Worcestershire
Now
The NHS Healthy Minds Service See page 19 and visit www.healthyminds.whct.nhs.uk for more information
CREATING THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS PHONE SCAMS COOKING WITH YOUR CHILDREN DECEMBER 2020 - JANUARY 2021 | ISSUE 202 t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 1 n
NEWS • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD & DRINK • HEALTH & BEAUTY • GOLDEN YEARS • PUZZLES
Our naughty and nice guide to recycling and waste reduction this Christmas
Visit www.letswasteless.com for more information on how to reduce your waste n 2 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
Worcestershire
8
Now 16
18
DECEMBER 2020 - JANUARY 2021 HOME & GARDEN 8
Creating the Perfect Christmas
16
Kitchens Take Centre Stage
18
Nature Notebook
20
HEALTH & BEAUTY 20
Christmas Nights In
GOLDEN YEARS 22
Phone Scams
28
Care UK Put the Style into Care Home Life
28
Keeping Your Independence with TPG DisableAids
22
EDUCATION 30
Bake Off! Cooking With Your Children
32
How Remote Learning has Enabled King’s St Alban’s Children to Become Unstoppable
32
Bromsgrove Beckons
34
Enrol on a Part-time Course For Adults Learners
PUZZLES 36
36 30
Puzzled? Stay Home. Stay Safe.
WO RC E S T E R S H I R E
NOW 01905 723011
nowmagazines.co.uk PW Media & Publishing Ltd
EDITOR Dawn Pardoe PW Media & Publishing Ltd dawn@pw-media.co.uk
ADVERTISING Rachel Seabright 01905 727900 rachel@pw-media.co.uk Lis Gardner Tel: 01905 727901 Email: lis@pw-media.co.uk
Kate Gilmartin Tel: 01905 727905 Email: kate@pw-media.co.uk
DESIGN Paul Blyth paul@pw-media.co.uk
CONTRIBUTORS Daisy Bennett Wendy Carter
Age UK BCTGA Bromsgrove School Care UK Cats Protection Christopher Peters King’s School TPG DisableAids WCG Woodland Trust
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without permission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictoral media for this publication are sent at owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, neither PW Media & Publishing Ltd or its agents accept liability for loss or damage. No editorial submissions will be returned unless accompanied by a Self Addressed Envelope. DISCLAIMER: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and articles appear correctly, PW Media & Publishing Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor. Please note that if you enter a competition in the Worcestershire Now magazine t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 3 n your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.
THE LATEST NEWS FROM YOUR AREA CONSERVATION CHARITY LAUNCHES URGENT APPEAL
TO CREATE NEW WOODLAND NEAR BROMSGROVE
An urgent appeal to raise funds for a new
Pepper Wood was bought by the Woodland
local woodland for the Midlands has just
Trust in the early 1980s. The new extension
been launched by conservation charity the
would double the size of the wood to 250
Woodland Trust.
acres, the new trees buffering and protecting
The charity, which owns and cares for more than 1,000 woods across the UK, wants to buy
historic ancient woodland and the hidden treasures it contains.
land for sale next to one of its existing local
With support from local people, the Woodland
woods, extending it and doubling it in size.
Trust will let this land regenerate back into
Pepper Wood is situated near the village of Fairfield, on the outskirts of Bromsgrove in
beautiful woodland, with spectacular views across to the Malvern Hills.
Worcestershire and just a short drive from
Nature will return. Young trees can seed and
Birmingham.
grow at their own pace helped by careful
Centuries old, Pepper Wood is a precious
planting.
fragment of rare ancient woodland – a Site of
Butterflies, badgers and birds will find new
Special Scientific Interest and a green haven
homes and rare flowers can bloom again. If
for wildlife and people in an increasingly
the Trust is successful in raising the money
urban world.
to purchase the land, planting and natural
The extension is all part of the Woodland
regeneration would begin next autumn.
Trust’s mission to fight the nature and climate
As the UK’s largest woodland conservation
crisis the nation is facing, with trees, which lock
charity, the Trust has a bold aim of getting 50
up carbon and provide vital havens for wildlife.
million new native trees in the ground by 2025.
n 4 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
Ian Froggatt from the Woodland Trust explained: “The UK needs more trees. Globally we are in the grip of a climate and nature emergency and trees are a vital weapon in the fight for a greener future. “If we are to have any chance of achieving carbon net zero by 2050, it’s crucial we get millions more trees in the ground every year – and protect the woodland we already have. “We really hope local people will get behind us and support our appeal – this year more than ever people have found solace in woodland and nature as an escape from the restrictions we have all been living with. This new and bigger Pepper Wood will be a remarkable community asset for generations to come.” n Please donate to the Woodland Trust’s urgent appeal to raise £1.5 million. Find out more about Pepper Wood and the Woodland Trust’s vision and make a donation at woodlandtrust.org.uk/pepperappeal
t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 5 n
HERE & NOW
Worcestershire Cat is Cover Star
of National Cat Charity’s Calendar
A three-legged cat from Kempsey who has already enchanted Instagram followers with his handsome looks is now the cover star of Cats Protection’s annual calendar. Originally taken in by the charity’s Birmingham Adoption Centre, four-year-old ginger-andwhite Mylo had been found struggling to
walk around a garden not far from where his original owner lived. He had a severe injury to his leg and sadly it became apparent that he had been abandoned. The kind person who found him arranged for his vet treatment and for him to be taken into the charity’s care. Unfortunately Mylo’s injured leg had to be amputated but he has never let it hold him back. He enjoys nothing more than making new feline friends in his Worcestershire neighbourhood, exploring his home in search of treats to sample and boxes to sit in or posing for more than 1100 followers on Instagram who tune in to find out his latest antics. Owner Sarah Gooding explains: “I came across Mylo on the Cats Protection website. He was very shy when I met him back in 2018, but within a couple of hours at home, was purring away on my lap. He’s now my shadow and very agile on his three legs, although a bit wobbly when he first wakes up! “Since moving to Kempsey, Mylo has been adjusting well to his new surroundings. Our new house has a gravel drive which he was
a bit unsure on, but he seems to have it mastered now. “My partner and I have both been working from home since March, and Mylo has definitely been making the most of it – he now comes in and out of the house several times a day, and has regular naps under my chair while I’m working. He also seems to quite enjoy the sound of zoom calls, as he normally falls asleep and snores through them!” The 2021 calendar, which costs £5, is available to buy online at www.catsprotectionshop. co.uk as well as through the charity’s nationwide chain of retail shops where lockdown restrictions allow. n To follow Mylo’s latest adventures, join him on www.Instagram.com/mylohops
Cats Protection relies solely on donations to fund its work nationwide and has had face-toface fundraising curtailed by the pandemic. The calendar therefore helps raise muchneeded funds for the cats and kittens in the charity’s care who are looking for new homes.
Christmas ISN’T Cancelled That’s the message from Christmas tree
But before you go to pick up your seasonal
growers across the UK, as the industry gears
spruce, it’s worth reading our guide to
up for its busiest season ever. Sales for UK
choosing the perfect real tree.
trees from garden centres and farm shops are significantly ahead of 2019 and this year’s sunny weather means they are in better condition than ever before. Covid-19 has led to many growers changing the way they sell,
Pick the right type for your home and look after it properly, and it will look healthy and hearty right through until the twelfth day of advent – Tuesday 5th January.
introducing online sales for the first time as well
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF
as social distancing measures for those who
CHRISTMAS TREES?
want to visit their local plantation to enjoy the
Nordmann Fir: This is the most popular
experience of choosing their tree. Cadeby Tree
Christmas Tree in the UK as it has excellent
Trust in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, is the largest
needle retention, with lush, dark green needles.
grower in England, supplying farm shops and
They are symmetrical trees with strong
garden centres across the country.Sharon
branches, great for displaying ornaments.
Scamell-Katz, Sales Manager, said: “After such an unprecedented year, Christmas is the one thing we can focus on and look forward to, and orders from our retailers are already 28% up compared to last year. There’s more of a drive to purchase UK grown Christmas trees and any retailers with click and collect online, are putting in higher orders as consumer habits
Fraser Fir: These trees have great fragrance with dark green, needles that are silvery underneath. Good needle retention and a pyramid-shaped, strong branches which turn upward. Noble Fir: Ideal for great needle retention and a fresh fragrance.
With bluish-green
needles and short, stiff branches; great for
have changed because of Covid, with more
heavier ornaments.
and more buying online.”
Douglas Fir: probably the strongest scent of
n 6 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
all Christmas trees, very popular in the USA. A true fir with great shape but a little harder to decorate with baubles as usually much denser. Norway Spruce: Keep them well watered for good needle retention and enjoy this traditional Christmas tree which is dark green and has a strong fragrance along with a great conical shape. Blue Spruce: Beautiful, unique blue colouring, needs watering well and has good stiff branches, great for hanging heavy decorations. Lodgepole Pine: A low needle-drop tree with beautiful tapering branches, that rarely lose their needles if well hydrated. The needles are green/yellow in colour. Serbian Spruce: Tall and slender, with graceful upswept branches. It has glossy dark green needles with slender streaks of white, a very good ornamental alternative. WHICH IS THE MOST POPULAR VARIETY? BCTGA estimate about 80% of the trees sold are Nordmann Fir, around 10-15% Norway Spruce, and the remainder are made up from the other varieties. n
HERE & NOW
Shop, Taste and Explore Worcester’s
Independents This Festive Season Christmas 2020 is almost upon us, and this year it takes on even greater significance in terms of the need to recharge, relax safely and create happy memories with loved ones. The true spirit of Christmas is about showing the ones we love how much we care, and this year Worcester’s independents are here to enhance your experience in the run up to a very different Christmas. Tailored, personalised ways to shop, taste and explore in person or online mean you can still plan your giving at this time of change. From personal shopping sessions to click and collect and contactless home delivery, get Christmas 2020 wrapped up with Worcester’s independents.
• Christmas Trees Festival in December - in Worcester Cathedral, Wednesday 2 December 2020 to Sunday 3 January 2021
• Click and collect – shop from the sofa then collect safely from your favourite Worcester independents – some will even gift wrap!
• Prep for the big day’s feast with an early pre-order of meat at M&M Meats and all the veg at Housewives Choice.
• Eat, drink and be merry in the comfort of your living room. The tastiest treats from Worcester’s independents, delivered deliciously and safely to you at home.
• Experience the magic of Christmas in Worcester with the sparkling city street lighting, then choose stylish decorations for your own home at New England in Broad Street. Insider tip – Cornucopia stocks a wide choice of thoughtful Christmas cards, co-ordinating wrapping and statement table styling for joyous festive detail. Order online too.
What’s On Worcester • Enjoy personal shopping sessions in selected independent shops – by appointment only, browse Embrace Boutique or Emporio.
Insider tip - Wander the Cathedral Cloisters and follow up the seasonal joy of their Christmas tree festival with a hot chocolate in nearby House of Coffee or Diglis House Hotel
• Tick off the kids’ Santa list with a visit to Toys & Games of Worcester in Broad St, newly opened Toytown in Crowngate or The Entertainer in The Shambles
What’s OnLine Worcester • Open4Business website page - scroll visitworcester.co.uk/open4business and tick off your Christmas list.
Locals Love • Locals love - the delivery service from Benedictos for delicious Italian food with festive cheer. • Locals love – festive wine delivered straight to your door from Bottles in New Street – order online and received contactless delivery. • Locals love – free local delivery from Mr Simms Sweet Shop – perfect sugary treats (including candy canes) for the festive season. n For more insider secrets and places to explore visit us at www.visitworcester.co.uk and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @VisitWorcester.
t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 7 n
HOME & GARDEN
t a e Cr
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on tips p o ur t 2020. o t a t look ughou a o e Tak ive thr ! d t e s ll nce feel fe a c t me sn’ as i our ho m t y is Chr aking m
n 8 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
s a istm ED
NU
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THE
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HOME & GARDEN
t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 9 n
HOME & GARDEN
It’s official, Christmas 2020 won’t be like any Christmas you’ve ever had, but that doesn’t mean it has to be cancelled. There are many ways that you can still get into the spirit without feeling like you’re missing out. Spread the festive cheer in your home with our ways to keep Christmas alive. Light it up One of the magical things about the run up to Christmas Day is seeing all the houses lit up with sparkling lights. A favourite memory of mine when I was little was going the street where every house was lit up with Christmas lights and seeing all the elaborate decorations adorning their front lawns. During the first lockdown in March, teddies and toys were placed in windows to brighten up passers-by on their daily walks. Not only to put a smile on people’s faces, but also a lovely game for children to tick off their favourites. Why not, for December, place a few decorations on your window sill, or if you’re feeling really adventurous, place an inflatable snowman or Santa Claus on your front drive for the ultimate festive Christmas display. Lighting up the front of your house can be daunting when thinking of electricity bills, but a lot of decorations now
are made with LED’s, so all you’ll need to buy are a good set of batteries to keep them going through December. There are some wonderful examples on www.lightsforfun.co.uk including an acrylic family of reindeers that light up with icy white LEDs. If turning your house into Blackpool illuminations isn’t your thing, go for a family walk instead and spot your favourite decorations. I always know when Christmas has begun, when the giant inflatable penguin appears on the neighbours drive. Make your own decorations Every year, we look at what the latest Christmas trends are, walk around the shops and pick our new favourite bauble or garland, yet you’re still up a ladder year after year, getting the old decorations down from the loft. They hold sentimental value from times gone by; reminding you of people you’ve lost over the years or simply because they make you smile. Make your own decorations for your own tree, or give your family them as gifts to hang in their homes. A reminder year on year that someone took the time to create something especially for you. A few simple items from a craft store and let your imagination run wild. CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE
Make your own decorations for your own tree, or give your family them as gifts to hang in their homes. A reminder year on year that someone took the time to create something especially for you
n 10 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
HOME & GARDEN
Call Justin: 01905
672079
www.door-suppliers.co.uk
t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 11 n
HOME & GARDEN
of the first records of candles being used at Christmas was during the middle ages where a candle was used to represent the star of Bethlehem. Candles are important in many religions during December. The Jewish festiva of Hanukkah remembers the rededication of the second Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, in Israel. You can start your own tradition by lighting a candle to represent something that is meaningful to you. Christmas wreath Wreaths are using throughout all of the Christian denominations but they were started It could be something as simple as a cotton
by the Lunterans in germany in the 16th
wool snowman, a paper snowflake or a few
Century to mark the start of Advent. All advent
coloured pom poms. You could even turn your favourite photo into a tree decoration,
wreaths, however, have four candles, and many of them have a white candle in the centre; the
by placing it in a DIY plastic bauble.
Christ candle, which is lit on Christmas Day.
Candles
represent everlasting life brought through
Candles can instantly give you a warm and
Jesus and the circular shape of the wreath
cosy feeling, perfect for creating a festive
represents God, with no beginning and no
display or a magical centrepiece for your
end. There are many tutorials online about
table. The soft glow of a candle has been a
how you can make your own wreath, adding
Christmas tradition for centuries, reminding
in evergreen leaves and pine cones that you
us of the coming spring during the winter
can find on winter woodland walks. Twist the
solstice. A common sight in churches, one
bracken around a wire frame, then add LED
The evergreens used in a Christmas wreath
candles to light throughout advent..You can make them personalised to you in any way by adding bows, small figures, dried fruit, toys, even sweets! Christmas gifts If you have an eye for all things crafty, then the perfect solution is to make your own gifts this year. Set aside a day where you can create something special for your friends and family. is there a skill you’ve learnt in 2020 that you can show off on Christmas morning? Maybe you’ve tried your hand at knitting or crocheting or even become a dab hand at watercolour painting. This doesn’t have to be extravagant or time consuming, it could be something as simple as making a personalised card. A day with the family making little gifts for your close family by the tree could be what really gets you into the festive spirit. Spice it up Fill your home with the smell of all the Christmas spices to really set the scene. Not only will they smell delicious but they each has their own special properties that help with stress and digestion:
The evergreens used in a Christmas wreath represent everlasting life brought through Jesus and the circular shape of the wreath represents God, with no beginning and no end
n 12 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE
HOME & GARDEN
Made-to-Measure Curtains & Blinds Saphira by Romo
• Free consultation in your own home • Fitting service available • • Extensive range of fabrics and accessories • Opening Hours: Wednesday - Friday: 9.30am - 5.00pm Saturday: 10.00am - 4.00pm | Sunday - Tuesday : Closed
61 High Street, Pershore, WR10 1EU
T: 01386 556 411 | M: 07527 047647 | E: veragilesinteriors@btconnect.com
www.veragilesinteriors.co.uk
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HOME & GARDEN
Fill your home with the smell of all the Christmas spices to really set the scene.
Anise: This spice comes ground or in whole seeds and is found in gingerbread, honey cake and biscuits. Anise calms the stomach and the intestines. Cloves: Dried flower buds can help strengthen the stomach and relieve bloating.They’re also the perfect addition to a mulled wine! Allspice: A rich flavour found in many dishes and is a combination of nutmeg, cloves, pepper and cinnamon. The oils contained in the allspice help digestion and has a relaxing effect. Ginger: The spicy taste of ginger is can be added to biscuits to give it a warming effect. It also provides many anti-imflammatory substances. Cinnamon: Cinnamon comes from the dried bark strips, bark powder and flowers of a small tree. Perfect for biscuits and cakes, cinnamon has a sweet and woody flavour, slightly spicy and with a hint of citrus. Nutmeg: This spice is also often found in biscuits. It has a calming effect and should be used in moderation. Stay connected If inviting friends and family over and n 14 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
celebrating in large groups is your usual way of celebrating, there are still many ways of being able to stay connected during lockdown restrictions. A Skype call or Zoom meeting might not seem like your idea of a fun Christmas, for most of us however it may be the only way we get to see our loved ones. You can even play interactive games through a Zoom call. All your favourite seasonal classics like Pictionary, Guess Who? and Taboo are now available to play whilst on a video call as well as a simple game of Rummy with a set of playing cards. Stay positive Most of all this Christmas, take time to try to remember the positives that have come out of 2020. Maybe there has been a new arrival to the family, you’ve met someone new or simply been moved by something small that you wouldn’t have noticed in your otherwise hectic and busy life. For those who are struggling, seek solace in a friend or visit www.mind.org for some tips how to get yourself through the Christmas period. n By Daisy Bennett
HOME & GARDEN
Merry s a m t s i Chr s r e d a e r r u o to all of
Worcestershire
Now
If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team.
Rachel Seabright
Lis Gardner
Kate Gilmartin
Tel: 01905 727900 Email: rachel@pw-media.co.uk
Tel: 01905 727901 Email: lis@pw-media.co.uk
Tel: 01905 727905 Email: kate@pw-media.co.uk
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HOME & GARDEN
Kitchens Take Centre Stage Whether the rule of six is still in place or not by the time Christmas rolls around, the majority of us will be spending the festive season with our loved ones, in the safety and security of home. In 2020, entertaining isn’t just about cooking the turkey and plating up the mince pies, but about creating a relaxing and magical ambience and a festive period to remember. The kitchen is the heart of all of this activity - and undoubtedly the heart of the home - not just from Christmas Eve through to New Year but all year round. If your kitchen has seen better days and the layout is just no longer working for you and your family, here’s some guidance from Will Lyne, owner of bespoke kitchen and furniture company, Christopher Peters, on the best kitchen design elements for family entertaining. Come one, come all Whilst you may want to wow your mother-inlaw with a formal Christmas lunch experience in your traditional dining room, drinks and nibbles with friends in your kitchen will create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Make the most of the square footage in your kitchen by including an informal dining area. If you already have a separate dining room but the size of your kitchen allows for additional dining space, add a farmhouse-style kitchen table or a nook with a bistro table and cosy seating. Maximise on awkward corners in your kitchen by speaking with a quality furniture designer about bespoke fitted dining options
– many of which will incorporate storage solutions into the design. Pull up a chair Have you ever considered adding a family room set-up to your kitchen space? Again, if you’re blessed with a large kitchen, revisit the layout and allocate a few square metres for a wall mounted television, stylish storage and a cosy sofa. This will double as additional seating for any welcome guests and a place for them to enjoy a glass of bubbly whilst you put the finishing touches to your culinary masterpiece. Work and play Establish separate zones in your kitchen by adding stations to the main working areas. With modern, family life taking over all aspects of the home, the majority of our clients have asked us to incorporate specific zones, like pantries, coffee stations and bars, into their kitchen design. Utilising every inch of space within each area maximises efficiency and limits the opportunity for unsightly clutter. In other, less practical areas of the kitchen, display some of your most loved glassware or crockery and go to town with the festive
n 16 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
decorations. Guests are then able to help themselves to fresh glasses or plates without having to interrupt you, the host. Island invitation Installing a kitchen island is a great way to create a hub of activity for all of your guests. The best hosts are those who bring their guests together whilst also offering quieter spaces for more private conversations; the kitchen island is naturally the place where people will regroup. You can use this space to light up your favourite festive candle, plate up nibbles or even pop a few bottles of bubbly, for a makeshift bar. Our kitchen island designs often include all manner of storage solutions and integrated appliances, to maximise the available space. Whatever space you have to work with, the best way to update your kitchen design is to revisit the layout. Whether you’re a seasoned entertainer or just a seasonal entertainer, this will unlock the potential in your kitchen for years to come. n Christopher Peters www.christopherpeters.com
HOME & GARDEN
Lifetime Guarantee on installation work
n Innovative Design n Competitive Pricing n 40 years Experience n Free 3D Cad design Service n Professionally operated by caring tradesmen n Please check our customer reviews on our website n Every Contract Fully Project Managed
Contact Chris direct on 07791 661 347 • E: chris@crgkitchens.co.uk • www.crgkitchens.co.uk t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 17 n
NATURE NOTEBOOK
Robin © Chris Hill
Robins Rule
Think of Christmas, think of wildlife and you’ll no doubt think of robins. These ubiquitous garden birds are a firm seasonal favourite.
KEEP UP TO DATE Worcestershire Wildlife Trust @WorcsWT t worcestershirewildlifetrust G worcswildlifetrust.co.uk w
Recently voted Britain’s favourite bird, robins are one of our most recognisable and most common birds. Many people are delighted by ‘their’ robin that visits the garden, allotment, balcony or other outdoor space.
night.
Many readers will probably be astounded to know that it isn’t just one robin that visits your garden, even though you may only see one at any given time. In a project in north Norfolk to track which blackbirds were using which gardens, a daily record was set by one garden that had 74 individual blackbirds pay a visit.
most have an average lifespan of just two years. Cold
Back to robins and did you know that the robins in your garden may not all be the same ones that have been with you all summer? During autumn, the UK sees an influx of robins from Scandinavia – some will continue to France and Spain but others will pause and spend the winter with their British relatives. There are subtle differences in the colour of the feathers that can help you to identify our continental robin cousins but I think you have to have better trained eyesight than I’ve got!
wall, why not tuck an open-fronted box in amongst
Robins are one of few birds whose song fills the air during winter, most other birds only sing when they’re wooing a mate for breeding in the spring. They’re also unusual in that both males and females sing during the winter months, although neither sing the fullblown spring song. Part of the reason for singing is to defend a territory. Territorial patches are important at this time of year as that’s how birds ensure access to the food needed to get them through each cold
n 18 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
Robins are often aggressive towards one
another and fights to the death do occasionally happen. Despite this, robins will tolerate other birds where needs must! The oldest known robin was over eight years old but winters, predators, food shortages and disease all take their toll but you can help these beautiful birds and their feathered friends by popping out some food during winter and putting up a birdbox in your outdoor space. If you’ve got a creeper growing up a the vegetation – as it leafs-up in spring, it will provide a perfectly hidden and sheltered spot for one of your neighbourhood robins to breed in.
Perhaps you
could ask Santa for a box for Christmas? Robins are such a welcome sight when we see them in our gardens so pop out some food, provide a home and give them as much cheer as they give us. Our friends at Vine House Farm donate 4% of every sale and £10 for new customers to Worcestershire Wildlife Trust – why not check out their food, feeders and nest boxes www.vinehousefarm.co.uk Christmas our
online
cards, shop
calendars help
and wildlife
gifts near
from you
www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/shop n Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust
NATURE NOTEBOOK
Merry s a m t s i Chr s r e d a e r r u o to all of
Worcestershire
Now
If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team.
Rachel Seabright
Lis Gardner
Kate Gilmartin
Tel: 01905 727900 Email: rachel@pw-media.co.uk
Tel: 01905 727901 Email: lis@pw-media.co.uk
Tel: 01905 727905 Email: kate@pw-media.co.uk
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Christmas Nights In Relax during the festive period with our picks of the best pyjamas to snuggle up on the sofa.
CHRISTMAS CHECKED PYJAMA SET - £25 marksandspencer.com
RED REINDEER CHECK TROUSER CHRISTMAS PYJAMA SET £18.99 newlook.com
LET IT SNOW SLOGAN SHORT SLEEVE CHRISTMAS PYJAMAS £12.50 direct.asda.com
n 20 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
CHRISTMAS MOOSE PYJAMAS - £28
BLUE CHRISTMAS PRINT HOODED ONESIE - £22
next.co.uk
peacocks.co.uk
MINI ME CHRISTMAS TARTAN CHECK PYJAMAS - £14 tuclothing.sainsburys.co.uk
NAVY ‘GINGER BREAD’ COTTON PETITE PYJAMA SET £17.60 debenhams.com
STELLA STAR PRINT PYJAMA SET - £48 johnlewis.com
The national medical weight loss programme is a health assessment and treatment plan to help you lose weight and be healthy. You will be consulted by our medical practitioner and nutritionalist through online sessions so we can provide the best treatments suitable for you delivered straight to your door.
CONTACT KIMBERLY TODAY ON 07850 941 051 Revamp Aesthetics Ltd, 3 Pound Court, Weights Lane, Weights Farm, Redditch, B97 6RG
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GOLDEN YEARS
Phone Scams Phone scams are a common way for criminals to con people out of money. With people being at home more, the criminals are using this method increasingly. AgeUK have provided information of the most common phone scams and to help you find out what you can do to stay safe. What is a cold call? Cold calls are phone calls from companies trying to sell you something, even though they have had no business with you previously. Cold calls aren’t usually illegal and don’t necessarily count as a scam although they can be annoying, frustrating and even frightening. Even though it won’t necessarily block scammers, you can register for free with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to reduce the number of cold calls you receive. www.tpsonline.org.uk What are some common types of phone scams? It can be hard to tell the difference between a scam and cold calling. However, it’s good to know some of the typical tricks that scammers use so you can be prepared.
Bank scams Someone may call claiming to be from your bank telling you there’s a problem with your card or account. The caller will often sound professional and try to convince you that your card has been cloned or that your money is at risk. They may ask for your account and card details, including your PIN number, and even offer to send a courier to collect your card. They may also advise transferring your money to a ‘safe account’ to protect it. This is a common scam and your bank would never ask you to do this. Computer repair scams A scammer may call you claiming to be from the helpdesk of a well-known IT firm, such as Microsoft. They’ll tell you that your computer
n 22 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
has a virus and will ask you to download ‘antivirus software’, possibly at a cost. This turns out to be spyware, used to get your personal details. It can also be ransomwear in which then they ask for payment to remove it! Legitimate IT companies don’t contact customers this way. Compensation calls This is a call from a company asking about a car accident you’ve supposedly had claiming you may be entitled to compensation. Some of these could be genuine companies looking for business but others are scammers. Don’t engage in these calls. If you’ve had an accident, call your own insurance company on the phone number provided on your policy. CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE
t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 23 n
GOLDEN YEARS
can trick you into thinking the caller is really from a legitimate organisation, such as a bank or utility company. If you’re in any doubt, hang up and call the organisation directly. If possible, call them from different phone as scammers can keep the phone line open, so that even if you hang up and call the organisation directly, the line may still be connected to the scammer. If it’s not possible to use another phone then wait for at least 10 minutes before you call. Pensions and investment scams This is a call about an ‘unmissable’ investment opportunity, or offering you the opportunity
HMRC scams You may get a call from someone claiming to be from HMRC saying there is an issue with your tax refund or an unpaid tax bill. They may leave a message and ask you to call
to access your pension cash earlier. For more information on Pension Scams please visit the UKAge Website or call your local Age UK number before you invest.
back. Again, don’t be fooled by this. HMRC
Nuisance calls about pensions are now
would never contact you this way and would
illegal. If you receive a cold call about
never ask you to reveal personal financial
your pension, report it to the Information
information such as your bank account details.
Commissioner’s Office on 0303 123 1113.
Number spoofing
‘Anti-scam’ scams
Scammers now have the technology to
This is a call from someone claiming to be
mimic an official telephone number so it
from a charity supporting scam victims,
comes up on your caller ID display.
a company selling anti-scam technology,
This
or from someone demanding money to renew your Telephone Preference Service registration, which is actually free. Be alert to all of these. Check a charity’s registration with the Charity Commission to find out if they’re genuine. https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/charity-commission What should I do if I get a scam call? Older people are often a target for scammers, so it’s important to be aware of phone scams and how to handle them. Fortunately, there are things you can do to protect yourself: Don’t reveal personal details. Never give out personal or financial information (such as your bank account details or your PIN) over the phone, even if the caller claims to be from your bank. Hang up. If you feel harassed or intimidated, or if the caller talks over you without giving you a chance to speak, end the call. It may feel rude to hang up on someone, but you have the right not to be pressurised into anything. CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE
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Pavement Scooters | Road Legal Scooters | Powerchairs Wheelchairs | Rise Chairs | Stairlifts | Walking Aids | Bathing Aids n 24 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 25 n
GOLDEN YEARS
Ring the organisation. If you’re unsure whether the caller is genuine, you can always ring the company or bank they claim to be from. Make sure you find the number yourself and don’t use the one provided by the caller. Don’t be rushed. Scammers will try to rush you into providing your personal details. They may say they have time-limited offer or claim your bank account is at risk if you don’t give them the information they need right away. How can I avoid phone scams and cold calls? You can block or prevent some cold calls. Try these simple things: Register with the Telephone Preference Service – it’s free and it allows you to opt out of any unsolicited live telesales calls. This should reduce the number of cold calls you receive but may not block scammers. Talk to your phone provider to see what other privacy services and call-blocking services are available, although you may need to pay for some of these services. If you have a smartphone, you can use the settings on the phone to block unwanted
numbers. If you’re not sure how to do this, you could visit your local mobile phone shop for assistance. There are products to block some calls. Provided by Worcester County Council, these are pieces of equipment that need to be professionally installed. The Council lends them out for three to six months, free of charge, which is usually enough time for the scam calls to stop. How can I report or make a complaint about a cold call? There are privacy laws that protect consumers from direct marketing phone calls. If you’ve registered your phone number with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) or if you’ve told the company directly that you don’t wish to receive phone calls, you shouldn’t receive direct marketing calls from the UK. If you receive an unwanted telesales call, an automated message, or a spam message, tell the company that you don’t wish to be contacted again. You can complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office or report spam texts by forwarding the text for free to 7726.
Worcestershire
Now
If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team. Rachel Seabright
Lis Gardner
rachel@pw-media.co.uk
lis@pw-media.co.uk
Tel: 01905 727900
Tel: 01905 727901
Kate Gilmartin Tel: 01905 727905
kate@pw-media.co.uk
n 26 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
If you have received a silent or abandoned call, complain to Ofcom. What should I do if I’ve been a victim of a phone scam? Scammers are constantly finding new ways to trick people and phone scams are changing all the time. If you’ve been the victim of a scam don’t be embarrassed to report it. It can happen to anyone. Report the scam to the police and also contact Action Fraud. www.actionfraud. police.uk The information you give to Action Fraud can help track down the scammer. n www.ageuk.org.uk
GOLDEN YEARS
93 Barnards Green Road, Malvern, Worcestershire, WR14 3LT Regulated by Care Quality Commission
At Holmwood Care Centre, we have the expertise and facilities to take care of your loved one.
Offering the best quality residential, nursing and dementia care, where you or your loved one can feel at home. Visitors to the home are made to feel most welcome. Our visitor pod enables existing and new residents to safely remain in contact with their loved ones. Should you like to speak to one of our caring teams to discuss your care needs we can be contacted at: Holmwood Care Centre, 30 Chaddesley Road, Kidderminster, DY10 3DJ Tel: 01562 824 496 Email: holmwood@futurecaregroup.com www.futurecaregroup.com
t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 27 n
GOLDEN YEARS
Care UK put the ‘style’ into care home life Our Care UK care homes in Worcestershire are spacious purpose-built luxury care homes that provide residential, nursing and dementia care, including end of life and short term respite care.
CQC ‘Outstanding’ Perry Manor in Worcester, ‘Good’ Brook Court in Kidderminster and ‘Good’ Chandler Court in Bromsgrove are owned and managed by award winning provider Care UK, one of the UK’s most successful care home operators with over 35 years’ experience of delivering the very best care and support for older people.
If you’ve not set foot in a care home before– or even if you have – our Worcestershire care homes may surprise you. Our homes boast luxury facilities including their own cafés, activity rooms, hair and beauty salons, and cinemas – so whether you want to relax with a cup of coffee and slice of cake, get busy with a creative hobby, or enjoy a classic film, we have it all!
Our care homes provide an encouraging atmosphere which enables residents to restore their quality of life. Residents are supported to enjoy the hobbies they love, to develop the confidence to try new things and to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle. Every day brings an opportunity to do something different. n To find out more about one of our Worcestershire Care UK care homes, or to request a virtual tour, visit careuk.com
Keeping your independence with TPG DisableAids As with many things in life, the season often dictates what is important to you at that time. The summer brings thoughts of long lazy days basking in brilliant sunshine and day trips out to see friends and family or visit interesting beauty spots. Or at least that would be the case if it were not for our common enemy of Covid-19. Now the nights are drawing in and there is a definite chill in the air our thoughts oftern turn more to the comforts of home and the warmth of our own houses. For those less able and with limited mobility feeling the cold comes far sooner and can have a real effect on their ability to function and stay well. For this reason it is always sensible to look for measures and solutions that can assist the less able to keep warm and mobile whilst staying at home. Here at TPG DisableAids we have many solutions that range from simple wide fitting cosy slippers through to heated chair liners and riser recliner chairs.
The chairs assist the user to not only recline and relax, but to rise to the standing position without putting undue strain on the arms and shoulders. The heated chair liners can fit most existing arm chairs and give really good localised heat just to the individual that needs it, rather than heating the whole house to a level that others may not require. As such they are extremely efficient, costing as little as one penny per hour to keep the user warm. So with long winter nights coming, and almost certainly cooler temperatures, just give a thought to keeping safe and warm in your own home. n Contact TPG DisableAids via enquiries@tpg-disableaids.co.uk or 01432 351666 or via our social media sites.
n 28 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
GOLDEN YEARS
t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 29 n
EDUCATION
Bake Off!
Cooking With Your Children Why not spend an hour away from the screen and make something delicious. Cooking helps with all sorts of skills from maths to dexterity and is fun. Simple granola bars These bars are easy to make and delicious. Best of all they have honey in them! They will keep for up to a week in an airtight container. This recipe makes ten well-sized bars. Your children will need supervision as it used both the oven and heating hot things on the hob. Ingredients for your shopping list • 200g of Oats • 75g of flaked almonds • 25g of butter • 125g of honey • 75g of raisins • 1 pinch of salt Other things you will need • Baking paper • 24cms square tray
Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas mark 4
7. Cut into bars or squares. For chewy bars, allow to come to room temperature before eating
2. Spread the oats and almonds onto separate baking trays and bake for 10-15 minutes until toasted
Ring the changes... You can add any dried fruit you like to granola bars; try cranberries, apicots or even crystallized ginger. You can also use other nuts. Pecan, hazelnuts and macadamias all work really well; remember to toast them first for maximum flavour.
3. Meanwhile, place the butter and honey in a saucepan and heat gently until the honey just begins to bubble 4. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the almonds, oats, raisins and salt. Mix until thoroughly combined 5. Line a 24cm square tray with baking paper and pack in the granola mixture. Push it down firmly with the aid of a smaller tray or a spatula 6. Transfer to the fridge for 1 hour to set
n 30 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
For a treat, add a few chocolate chips to the mix whilst the mixture is still warm. They’ll melt through and help hold the bars together. You can make Christmas Bars by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg add warm, comforting flavours. n
EDUCATION
DO YOU WANT TO TEACH IN A PRIMARY SCHOOL? Based at Oasis Warndon, we offer Initial Teacher Training (ITT) in primary education workingn towards Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) Full Time 1 Year Programme
WHY TRAIN WITH OASIS? Established in 2004, we are one of the largest Multi-Academy Trusts in England. As an academy, we serve over 28,000 young people. At Oasis Warndon we offer a bespoke training package to all of our trainees, with excellent mentors, outstanding classroom practitioners and a current and up to date professional studies programme. We provide a personal touch to helping you become the teacher you want to become!
CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION Email: naomi.cooke@oasiswarndon.org www.oasisacademywarndon.org/ join-us/train-to-teach OASIS ACADEMY WARNDON ARE A LEAD SCHOOL FOR HAYBRIDGE SCITT ALLIANCE
S E C U R I N G
T H E
B E S T
O U T C O M E S
t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 31 n
EDUCATION
How remote learning has enabled King’s St Alban’s children to become unstoppable Richard Chapman, headteacher at King’s St Alban’s, highlights how proactive teaching and innovative technology have provided continuity of learning and allowed Junior School children to thrive during a year of change and uncertainty. Now more than ever, education needs focus, momentum and continuity to ensure that children not only survive the effects of lockdown, but thrive. The beginning of lockdown almost feels like a distant memory. However, through the tough times, I have been astounded by the resilience of our children and their ability to be unstoppable. Children have an extraordinary capacity to live in the here and now. We, as adults, waste our time with thoughts of the past or fantasies about the future. Our children don’t worry about the future; they adapt and enjoy every moment for what it is. Over the last six months, as educators, it has been our responsibility to continue to harness that energy and channel it by delivering a firstclass education experience in homes, via remote learning. We have also been the constant support throughout, providing comfort and reassurance to our children when needed. It may sound romantic, but we teach because we know what we do really matters and that it will shape the next generation, even if we can’t do it faceto-face due to the circumstances. During the last lockdown, King’s St Alban’s delivered more 2,600 remote lessons, with 96%
pupil engagement. The school is now leading the way in delivering a hybrid model of learning ensuring that educational continuity is at the heart of the King’s education. Even though we reopened our doors in September, and welcomed all our pupils back to school, we had to ensure that we could respond rapidly to changing guidance. Like many other schools, some of our children and teachers had to self-isolate. I have seen my colleagues and peers become digital champions and the latest technology has been implemented across the foundation of schools to ensure that learning can be continued online at the switch of a button. This operation ensures no child misses a day of their education. The King’s Foundation has delivered more than 15,000 remote learning lessons since the beginning of lockdown, with many children and parents full of praise for online learning. We have also received a positive response from parents who have had to return to home schooling after the school reopened. One Year 5 parent, said: “The speed and efficiency with which teachers were able to get the children sent home and switch on remote learning
was miraculous. It must have taken a lot of preparation and hard work.” During the remote learning period, we have carefully monitored every year group and were thrilled to discover that our children have maintained a high standard of work with some even ahead of where they should be. The education sector has had to rapidly overhaul the way it operates, and although it has been challenging at times, teachers are excellent at innovating and adapting to change. I am proud to be a part of the King’s community who have and continue to be determined that our children don’t just survive lockdown, but thrive. Through the delivery of our remote learning lessons and a shared lockdown experience, the bonds we hold have become stronger, our children continue to be inspired and energised, and truly are unstoppable. n For more information or to book a private tour of King’s St Alban’s, please visit: ksw.org.uk/ meetkings
Bromsgrove Beckons Bromsgrove School offers an all-round education, combining academic excellence with a richness of opportunity. Pupils engage enthusiastically with knowledge, embrace new ideas and are intellectually stimulated. The School prides itself on the outstanding opportunities available, both inside and outside the classroom. In 1693, Sir Thomas Cookes, re-endowed Bromsgrove School. An amount was left in his will to provide uniform and instruction for twelve Foundation Scholars who “being elected for a term of six years are to be taught the English, Greek and Latin tongues, writing and arithmetic”. Whilst the curriculum has changed somewhat, the opportunity still remains. Foundation Scholarships are for children living in the local area. Digby, Lord Jones of Birmingham is proud to be known as a Foundation Scholar of Bromsgrove School. A hard working Scholar, he played rugby and hockey for the School and ultimately became Head Boy.
Scholarships
are
available
for
Academic (11+, 13+ & 16+), Music (11+,13+,16+), Art (11+,13+,16+), Drama
(13+,16+)
and
Sports
Scholarship (13+, 16+). Interviews and/or
examinations
are
competitive, however candidates may apply for more than one scholarship.
Generous
means-
tested bursaries are available for Year 7, 9 and 12 entry to enable boys and girls, who might not have previously been able to consider an Independent education, the chance to do so. Pupils may apply for both a scholarship and a bursary. For more information please contact the Admissions team. n
n 32 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
EDUCATION
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EDUCATION
Enrol on a part-time course for adult learners Celebrate the New Year by learning a new skill at your local WCG (Warwickshire College Group) College, based in Evesham and Pershore. • Health & Wellbeing • Horticulture, Gardening & Landscaping • IT & Computing • Languages & ESOL • Motor Vehicle • Plumbing, Heating & Gas • Teaching & Learning All course delivery is currently adhering to strict COVID-19 guidance and could include both face-to-face and remote delivery elements. Don’t forget, WCG also have over 50 short courses available to study now from the comfort of your own home. Subjects include: Writing; Nutrition; Animal Health Care and much more! From part-time leisure courses to professional qualifications, there is something for all adult learners to enjoy this New Year. WCG knows that their range of lifelong learning programmes are essential to strengthening communities and making sure that local people can succeed in their personal goals and career aspirations.
There are a wide variety of adult part-time subjects on offer across both Evesham and Pershore Colleges, including: • Arts & Creative • Construction • Counselling • Engineering • First Aid
n 34 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
Visit wcg.ac.uk/distancelearning n For more information and to enrol on an adult part-time course at Evesham and Pershore colleges, visit wcg.ac.uk/adultlearning or call 0300 456 0049.
t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 35 n
Puzzled? What's On
STAY HOME. STAY SAFE. SUDOKU - FIENDISH
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n 36 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 37 n
Puzzled?
CRISS-CROSS
Fill in the blanks with the words. To help you get started two letters are already in place 1
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4 letter words LARK TOUR 5 letter words ATTIC AVIAN CREEK DUCAT EARTH GREAT GUIDE INPUT
MUSIC PIANO PURSE RURAL SCALE TAROT TEMPO TENOR TIGER USING VALUE VISIT
n 38 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
6 letter words ADVICE AUTUMN SMOOTH URCHIN 7 letter words BEARDIE BISCUIT BOBTAIL CAMPING CONCERT CRAYONS
CUPCAKE ECHIDNA ELEGANT FIGURES FLORIST GROUNDS KETCHUP MORNING ORATORY PREPAID REGATTA SAVINGS STICKER
SUCCESS TOASTER TONIGHT TOPIARY USUALLY 12 letter words ACCORDIONIST GRANDPARENTS THANKFULNESS TRANQUILLITY
National Association of Goldsmiths Member
Quarter Jewellery(Worcester) and Malvern Goldsmiths
Getting married? §
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Worcestershire
Now
If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team. Rachel Seabright
Lis Gardner
rachel@pw-media.co.uk
lis@pw-media.co.uk
Tel: 01905 727900
Tel: 01905 727901
Kate Gilmartin Tel: 01905 727905
kate@pw-media.co.uk
Personalise Your Wedding Ring 1. Choose a plain wedding ring (9ct, 18ct or platinum) 2. Keep it plain or have it diamond cut (any pattern) + £25 3. Set some bright white diamonds + £45 each (including setting) 4. Engrave dates or something lovey dovey on the inside + £20 (approx) Congratulations, you have just designed your very own Wedding Ring! Plain Wedding Rings are £47.50 per gram for 9ct or £95 per gram for 18ct
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THE MOST REASONABLE JEWELLERS IN WORCESTER, ESPECIALLY FOR WEDDING RINGS
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ACROSS 4. Usually 10. Beardie 11. Music 12. Concert 14. Camping 16. Ketchup 17. Oratory 18. Attic 20. Toaster 21. Ducat 22. Tiger 29. Advice 30. Grandparents 32. Thankfulness 33. Autumn 37. Value 38. Guide 41. Bobtail 43. Scale 44. Florist 46. Biscuit 48. Savings 49. Tonight 50. Creek 51. Morning 52. Crayons
CRISS-CROSS: DOWN 1. Regatta 2. Prepaid 3. Piano 5. Smooth 6. Accordionist 7. Lark 8. Success 9. Figures 13. Tenor 15. Great 19. Cupcake 20. Tempo 23. Earth 24. Avian 25. Tranquillity 26. Grounds 27. Input 28. Using 31. Rural 34. Purse 35. Topiary 36. Sticker 37. Visit 39. Echidna 40. Elegant 45. Tarot 47. Tour
ANSWERS
t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 39 n
Colour In and Keep
Merry s a m t s i r Ch ders a e r r u o f o l to al
n 40 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 202 | December 2020 - January 2021
