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friendship and dating agency for adults with learning disabilities is arriving in the Wirral. The matching service, Meet ‘N’ Match, is organised by a Lancashire group, Spring into Action and will be based on Argyle Street from next week. Spring into Action is a group that was set up after it was noticed there were a limited number of opportunities for young people with learning
disabilities under the age of 25. They have many services, which are funded by projects. Those interested in finding out more can join Erin and the rest at the launch of their first Merseyside Pub Night next Wednesday. The Birkenhead venue does not accept cash or coins, it operates an entirely cashless bar, so do not forget The venue on the Wirral is easily accessible as it is near to key public
Photo by De an Sun on Unsplash.com transport links. The Birkenhead bus station is a short walk from the Pub and Hamilton Square and Birkenhead Central train stations are not so far. There is parking located near the venue along with drop off spots just outside. The organisation has previously achieved “Working Towards” status for the LGBT Quality Mark back in 2020. During the height of the pandemic, Meet ‘N’ Match were running weekly online via Zoom every Wednesday afternoon. The project was running as an online support group for LGBT
• They receive funding from the National Lottery Community Fund to help people with learning disabilities and or autism to keep in contact during Covid 19. service users. This was a collaboration with Rainbow Friends London and Voice For All. The event will begin at 7pm finishing at 10pm. To attend this event all you must do is book a place online. To grab your ticket, visit this website to register now! https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ meet-n-match-birkenhead-pub-nighttickets-211874029927 • Learn more about what Meet ‘N’ Match do by heading to the link www.meet-n-match.co.uk.
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