Worcestershire NOW - NOVEMBER 2020

Worcestershire

Now

See page 45 and visit wmsp.co.uk/christmas for more information BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE GIVING WILDLIFE A HELPING HAND THE MUSEUM OF ROYAL WORCESTER NOVEMBER 2020 | ISSUE 201 t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 1 n

NEWS • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD & DRINK • HEALTH & BEAUTY • GOLDEN YEARS • PUZZLES

n 2 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

Worcestershire

8

Now

NOVEMBER 2020 HOME & GARDEN 8

Baby, It’s Cold Outside

14

New Poll Reveals What Buyers Look For in a New Home

16

Keep Warm This Winter With Underfloor Heating

18

Seconday Glazing in Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas

20

Double Glazing Repairs & Maintenance

24

Nature Notebook

24 26

HEALTH & BEAUTY 26

Countdown to Christmas

FOOD & DRINK 28

28

Rosehip Syrup Recipe

GOLDEN YEARS 30

Age UK Lays Bare the Impact of the Pandemic

34

Keeping Your Independence with TPG DisableAids

30

EDUCATION 36

Is Your Child Suffering From Maths Anxiety?

LIVING HISTORY 40

SHOPPING 43

40

Personalised Gifts

PUZZLES 44

43

A Short Walk From the Porcelain to the Museum of Royal Worcester

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

Elizabeth Ann Smith Age UK Hazlewoods Finance Lansec Redditch Swimming Club SplashLearn Tile Choice

CONTRIBUTORS

TPG DisableAids

Daisy Bennett Wendy Carter

Which Worcester Printers

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

REDDITCH SPORTS CLUB WINS SHARE OF £1 MILLION YOUTH CHARITY GIVEAWAY

A Redditch sports club has been awarded a share of a £1 million fund supporting under-18s as a part of the hugely successful Persimmon Homes Building Futures campaign.

Redditch Swimming Club was among 96 organisations to reach the final stage of its Building Futures competition.

Midlands and were each awarded £5,000. Paul

The winners were announced during a

Wilkes, spokesman for Redditch Swimming

virtual event, presented by Dame Katherine

Club, said: “Taking part in Building Futures

Grainger DBE, chair of UK Sport and Great

has been a fantastic experience for us and it

Britain’s most decorated female Olympian,

was so exciting to reach the finals, with such

alongside Persimmon Homes Group CEO

a broad range of groups being represented

Dean Finch. The final was watched by around

and we are delighted to have been awarded

1,500 people.

£5,000. The money will help us invest in a range The £100,000 prize winner in the sport

During April and May, Building Futures also gave away £1,000 each to 128 organisations supporting young people in sport, education & arts and health throughout England, Scotland and Wales.

of training equipment, which is fantastic.”

Three finalists were each awarded the top prize of £100,000, three the second prize of £50,000 and three the third prize of £20,000. The remaining finalists were handed £5,000 each.

the fantastic work of so many organisations

New College Worcester in the arts & education category, Redditch Swimming in sport and Dogs For Good, in Banbury, for health, represented Persimmon Homes South

Russell

Griffin,

director-in-charge

for

Persimmon Homes South Midlands, said: “The Building Futures scheme has been a great success and it is wonderful to celebrate supporting young people in our communities.

category was Northampton Swimming Club, while Ringsfield Hall Eco Activity Centre secured the award for education & arts and The Children’s Hospital Charity won for health. The second prize of £50,000 went to KD Gymnastics for sport, North Music Trust at Sage Gateshead for education &

“We have been overwhelmed by both the

arts and Little Hearts Matter for health. In

response to the competition, and the hard

third place, Afan Lido Ladies & Girls’ FC

work and dedication of those involved within

scooped £20,000 for sport, with Derian

all the groups.” The first, second and third

House Children’s Hospice receiving the

prize winners were decided by a public vote

health award and Refugee Action winning

and around 400,000 votes were cast.

for education & arts. n

Hazlewoods Financial Planning Ranked FTAdviser’s Top 40 in the Country Hazlewoods Financial Planning team, who are specialists in investments, pensions and financial advice, are currently celebrating being announced in the top 40 of the Financial Times FTAdviser’s 2020 Top 100 Financial Advisers list.

The team are pleased that with a strong performance over the last 12 months, especially throughout the pandemic, they remain in the top 40, representing the smaller firms in the higher part of the list after

competing

against

large

national

organisations such as Tavistock Group, Tenet and Wren Sterling.

In the second year of new assessment criteria, the FTAdviser rankings now ensure that a wide variety of factors that are important to people who may be looking for financial advice are assessed, rather than purely assets under management. In the past, the rankings had favoured the larger firms; whereas they now n 4 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

give an all-round perspective, recognising organisations who provide excellent service and advice across the board.

The criteria for the top 100 ranking included growth rate, experience of advisers across economic and interest-rate environments, qualifications and consideration of how each firm’s choices influenced asset growth over the year.

Kyle Nethercott, Partner at Hazlewoods Financial Planning, said: “I am incredibly proud of our team and all the hard work they have put in over the last 12 months, which have been challenging times for us all. It is a fantastic achievement.”

Fellow Partner, Stephen Dick, added: “We are pleased that the FTAdviser’s list has continued to assess all relevant criteria and therefore recognise firms who consistently deliver allround, quality advice. It ensures that the list

provides a great starting point for anyone looking for financial advice, to understand which firms will suit their needs and we are delighted to have achieved this position.” www.hazlewoods.co.uk

Hazlewoods Financial Planning was established in 1988 as a team of four and over the last 30 years, has grown to a team of 17, offering a comprehensive advice service. If you would like to know more about the team or are looking for financial advice, please contact Kyle Nethercott at kyle.nethercott@hazlewoods.co.uk or 01242 680000.

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 5 n

HERE & NOW

BOOST FOR TWO ARTS AND CULTURAL ORGANISATIONS The Department for Digital, Culture, Media &

The funding distributed today follows £257

• Avoncroft Museum (£183,943) – Avoncroft

Sport and Arts Council England have today

million

organisations

is England’s first open air museum with a

announced that a further 588 cultural and

on Monday. Further announcements on

culturally significant collection of buildings

creative organisations are to receive a share

the funding administered by Arts Council

from across the region and beyond including

of £76 million as part of a vital financial boost

England will follow soon; applicants for grants

12 Grade-II and one Grade I listed buildings.

from the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture

of over £1 million, and those that applied to

This funding will cover core costs including

Recovery Fund.

the Repayable Finance programme, will be

repair and conservation of buildings during

notified of their outcomes shortly.

the winter months, as well as improvements

In Worcestershire this £427,943 investment

awarded

to

1385

will help save two arts organisations facing

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “This

the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic,

is more vital funding to protect cultural gems

to ensure they have a sustainable future and

across the country, save jobs and prepare the

continue to bring joy to local communities

arts to bounce back. Through Arts Council

and international audiences.

England we are delivering the biggest ever

Today’s recipients are those that applied for grants of under £1 million in the second round of the Culture Recovery Fund. This funding

investment in the arts in record time. Hundreds of millions of pounds are already making their way to thousands of organisations.

to their access programmes. They also have plans to hold out-of-hours, socially distanced events, to boost income and engagement.

• Worcester Live Charitable Trust Ltd (£244,000) – Worcester Live runs Worcester’s two theatres - The Swan Theatre and Huntingdon Hall. This funding will save jobs, support the temporary closure of Huntingdon Hall and allow the safe re-opening of the Swan Theatre

will help organisations create work and

Organisations that will be receiving funding in

for community groups, youth workshops and

performances, and plan for reopening.

Worcestershire include:

partnership outreach programmes. n

Worcester Special Olympics Star Won’t Let COVID-19 Ruin His Marathon Plans Jamie Dancyger, 35, from Worcestershire

tough. Like many people with a learning

and who has a learning disability, is taking

disability, Jamie found a loss of routine and

on the 2020 Virgin Money London Marathon

the stopping of his usual activities extremely

for the UK’s leading learning disability charity

difficult to cope with.

Mencap to help change attitudes towards learning disability.

Running was a lifeline for Jamie during lockdown. With the support of his mum, Fran,

Jamie proved his school bullies wrong by

Jamie was able to continue his training with

becoming a Special Olympic medal-winning

Fran cycling alongside him while he ran.

runner. Now, he is set to prove them wrong again by running a marathon route in his local area as part of this year’s special virtual 40th Race on Sunday 4th October.

Jamie will be running for Mencap, the official charity of the 2020 Virgin Money London Marathon, which was chosen by Virgin Money colleagues as the company’s charity partner of

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be

the year. Jamie is one of 312 Mencap runners –

a closed-circuit route through St James’s Park

including 10 runners with a learning disability

for elite runners this year with all other runners

– taking on a virtual 26.2 miles challenge.

running, jogging or walking their own 26.2 miles route over a 24-hour period.

Jamie hopes that by running the virtual 40th Race he will prove people wrong and show the

Jamie experienced bullying when he was

world what people with a learning disability

at school and was taunted by some other

can achieve with the right support. Every

students during PE lessons for the way that he

penny raised by Jamie will go towards funding

ran. Everything changed when Jamie, who was

Mencap’s life-changing programmes, which

encouraged by his father – a retired learning

aim to tackle stigma and help people with a

disability nurse who volunteered as a coach at a

learning disability lead happy and healthy lives.

local Special Olympics group – to try out at for his local Special Olympics group. Jamie’s talent for long-distance running was soon recognised.

Edel Harris, Chief Executive of the learning disability charity Mencap, says: “We are delighted that Jamie, along with over 300

During his time with the Special Olympics,

other runners including 10 runners with a

Jamie represented his club and region in the

learning disability, will be taking on the 2020

800m, 1500m, 3000m and 5000m races. Jamie

Virgin Money London Marathon to raise vital

also represented the Special Olympics GB at

funds for Mencap’s life-changing programmes.

the World Games in Athens in 2011, where he picked up two silver medals.

“As the official charity of the 2020 Virgin Money London Marathon, all of our runners

Jamie is excited about taking on the 26.2 miles

will be helping to raise awareness about

challenge despite having found lockdown

learning disability. Through your giving and

n 6 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

encouragement, Mencap can continue to support people with a learning disability to lead happy and healthy lives – just like anyone else.”

Around 1.5 million people have a learning disability in the UK which means that they often take longer to learn new things and can need support with everyday tasks, like cooking, managing money, travelling and personal care. The level of support someone needs is different with every individual depending on the severity of their learning disability. For example, people with profound and multiple learning disabilities often need round the clock care and support.

The coronavirus crisis has affected people nationwide, but people with a learning disability are one group who have been hit hardest. Mencap is continuing to provide the highest quality frontline care to thousands of people, while ensuring that the 1.5 million people with a learning disability in the UK and their families and carers can get support through the charity’s helpline, online support services and lobbying and influencing work.

The charity has taken steps to meet increased demand for support during this time by boosting its helpline provision to provide vital information and advice to people with a learning disability and their families and carers, as well as adapting some of its sports and social inclusion programmes to deliver these projects virtually. n To support Jamie, please visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JamieDancyger1

ANDREW ALEXANDER GARDEN DESIGN

SM

HERE & NOW

A SP LL EC G IA AR NDH Hort. (Pershore) LI DE ST N S S

Low Maintenance Garden

THREE TIMES ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MEDAL WINNER Let me design your dream garden, tailored to your individual style, budget and needs.

• Full standalone garden design available • Low maintenance gardens a speciality • 3D freehand designs • Covering Herefordshire & Worcestershire • 20 years experience

Tel: 07968 371828

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Worcestershire

Find us on Facebook at Andrew Alexander Outdoors for an extensive gallery of photos

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 7 n

HOME & GARDEN

o C s ' t ,I

O ld

e d i s t u

hs ont m r r inte re you w su he ith t make w d d d an ead an E n e PAG h n a THE a R n E to la OV s.

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n 8 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

HOME & GARDEN

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 9 n

HOME & GARDEN

Get your boiler serviced Regularly servicing your boiler ensures it is working at its most efficient; there’s nothing more frustrating than getting to the end of November and having your boiler pack up. A cold shower of a morning, when the temperature is already below freezing is not ideal, and can have severe health repercussions. There is also the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Boilers can produce carbon monoxide naturally via a flue. If your flue is blocked, the carbon monoxide has nowhere to go and will seep into your home. It is also worth checking the batteries for your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; this should be done one a month, regardless of the time of year.

Prepare your windows

Clear gutters and drains During autumn, gutters and drains can become clogged with debris including leaves and mud. Autumn leaves are a pain at this time of year, blocking drains that could leave a build up of water. These blockages can lead to leaks into roofs and walls. If the water is not removed, it could break the gutter and even weaken the house and the foundations.

for the new year or those last minutes presents

n 10 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

Cold and wet weather and can cause wood to expand and rot. The best thing to do in preparation for the cold winter months is to fill in any cracks on your windowsill and if necessary, paint them in order to protect them.

Insure your home Insuring your home offers piece of mind, just in case your property is damaged. Sometimes the weather will damage your home, whether you’ve done all the preparation work or not.

By getting up to date building insurance, can offer home owners piece of mind, just in case the worst possible outcome happens.

Plan your finances The end of the year is the perfect time to sort out your finances, whether it be in preparation and food for Christmas. Although it may be a daunting task, especially in these uncertain times, your health and well-being is key and facing up to financial issues built up over the past few months. Start now and seek financial help if need be, so you can begin fresh in the new year CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HOME & GARDEN

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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 11 n

HOME & GARDEN

Car safety Check tyre tread or, if necessary, replace tyres with all-weather or snow tyres. Your car could be your life line in the winter months so make sure the car is equipped with safety precautions in case of a winter breakdown.

The AA recommends you have these essential items in the boot of your car; • Ice scraper and de-icer • Torch and spare batteries • A fully charged mobile phone - remember not to use a handheld phone while driving.

• An in-car phone charger or power pack • Sat-Nav or a printed route for an unfamiliar journey • A road atlas • Sunglasses - the low sun in winter can dazzle drivers and cause glare.

• First aid kit • Empty fuel can Prepare for a storm If there’s a storm brewing or there’s a threat of being snowed in; it is worth supplying your home with a survival kit in case of power outages. Make sure you have bottled water, non-perishable food, a torch, first-aid supplies, batteries, blankets, radio, a mobile

phone charger and in case of extreme winter weather, a shovel Look after your pipes Tell tale signs that you could be in danger of your water pipes freezing are any cracks or holes that appear in the outside walls of your home. Keep an eye out for any problems you can see arising that could let cold air in. Fill any gaps that you can see forming. When you are away from your home, make sure you have the temperature at above 4 degrees, this will ensure you home does not become too cold if you are not heating it for a few days.

Damp and condensation If you have damp and mould in your home you’re more likely to have respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies or asthma. Damp and mould can also affect the immune system. To control any damp problems you may have and to remove condensation from your home, either open the window and replace the warm air that you have heated with cold air from outside and then heat it all again or use ventilation. n

By Daisy Bennett

Your car could be your life line in the winter months so make sure the car is equipped with safety precautions n 12 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

HOME & GARDEN

FAIRWAYS FIREPLACES

• Newly refurbished showroom • Over 70 live working displays • Manufacturers of solid oak surrounds • Stockists of marble and stone fireplaces

THE FIREPLACE & STOVE WAREHOUSE THE LARGEST SHOWROOM IN THE MIDLANDS

15 Sherwood Road, Bromsgrove B60 3BG

01527 575567

www.fairwaysfireplaces.co.uk

• Hole in the wall fires • Gas fires and stoves • Electric fires and stoves • Multifuel and wood stoves

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 13 n

HOME & GARDEN

New Poll Reveals What

Buyers Look For in a New Home UPVC double glazing, wooden floors and downstairs loos are ‘in’, but Artex ceilings and shabby chic décor are ‘out’.

Buyers have revealed what they look for in a new home – UPVC double glazing, wooden floors and downstairs loos are ‘in’, but wood burners, Artex ceilings and shabby chic décor are ‘out’.

A poll of 2,000 adults found a good energy efficiency rating also gets a big tick, as do alcove bookshelves, converted lofts and free-standing bathtubs.

breakfast bars, paved patios and marble kitchen surfaces.

But Word art on walls and single glazed windows hold little appeal.

The same goes for dark coloured rooms, a lack of plug sockets and painted floorboards.

“But if you look at what people do and don’t want from a home there are some things there which are safe bets for the long-term.

“These include - but not limited to - UPVC double glazing, good energy efficiency rating and space for the home office area.” n

- white tiles with dark grouting and

TOP 30 MOST POPULAR PROPERTY TRENDS

trampolines also don’t go down well, while

1. UPVC double glazing

However, homes with tiled countertops, open plan layouts and pink rooms are likely to receive a thumbs down.

other people are put off by wood panelling

2. Downstairs loo

and lino floors.

3. Good energy efficiency rating

It also emerged colour is a significant

4. Built-in storage

The study was commissioned by Independent Network powered by VEKA, which has created an interactive infographic [https://www.inveka.co.uk/social-hub/toptips/home-buyers-have-revealed-whatthey-look-for-in-a-new-home/] to highlight the different home trends.

factor when it comes to how a property is

5. Lawned garden

perceived by potential buyers – inside and

6. Walled garden

out - as 77 per cent argue this is one of the

7. Separate living spaces

most important aspects of home décor.

8. Neutrally coloured walls

And if door and window colours are

9. Separate shower cubicle

anything to go by, white is by far the most

10. Wooden floors

popular shade with 44 per cent of homes

11. Converted loft

The research also found almost a fifth of adults are looking to buy a new house within the next six months.

having a white door and 73 per cent having

12. Underfloor heating

white windows.

13. Security system

Carried out through OnePoll, the study

14. Home office area

A spokeswoman said: “Trends come and go so it can be hard to keep up with what’s hot and what’s not when it comes to property – and there are some surprises which perhaps illustrates this very point.

also found 58 per cent browse property

15. Paved patio

websites and apps just to see what’s out

16. Marble kitchen surfaces

there - despite not ‘officially’ looking for a

17. Outdoor lounge area

new home.

18. Modern retro furnishings

And 53 per cent of adults actively keep an

19. Coloured window frames

“For instance, pink rooms have been very popular in recent years, but are now not viewed quite so favourably among many of those polled.”

eye on the latest home style trends.

20. Breakfast bars

Coloured taps – specifically black ones

But despite so many having their finger

21. Alcove bookshelves

on the pulse when it comes to décor,

22. White window frames

22 per cent admitted they have made

23. Decking

The study also found built-in storage is big plus among potential buyers as is a garden with a lawn, underfloor heating and space for a home office.

improvements to their home which they

24. Cushions, throws, knits and faux furs

subsequently regretted.

25. Free-standing bathtubs

powered by VEKA added: “We can’t get it

27. Belfast sink

Outdoor lounge areas, Belfast sinks, and neutrally coloured walls are also viewed favourably among those polled, as well as

right all the time when it comes to our homes

28. Four post beds

and with tastes changing all the time it can

29. Black and white colour schemes

be a struggle.

30. Coloured doors

n 14 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

A spokeswoman from Independent Network

26. Outdoor lights

HOME & GARDEN

Kidderminster’s Cookers are now going to be Turkey Ready!

Kidderminster homeowners welcome the news that Nigel Elwell is now not only cleaning ovens but gleaming them! Nigel is your local OvenGleamer for the Kidderminster and surrounding areas.

Fear not your cooker, oven or range can now be gleamed to a fresh, hygienic and “as new” looking finish ready for you to cook that Turkey or Nut Roast this year. The smoking and greasiness will be ecologically gleamed away using a vegetable-based paste; OvenGleamers prides itself as being the only local oven cleaning company that never uses harmful chemicals in your home.

Nigel explains “The Covid-19 safe cleaning process is not only child, pet and asthmatic friendly but also includes a post clean anti-virus sanitisation of all surfaces.” Book now to guarantee your Turkey comes out of the oven as fresh as it goes in, call Nigel on 01562 702883 or go to www.ovengleamers.com for more details. n

Worcestershire

Now

If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team: Rachel Seabright

Lis Gardner

Tel: 01905 727900 Email: rachel@pw-media.co.uk

Tel: 01905 727901 Email: lis@pw-media.co.uk

Kate Gilmartin Tel: 01905 727905 Email: kate@pw-media.co.uk

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 15 n

HOME & GARDEN

Keep Warm This Winter

With Underfloor Heating

The modern way to heat your home from the ground up with a warm gentle heat that will be evenly distributed throughout the room.

Hotspots and therefore cooler areas are often created with conventional central heating systems, this is not the case with an underfloor heating system where a real cosy feel throughout the room is guaranteed. The temperature is dropping making now the ideal time to think about making your home a warm sanctuary from the outside world.

At Tile Choice we have a large range of underfloor heating systems available offering you affordability and excellent long term product satisfactions. We supply systems from Warmup the industry leading and best selling manufacturer of underfloor heating systems, with also an alternative lower cost brand, Superheat, available. Catering for a range of budgets and applications means you can find the perfect underfloor heating system for your home here at Tile Choice.

Recent years have seen an increase in the types of underfloor heating systems available meaning they are now suitable for installation under a number of different flooring bases including both hard and soft flooring options. The versatility in types of system available mean you can install underfloor heating throughout the home n 16 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

with kitchens, living rooms, bathrooms, bedrooms etc all benefiting from the beautifully gentle heat created and ensuring you have warm toes even in the coldest of days.

We believe an underfloor heating system is the perfect addition to a tiled floor. The heat radiates across the tiles giving a beautifully warm feeling underfoot and ensuring the home feels cosy all year round. This in addition to the existing benefits of a tiles

floor such as long term durability and ease of maintenance makes a tiles floor the ultimate choice for luxurious style within the home.

Underfloor heating systems have often been seen as a luxury reserved for high end establishments, however the affordability of the modern system makes them an option for all homes, adding a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. n For more information visit www.tilechoice.co.uk

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 17 n

HOME & GARDEN

Secondary Glazing in Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Many older properties in rural locations suffer from draughts and heat loss through their ageing windows. Homeowners want to keep their original windows as they keep the charm and appearance of heritage buildings whether they are large, country properties or town centre cottages.

Replacing such windows with uPVC units while reducing heat loss, detracts from the character of the property and may not be permitted in buildings with listed status or in conservation areas.

Secondary glazing is an independent window installed on the room side of existing windows - the original windows remain in position in their unaltered form.

Lansec specialise in installing bespoke secondary glazing in such properties achieving all the thermal benefits of plastic replacements. They are also efficient in reducing outside noise more effectively than double glazing.

n 18 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

Lansec M.D. Dave Priscott says, “We install

making it barely noticeable from either

secondary glazing which match any existing

inside or outside.”

windows including hinged units, vertical sliding ‘sash’ and arched windows. We care

If you suffer from heat loss or outside noise,

about maintaining the appearance of the

it’s worth contacting Lansec for a secondary

original window so our secondary glazing

glazing quote – it may not cost as much as

units perfectly match the host window

you think. n

HOME & GARDEN

Worcestershire

Now

If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team.

Rachel Seabright

Lis Gardner

Tel: 01905 727900 Email: rachel@pw-media.co.uk

Tel: 01905 727901 Email: lis@pw-media.co.uk

Kate Gilmartin Tel: 01905 727905 Email: kate@pw-media.co.uk

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 19 n

HOME & GARDEN

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n i z a Gl

Double glazing should last many years and weather well – that is what is it designed to do and usually is the installer’s promise. In a servey reported by Which Magazine 31% of the double glazing owners that they spoke to had problems in the first 10 years after installation. Plus, as double glazing gets old, it may need repairs and eventually replacing.

So what are the signs your double glazing may need replacing?

If they are draughty, leaking, letting water in or you can hear an excessive amounts of noise it maybe time to look at replacements or repairs. Other signs are the uPVC is ‘yellowing’, or the timber frame is cracking There can also be visible damage, particularly to the seals. They then become n 20 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

difficult to open, close and lock, or feel they are sticking. Other visable sign can be ther are often covered in condensation, particularly between the panes of glass.

Some of these problems can be repaired. It’s worth speaking to a double glazing expert to establish what can and cannot be fixed.

Remember to bear in mind that installers may not be willing to fix problems with double glazing they didn’t install.

The survey outlined that the 4 most common problems were: • The windows/doors becoming difficult to open/close • The windows/doors dropping over time so that they don’t fit as well • The glass steamed up/we had problems with condensation

• The locks didn’t work • The seals around the windows/doors went It is worth noting that 69% of people said they had no issues with their double glazing in the first 10 years after it was installed.

Can I fix double glazing that’s difficult to open or dropping?

Try adjusting screws to tighten hinges or mechanisms. If you think these need replacing instead, contact the company you bought the window or door from.

Difficult to open double glazing or that which has dropped can also be caused by the weather. Extreme temperatures can cause the frame to expand or shrink and CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

therefore the window or door not move as well as normal. Try wiping the frames with cold water can sometimes help shrink them down slightly. If the problems aren’t severe, try waiting until cooler or warmer weather to see if it resolves itself. But if either problems is persistent contact the company you bought it from.

How do I get rid of condensation or demist my double glazing?

Condensation or ‘steamed-up’ glass can occur if there isn’t enough ventilation in a house or room. Even newly-installed double glazing can experience issues if this is the case. It can even cause it in some instances – homes need to breathe and energysaving measures can cause all moisture to be trapped inside. This can be a particular problem in winter, when it’s cold outside and warm in your home. The moisture collects on cold surfaces, to reduce it, make sure you let fresh air rooms as much as possible.

You can also consider installing ventilation, for example air bricks, extractors, or vents in window and door frames. Trickle vents can often be added to existing doubleglazed windows to allow some fresh air in without allowing the heat in your home to escape. If vents aren’t an option for you, consider investing in a dehumidifier. If the condensation is between the glass panes, this suggests that the seals are broken or no longer working properly. This should not happen with new double glazing. Some companies offer to drill misted-up double glazing to draw out the moisture inside.

However, if successful, this is likely to be a short-term fix. It costs around £50. A plug

n 22 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

inserted into the gap that was drilled often comes loose again in six months.

Do I need to replace broken seals on double glazing?

You can leave broken window or door seals, unless they are causing problems with condensation, draughts or allowing leaks to occur. If your window seals have failed in the first couple of years after manufacture, this may be due to mistakes in their manufacture or installation. Sometimes window seals can be replaced without the entire window or door being replaced. This is easier to do on frames where the seals are separate ones.

Where the seal cannot be changed on its own, sometimes the glass can be replaced instead of the whole frame. The benefit of this, compared with just replacing the seals, is that the gas between the panes will also be restored. Otherwise, the entire window can be replaced. Either way, contact the company or trader you bought the double glazing from as soon as possible.

How do I fix a double glazing window handle or lock?

If the lock is completely broken you may be unable to open the window, or unable to lock it. In both cases, you’ll need to replace the lock. Usually this can be done without having to change the entire frame. You could try to replace it yourself, depending on the type of lock. However, this might affect the seals and is likely to void your warranty.

Locks should not fail after only a short time so we’d recommend calling the company if your window or door is within warranty.

If you need to call a locksmith, rather than

the company, then this could also void your warranty. However if it was an emergency situation you might be able to argue for a faulty goods claim and compensation for the cost of the locksmith.

Can I replace double glazing myself?

New double glazing must meet certain building regulations. It must be approved by either Building Control or an installer registered with a Competent Person’s Scheme who can verify the work themselves.

So it’s not advisable that you install your double glazing yourself.

How to get your double glazing fixed Double glazing comes with a warranty, often of 10 or 20 years, but some give a lifetime guarantee. Check what yours covers and until when. For example some only include hardware fixed in the first five years after installation. If you have a problem, the first step is to contact the company you bought from. The Which report recommended that you contact the provider as soon as you notice the issue. It is always best to write down your complaint in an email or letter, rather than text message. Having everything in written form, including images where relevant, will make it easier if the company isn’t helpful or the problem continues. Ask the company for written confirmation that you have notified it of the problem, plus any agreements to fix it, including dates.

The report stated that over 75% of those surveyed who got in touch with their installer had their problem resolved. n For more information try www.fensa.org.uk or www.which.co.uk

HOME & GARDEN

ECOLOGY SURVEYS & ASSESSMENT • PROTECTED SPECIES ADVICE & LICENSING ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT PLANS & ADVICE • MITIGATION & CONSERVATION Worcestershire Wildlife Consultancy provides an independent professional ecological service, encompassing a broad range of ecological knowledge and skills. While maintaining a local focus within the Midlands, we also operate throughout the UK. We offer a competitive pragmatic solution based environmental service to the business and development sector, local authorities, public utilities, Natural England and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), as well as individual clients.

Worcestershire Wildlife Consultancy (WWC) has been the consultancy for Worcestershire Wildlife Trust since 1988, providing a wealth of experience to the environmental and ecological sector. All the profits of the ecological Consultancy are donated to Worcestershire Wildlife Trust and used to support its charitable work throughout the County.

Worcestershire Wildlife Consultancy has wideranging ecological and environmental expertise and a team of specialist associates allowing us to offer a comprehensive list of ecological services:

• Phase 1 Habitat Surveys • Protected Species Surveys • Bat Surveys • Great Crested Newt Surveys • Reptile Surveys • Badger Surveys • Nesting & Breeding Bird Surveys • Barn Owl surveys • Otter & Water Vole Surveys • Dormouse Surveys • Invertebrate surveys • Small Mammal Surveys • Botanical Surveys (incl. NVC - National Vegetation Survey) • Hedgerow Surveys • Invasive Weed Surveys • Protected Species Licence Applications (incl. Bat Mitigation Class licence) • Ecological Clerk of Works • Mitigation Advice & Implementation • Monitoring – Botanical & Wildlife • BREEAM Assessments (incl. Code for Sustainable Homes) • Ecological Planning Advice • GIS Analysis • Pond Surveys • River Corridor Surveys • Habitat Management Plans • Habitat Creation/Restoration Advice & Implementation • Arboricultural Surveys

WNCT ENTERPRISES LTD • LOWER SMITE FARM • SMITE HILL • HINDLIP • WORCESTER • WR3 8SZ TEL: (01905) 754909 • enquiries@worcestershirewildlifeconsultancy.org • www.worcestershirewildlifeconsultancy.org

Worcestershire Wildlife Consultancy is a division of WNCT Enterprises Ltd, registered in England and Wales, number 1991532 and wholly owned by Worcestershire Wildlife Trust VAT Registration No. 436 7911 29

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NATURE NOTEBOOK

Hedgehog © Tom Marshall

d n a H g in p l e H a e if l d il W g Givin We’ve set ourselves, our communities and our Government an ambitious target – manage 30% of land for nature by 2030!

The UK is now one of the most naturedepleted countries in the world – 26% of our mammals – including our beloved hedgehogs – are at risk of disappearing altogether.

41% of our insects are at risk of extinction. It’s not just wildlife that we risk losing – with the fragmentation of habitats and a collapse in the abundance of nature, our ecosystems that underpin our country and our world are not functioning as they should. We can all play our part – from helping wildlife in our gardens to writing to our Councillors and MPs to get nature’s voice heard. We know that nature can recover but we need to act now.

At the very end of September, together with Wildlife Trusts across the country, we launched the next phase of our ’30 by 30’ campaign – to raise £30 million to help with this ambition. In Worcestershire, we’re starting off by hoping to buy a 95 acre patch of land that will not only create the largest area of heathland in the county, as we restore heathland to what is currently an arable farm, but will also create more than 640 acres of habitat for wildlife to thrive and people to enjoy.

KEEP UP TO DATE Worcestershire Wildlife Trust @WorcsWT t worcestershirewildlifetrust G worcswildlifetrust.co.uk w

Dropping Well Farm, near Kidderminster, Stourport and Bewdley, is the missing piece of a wild jigsaw that sits at the heart of five nature reserves owned by ourselves and Wyre Forest District Council.

Worcestershire’s heathland habitat has fallen from more than 20,000 acres 200 years ago to just 600 acres today so this is crucial to the survival of many

n 24 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

species of wildlife. Heathland isn’t just home to lizards and birds, it’s home to an amazing assortment of insects... species like the pantaloon bee (who wouldn’t love something with that name), the hornet robberfly (England’s largest) and archer’s dart moths that otherwise live amongst coastal sand dunes.

As part of this project, we’re inviting the local community to get involved and are already working with numerous community groups in the area. What if you’re not based nearby, though? How can you help?

Whether you’ve got a small balcony or a large garden, why not take some time over winter thinking about how you can help wildlife – from planting snowdrops and crocuses to provide early nectar to installing a bird box, from ensuring a range of plants that caterpillars can munch to creating a pond (large or small), from leaving a wild patch to creating a hedgehog highway. Are you part of a community group that can influence how a local green space is managed? Is your strength in writing to or contacting decision-makers to help change the mindsets of those who can influence even more people? n Find out more about how you can help www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/take-action-wildlife Discover our heathland ambitions www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/heathland-hero Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

NATURE NOTEBOOK

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Countdown to Christmas Our guide to the top 10 advent calendars for this festive season.

BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDER FROM CHARLOTTE TILBURY £150

MORRIS & CO. BATH & BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDAR - £40 Bring joy to the Christmas season with this limited edition Morris & Co. Advent calendar decorated with an eclectic selection of iconic Morris & Co. prints. Untie the ribbon and open to discover 24 doors ready to open for a festive Yuletide countdown. johnlewis.com

Beauty advent calendar featuring full size and travel size magic makeup & supercharged skincare secrets charlottetilbury.com

LOOK FANTASTIC ADVENT CALENDAR £85.50 With an amazing worth of over £460, you can get your hands on the LOOKFANTASTIC Advent Calendar today for just £85! lookfantastic.com

CADBURY 3D ADVENT CALENDAR - £10

PORK CRACKLING ADVENT CALENDAR - £17.50

Cadbury 3D Advent Calendar. Over 40 cm in height!! Open the doors on each side of the Advent calendar in the countdown to Christmas. Each door may contain a Cadbury mini hollow figure, one Cadbury bag or 22 Cadbury treatsize chocolate bars. cadburygiftsdirect.co.uk

This A3 sized Advent calendar contains all flavours of The Snaffling Pig Co. best selling flavoured pork crackling: Low & Slow BBQ, Marvellous Maple and Perfectly Salted. snafflingpig.co.uk

L’OCCITANE ADVENT CALENDAR - £53 What better way to count down to Christmas than with L’Occitane’s Advent Calendar! Take a journey through a Provençal Christmas market. Hidden behind every door are 24 magical treats for yourself or your loved ones from L’Occitane fragrance, skincare, body care and hair care. uk.loccitane.com

n 26 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

HEALTH & BEAUTY

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FOOD & DRINK

Dog Rose aka Rosehips - Rosa canina Traditionally the Dog Rose is what country folk gathered and with 20 times the vitamin C content of oranges, rosehips are a must use superfood during the Autumn and Winter months.

This Rosehip Syrup recipe is packed with hedgerow goodness. Drink like a cordial or serve drizzled over ice-cream or add to milky desserts.

ROSEHIP SYRUP RECIPE INGREDIENTS • 1kg rosehip: You can use either the small Dog rose (Rosa canina) or the larger Japanese rose (Rosa rugosa), both have excellent flavour.

• 3 litres of water • 500g dark brown soft sugar INSTRUCTIONS 1. Bring to the boil 2 litres of water.

2. Chop rosehips in food processor until mashed up, then add to boiling water.

3. Bring water back to the boil, then remove from heat and allow to steep for 20 minutes.

n 28 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

4. Pour rosehips and liquid into a scalded jelly bag and allow the juice to drip through.

Gently squeeze the jelly bag to extract as much liquid as possible. Be careful not to rip the bag.

5. Add rosehip pulp back to a saucepan containing 1 litre of water and bring back to the boil. Then remove from heat and allow

the contents to steep for another 20 minutes before straining through the jelly bag as in Step 3.

6. Add sugar to the strained rosehip liquid and dissolve, allow to simmer for five minutes, then pour into hot, sterilised bottles.

Makes: Approximately 2 litres. n

FOOD & DRINK

A visit to Gwillam’s is certainly worthwhile.

Our produce is fresh of good quality and reasonably priced.

Our fabulous Marfona and Saphire potatoes are available.

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

Buy now: ready for Christmas.

Gwillam’s Farm Shop Open Mon-Sat: 9am-4pm • Plenty of parking Telephone: 01905 756490 • Email: nbgwillam@btconnect.com

Ombersley Rd. Claines, Worcester. WR3 7RH

www.gwillamsfarmshop.com

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GOLDEN YEARS

Age UK Research Lays Bare

the Impact of the Pandemic

On the 16th October Age UK launched it’s Winter Resilience Campaign, their new research shows just how crushingly hard day to day life has been for millions of older people during the pandemic and how important it is that we support our older population through the winter.

The new research finds that some older people are coping with the pandemic, but a sizeable minority are finding life incredibly tough. Those who are not very well and have long term health conditions were particularly likely to report that this is an extremely challenging time for them.

The research also found evidence of new and emerging cognitive decline. In some cases this might have happened anyway, but families told the Charity they feared it was exacerbated by the very difficult, often isolated conditions in which their loved ones were living, due to the pandemic.

The study shows that many older people are enduring increased and sometimes devastating levels of anxiety, in part because they know they are at serious risk from the virus – an invisible deadly enemy. Even during the summer, when restrictions were eased, many were too afraid to go out.

The research also uncovered many examples of depression, loss of hope, low mood, lack of support for meal preparation, deteriorating physical health and increased pain due to untreated health conditions. These have impacted on some older people’s appetites and diets, which in turn threatened to weaken their resilience still further.

Months of being cooped up at home have led to muscle weakness – ‘deconditioning’ as clinicians term it - and sometimes a reduced sense of balance, increasing the risk of falls.

Other signs of the depressed state in which a sizeable minority of older people now found themselves, were their inability to gain pleasure from activities they usually enjoyed,

n 30 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

and the fact they couldn’t muster the energy and enthusiasm to look after themselves, or their homes, to their usual standards.

Older people with pre-existing health conditions were some of the hardest hit by the pandemic so far and those who were shielding were about half as likely again to be feeling more anxious since lockdown than those who were not.

Seeing their loved ones deteriorate was causing families great anguish. They feared that what had been lost would never return.

Given these findings it is not surprising that significant numbers of older people who took part in the research reported that they are deeply apprehensive about how CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

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GOLDEN YEARS

that life is extremely challenging for many cooped up for month after month in their own homes too.

“According to this research, as many as a third of all older people really are struggling and given the reluctance of this age group to admit their difficulties and ask for help we suspect that in reality the numbers affected are considerably higher – running into millions without doubt.

they will cope this winter. And, longer term, they feared that life might never go back to normal or, if it does, that it will happen too late for them to benefit, especially if they are seriously unwell.

Caroline Abrahams, Age UK’s Charity Director, said: “This pandemic is tough for everyone, but older people have the added anxiety of knowing that for them the risks of catching Covid-19 are higher’.

We have rightly heard a lot about the enormous problems facing older people in care homes, but this new research reveals

n 32 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

“Fear of the virus, loss of mental and physical capacity, loneliness and isolation, and an inability to grieve as normal for those they have lost add up to a potential public health emergency affecting many older people.

“Age UK was already committed to running a Winter Resilience Campaign to help our older population and as a Charity we will certainly do everything we can, but this research emphasises how important it is that we all rally round the older people in our lives, and that they take steps to keep themselves as fit and well as possible too. Our campaign is designed to help them do just that.

“This pandemic has hit the fast forward button on ageing for millions of older

people. Helping them to get through this winter demands a collective effort and the right policies and support from Government, especially for those who are shielding, self-isolating or who lack a strong network of family and friends. The decisions the Government takes in the next few weeks will be crucial and we sincerely hope Ministers will resist the ageist siren calls to shut older people away and ‘let the virus rip’.

Getting test and trace working properly is surely the only way of overcoming the dual threats to our health and our economy, and that’s where Government should focus its attention now.”

Age UK is launching a new campaign aimed at supporting older people to get through winter at a time when they are most vulnerable. Age UK is urging everyone to stick together and not to forget the many older people who are still struggling and who face many challenges this winter.

We advise older people to: 1. Have a flu vaccination every year – the new vaccine introduced this year for CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

GOLDEN YEARS

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GOLDEN YEARS

people aged 65+ has an agent which helps boost the immune system and helps fight illnesses. If you are over 65 and haven’t had a pneumonia jab before you may be able to get one. Find out if you’re eligible when you have your flu jab.

2. Keep moving and eat well – try not to sit still for more than one hour at a time, even if you just move your arms and legs. If you can, stay active. Not only will it keep you fit and healthy, it will also generate heat to keep you warmer.

5. Keep warm to stay well – heat your living

In answer to polling questions about

room and your bedroom to a temperature

how their health and the way they felt

that feels comfortable. Draw curtains in

had changed since the start of the

the evening to prevent heat loss, and tuck

pandemic six months ago:

long curtains behind radiators so that heat isn’t trapped. Keep radiators and heaters

1 in 3 respondents (4.2million) or 34%

clear of furniture and washing so the warm

reported feeling more anxious since

air can circulate and if there are rooms that

the start of the pandemic,

are not in use turn off the radiators and heaters and close the doors. Use heating controls and timers to heat your home

1 in 3 (4.4million) or 36% agreed they felt less motivated to do the things

without wasting energy.

they enjoy,

3. If you are struggling with big meals try eating little and often. Something is better than nothing, even if the only thing you fancy is a slice a cake. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids too.

6. Call Age UK’s befriending services to help

Over a quarter (3.2 million) or 26%

combat any feelings of loneliness. Read

can’t walk as far as they used to,

4. Contact your GP about any health concerns - if you feel unwell and you need to speak to a health professional please do.

The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in fewer people accessing NHS services for a range of conditions that are not related to coronavirus. Be reassured that you won’t be a burden on the NHS and your GP will be able to help you.

Darker nights and cold weather often mean

1 in 5 (2.3 million) or 18% say they feel

higher bills, plus the festive season can put

less steady on their feet,

more here 7. Winter-proof your finances - Lots of

1 in 5 (2.4 million) or 20% are finding it harder to remember things,

us find winter an expensive time of year.

a strain on your pocket. Age UK has some important information on how to get your home and your finances ready for winter read more here. n Age UK offers the following advice on how to look after ourselves during winter: www.ageuk.org.uk/winter

2 in 3 (7.9million) or 64% felt less confident taking public transport, 2 in 5 (5.3 million) or 43% felt less confident going to the shops or 1 in 4 (3.3million) or 26% felt less

confident spending

time with family.

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. n 34 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

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.

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EDUCATION

Is your child suffering from maths anxiety?

The importance of positive foundational learning.

We all grew up in a school environment where our grasp of a particular skill was judged by how quickly we could answer a question.

Even if you didn’t know the answer, you would shoot your hand up just to be the first person to know the answer. You would then hope that you wouldn’t get picked as you needed more time to work it out! Another dreadful school memory was having to rote learn and recite your multiplication tables.

experience worry and fear about maths as

Although there wasn’t a specific term for this awful terror, today ‘maths anxiety’ is an increasingly recognised term for a crippling condition that begins in early primary school and rarely disappears. The more disturbing aspect of this study is that students start to

this isn’t always the case, as someone with

n 36 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

early as Key Stage 1.

This article offers step by step advice to parents on reducing this anxiety and instilling a love of maths in their children.

As Sian Beilock and Daniel T. Willingham stated in their paper Maths Anxiety: Can Teachers Help Students Reduce It? Some might assume that maths anxiety is just another name for ‘being bad at maths,’ but maths anxiety could have great potential but simply doesn’t thrive because they avoid the subject at any cost. They may be more than

The more disturbing aspect of this study is that students start to experience worry and fear about maths as early as Key Stage 1.

So, what causes maths anxiety? There are many reasons but in summary, it can be based on the way children are taught along with adults compounding the issue further with their own negative perceptions of the subject.

Whether a parent just struggled with maths at school or whether they actually have maths anxiety, their negative perceptions only serve to make children’s problems with maths, worse.

You often hear parents proudly declaring that they aren’t a ‘maths person’ and telling their

capable when it comes to maths and would be better at it if they weren’t so anxious.

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

EDUCATION

Your future starts here...

Virtual Sixth Form Information Event 7th November at 6:30pm Thursday 12th 2019 November 2020

View our wide range of A-Level and BTEC courses Please visit www.southbromsgrove.worcs.sch.uk t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 37 n

EDUCATION

Equally, if they are struggling it should offer a slightly easier activity. This functionality means that a parent can leave the child alone to ‘play’ with the activities knowing that the problems they are given will be perfectly aligned to their level of development.

child not to worry as they also hated maths.

When their child tells them that they’ve got ‘double maths’ at school that day, the parent will groan and sympathise with them. The sad reality is that a generation of young people appears to be identifying themselves as a non ‘maths person’. This overly honest voicing of hate of maths isn’t seen in other areas. Rarely does one hear people state that they are dreadful at reading. As Beilock and Willingham stated, ‘it seems socially acceptable to be anxious about maths.’

The implications for this are serious and something needs to be done.

This also highlights the importance of delivering maths in the early years and working with parents to help each child develop a love of maths. Maths anxiety is certainly avoidable. Here are a few simple tips for parents that can help their children to enjoy and thrive at mathematics.

Problem solving One good aspect of the current primary school curriculum is that it is taught through a problem-solving approach. The reasoning being that it is only when a child knows which mathematical skills need to be applied to a problem, that they have achieved what is termed ‘maths mastery.’ For example, if they are given the following problem to solve, do they need to use addition, subtraction, time, division, or fractions, or a combination of all of them? Velma is setting off on her school trip at 9:00 am. She takes 10 minutes to shower n 38 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

and get dressed, 20 minutes for her breakfast and it’s a 15-minute walk to school. What time does she need to get up to make it to the school on time? This problem involves an understanding of the way time works, addition and subtraction. Only when a child has complete maths’ mastery of these skills will they know how to approach this question.

It is even more powerful when the problems are applied to every-day life. Therefore, if you are going out for the day with your child, work with them to plan the day for you. When the bill arrives for lunch, see if they can work out how much money the waiter needs and how much change you should get back.

Graphical representation There are many online learning maths resources on the market, and for parents, it can be hard to know which one is best for their child. Good resources offer this problem-solving approach to the activities and should use lots of pictures and graphics to represent the problem and demonstrate each concept. Most children will master mathematical concepts and skills more readily if they are presented first in concrete, pictorial and symbols.

Autonomous learning Children love autonomy and independence and don’t want to be watched over all the time by their parents. Ideally, the maths learning application they use will be intelligent enough to track their progress. If they are getting every question right, the app should automatically move them on to a slightly harder question.

Speed is not success There are a lot of people who think speed is a good indicator of intelligence when it comes to mathematics. This misconception can occur when teachers or parents praise students who have memorised number facts.

While this is an important element of maths education it doesn’t replace understanding.

It’s about knowing how to manipulate numbers effectively rather than quickly. The best example of this is the number of students who have memorised their multiplication tables but are unable to connect that instant recall to any other areas of mathematics. Students who understand the strategy of multiplication and multiplicative thinking, are in a better position to really apply maths even if they’re slower at reciting a two-digit multiplication table.

Wrong is actually right!

The beauty of using fun, games-based, problem-solving apps is that children can build up their confidence in a relaxed setting, where getting something wrong is perfectly acceptable. When children are unable to cross a level on a video game, they try again and again, until they get it right. Similarly, learning math through games shows young learners that being wrong is not the end of the world.

In fact, it’s a challenge that they must solve. A well-designed early-years and primary maths app will teach children that getting a question wrong is positive.

And finally... love maths yourself Maths anxiety certainly has a variety of sources but teachers’ and parents’ concerns about their own maths ability is key. Ensure you always make positive comments about maths. When faced with a difficult math question, highlight what fun it will be to try to work out the right answer! Once a child develops a love of maths, you have set them on the path to success.

Conclusion By following these simple considerations, parents can support their child’s learning and help their teacher develop their love of maths. Instilling a joy of mathematics in your child will remain with them throughout the rest of their lives. n Arpit Jain CEO and co founder, SplashLearn

EDUCATION

Christ College Brecon Situated within the Brecon Beacons National Park, Christ College is an independent co-educational boarding and day school. to the quality of the teaching and learning experiences the school offers, has enabled the majority of Christ College pupils to progress on to their first choice of course and university.

Founded by Henry VIII in 1541, the college is one of the oldest schools in Wales and educates and nurtures around 350 pupils annually between the ages of seven and 18.

The institution consistently achieves excellent results at A level and GCSE. Over the past three years, 43% of A level grades were A* or A and 85% grade A to C. Over the same period, 46% of GCSE results were grades 9 to 7. This strong track record, which is testament

Setting it apart from other educational facilities, Christ College prides itself on its exclusive learning community, where the school becomes a second-home and pupils and faculty become family. Its second curriculum, which complements academic study and contributes to pupils’ skills and character development, includes music, creative and performing arts and an excellent sport and outdoor pursuit provision including its own Beacons outdoor education programme as well as the Duke of Edinburgh Award and Combined Cadet Force. Pupils have access to a high calibre coaching team, a range of facilities including modern fitness suite, astroturf pitch, hard tennis courts, indoor sports hall, 25m swimming pool, and utilise the

nearby Brecon Beacons for activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, and mountain biking.

“One of the best value schools in the UK, where the fees comprise almost everything and extras are limited” Good Schools Guide 2020 “Again and again we heard the words ‘family’ and ‘community’. This is a small school that caters for everyone.”

Good Schools Guide 2020 www.christcollegebrecon.com

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LIVING HISTORY

© Portmeirion Group New Monarch earthenware design

A short walk from the Porcelain to the Museum of Royal Worcester It’s just 11 short years since ‘the Porcelain’ - as many locals still call it - closed its doors and switched off the lights that illuminated the work of so many talented, local artists.

Time was called, in Worcester, on a 258-year-old reputation that stretched from the River Severn to the rest of everywhere. The Works were put into administration in 2008, to be rescued in 2009 by the Portmeirion Group. Today, Royal Worcester porcelain is made in Stoke-onTrent. But the history, glamour, guts, and glory of the Porcelain remain in Worcester with its people and with a museum that curates its treasures and shares its stories.

For many people Severn street, Diglis, Worcester, is the home of the Porcelain. In fact, over time Worcester Porcelain had five factory sites: numerous owners, partnerships, and mergers. But it all started in 1751, when the cloth trade was in decline in Worcester and a Hanoverian King, George II, was on the throne. Dr Wall - a medical doctor and n 40 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

Royal supporter - and his associate William Davis plus 13 partners saw an opportunity and seized it.

commercial down, which saw the Faithful

The first site, the Warmstry Site is a short walk from Diglis. Warmstry House was next to St Andrews Church; all that remains today is ‘Glovers Needle’ or St Andrew’s Spire.

Porcelain employees would have busied up and down ‘Warmstry Slip’ or South Quay. The first real proof of goods for sale appeared in an advertisement in Gentleman’s Magazine, July 1752: ‘A sale of this manufacture will begin at the Worcester music meeting on September 20 with great variety of ware, & tis’ said a moderate price.’

in its cathedral, two future American presidents

What followed is a blockbuster - commercial ups, celebrity, Royalty, world renowned artists, world renowned china, employment, redundancy – hurtling towards a final

evidently pleased at the interest excited by

city cowed.

And yet, what other city can boast a dead King celebrating a park where ‘liberty was fought for’ and a visit by Admiral Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton to its most famous manufactory?

In August 1802, King George III is on the throne, the Porcelain - called Chamberlains is sited at Diglis and social media - had it been there - is going ballistic at employee, James Plant’s, description: ‘A very battered looking gentleman made his appearance (he had lost an eye and an arm), leaning on left and only arm was the very beautiful Lady Hamilton, her companion.’

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

LIVING HISTORY

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LIVING HISTORY How many other pottery cities can boast Royal approval spanning eight monarchs? By 1789 the quality of Worcester Porcelain earned the company the prestigious ‘Royal Warrant’ – ‘Manufacturers to their Majesties’. Worcester Porcelain becomes ‘Royal’ Worcester Porcelain.

It was a big employer. Generations of family members worked there. Jacqueline Bird, 64, of Belmont Street, Worcester says: ‘I looked up the census and in 1901 my great, great aunt Ellen Agnes Price, 22, is a ‘china ornamental’, her brother Thomas Price, 19, is a ‘saggar maker’ and ten years later my great, great uncle Earnest Price, 24, is a gilder and his younger brother Cephas Price, 18, is an engraver.” Alan Bury adds: ‘Staff at Royal Worcester in the 1990s and beginning of 2000s, when I was there were around 1000, over two sites - Severn street and Portland Walk. The whole site was 10 acres.’

In 2005 the future of the Porcelain was precarious. Large parts of the Royal Worcester Severn street factory site were sold to developers. On November 6 2008, Royal Worcester and Spode (as it was then) went into administration. Jon Buono, 52, also of Belmont Street, a burnisher of gold, says ‘they sold everything, the figurines, the buildings, the kilns, everything, even the name’ [brand name and intellectual property].

And that, was almost that, for the Porcelain’s footprint in Worcestershire – but, for some forward thinking by Frieda Dyson Perrins in the 1960s. She helped purchase and convert the former St.Peter’s school into the Dyson

© The Royal Museum of Worcester

Perrins Museum; saving these buildings from the administrators, and helping secure the future for its descendant - the Museum of Royal Worcester (MoRW).

Cllr Jo Hodges, Mayor of Worcester, has strong connections with the MoRW. She says: ‘The Museum of Royal Worcester has a place in the history and culture of Worcester and is a magnet for visitors and residents alike.’

She adds: ‘Many of my extended family worked at Royal Worcester and it was thought of as a place of work rather than a manufacturer of precious objects... the whole area looks

very different to when I was at school there, (St. Peter’s 1953 – 1959) but I can see it all so clearly in my mind as if it was still there.’

The MoRW began a £1.7 million, (National Lottery Heritage fund supported), refurbishment project in 2017: ‘Celebrating 250 years of Innovation, Industry, and Craftsmanship’ and contributes to the current Worcester City Plan - ‘A Heritage City for the 21st Century’.

The team at MoRW, headed by director Sophie Heath, are guardians of the past but face forward. A current display: ‘Porcelain connections to the Arts of Islam’ joins up cultures and is reaching new audiences.

‘Monarch’, a new earthenware range, inspired by an old 1922-26 Royal Worcester pattern book is in production. And the Portmeirion Group is making new Royal Worcester ware; ‘Wrendale’ is displayed side by side with vintage Royal Worcester Porcelain in the museum shop.

Much like the Porcelain’s fortunes it is not always plain sailing at the museum; Covid has slashed visitor numbers and badly hit revenue; but a recent award from the Culture Recovery Fund is helping. Online ticketing and Covidsafe measures help make a visit to the museum a delight, and anyone wanting to donate to help secure its future can: virginmoneygiving. com/fund/MoRW-ResilienceFund Quite what Messrs Wall, Davis and partners would think about the Porcelain’s fortunes is anyone’s guess. But the team at MoRW seized a mighty opportunity in 2017 and, they too, are going for it. n

© The Royal Museum of Worcester

n 42 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

By Elizabeth Ann Smith

SHOPPING

Worcestershire Printed Gifts Worcester Printers, who are based just off carden Street, Worcester now produce a variety of printed gifts, including Greetings Cards, Calendars, Notebooks and Postcard Prints as well as Photo Slates, Photo Puzzles, Mugs and Coasters.

All of their printed Gift and Card stock items use images supplied by local Artists, Photographers and Designers who are from, or have links to the County of Worcestershire, so if you prefer to support local businesses, look no further - to view their current range of gift items visit their brand new website: www.worcestershireprintedgifts.co.uk

can also produce gifts personal to you with

Other than the items they currently stock, they

gifts@worcesterprinters.co.uk n

your favourite photos which you can upload or email to them. For online orders there is a minimum spend of ÂŁ15.00 plus delivery and Free delivery to WR postcode addresses for orders over ÂŁ40.00. Alternatively you can visit them at their premises in Carden Close, where you can view their product range and also see what else they have to offer, or email them at:

Worcestershire Printed Gifts

ANSWERS

www.worcestershireprintedgifts.co.uk

ACROSS 4. Watches 10. Analyze 11. Ethos 12. Shrimps 14. Airport 16. Oaklands 17. Erelong 18. Thing 20. Century 21. Goose 22. Typos 29. Arcade 30. Snowboarding 32. Honeycreeper 33. Quorum 37. Exist 38. Brief 41. Sparkly 43. Ridge 44. Decimal 46. Foxtrot 48. Yucatan 49. Wallets 50. Style 51. Pitcher 52. Library

Original printed gifts - Produced in Worcester by Worcester Printers using images supplied by Worcestershire Artists, Designers and Photographers.

CRISS-CROSS: DOWN 1. Insight 2. Sloping 3. Azure 5. Awhile 6. Chimneysweep 7. Expo 8. Athlete 9. Foundry 13. Sales 15. Trust 19. Goodbye 20. Cocoa 23. Yacht 24. Scent 25. Interstellar 26. Trouper 27. Diary 28. Agama 31. Proxy 34. Array 35. Sprouts 36. Brittle 37. Elbow 39. Finance 40. Agnates 42. Winter 45. Lupin 47. Taxi

by Worcester Printers

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Puzzled?

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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 45 n

Puzzled?

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4 letter words EXPO TAXI 5 letter words AGAMA ARRAY AZURE BRIEF COCOA DIARY ELBOW ETHOS

EXIST GOOSE LUPIN PROXY RIDGE SALES SCENT STYLE THING TRUST TYPOS YACHT

6 letter words ARCADE AWHILE QUORUM WINTER 7 letter words AGNATES AIRPORT ANALYZE (amer.)

ATHLETE BRITTLE CENTURY ANSWERS ON PAGE 43

n 46 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020

DECIMAL ERELONG FINANCE FOUNDRY FOXTROT GOODBYE INSIGHT LIBRARY OAKLAND PITCHER SHRIMPS SLOPING SPARKLY

SPROUTS TROUPER WALLETS WATCHES YUCATAN 12 letter words CHIMNEYSWEEP HONEYCREEPER INTERSTELLAR SNOWBOARDING

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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 47 n

n 48 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 201 | November 2020