Busy February
We are already into the second month of the year, I am not sure how that happened.
What’s good about February Valentine’s Day can be a nice day, I guess, can I remember that far back? I did when I was younger have cards from secret admirers. I must admit it was nice to receive. One year I received a valentine card through the post, I can’t remember how old I was, but I spent months wondering who it was from. Years later my mum did confess it was her that had sent it to me.
Another thing to celebrate this month is Shrove Tuesday, well if you like pancakes that is. I don’t as I have said before. I do try and have a little one, especially as the girls make them now, they have to be smothered in sugar, lemon and syrup.
It is an exciting time for me, I am launching a second magazine Epping Town Life. You can read more about this later in the magazine. This is only possible because of your support. The first snowdrops are poking through the soil, so hopefully that is a good sign that Spring is just around the corner. So many people have said to me they are fed up with the cold wet weather now, they are ready for Spring.
I did ask on my Facebook Group for some people to help with research by answering a few questions about the magazine, and I was delighted by so many offers of help within just a few minutes.
I was also pleased by the feedback. So many people had lovely things to say, helpful suggestions and ideas. The comments on what people liked about the magazine certainly helped, Suggestions for future content were along the lines of a crossword, things for children to do, events for next few months not just the month of publication, more wildlife content and so much more.
I was also delighted that 100% confirmed that there was nothing they disliked about the magazine, which was really encouraging.
I am so grateful for this feedback and would like to thank everyone who take the time to send their answers to the questions I asked.
Thankfully on a positive note, currently the rubbish and recycling has seemed to improved. I know in some areas is not the case but whilst walking around the village you aren't quite tripping over so much recycling now.
Should I end with a moan, you know me I like a moan. This weeks moan is potholes. There are some huge ones out there. One just past the turn into Woodside, outside the old Toll House, is large.
The one at the top of Kendal Avenue was fixed a few weeks ago and seems to have opened up again. That was a waste of money and time fixing it for a couple of weeks.
The A414 between the Talbout Roundabout and the Hastingwood turning, there are so many. It is worse driving of a night when it has been raining because they are filled up and you often forget until you drive over them. Come on Essex Council, surely these can be fixed to avoid potential accidents. It would be great if they could be fixed so they could last for more than a few days too. Moan over. If anybody who didn't take part in the research wanted to send me over any feedback or comments I would be happy to receive this.
See you around the village hopefully.
CONTENTS
February issue
Page No.
4. Brain Teaser
5. Air Quality Action Plan Consultation
6. & 7. Events
9. Council responds to far right leaflet
12. What would you do if a fire started while you were sleeping
13. New fees announced for Essex Fosters Carers
14. Men convicted of robbery at home of Mark Cavendish
15. Inflation busting budget
17. New Magazine being launched
18. Remembering those loved and lost
21. St Andrews Church Chat
22. Council review recent bin problems
24. Photos of the month
25. 3 Simple tips to shake the winter blues
28. Tree Planting Project
Editor June Peachey june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk 07814 863955
Write to: 49 York Road, North Weald, Epping, Essex CM16 6HU www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Subscription: If you would like to guarantee your personal copy or perhaps you have relatives or friends who would like to receive their own copy, you can subscribe for £25.00 for 12 issues.
Contributions & Editorial: If you would like to contribute editorial, poems, recipes, letters or anything else, we would be delighted to receive these. Please send them to us via letter or email.
Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure any data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor it’s editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party, or loss or damage caused by errors or resulting from negligence, accident or any other concerns. North Weald Village Life does not officially endorse any advertisement material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reported, stored in retrieval systems or transmitted in any form electronically. Mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the permission of the publisher.
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
FEBRUARY TEASER—Win a box of biscuits
• Love
• Heart
• Rose
• Meal
• Chocolate
• Text
• Emoji
• Fool
• Words
• Gift
• Special
• True
• Card
• Red
• Couple
• Life
Thank you to Mr Rich and well done for winning the January Brain Teaser. Just search and find the words, ring them and then send your completed wordsearch to me by 20th February. Please send it to:Feburary Brain Teaser, NWVL, 49 York Road, North Weald, CM16 6HU. This month’s prize is a box of chocolates. Don’t forget to include your name, telephone no and email address and home address.
Origins of the word ‘community’
The tagline of North Weald Village Life magazine is ‘Strengthening the Community’. But where does the word ‘community’ come from exactly?
Its origins began with the Latin word ‘communis’. This term consisted of the prefix ‘con’ (meaning together or with) and ‘munis’ (meaning a service or favour). ‘Communis’ accordingly referred to something that could be shared with others. Then, at some point after the 7th century, the Latin word ‘communitatem’ came into being. This term was used to mean a society or group of people. Subsequently, from around the 9th century, the word was incorporated into French as ‘comunité’ – meaning commonness or everybody.
In the 14th century, the word ‘comunete’ arrived in English. It was used in a number of distinct senses; firstly to describe something collectively possessed, secondly to describe the ‘common people’ (i.e. the general public), and thirdly to identify a group of people that reside in the same area or share a common interest.
Over time, the third definition took precedence, and the English spelling of the word became ‘community’. This is the meaning and spelling that we use today.
Source: Amar
Air Quality Action Plan Consultation
Have your say on the Draft Air Quality Action Plan from Friday 20th January to Friday 17th February 2023.
Air Pollution is recognised as a contributing factor in heart disease and cancer and particularly affects the most vulnerable like children, older people, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
The annual cost of air pollution in the UK is estimated to be around £16 billion. Everyone is affected by air pollution and clean air is important for us all.
That’s why Epping Forest District Council have developed an Air Quality Action Plan 2023-2028 setting out our vision to reduce pollution in Epping Forest District.
They want your help and need to hear your views on the actions they are proposing to take.
The Air Quality Action Plan is relevant for everyone, whether you live, work, or go to school in the District.
Once they have reviewed all responses and incorporated your suggestions into the document, they will produce a final version of the Air Quality Action Plan. This will be considered for adoption by the Council’s Cabinet in March 2023.
If you wish to have more information on the draft Air Quality Action Plan please contact Environmental Health atEnvironmentalHealth@eppingforestdc.gov.uk or call Call 01992 564000.
Crews Extinguish Fire in terraced home
Fire crews have issued safety advice following a fire at a mid terraced home in Harlow that took place just after 6pm on 20th January,
The Control team were called to reports of a fire in a threestorey property in Harlow. Two crews from Harlow and one from Epping attended.
Watch Manager Ross Daynes said: "A member of the public gave our Control team a really good description of the fire, including that it had spread to the roof, at which point I requested the third appliance.
"On arrival we found a well-developed fire in a second floor bedroom. Crews worked really hard and did a brilliant job of stopping the fire from spreading to the adjoining rooms and properties.
"The incident shows the importance of keeping doors closed at night if possible, to act as a fire break. The bedroom where the fire started sustained significant damage, but an adjacent room was undamaged because the door was shut."
Three men were treated for the effects of smoke inhalation. Fire crews fully extinguished the fire by 7.14pm. They believe the fire was caused by discarded smoking materials.
Watch Manager Daynes said: "The occupant has discarded his cigarette and went downstairs to the kitchen. When he returned a few minutes later he was faced with a significant fire.
"If you're a smoker, please make sure your cigarette is fully extinguished, never leave them unattended and never smoke in bed."
Source: Essex County Fire & Rescue Service
Copy Deadline for Event Details
For the January Issue 20th March
For the February Issue—20th April
North Weald W.I.
North Weald W.I. meet at our Village Hall on the first Wednesday of each month starting at 1.45pm enjoying an interesting speaker and a friendly get together. We welcome visitors, pay £4.00 on the door
West Essex Flower Club
West Essex Flower Club’s next meeting is on 13th February at Thornwood Village Hall starting at 1.45pm. Our demonstrator for this month is Julie Woods with arrangements entitled ‘A Tantalising Cocktail’. Sounds interesting!
All welcome to this friendly club. Come as a visitor £5.00 on the door or why not join?
Wintry Wood Wonderers Wednesday Winter WarmUp Ambles
We have now had 4 walks - we have walked in sunshine on dry paths through the part of Epping Forest that lies in it’s entirety in Thornwood, we have walked in snow (well 4 of us did anyway) and in January in mud - but that was only to be expected in The Lower Forest. They continue to be well supported with some coming on their own and others with partners or friends. It is said by the majority of participants that they do not like to walk in the forest on their own and so welcome the opportunity of doing so with others. We amble, chat and take the opportunity to stop and look if something looks to be of particular interest to one of the group, if this appeals to you why not join us. There is no charge the only requirement being suitable footwear! It is said that walking is good for your health both physical, mental and your immune system, as is having social contact. All I can tell you is that when I got back from the last walk I was really hungry but felt good about having had a morning in enjoyable company.
The following are the dates for The Wintry Wood Wonderers Wednesday Warm-Ups. Walks are held on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Meeting Point: Lower Forest Gate No. 11 - opposite St Margaret’s Hospital by the notice board. Time 11am Duration 1 - 1/2hours approx. Dogs on Leads welcome. Definitely an amble and NOT a ramble. Everyone welcome come on your own or with a friend. Hoping to see you there.
Details of The Friends of Wintry Wood can be found on their facebook page or email friendsofwintrywood@outlook.com
• Wednesday 8th February 2023
• Wednesday 8th March 2023
• Wednesday 12th April 2023
If interest in walks is continuing we may have to change the name to: Wintry Wood Wanderers Wednesday Summer Strolls!
• Wednesday 10th May 2023
• Wednesday 14th June 2023
• Wednesday 12th July 2023
De Spence
Home Instead Memory Lane Café
This runs every second Wednesday of the month in the afternoon at Theydon Bois Village Hall. These are fun afternoons, we run a quiz or a competition, serve light refreshments and always have a sing along of our favourite songs. One of our team, Kevin, plays his guitar and we have song sheets so it is simple to join in.
If you run a community event or charity event, don’t forget to let me know so I can share the details with readers just email me June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
North Weald Allstars Jazz Session
1st Saturday of each month 12pm onwards
Tickets available on the door £12
Ploughman’s Lunch
Held in the North Weald Village Hall Starts at 12.00
Every Second Saturday each month - This is organised for the the benefit of the Senior Citizens Society, a North Weald institution.
NEW Community Thornwood Market
Saturday 4th February 2022
Saturday 5th March 2022 9.30 – 1pm
Thornwood village hall
Lots of different styles including food, local artisans
Bingo will be starting in February on a monthly basis
Bantham & Ongar Bowls Club (based in Weald Bridge Road North Weald)
Any enquiries please email the secretary – 01992 329034 or l.carpenter.49@hotmail.com
Don’t forget to send details of any events you are holding in the local the area.
Memory Café
Every 3rd Wednesday of the Month 10am 12pm
This is a free event
At St James’ Church Hall, Ongar
Welcoming café especially for those with varying degrees of memory issues and those who love and care for them. Enjoy activities, bingo and more.
Sponsored by Home Instead
Ongar Farmer’s Market
Sunday 5th February 2022
& Sunday 5th March 2022
10am– 2pm
Pleasance Car Park (Next to Chipping Ongar Library) Lots of different styles including food, local artisans
Board Games Group
Epping Library - Every Thursday mornings
This group starts 2nd February. Starts at 10am
Everybody welcome
If you are interested ask at the library or just turn up on the day.
Don’t forget to visit the website
www.northwealdvillagelifeo.uk
Home Instead Singing For The Brain
Third Wednesday of the month at Theydon Bois Village Hall in the morning.
Bringing people affected by dementia closer by singing familiar songs in a fun and friendly environment.
Light refreshments will be served.
This event is free of charge and organised by Home Instead, Epping
Essex Library Service & National Literacy Trust to help children get ready for school
Essex Library Service has partnered with the National Literacy Trust to introduce new support for families, aimed at preparing young children to start Primary School.
The Library Service’s ‘Community Connectors’ will work directly with families, Early Years settings and partners across all library services, with a focus on the six priority areas identified in Essex County Council’s (ECC) Levelling Up strategy.
Community Connectors will support families to improve their literacy and encourage them to take part in new events and activities, such as author visits, which are designed to engage them in reading. They will also help to promote Essex Library Service to new users and increase the number of people joining their local library.
The aim is to help those who have been significantly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as increase the percentage of children aged five and younger who achieve the level of communication, language and literacy skills they need to start school.
The new initiative will also promote inclusivity, reduce disadvantage and support good levels of development in children’s early years.
The new partnership is aligned to the Essex Year of Reading campaign which continues to help people of all ages discover a lifelong love of reading, and which will run during the early part of 2023.
Reading is key to being able to access other areas of education, as well as career prospects in later life. Improving opportunities for families to increase their literacy skills is also aligned to ECC’s commitments in Everyone’s Essex.
Tesco Community Grant scheme
The Epping Forest Inclusion Project which supports young people with learning or physical disabilities has been chosen by Tesco to be part of its Community Grants scheme.
But they need local residents to vote for the project at 3 local Tesco stores between now and 16th March to help secure the cash.
The programme supports children and young people with a learning difficulty or disability through a programme of sport and leisure activities.
The stores where you can vote for the Inclusion Project are:
• Tesco Superstore, Epping, CM16 4BA
• Tesco Express, Ongar, CM5 9AL
• Tesco Express, Theydon Bois, CM16 7EU
Funding would go towards running the programme and buying more specialised sports equipment to support children into activities.
A new online home safety check service
Essex residents can now easily check how safe their home is at the click of a button.
A new online home safety check service has been launched by Essex County Fire & Rescue Service and this makes it easier for you to spot fire risks in your home and gives advice on how to help you stay safe at home.
Last year, they attended nearly 700 house fires across Essex with cooking and faulty appliances being the highest causes.
In a bid to reduce the number of house fires, the online home safety check service will allow you to evaluate your own risk by answering some simple questions about charging phones, working smoke alarms, cooking, fire escape plans and much more. The unique tool provides tailored advice and handy tips throughout to help reduce the risk of a fire within the home. Answers will then be calculated with the level of risk. Some people who score highly may be offered a free home safety visit by a member of the fire service.
The check takes around five minutes and can help you stay safe at home. Visit the link www.essex-fire.gov.uk/online-home -safety-check
Council responds to far right leaflet
Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) have stated that the Patriotic Alternative is a far-right, group linked to extremism and asked that anyone in receipt of a leaflet produced by them is encouraged to report it to the police.
EFDC would like to correct any misrepresentations that they identified within the leaflet. Some of the information from the leaflet is repeated below and EFDC have provided explanations to enable residents to understand their reasoning and actions taken as referred to in the leaflet.
The leaflet claims that councillors posted on social media calling on people to help refugees in Epping. Councillors want to explain that they are proud to have encouraged people to support Ukrainian refugees – promoted collections, and district council events organised with voluntary partners for Ukrainian refugees and host families.
It also claims the EFDC has provided family sized homes to refugees. Councillors have confirmed that they believe there is a moral duty to provide a measure of help to people who supported the British armed forces. The Housing Cabinet Member took the decision in August 2021 to provide 2 family sized homes through the Government’s scheme to support Afghan refugees who supported British troops in Afghanistan.
On the current use the Bell Hotel – the Housing Cabinet portfolio holder has placed on public record that the district council was not consulted and did not consent to the use of the privately owned hotel by the Home Office. The council has given radio interviews and released press statements expressing concern about the use of the site for a number of reasons, including the impact on local services.
EFDC acknowledge that while there is genuine debate to be had on the best way to manage very difficult issues, all people should be treated with respect and dignity. Hatred and division has no place in our tolerant and democratic community.
Nominations sought for Civic Award
Epping Town Council is seeking nominations for its Civic Award for 2022.
The award recognises high standard of maintenance to existing buildings and excellence in the design of new buildings.
Work on the nominated building should have been completed in 2022.
The owners must have considered the property’s setting and ensured that any works complement the surroundings.
Nominations should be emailed to Epping Town Council at -
info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk by Friday 24th February.
Visitors to the village
Many local residents will know there are often sightings of deer in our local forest and often visit green areas in the village.
However recently one local resident thought she had seen two dogs near her home during the day, but it was in fact two muntjac deer. These two had ventured out from their home and normal habit to have a quick walk around the village.
How lucky are we to have this on our doorstep. I know it can cause problems and maybe not everybody likes them, with the biggest danger when they cross the main road. However so many people are not as fortunate as us to have these wonderful animals on our doorstep, quite literally in this case.
These wonderful photos were taken by Elaine Davis who had seen these wonderful visitors in the village last year.
Minibus Driver Required: Full Time or Part Time
Epping Forest & Harlow Community Transport, a long-established charity, has a vacancy for a motivated and flexible Part time or full time Minibus Driver.
The successful candidate would ensure the safe transport of our all our passengers, the elderly, disabled, rurally isolated and community bus routes.
• Comprehensive Training package provided.
• Pay Range: £ 21,164.04 pa, plus London Weighting. (pro rata for part time).
• Must be over 25yrs old, and hold a UK driving license with D1 entitlement.
Would you like to join our passionate and dedicated team?
For an application form & Job Description please telephone: 01992 579556 or email: efct@efcommunitytransport.org.uk
Time to get walking again!
With Spring on its way we start to think about getting out to walk in the beautiful English countryside again, but where to find new and interesting walks?
Walking in Essex https:// www.walkinginengland.co.uk/ essex has loads of walks to download and print, free, it also has books of walks, details of all the walking groups in the county and much more. Whether you want to walk on your own or with a group all the information is there in one place.
John Harris (who maintains the website) said ‘There is so much walking information on the web but it is difficult to find. Walking in Essex (part of the Walking in England website) has brought it together in one place so whether you are walking from home, or away on holiday, you will be able to find a walk suitable for you’.
With walks from half a mile to twelve miles plus long, and a note of suitability for pushchairs and wheelchairs, everyone can find a walk to enjoy.
So home or away, check out the websites and get walking!
What would you do if a fire started while you were sleeping?
If there was a fire in your house while you were asleep it's unlikely you'd wake up by chance. What you need is a smoke alarm that will wake you up at the first sign of fire.
Essex County Fire and Rescue Services were recently called to a house after a woman put her tumble dryer on before going to bed. It caught fire. Thankfully her smoke alarm woke her and she was able to get outside and call 999.
In another incident, a man was rescued from a smoke filled house. He had fallen asleep after putting food in the oven. He couldn't hear his smoke alarms but his neighbours could and promptly called the Fire Service.
They don't just alert you to a fire in your home but they can alert neighbours and passers-by,
It's so important you have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home. Set a reminder to test them regularly; they can only save lives if they work.
If you or someone you know doesn't have working smoke alarms, or you feel like you need more safety advice, click the link to get in touch with our team. www.essex-fire.gov.uk/book-home-safety -visit.
Source: Essex County Fire & Rescue Service
7 Oak Saplings donated to Tree Planting Project
North Weald Bassett Parish Council is pleased to report that it has received a donation of 7 oak saplings from local resident, Mr Roger Anthony, for the council’s tree planting project at Weald Common.
The saplings had grown in Mr Anthony’s garden from an old oak tree, which is believed to have once stood in the grounds of Bluemans Farm.
The Chairman of the Parish Council, Councillor Alan Buckley, invited Mr Anthony to join him in selecting specific locations in the new Woodland area in which to plant the saplings.
Councillor Buckley thanked Mr Anthony for his kind donation and support to the planting project.
The Parish Council is now nearing completion of the project, with over 2,400 trees being planted. The ‘North Weald Oaks’ join native species such as willow, poplar, hazel, alder, hawthorn, sweet chestnut and oak, all sourced by Essex County Council’s Senior Forestry and Woodland Officer. It is hoped that these will enhance the biodiversity in this important location.
New fees announced for Essex foster carers
The fees Essex County Council pays its in-house foster carers will increase as part of a commitment to supporting foster carers. It recognises the vital contribution of carers in providing young people with safe, secure and nurturing homes and makes fostering an affordable option.
The decision means that all carers’ fees will be increased by approximately 9% and this will be backdated to 1st October 2022.
Foster carers receive a fee payment as well as an allowance to cover the expenses of caring for a child such as food and clothes. Allowances are above the Government’s recommended level and increase each year in line with the inflation rate.
Cllr Beverley Egan, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Early Years said: “This increase in fees not only expresses our gratitude to foster carers and supported lodgings carers for the amazing work they do but also demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the best outcomes for all children and young people.
“Essex County Council needs more people to foster and we welcome carers from a wide variety of backgrounds to match the needs of a wide variety of children. Age, marital status, sexual orientation, disability and working outside of the home are not barriers to fostering.”
The role of the foster carer is to provide a safe, secure and loving home to a child or young person, sometimes this is short term, it can also be long-term, until a child is an adult.
In Essex foster families are carefully matched with children to suit their individual circumstances and every carer has an allocated social worker and 24/7 access to support to help them manage outside of office hours.
Essex County Council offers outstanding additional support to carers. This includes the OASIS network (an extended family model of support) clinical leads and mental health workers to help carers understand children’s behaviour and outreach workers to provide practical support. Carers can access an extensive range of support groups and a comprehensive training programme to learn how to provide therapeutic parenting to all children they care for.
To find out more about fostering visit www.essexadoptionandfostering.co.uk/fostering or call: 0800 801 530
Please don’t forget to Mention to advertisers that you saw their advert in North Weald Village Life
Men convicted of robbery at home of Mark and Peta Cavendish
Two men have been convicted of the robbery at the Ongar home of Olympic cyclist Mark Cavendish and his wife Peta in the early hours of Saturday 27th November 2021.
Both Mr and Mrs Cavendish were in bed when they heard noises coming from downstairs. As they went to investigate, they realised there were a number of intruders in the home, and they began returning to the bedroom.
As Mr Cavendish attempted to activate an alarm, two of the men entered the room and began threatening the couple. In the following minutes, Mr Cavendish was seriously assaulted a number of times and was violently threatened in front of his family.
The intruders left with a Louis Vuitton suitcase and two high value watches. One of the men had also taken phones belonging to the pair.
The Police were called as soon as the intruders left. When officers arrived, they found a mobile phone outside of the property, which we quickly knew belonged to Mrs Cavendish.
Through fast-paced work, we were then able to link Ali Sesay to the incident. Sesay, 28, of Windsor Road, Croydon, was arrested on 16 December 2021 and has since admitted two counts of robbery and is awaiting sentencing.
When further enquiries were carried out on Sesay, we were able to link Sesay to another man; Romario Henry. Further enquiries also meant officers could place Henry in the area at the time of the incident
Henry, 31, of Bell Green, London SE26, was charged alongside another man, Oludeua Okorosobo, 28, of Flaxman Road, Camberwell, with two counts of robbery. They denied the charges and a 14-day trial took place. On Monday 23 January, a jury found Henry guilty on both counts. Okorosobo was found not guilty on both counts.
Henry will be sentenced on 7 February at Chelmsford Crown
Host a Coffee, Cake and Care event this Spring
St Clare is calling on local people to host a ‘Coffee Cake and Care’ event this March or April to raise funds for the charity.
This Spring, host your own cakebased fundraiser, and raise a cuppa whilst raising vital funds for your local hospice.
For more information and to get your own free Coffee, Cake and Cake fundraising kit, get in touch with the fundraising team on 01279 773750 or emailfundraising@stclarehospice.org.uk
Inflation-busting budget
Essex County Council (ECC) report that supporting the vulnerable, improving infrastructure, ensuring pupils receive a highquality education and help with the cost of living are at the heart of budget plans for 2023/24, driven by resident and business priorities and the commitments in Everyone's Essex, the Council’s plan to level up the county.
The proposals include funding for adult social care rising to over £500m, with additional funding this year of nearly £60m.
ECC report they have a strong track record of financial management, having delivered £199m of savings over the last four years, with a further £36m of savings planned this year. It also has one of the lowest county council tax rates in England.
Driven by the commitments outlined in Everyone's Essex, the budget proposals have been formulated at a time of huge economic uncertainty.
With inflation above 10% its highest level for 40 years - council finances are under huge pressure. Inflation, rises in utility prices and interest rates coupled with increased demand have added £74m more to the cost of services this year.
Balancing those factors with the need to limit impacts on household budgets in the current cost-of-living crisis mean a proposed Council Tax increase of 3.5% This is made up of a 1.5% council tax increase, plus a further 2% ring-fenced to Adult Social Care.
This means for an average Band D property household, the ECC element of Council Tax will increase by £49.05 next year, or 94p per week.
A public budget consultation, which saw a 98% increase in re-
sponses compared to the previous year, has helped the council understand residents and businesses’ priorities. These were:
• Infrastructure
• Support for those who care for the vulnerable
• Securing high standards in education
• Providing support to struggling families
• In direct response to this consultation an extra £68m is now going into service budgets next year.
Unprecedented demand and complex cases in adult social care means funding will be increased by a further £58m, bringing the total budget to £506m.
In education, Essex County Council is investing £7.5m to deliver 340 additional mainstream school places in time to increase school intakes in September.
Real action on climate change and carbon reduction is being taken, responding to the recommendations of the Essex Climate Action Commission. This includes 1a 200m spending commitment toward Essex’s net zero targets and achieving the Council’s aim of a high-quality environment.
ECC will also continue to invest in highways and footway maintenance and repairs with budgets remaining in line with the previous year.
Support for businesses will continue through the Backing Essex Business programme, encouraging business growth across the county, promoting economic growth and creating jobs, as well as continued investment in skills to help people progress and get back into work.
What is networking?
Business owners may have heard the term ‘networking’ but may not fully understand what it means and if could help their business.
A definition of networking is:-
‘Business networking is the practice of meeting people to exchange knowledge, develop new professional contacts and form beneficial partnerships.’
One of the most effective ways for professionals and entrepreneurs to interact with like-minded people is through business networking.
Regardless of the size of your firm, developing new contacts through networking is likely to improve its growth prospects. You may utilise your networking talents to meet new people in the business and build professional partnerships.
Why not give your local Epping Forest Business Network Group a try and attend as a guest, please see above for details.
New magazine being launched—Epping Town Life
Many people will have read or heard of North Weald Village Life magazine launched 16 years ago by myself, June Peachey. Having listened, researched and planned I am now delighted to announce I am launching a second magazine, Epping Town Life. I thought I would share my plans with you, my loyal readers who without your support I would not be in a position to do this. Below I have listed some of the questions I have been asked by readers recently with my answers to share this exciting news.
Why did you launch North Weald Village Life magazine?
As a local resident I wanted to attend local events, support local charities and use local businesses but couldn't always find these details easily or sometimes only after the event had taken place. Due to personal circumstances, I took the opportunity to work for myself and amongst other plans, I decided to launch a magazine, not sure how it would be received or even if anybody would advertise in it or read it.
I could never have guessed how much support I have received over the last 16 years, from readers and advertisers. I still have an advertiser who advertised in the very first issue, namely Art Garden Centre, who not only advertises but writes the regular gardening hints.
What do you do as an Editor of North Weald Village Life Magazine?
I do everything, from sourcing local news, working with local people who write articles especially for the magazine (I only use local people and do not use generic articles that could be used anywhere and written by people who are not local), taking photos, keeping up to date on what is happening locally, attending local events and meetings, talking to local people, writing features and news, designing the magazine, editing and cutting copy to fit the layout of the magazine, working with advertisers to ensure their artwork is correct and assisting them where I can, distributing the magazine to all the outlets and of course all the washing up from the endless cups of coffee I drink whilst doing all of this.
Would you recommend being an Editor?
Oh yes, it can be hard sometimes deciding on content that is relevant, or could be detrimental or upsetting. Being a local person I try to include information I think I would like to read. It can be very rewarding, meeting so many local people, hearing so many interesting stories, being involved in so many community initiatives and seeing the magazine once it is printed every month is fantastic.
Why are you launching a new magazine?
Over the last few months, having put some copies of North Weald Village Life in Tesco, Epping, has provided me so much feedback from Epping readers that they want their own magazine, similar to North Weald Village Life but for Epping. Having heard this continually by so many different people over the last few months, I decided to do this.
Initially I thought about changing North Weald Village Life to include Epping, but research confirmed that this would not be popular Local residents who read the magazine wanted the maga-
zine to remain the same and dedicated to the North Weald and surrounding area. Some readers suggested it could be incorporated but very few.
Although that would perhaps be the easiest thing to do, I listened to the feedback and decided to launch a new magazine specifically for Epping and the surrounding areas.
What will the new magazine be called?
The name is Epping Town Life, building on the success of North Weald Village Life.
Will the magazines be the same?
No, there may be similar content and advertisers but they will not be the same.
North Weald Village Life will continue to include local information to North Weald, some Epping but will of course include Ongar and surrounding areas.
Epping Town Life will include local information relevant to Epping and also Theydon Bois, Loughton, Buckhurst Hill and Waltham Abbey.
How do I know which magazine to read?
I don’t mind which one you read. I just hope you find it useful and interesting.
Will there by any changes to North Weald Village Life magazine?
Yes a few improvements hopefully but not too much. I can reassure you I am not phasing out North Weald Village Life, both magazines will be equally important to me and readers.
Anything else that we need to Know?
Yes my company will now be called Essex Publications and North Weald Village Life and Epping Town Life will be published under this company name. It won’t make too much differences to readers as the names of the magazines etc will be the main focus but it will enable me to promote both magazines at the same time, providing convenience for contributors, advertisers, media resources etc so that I can then focus on each magazine in turn and choose which magazine news, features etc should be featured in.
Will your contact details change?
The existing details will remain so you can continue to contact me via the email and telephone number but I will have some new contact methods including a new postal address based on North Weald Airfield and of course some new email addresses but ultimately everything comes to me so I don’t mind how you contact me as long as you do!
I hope you will continue to support me, by spreading the word to Epping friends and relatives. I rely on your feedback, contributions, adverts, photos, letters and everything.
Remembering those loved and lost
Local charity, St Clare Hospice, held three Light Up a Life remembrance ceremonies in recently after icy weather led to their postponement from December.
On 12th and 14th January 645 people were remembered over three ceremonies held at St Clare Hospice, Hastingwood.
Each name in the Book of Remembrance, and also written on the hundreds of paper stars set amongst twinkling lights at the hospice, was a much loved and missed family member or friend.
Reah Norris, St Clare Hospice Individual Giving Manager said, “Our Light Up a Life ceremonies bring comfort and support to grieving families across West Essex. The generous donations in memory of their loved ones helped us raise just under £20,000 this year, which could pay for hours of nursing care, home visits by our medical team, and night-sitters to support and care for people at the end of their life. We are often told that nothing was too much trouble for our nurses when their loved one needed care, and we are so grateful for every donation made to St Clare Hospice as a
“As an independent charity, St Clare has to raise more than £8,000 every single day to run our hospice services. Therefore, each donation is vital in ensuring our care is there, when and where it is needed, both in people’s own homes and at our Inpatient Unit.””
“Light Up a Life is only possible because of the dedication of our wonderful volunteers and supporters including our Trustees, the Harlow Jewish community, Streets 2 Homes and local churches who took part in the service by reading or bringing a reflection. Thanks also to the Harlow Salvation Army Band and supporting singers from local choirs and churches.”
If you are struggling with your grief and would like to talk to someone, St Clare Hospice has a free telephone GriefLine (01279 945089) which is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. You can make an online tribute to a loved one any time of the year by visiting the St Clare Hospice website www.stclarehospice.org.uk
St Clare celebrates 9th birthday of Hospice at Home team
St Clare Hospice is celebrating the ninth birthday of its Hospice at Home service which was launched in January 2014. The team of nurses and nursing assistants provide free, compassionate personal care for people with life-limiting illnesses in the comfort of their own home, across West Essex.
In 2021/22 the Hospice at Home team provided support for over 460 families, ensuring that patients, families and their carers received compassionate care, at the right time and in the right place. The team have been working harder than ever as the need for Hospice at Home services continues to grow.
Hospice at Home Manager, Sonia Haigh, said: “Our team has worked so hard over the past 9 years, growing the service and supporting more people. Our service has never been more needed, as we support patients get home from hospital as quickly as possible to release the pressure on the NHS, and to care for as many people in the place of their choice – which is so often their own home. Home is special, and being able to provide support to people in the comfort of their own home, if that is where they want to be, is a real honour for St Clare.”
Commenting on the care that her father, Alan, received from the Hospice at Home team in 2020, Alison Saunders (from near Saffron Walden) said: “Dad was cared for at home, near Saffron Walden, by the Hospice at Home team. He always looked forward to their visits, and they became like part of the family. He would muck around, and a have a laugh with the nursing assistants. He loved them, and their help was just brilliant – for us as a family, as well as Dad. We could ask them questions and they gave so much support.”
Alison continues: Having the Hospice at Home night sitter was a huge help. I live just round the corner from my parents’ house, and would often get a call during the night to go around and help when Dad had fallen. For weeks, I was only getting 3 or 4 hours sleep a night. It was so lovely when Pauline, the night sitter from Hospice at Home, came and it meant that my husband and I could just go to bed and know that both Mum and Dad were safe.”
“Dad wanted to die at home, and we were able to make that happen with the support of St Clare Hospice. He was cared for by the Hospice at Home team for around four weeks before he died on 18 August 2020.”
Outlining the service, Sonia Haigh, said: “The Hospice at Home team works closely with local GPs, District Nurses, and other professionals to make sure patients receive joined up care. Hospice at Home care can help to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions, provide short-term care so people can leave hospital whilst waiting for a care package, and provide hands-on compassionate care in the last weeks of a person’s life in the comfort of their own home.”
Referrals can be made by all health, social and voluntary care professionals. Also, patients, their family, or carer can refer themselves directly. The team will then need to discuss the referral with the patient’s GP. For more information visit: stclarehospice.org.uk/hospice-home
Keith Snow
