ENABLE JERSEY

Celebrate their 50th Anniversary with a new president

Disability charity, Enable Jersey is celebrating its 50th anniversary year by welcoming a new president. Having been voted into the role at the charity’s last Annual General Meeting, Will Ross is supporting the charity to define the next chapter in its history and meet the needs of Jersey’s disabled islanders.

Will is relatively new to disability having experienced a devastating accident in 2018 which caused multiple spinal fractures and left him paralysed. He was airlifted from his home in Jersey and underwent months of rehabilitation on a specialist ward in Salisbury.

Will, who is actively working with the charity to define its future plans and ensure Jersey residents of different abilities are enabled to live a life without unnecessary limits said, “Since becoming disabled, I have faced challenges and barriers that are just unacceptable. It’s been a truly eye-opening experience and I’ve had to adjust quickly. I am committed to actively supporting Enable’s work in lobbying for disability rights, and acting as the face of Enable Jersey to help raise awareness of these issues.”

Founded by trailblazers June Beslievre and Barbara Marie in 1970, Enable was known as The Jersey Society for the Disabled until 2017. Set up with the simple aim of making things better for disabled people in Jersey, Enable has focused on helping elderly disabled islanders to get together regularly and providing financial support where it’s needed most.

Clair Cousins, Chair of Enable Jersey, said “Having Will join us is incredibly exciting. When I joined Enable as Chair 3 years ago, I wanted to make sure that the people of Jersey appreciate how much disability matters affect us all. Whether it’s a family member, friend, through ill-health or accident, all our lives will be touched by disability at some point.”

“Covid-19 has impacted our 50th Anniversary celebrations and having Will on the team has helped to soften that blow. Will is the perfect figurehead for us. His story highlights how much needs to change to enable people with different abilities to access our

wonderful island. I’m so excited about working with Will in evaluating how we can add the most value and ensure our work continues to have focus and meaning.”

ABOUT ENABLE JERSEY

Enable Jersey, Jersey’s all-embracing disability charity, through powerful partnerships, innovation and pushing boundaries, is transforming Jersey into an island where people with disabilities can enjoy a Life Without Limits. Driven by our purpose, Enable Jersey’s success is driven by a commitment to enabling people with disabilities - locals and tourists - to access everything that Jersey has to offer. Our work helps to improve the health and wellbeing of disabled islanders and those who support them and ultimately, all of Jersey benefits. www.enablejersey.org

WE ARE JERSEY’S ALL-EMBRACING DISABILITY CHARITY

SHOULD YOU MAINTAIN A SLOWER PACE OF LIFE AFTER LOCKDOWN?

As restrictions lift and a sense of normalcy returns, Lauren Taylor reflects on the elements of lockdown life we might want to hold on to...

Life is slowly returning to a 'new normal' after months at a standstill, and while the pandemic and its impact on our lives and mental wellbeing has been hard and, for many, devastating in ways, you might have found the enforced slowing down has been beneficial too.

"This is a great opportunity to stop and think whether the world we left behind when the pandemic had started is worth going back to, or whether we can create a better one," says Natalia Stanulewicz, a psychology lecturer at De Montfort University.

So if your 'old life' was particularly hectic, leaving little time for yourself, perhaps there's never been a better time to readdress the balance.

A HECTIC LIFE COMES WITH COSTS

Before the coronavirus crisis, the world seemed to run with a commonplace sense of urgency and for many people, that filtered into their everyday lives. It might have been completely 'normal' for you to be constantly rushing, while feeling frazzled, sleep deprived and stressed. But are our minds and bodies really designed to keep that sort of pace up? "Operating at a fast pace is largely meant to be a short term activity," says Richard Reid, a psychologist and founder of Pinnacle Therapy (pinnacletherapy.co.uk). "Our brains are not fully equipped to deal with [it]. In terms of our evolution, the human brain was largely developed during a time when life was more simple."

Stanulewicz says the costs of the urgency of modern life on our health and wellbeing are often overlooked, because "productivity and effectiveness in modern times - at work or home - are perceived as the ultimate goals to strive for".

And there are long-term consequences. She says it can result in "decreased wellbeing and relations with others, reduce work productivity, or lead to higher levels of work absenteeism. Stress is a well-known predictor of coronary disease, various forms of cancer, obesity, anxiety and depression."

Reid says: "If we operate at this pace too much of the time, then we become increasingly task-orientated, meaning that we no longer derive the same level of pleasure from relationships and smaller experiences.

Overtime, this can adversely affect our resilience and our enjoyment of life."

MENTALLY SLOWING DOWN

You may have found that the last few months have given you more headspace to think and reflect on what's really important. "When we slow down, we are more likely to gain value from the smaller things in our everyday existence, as well as to tune into our sensory experience of the world," says Reid. "In particular , tapping into our 'gut feeling' about situations more, [which] allows us to more proactively manage our general wellbeing, as well as intuition about people and situations."

He adds that there's also lots of research showing that being more in the moment promotes greater creativity, focus and emotional intelligence about the needs of others and the impact that we may have upon them.

PHYSICALLY SLOWING DOWN

Lockdown has forced us to physically slow down too; for many there's been more resting, sleeping and walking than usual. So does physically moving slower benefit our wellbeing too? Quite possibly .

Looking at the effects of Tai Chi - a traditional Chinese martial art, which uses slow and mindful motion as a form of exercise - can be helpful when considering this question, says Stanulewicz: "Many studies have documented that engaging in Tai Chi indeed increases wellbeing, which some contribute to the elements of relaxation and mindfulness involved in it."

THE POWER OF NATURE

It's likely you were forced to rediscover your local area during lockdown too, with most of us unable to travel further than walking distance from our front doors. Depending on whether or not you live near green space, that might have meant daily walks to local nature spots - a park or the immediate countryside around you. It's possible that you spent more time stomping through grass and looking up at trees than you ever have before - and there's real benefit in that.

"There's a growing body of scientific research that tells us that being in and around nature promotes greater appreciation of the 'here and now', which interrupts the brain's tendency to drift too much towards thoughts about the past or future - both of which can lead to psychological issues when done to excess," explains Reid.

"There is also a belief that being around nature allows the brain to interact within an environment that harks back to the evolutionary period when the human brain was largely formed, allowing us to operate within our optimum parameters."

MOVING FORWARD

So how can we use the lessons of the last few months to rebalance our lives? Could you spend a bit less time socialising, or share more of the household or childcare responsibilities to create more time for yourself? Could you negotiate longer -term homeworking so you don't lose time to commuting?

Resetting boundaries around your time is key - try taking some control back and say 'no' to something if it doesn't align with your new slower pace.

"Saying 'no' feels selfish, right?" says life and business strategist Michael Cloonan (michaelcloonan.co.uk)."But when it comes to saying 'no', I can't help but think of the aeroplane safety videos which say, 'If you have children, please make sure you put the oxygen mask on yourself first before them'. What use are we to anybody if we don't take care of ourselves first? If you're going to show up for something or someone, you want to be 100%, right?"

The best approach, he says, is to be truthful with your reasoning when saying no to something, and to try to offer an alternative, if you have to, that's a better fit for you.

Granted, it isn't necessarily easy to rebalance your life if you have a lot of responsibilities. If family and work are full-on, Cloonan suggests: "Wake up 30-60 minutes earlier, before everyone else gets up, and create some well-deserved time and space to work on your health - both mentally and physically."

It could be meditation, a walk in a park, reading a book or simply having a slower morning. "It doesn't matter what you do, as long as it makes you happy and it's something that allows you to remain calm and stress-free," he says.

And you might just find starting the day slowly and calmly sets the the pace of the rest of your day too.

Home Living in later years

By Helen O’Meara, the very proud Director of CI Home Care

“Our general theme for August is Home Living…. comfort, spa-like bathrooms, cooking nutritious meals in beautiful kitchens, and of course the type of modern eco-living we all aspire to…” explained Juanita, the Editor. “Humm” I thought… “my 86-year old mother’s home wouldn’t quite fit that definition…but she wouldn’t want to live anywhere else!”

And for many elderly people the most important thing about “Home Living” is living at home – and not in a residential home. Comfort may mean the threadbare armchair. A spa-like bathroom may be in a colour that most younger people would rip out. To my mother the recent trend for a hundred shades of taupe is an anathema; unlike the oranges and swirling patterns of the 70s. Beauty, after all, is in the eye of the beholder.

At home or in a residential home is the perennial question re “Home Living” in later years. There is no correct answer as we are all different. Some people revel in the continual company available in a residential home; others vastly prefer the freedom of choice and the comfort and control over their day that staying in their own home offers. And staying at home is possible for most people with home care services ranging from visits of an hour to live-in and all sorts of other aids. Home improvements may take on a new definition as we age and focus on safety as opposed to colour choice. But is that a negative? If grab-handles, stair-lifts and riser recliner chairs enable us to live safely and happily in the home we love, they are fulfilling the same function as the new kitchen or colour scheme may have done when we were younger. Priorities shift with age.

“Cooking nutritious meals” can be a challenge in later years –whatever the design era of our kitchen! Yet correct nutrition and hydration is the number one tip for well-being in older age according to Age UK. However, regular visits from a trained Carer can help, as can Meals on Wheels and the availability of some excellent ready-meals.

Happiness in “Home Living” as we age is about so much more than physical features or appearance. It’s about familiarity and comfort and memories. It’s accepted that many dementia sufferers fare better in their own homes than in a residential home. Nothing can reverse the progress of dementia, but combine familiar surroundings with sufficient care e.g. from a live-in Carer, and anxiety levels can be lowered all round –for the dementia sufferer themselves and their family.

And it’s not only dementia sufferers who fare better living at home. Comfort and memories are hugely important to quality of life for many of us as we grow older. For some, memories are photos and comfort is the favourite armchair – all very transportable. For others memories are sparked walking from room to room in the family home and comfort is space and complete freedom of choice re the day’s timetable and content –none of which are transportable.

Comfortable armchairs, favourite views, familiar surroundings and neighbours we know. Living at home, with the correct level of home care support, is increasingly possible at all ages. Some older people’s homes may not be ready to grace the cover of Homes and Gardens or Elle Decoration, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t comfortable or beautiful. Neither is mine – and I’m in my 50s! At the risk of repeating myself, beauty, after all, is in the eye of the beholder.

Simply call Nicola or Emma on 01534 883 886 for further information or to arrange a no obligation informal chat.

♥ Live-in care specialists ♥ Hourly home care enquiries welcomed ♥ Overnight and respite care also available ♥ Registered with the

Jersey Care Commission ♥ Flexible, consistent and friendly care

FROM THESE CHALLENGING TIMES grew someing quite beautiful:

Back in March at the start of lockdown many people began to feel overwhelmed, stressed and anxious about the thought of daily home cooking for their family (or even just for themselves). The sudden reality that there were no takeaways, no restaurants, no daily coffees on the way to work and limited time (and possibly money) for food shopping sent many people into panic, wondering how they’d ever cope.

But from these challenging times grew something quite beautiful: more and more people approaching home cooking with a new found sense of excitement and joy. Households realised they could save hundreds (or even thousands) of pounds a year by eating more local, fresh, seasonal produce and eating out less. Families spent more time together prepping, cooking and eating meals which meant parents and children talked more and strengthened their relationships.

In addition to increased family bonding through food and exercise, Jersey has also seen a surge in people planting their own vegetables and a return to traditional home cooking favourites such as jam making and baking. It’s also been beautiful to witness the community spirit across the island during this difficult period.

As we inch slowly forwards into a ‘new normal’ way of life in Jersey, you may feel the stress and monotony of daily home cooking during lockdown fade into the background as you return

to delicious restaurant meals and tasty al fresco dining. With so much excitement to get back to the things we love and to socialise with the people we’ve missed, it would be a shame to lose sight of the physical and mental gains we made during lockdown.

One of the biggest risk factors in developing a severe case of COVID-19 appears to be obesity. And we all know how much easier it is to eat the cheesecake than to burn it off!

So, before you fall back into old habits, here are my top tips for maintaining a healthy weight, boosting your immune system (to help protect against all kinds of viruses, illnesses and infections) and ensuring a high intake of nutrients to boost overall health.

Stick with home cooking!

Home cooked food is generally lower in calories, fat, salt and sugar than pre-prepared ready meals, takeaways and fast food. Plus, when you cook using local, seasonal ingredients you help the environment on a global scale by using less packaging and buying food that hasn’t had to fly thousands of miles to reach you. And in case you needed another reason, food preparation allows you to really connect with the food you eat and to infuse it with love as you cook. (And more time chopping = less time scrolling on social media or mindlessly watching television which means more calories burnt off!)

Watch your alcohol intake

Science has proven that alcohol is linked to increased risk of major diseases such as cancer , heart disease and diabetes. Many people who drink alcohol in a social setting say they feel pressured into doing so by their friends or family. So before you get back into old habits, take some time to think about what you really want and whether alcohol (and hangovers and health issues) are really worth it.

Eat 5 -10 portions of vegetables and fruit daily

If your intake is currently low, start by

increasing by just 1-2 portions a day for a few weeks and then increase some more. Vegetables and fruit contain essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and colourful phyto-nutrients that boost well-being at a cellular level. These nutrients improve the immune system and aid healing.

Cut out sugar

Refined white sugar, golden caster sugar, syrup, sweets, cakes, biscuits and confectionery contain no useful nutrients and may contribute to poor skin and hormone problems. Plus, they’re a source of hidden calories that contribute to slow weight gain over time. Of course, you don’t have to cut out treats completely , but try to avoid sugar on a daily basis with just the occasional piece of a friend’s homemade coffee cake or a slice of banana bread with grandma. If you’re baking at home, it’s easy to replace sugar with mashed banana, applesauce or by adding raisins, blueberries or dark chocolate chips.

Drink lots of water

Ideally consume 1-3 litres daily - depending on your body size, physical activity level and the outside temperature. Remember that raw fruit and salad vegetables all contain water too.

Eat more leafy greens

It’s salad season, so adding a big bowl of lettuce to the family meal or a handful of home grown rocket to each plate isn’t too difficult. Other great leafy greens include spinach, kale, cabbage, broccoli and watercress. F resh herbs can be added in abundance too as well as ‘sprouts’ - little sprouted seeds (such as alfalfa or broccoli) that can be bought in small tubs from various shops in Jersey.

Get your body moving

Being told to stay at home seemingly made more and more islanders want to get out and explore the island on foot, by bicycle or even with regular sea swims. It really doesn’t matter how you move your body , just do it every day. If you’re limited due to mobility issues, illness or pain, start small with whatever you can do. Have a little dance in your lounge, wiggle in your office chair or sit on the floor and do some stretches. Try to get your heart rate up so you’re a little out of breath at least 3-4 times a week.

For more home cooking inspiration and plant-based (vegan) recipes, take a look at my e-books available here: https://thesoulfulword.com/bookshop/

W ritten by Lorraine Pannetier Intuitive Copywriter and Plant-Based Home Cooking Expert www.thesoulfulword.com

With Jersey businesses getting back to normal as lockdown lifts what makes some companies excel and others fail

WHAT IS THE SECRET OF THE HIGH PERFORMING ORGANISATION WHERE WE ALREADY KNOW THEY WILL ALWAYS ACHIEVE, EVEN IN SUCH CHALLENGING TIMES….

PART 2 THE IMPORTANCE OF THE CULTURE AND PSYCHOLOGY OF AN ORGANISATION

Mark Shields shares the secrets of the Channel Islands HPO’S

LET’S LOOK AT ORGANISATIONAL CULTURE & PSYCHOLOGY

1. WHAT IS ORGANISATIONAL CULTURE?

Organisational culture is defined as the underlying beliefs, values, assumptions, strategies and ways of interacting that contribute to the unique social and psychological environment of an organisation.

ORGANISATIONAL CULTURE DEFINITION AND CHARACTERISTIC S

Organisational culture includes an organisation’s expectations, experiences, philosophy , as well as the values that guide employee behaviour, and is expressed in member self-image, inner workings, interactions with the outside world, and future expectations.

Culture is based on shared attitudes, beliefs, customs, and written and unwritten rules that have been developed over time and are considered fundamental to the success of the organisation by staff, managers, business partners, customers and key stake holders.

Culture also includes the organization’s vision, values, norms, systems, symbols, language, assumptions, beliefs, and habits.

While the above definitions of culture express how the construct plays out in the workplace, other definitions stress employee behavioural components, and how organisational culture directly influences the behaviours of employees within an organisation.

Under this set of definitions, organisational culture is a set of shared assumptions that guide what happens in organisations by defining appropriate behaviour, responsibility and accountability in the main for staff productivity, commitment activity and performance.

Organisational culture affects the way people and groups interact with each other, with clients, and with stakeholders. Also, organisational culture may influence how much employees identify and buy in to the values and philosophy of their organization.

HOW IS ORGANISATIONAL CULTURE CREATED AND COMMUNICA TED?

Business leaders and managers are vital to the creation and communication of their workplace culture.

Leaders must appreciate their role in maintaining or evolving an organisation’s culture. A deeply embedded and established culture illustrates how people should behave, which can help employees achieve their goals and achieve their targets.

This behavioural framework, in turn, ensures higher job satisfaction when an employee feels part of a team working with managers to achieve results rather than for them. This is where good team leaders are seen to invest in their employees by arranging individual personal development and growth plans for staff combined with the appropriate one on one coaching and skill development.

F rom this perspective, organisational culture, leadership, employee personal development and job satisfaction are all inextricably linked.

2. THE ROLE OF POSITIVE PSYCHOLOLY IN AN ORGANISA TIONS SUCCESS

Positive psychology emphasizes individuals over tasks and work-related skills, and trains managers to recognise employees’ strengths and weaknesses and put in place outcome focused goals and personal development plans.

When employees feel valued as unique individuals, they give more of their energy and attention to their jobs, often subconsciously. The happier employees are at work the more motivated they become which often results in lots of additional action being taken to achieve greater productivity levels and higher levels of performance.

Positive Organisational Behaviour (POB) is defined as "the study and application of positively oriented human resource strengths and psychological capacities that can be measured, developed, and effectively managed for performance improvement in today's workplace.

Effective leadership can influence the organisational values such as honesty, respect, ethics and tolerance etc by demonstrating an ideal attitude in the workplace, establishing a vision among the employees, reinforcing accountability, motivating the employees, making a vision plan for the culture and values and by rewarding achievers accordingly.

A positive workplace enhances well-being, creativity, and satisfaction. It also creates resilience against negativity and strengthens relationships inside and outside the business.

“Positive Psychology is the scientific study of human flourishing, and an applied approach to optimal functioning. It has also been defined as the study of the strengths and virtues that enable individuals, communities, and organisations to thrive.”

Positive Psychology can help you become happier in many ways. When we practice focusing on happy things, turning negative into positive, letting go of all negativity. ... It is a practice, finding the positive every day in life, making a list daily of different things you are thankful for. All of these things affect employee’s mindset which is key here and forms the basis of their outlook, feelings, commitment, levels of happiness, and most importantly their motivation to take action in order to achieve results. A positive mindset drives employee to take action which in turn produces results and the more results that are achieved, the more action is taken and so on. Momentum quickly builds, the employee mindset becomes even stronger and more positive and more action is taken. More results are achieved and on it goes.

TIPS TO MAINTAIN A POSITIVE MINDSET

A positive mindset is something that is experienced at every level so from the conscious to the sub conscious. This is where NLP fits into the mindset model as you will learn later .

Negative attitudes promote fear, and a narrowing of focus and the mind, while positive attitudes do the opposite. No one should live in a constant state of “fight or flight”, but negative attitudes create exactly that scenario.

It has been proven that having a positive mindset makes your view of life seem broad, full of possibilities. That view leads to actually living your life in a way that makes it natural to be exposed to and acquire new skills.

Here are some ways to maintain a positive mindset in the workplace, regardless of whether it comes naturally or not:

These will become known to you as the presuppositions of NLP

The principles which form the foundation of NLP have been modelled from key people who consistently produced superb results, as well as from systems theory and natural laws. We know these as "The Presuppositions of NLP"

As well as a set of powerful skills, NLP is a philosophy and an attitude that is useful when your goal is excellence in whatever you do. We invite you to discover what happens in your life if you simply ‘act as if’ the following statements are true…

• Have respect for the other person’s model of the world.

(We are all unique and experience the world in different ways. Everyone is individual and has their own special way of being).

• The map is not the territory. (People respond to their ‘map’ of reality, not to reality itself. How people make sense of the world around them is through their senses and from their own personal experience; this means that each individual’s perception of an event is different).

• Mind and body form a linked system. (Your mental attitude affects your body and your health and, in turn, how you behave).

• If what you are doing isn’t working, do something else.

(Flexibility is the key to success).

• Choice is better than no choice. (Having options can provide more opportunities for achieving results).

• We are always communicating. (Even when we remain silent, we are communicating. Non-verbal communication can account for a large proportion of a message).

• The meaning of your communication is the response you

get. (While your intention may be clear to you, it is the other person’s interpretation and response that reflects your effectiveness. NLP teaches you the skills and flexibility to ensure that the message you send equals the message they receive).

• There is no failure, only feedback. (What seemed like failure can be thought of as success that just stopped too soon. With this understanding, we can stop blaming ourselves and others, find solutions and improve the quality of what we do).

• Behind every behaviour there is a positive intention.

(When we understand that other people have some positive intention in what they say and do (however annoying and negative it may seem to us), it can be easier to stop getting angry and start to move forward).

• Anything can be accomplished if the task is broken down

into small enough steps. (Achievement becomes easier if activities are manageable; NLP can help you learn how to analyse what needs to be done and find ways to be both efficient and effective).

Well I hoped you enjoyed looking at the importance and importance the culture and positive psychology can have on the overall performance of an organisation. Next month we will be looking at another component of the HPO model, excellent leadership.

Article written by Mark Shields Educator , Coach, Author. CEO Life Practice Group 01462 431112 https://courses.thecamcoach.com/p/nlppractitioner3

Stand-Up Paddleboarding

THIS SUMMER'S HOTTEST STAYCATION WORKOUT

The solo sport is enjoying a major moment. Liz Connor finds out why more and more of us are taking to the water on two feet...

When the sun's shining and it's stiflingly hot indoors, there's no place better to be than the water. But if the thought of submerging yourself in a layer of slimy pondweed at a local lake doesn't appeal, you might want to try gliding across the water instead.

Stand-up paddleboarding - or SUP - has been growing in popularity over recent years and stockists have reported a major boom during lockdown, with Red Paddle Co seeing a 300% rise in board sales. The leisure sport has long attracted a glamorous string of celebrity fans (Julia Roberts, Cameron Diaz and Jennifer Aniston, to name a few), plus there's a whole legion of Instagram influencers who have boosted its credentials by endorsing it on their feeds.

With staycations firmly on the cards, and many of us are clamouring for a bit of adventure on home soil, stand-up paddleboarding is emerging as a standout activity for summer.

WHAT EXACTLY IS SUP?

Stand-up paddleboarding involves standing on a large board and using a single blade paddle to propel yourself forward and navigate your way along lakes, rivers and coastlines.

The sport was developed as an offshoot of surfing in Hawaii, but unlike traditional surfing - where the surfer sits and waits for a wave to come - paddle boarders are on their feet the entire time and don't need waves.

SUP boards are longer , wider and more buoyant than surfboards, which means you can quite easily balance on them without fear of toppling into the water, and you can take in the scenery around you at the same time.

Many converts love paddleboarding because it can be very gentle and slow-moving, making it less adrenaline-soaked and more low-impact than other water sports.

WHAT ARE THE FITNESS BENEFITS?

"Paddleboarding has two main benefits on the body," explains physiotherapist T im Allardyce from Surrey Physio (surreyphysio.co.uk). "Firstly, it's excellent for improving balance, coordination, and preventing falls.

"Because of the unsteady nature of a paddleboard, you have to use small intrinsic muscles around your feet, ankles, knees and hips to maintain stability on the board."

Over time, he says this helps improve balance and stability and can prevent injuries caused by trips and falls, such as sprained ankles and knee problems. Paddleboarding is also a fantastic whole-body strengthening method, toning the legs, core, spinal muscles, neck, arms and glutes.

"Paddling involves pulling backwards against the resistance of the water, but because you're standing up, you need to engage your core as well as your spinal muscles and latissimus dorsi (large muscle of the upper back) during the movement." Although it looks gentle, paddleboarding is secretly a tough strength workout that can leave your obliques and thighs aching for days.

Getting out in nature is also a big bonus. Allardyce says paddleboarding is also a great way to up your intake of vitamin D, aka 'the sunshine vitamin', which is essential for keeping teeth and bones healthy, regulating mood and supporting resistance against bugs.

Paddleboarding is also a great mindful activity with a host of benefits for mental wellbeing. It's even been described as a kind of 'moving meditation' that requires full concentration, helping you clear your mind of stresses and focus on the here and now.

HOW CAN I DO IT SAFELY?

British Marine says if you have some experience and own a SUP, you can explore permitted waterways without any instruction. They do highlight, however , that it's best to start on calmer rivers or canals before you attempt a spot with a stronger current (and always check whether there are any restrictions in place in the area).

There are also loads of companies offering guided SUP tours and group or one-on-one instruction sessions, which are definitely a good idea. continues overleaf...

And before you head out on the water, it's helpful to know a few basic safety tips.

1. Check your kit "Make sure you have the correct board for the conditions and the type of SUPing you're attempting," says John Hibbard, co-founder and CEO of Red P addle Co (redpaddleco.com). "It's also important to carry a personal floatation device and a mobile phone in a waterproof case, in the event of an emergency."

Wearing suitable clothing for the weather and conditions - whether board shorts and a rash guard, or a full wetsuit in colder conditions - is also important. You might also want to take spare clothing and towels in case you're unfortunate enough to take a tumble.

2. Plan your route If you're new to paddleboarding, select a calm place to paddle with easy access in and out of the water .

"Plan the route and make sure you check the weather conditions, wind direction and tides," says Hibbard. "Even a gentle headwind can be hard work, especially when establishing your SUP technique and building your confidence back up on the water. Never venture further than you feel comfortable and remember to conserve your energy for the journey back."

If you're launching for the first time (setting off from the shore), Hibbard says you should check if you're actually allowed to use the stretch of water, as in some spots you may need a license.

3. Be mindful of nature "With on-water activity significantly reduced, wildlife has reclaimed much of its habitats," says Hibbard. This means paddlers should take extra care not to disturb nesting birds (it is an offence to disturb wild birds when nesting) and other wildlife that may have returned to the water , such as ducks, swans and fish.

4. Be responsible Ultimately, paddlers are entirely responsible for their own safety at all times, so it's important to make sure someone knows you're on the water and when you're likely to be back.

"Currently , the resources of the waterways authorities and the emergency services are very limited, so have fun but always try to stay safe," says Hibbard.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SUNSCREEN ON STAYCATION

You might not be in the sun quite as much, but you definitely shouldn't be skipping SPF, says Prudence Wade...

This is the time of year we'd normally start preparing for a summer holiday abroad: getting a new bikini, digging out sunglasses and buying our annual bottle of sunscreen.

Unless you're a skincare junkie who applies SPF every day (and bravo to you), the fact you might be swapping your holiday for a staycation this year could mean you forget about sunscreen.

Skin still needs protection - even in the UK and Ireland - so here's what you need to know if you're spending more time at home this summer...

DO YOU NEED TO WEAR SUNSCREEN AT ALL?

In a word: yes. No matter where you live or what the season is, the best thing you can do for your skin is wear sunscreen every day .

Unfortunately, this is something very few of us actually do - and it's even more likely to fall by the wayside if you're sunbathing in your backyard, instead of an exotic beach.

Here's Dr Howard Murad, dermatologist and founder of Murad Skincare, with a timely reminder: "No matter where you are, UV rays are present all year round, even on cold, cloudy days. UVA rays are the most damaging and account for 95% of UV that reaches earth. They are the same strength year-round and can penetrate your skin through windows, even on cloudy days - so if you're sitting by a window indoors, you should still apply your SPF. They contribute to premature ageing, collagen degradation and even skin cancer. When you go outside, it takes just 10 minutes for UV rays to kickstart the breakdown of collagen in your skin."

So, even if the sun isn't blazing and you're not wearing a bikini on the beach, it's still a good idea to wear sunscreen.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UVA AND UVB?

We all know UV rays can damage our skin and lead to cancer, but not everyone's so clear on the difference between UV A and UVB. Dr Mieran Sethi, specialist dermatology registrar with the NHS, puts it simply: "UVA causes ageing and UVB causes burning." This is the crucial part: "SPF sunscreen filters UVB, so it is important to select a sunscreen that has both SPF and UVA filters."

If your perfect staycation involves sitting on the sofa and watching a box set, you'll still need to wear a product with UVA coverage. "UVA passes through windows, so damage to skin can occur if you're sitting indoors next to a window, or when sitting in a car. UVB does not pass through windows," Sethi explains. Murad agrees with this analysis, saying: "UVA rays are the most damaging. They penetrate deeply into the dermis layer of the skin, and can even penetrate through clouds and windows."

When buying sunscreen, make sure you're getting something which has both UVA and B protection. "Sunscreen advertised as SPF 50 only filters UVB radiation," says Sethi. "For a sunscreen to filter UVA radiation, it must also have the UVA filter symbol (UVA in a circle or UVA in a circle with star rating)."

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU APPLY?

On holiday, we're used to constantly reapplying sunblock, which might have come off from sweating or swimming. At home, it's a good idea to put sunscreen on after you've washed and moisturised your face in the morning, but whether you need to reapply throughout the day depends on your lifestyle.

Sethi says you should reapply "if you go outside to exercise, or if you are repeatedly touching your face. In general, reapplication is more important if you are outside, as it can be removed by effects of ultraviolet radiation exposure and atmosphere".

One of the biggest mistakes Sethi sees people making with sunscreen is not putting enough on, usually due to consistency of the product and the undesired cosmetic effect of a white residue. T o make sure you're wearing enough, she adds: "I usually recommend people apply sunscreen twice on all exposed sites."

Murad has a visual way of working out how much product to use. "For each sunscreen application, apply one ounce of sunscreen (equal to a shot glass) to the entire body and face, and continuously reapply when out in the sun for long periods of time," he says. If you do have some time off and are spending it in your garden, be as diligent with your sunblock as you would be abroad. Not only will it protect your skin, but it will also make you feel like you're actually on holiday.

La Sablonnerie

First established in 1948, La Sablonnerie retains the characteristics of an old farmhouse built some 400 years ago and is situated on the lovely island of Sark in the Channel Islands.

La Sablonnerie is owned and managed by Elizabeth Perrée. Guests return-year-after-year to recapture the beauty of the island and to enjoy the excellent cuisine, wine, cosiness and friendliness that is evident at the hotel.

Of course being so close to the sea, freshly caught fish and famous Sark lobsters are popular specialities of the hotel. La Sablonnerie has been featured by the Which? hotel guide as 'The place to stay in the Channel Islands', and also received the highly coveted award from Condé Nast Johansen - 'Small Hotel of the Year' as well as being nominated as their “Most Romantic Hotel” and now Les Routier’s “Hotel of the Year” Award. Needless to say, you have to visit us to find out exactly what everyone is talking about.

Arrive by ferry or private boat, horse and carriage or just shank’s pony to enjoy the charm of La Sablonnerie, a hotel of rare quality situated in the southern part of Sark, even more beautiful, remote and romantic than the rest. Nestled in gorgeous gardens, a haven for lovers of peace and tranquillity; birds, butterflies and flowers - how could one not enjoy this amazing paradise….. a stepping stone to heaven, even if you just arrive for one of our glorious cream teas or a Lobster Salad in the garden.

Guests gather in the bar or the rose and lavender scented garden for a cocktail or a glass of champagne before dining. The bar with its roaring log fire is a convivial meeting place. After dining, guests return to the bar to sit and converse with each other. Some guests take advantage of Little Sark as the perfect place for a moonlit walk or simply gazing at star-studded skies. Sark offers exceptional star-gazing due to its lack of light pollution.

Sark is how life used to be, it is like stepping back into an Enid Blyton book….. what dreams are made of, but still having the modern luxuries.

La Sablonnerie is a hotel of rare quality situated in a time warp of simplicity on the tiny, idyllic Channel Island of Sark, where no motor cars are allowed and life ambles along at a peaceful, unhurried pace. The hotel has an enviable reputation for its superb food and wines; local butter, fresh cream, meat, fruit and vegetables which, where possible, are sourced from the hotel’s own farm and gardens. The hotel accommodation is very clean and comfortable and totally geared to unhurried relaxation. The hotel has been extended and discreetly modernised to provide 22 rooms, each individual in style and décor, including a delightful Honeymoon Suite. Immaculate comfort, lovely linen, fresh flowers and fruit; room service upon request.

Excellent food and service, have ample staff that are courteous and a joy to be with, creating lots of fun and a real joie de vivre for everyone.

Contact: Elizabeth Perrée at TEL: 01481 832061 E -mail: reservations@sablonneriesark.com WEB: www.sablonneriesark.com

Enjoy Spring this year with the whole family, or getaway for a romantic break and enjoy one of the finest eateries in the Channel Islands.

If you are looking for a special present a gift voucher from La Sablonnerie can be purchased in any monetary value.

Choose anything from a delicious luncheon, afternoon tea, dinner, an overnight stay or a champagne celebration with canapés.

La Sablonnerie Please call Elizabeth Perrée on +44 (0) 1481 832061 or E-mail: reservations@sablonneriesark.com www.sablonneriesark.com La Sablonnerie Hotel and Restaurant, Sark, Channel Islands, GY10 1SD.