St Albans Churches Autumn & Winter 2022 Groups, Services & Events for Seniors Supported by St Albans Anna Chaplaincy FUELWINTERHELPFEATURE p16-19
If you’d like to know more about this ministry or would like to be involved (see p14), please do contact me on email: mrsmaggiedodd@gmail.com or call: 07462 586773 or visit my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/AnnaChaplaincyStAlbans
To the second edition of this handy guide to services, groups and events at St Albans’ churches. This guide is not an exhaustive list but covers the churches which offer some sort of hospitality or groups for older people in St Albans. The guide is aimed at people who are 65+, offering details on daytime weekday activities which are largely accessible by public transport. The events are generally low cost, and in some cases free. All the listings are hosted by churches from a range of denominations. I hope this information will provide a handy reference, and encourage you to find out more about what the churches locally offer older people. I would urge you to check online for up-todate information (this guide was published in September 2022) or call the number listed if you need further details about any groups or events. Some activities need pre-booking and are marked with an orange dot but others, marked with a green dot, you can just drop in on
Welcome!
Hello, my name is Maggie Dodd and I’m an Anna Chaplain in St Albans
This edition also has a 4-page feature (p16-19) on the support available locally and nationally for winter fuel costs and the cost of living. I know many of you will be worried about how you’ll manage over the colder months. I hope you find the feature useful.
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You may not have heard about Anna Chaplaincy. It’s a model of care which seeks to accompany older people at this age and stage of their lives. It is an ecumenical, community-based chaplaincy promoting the spiritual welfare of older people.
It involves visiting older people wherever they may be living, whether in residential and nursing homes, sheltered housing, retirement complexes or other private homes. The emphasis is on spiritual support but, clearly, people’s practical struggles will also play a part in their overall well-being. St Albans Anna Chaplaincy is supported by Marlborough Road Methodist Church and Hatfield Road Methodist Church, working closely with our friends at St Peter’s Church. It seeks to support older people here in St Albans.
The Cathedral has a thriving congregation and a group of Lay Pastoral Assistants who support older members of their community, with phone calls, visits and sometimes Home Communion.
ASHLEY
ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL SUMPTER YARD AL1 1BY
The largest ‘church’ in St Albans. It hosts regular concerts and lunchtime organ recitals, has a modern refectory (Abbot’s Kitchen), regular exhibitions and displays and a gift shop. Entry is free (donations encouraged).
Email: www.stalbanscathedral.orgmail@stalbanscathedral.org
ST
ST
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD ST
ST STEPHEN’S(CofE)STALBANSCATHEDRAL(CofE)STBART’S(RC) (CofE)PAUL’S (Baptist)ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)
(CofE)DAGNALL
The new Exhibition Area in the Cathedral is worth a visit and tells the story of Alban and the history of the Cathedral. If history and heritage is your kind of thing, there is a variety of Adult Education courses and talks which explore faith, history and culture. Many are available online via Zoom, so you can join a course without leaving your own home, very useful in the winter months. Check the latest list of courses on the Cathedral’s website under ‘Learning’.
ST MICHAEL’S(CofE)
SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY (CofE)LUKE’S
Abbey Lunch Clubs
The Cathedral offers a range of worship services throughout the week, with a midday Eucharist held Monday-Thursday in the Shrine Chapel, and Evensong or Evening Prayer Tuesday-Friday at 5pm in the Quire. There is also a Roman Catholic Mass on Fridays at midday. A service and music list detailing all the weekday and weekend services can be found online at www. stalbanscathedral.org. Go to Monthly Service & Music List on the ‘worship’ tab and click to view the up-to-date list. You can also watch live-streamed services from the comfort of your own home.
Weekday services
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The Abbot’s Kitchen hosts weekly small lunch club groups usually every Monday and alternate Tuesdays. The numbers are limited due to space but if you’d like to join them please contact the Cathedral on the details below and they will put you in contact with the Lunch Club Coordinator.
Tel: 01727 890210
Tel: 01727 835037
SHERWOOD AVENUE, AL4 9QL
This church has a thriving mixed social group for the ‘young at heart’ who go on trips, theatre visits and meals out, and raise money for charities. Please get in touch for further details. Tel: 01727 857786 | Email: churchsecretary.mbfc@gmail.com | www.mbfc.org.uk
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)
ST STEPHEN’S(CofE)CATHEDRAL(CofE)
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD
Holy Communion: 10.30am
Wednesday
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH
1.30pm to 4.30pm – drop in anytime for tea and cakes and a chance to engage in an art group, knitting, board games or tech support, in partnership with St Albans’ charity Computer Friendly. Or just pop in for a chat!
ASHLEYMARSHALSWICKBAPTISTFREECHURCH(Baptist)CHURCH(Free)
Wednesday Table Tennis
This beautiful church sits on the edge of Verulamium Park, and offers a warm welcome to all.
ST SAVIOURS(CofE)
ST(CofE)MARY’S
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (Methodist)ROAD
Thursday afternoon gathering
Weekday service
ST MICHAEL’S(CofE)
Email: admin.stmichaels@btconnect.com | www.stmichaels-parishchurch.org.uk
MARSHALSWICK BAPTIST FREE CHURCH
ST(CofE)PAUL’S
Monthly Walking Group
ST MICHAEL’S STREET, AL3 4SL
Starting at 2pm, this group is suitable for all abilities or those who simply fancy ‘having a go’.
HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)
ST (CofE)JULIAN’S
The St Michael’s walking group is open to all, from May to October. Meeting at the Six Bells in St Michael’s village at 11am, the walkers cover about two miles, getting back to the Six Bells at around 12.30pm for lunch in the marquee at the back. A number of people join the group at lunchtime. All are welcome. Please email suecvaughan@btinternet.com to register your interest, or call 01727 811443.
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This welcoming church is nestled in the heart of the community and close to the Quadrant shopping centre in Marshalswick.
ST (RC)BART’S
ST(CofE)PAUL’S
MICHAEL’S
SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY
(CofE)
Tuesdays from midday. Delicious food and friendly atmosphere. Limited places so you must book in advance, transport is available for people who live locally. Please contact the Parish Office for further information about attending.
From 10am til 11.30am in the church, friendly drop-in coffee morning. Free. Tel: 01727 862598
ST JULIAN’S CHURCH
ABBOTS AVENUE, AL1 2HY
Tel: 01727 862598
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD
Weekday services
Thursday Morning Prayer: 9.15am
Weekday service
ST (RC)BART’S
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)
ST (CofE)JULIAN’S
Wednesday Holy Communion: 9.15am
Email: www.ststephenandstjulian.orgoffice@ststephenandstjulian.org
Email: office@ststephenandstjulian.org
Lunch Club
Tuesday Morning Prayer: 9.15am
Community Café
ST STEPHEN’S CHURCH WATLING STREET, AL1 2PT
Third Thursday of the month at 2pm until 3.30pm - see p15 for detailed information
ST SAVIOURS(CofE) DAGNALL(Baptist)ST
ST (CofE)PETER’S
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ST(CofE)LUKE’S
Friday Zoom Morning Prayer: 9.15am –contact the Parish Office for details.
St Julian’s is situated in the Cottonmill estate and is a friendly informal church community.
Forming a parish with St Julian’s (info below), St Stephen’s is a welcoming church situated on the south side of St Albans. Both churches offer one-off events and seasonal activities so do check the website regularly or contact the Parish Office if you’d like a weekly email sent to you detailing what’s on.
ST STEPHEN’S(CofE)STALBANSCATHEDRAL(CofE)
ST
BAPTIST
Wednesday Coffee Morning
Thursdays from 10.30am. Home-made cakes and freshly brewed tea and coffee, inexpensive prices and a warm welcome. Runs until midday.
Memory Worship service
ST STEPHEN’S(CofE)STBART’S(RC) (CofE)LUKE’S
ASHLEY(Baptist)CHURCHFREECHURCH(Free)
Email: www.stpeterschurch.uk.commail@stpeterschurch.uk.com
ST (CofE)JULIAN’S
ASHLEY(Free)CHURCH
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ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY (URC)
Jacket potatoes and toasties are a speciality and excellent soup (gluten free) is served during the colder months with different flavours each day. Fairtrade hot and cold drinks are available.
DAGNALL(Baptist)ST ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY ST(CofE)MARY’S CHRIST
HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC) ST
1 CROSS STREET, AL3 5EE
The Cross Street Centre Café
All food is reasonably priced and made to order. Scones, biscuits and yummy cakes are baked daily on the premises.
HOMEWOOD ROAD
Concerts take place at 1pm every Wednesday and last for just under an hour followed by refreshments in the Octagon. No booking required. Collection taken in aid of Rennie Grove Hospice Care.
Situated near the city’s shopping centre, this church offers an inviting place to stop.
Weekday services
Tea on Tuesday
Situated at the top of St Peter’s Street, this church hosts free recitals and regular hospitality. Keep an eye on their website for one-off events or subscribe to their weekly emails: mail@stpeterschurch.uk.com
ST(CofE)PAUL’S
MICHAEL’S
Tel: 01727 855485
ST(CofE)LUKE’S
Every 4-6 weeks, from 2.15pm until 3.45pm, held in the Octagon, tea, cakes and conversation, all welcome. Forthcoming dates are: 13th September, 8th November and 6th December (Christmas Treats). Please contact the Parish Office if you’d like to attend.
ST PETER’S CHURCH ST PETER’S STREET, AL1 3HG
ASHLEYMARSHALSWICKBAPTISTCHURCH(Baptist)CHURCH(Free)
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD
This friendly space is open to everyone from Wednesday to Saturday from 10am to 2pm.
DAGNALL(Baptist)ST
ST (RC)BART’S
Every weekday Join us from home every day for Morning Prayer on Zoom at 9am (contact Parish Office for details).
Lunchtime concerts
Tel: 01727 SAVIOURS(CofE) (CofE)CHURCH (CofE)LUKE’S
ST (CofE)PETER’S (CofE)
DAGNALL STREET BAPTIST CHURCH
ST STEPHEN’S(CofE)STALBANSCATHEDRAL(CofE)
846891 | www.dsbc.org.uk ST MICHAEL’S(CofE) ST STEPHEN’S(CofE)STALBANSCATHEDRAL(CofE) ST (CofE)JULIAN’S ST (RC)BART’S HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD ST(CofE)PAUL’S ST (CofE)PETER’S ST
Weekday Masses
ST (RC)BART’S
ST MARY’S
Women’s Group
ST (CofE)PETER’S
ST(CofE)LUKE’S
A warm welcome awaits at this informal group, which meets on the last Wednesday of the month from 2-4pm in the Parish Hall. Contact Maureen Kelly through the Parish Office if you’d like to attend.
Tues, Wed, Fri and Sat: 9am (except on certain Holy Days or in the event of funerals).
25 SANDPIT LANE, AL1 4DF
ST SAVIOUR’S CHURCH
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD
ST (CofE)JULIAN’S
Senior Citizens’ Tea Club
ST STEPHEN’S(CofE)STALBANSCATHEDRAL(CofE)
ASHLEY(Free)CHURCH
ST BARTHOLOMEW’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
Tel: 01727 850066
SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY
ST(CofE)PAUL’S
ST(CofE)PAUL’S
ST SAVIOURS(CofE) DAGNALL(Baptist)ST
Thursday Holy Communion at 8pm, followed by half an hour of prayer and reflection (Exposition and Benediction). Finish by 9pm.
ST (RC)BART’S
St Bart’s Circle of Friends
ST (CofE)PETER’S
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY
47 VESTA AVENUE, AL1 2PE
ST (CofE)JULIAN’S
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)
Email: stalbanssouth@rcdow.org.uk | Web: parish.rcdow.org.uk/stalbanssouth
Men’s Group
ST STEPHEN’S(CofE)STALBANSCATHEDRAL(CofE)
ST SAVIOURS(CofE)
Tuesday Holy Communion at 10am, followed by refreshments.
Monday: 12pm
An informal, easy-going group. Regular gatherings are usually centred on evening suppers in hostelries in St Albans. Mixed age range. If you are interested in joining them, contact the Parish Office.
DAGNALL(Baptist)ST
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD
ST(CofE)LUKE’S
CHRIST(CofE)CHURCH
Not far from Bernard’s Heath, this thriving church hosts a wide range of activities, concerts and hospitality. Keep an eye on their website for their seasonal events.
We meet in St Saviour’s Church Hall on the third Friday of each month at 2pm. We have light refreshments followed by either a speaker or entertainment. New members are always welcome. Contact Elizabeth for more info on 01727 864 955.
Weekday services
This group meets monthly for a variety of events, including outings and social gettogethers, both during the daytime and evening. If you are interested in joining them, contact the Parish Office.
A friendly Roman Catholic church community in south St Albans.
7 Tel: 01727 830323 Email: www.ssaviours.orgparish.stsaviours@gmail.com
ST MICHAEL’S(CofE)
Sharing the ministry team of Rev Andrew Prout, Deacon Nigel Perrott and Anna Chaplain
Maggie Dodd, St Albans Methodist Churches are based in the city centre and in Fleetville. Both churches offer a range of services and groups, and host the annual summer ‘Holiday at Home’ event – a four-day gathering with music, activities, delicious food, fun and friendship.
ST SAVIOURS(CofE)
ST(CofE)LUKE’S
ST(CofE)PAUL’S
ST (CofE)PETER’S
HATFIELD ROAD METHODIST CHURCH
ST ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)
Friday Day Care
Email: admin@midhertsmethodists.org.uk | www.hatfieldroadmethodist.org
Running for over 30 years this wonderful community group welcomes older people from around Fleetville. From 10.30am until 3pm guests enjoy conversation, activities and lunch together. There is a limit on numbers but do get in touch if you would like to find out more.
Twice monthly on a Friday morning, this arts-based faith group gets together to share ideas and creativity. Free to attend, the group meets for a couple of hours over a cuppa. Meetings run from 10am until midday. Contact Maggie Dodd on 07462 586773 to find out more.
A monthly informal worship with favourite hymns and simple liturgy. From 2.30pm lasting about 30 minutes. Followed by an optional craft activity and refreshments until 4pm. Free to attend.
www.hatfieldroaddaycare.co.uk
Serving the residents of Fleetville, this lively church hosts a regular café, monthly afternoon weekday worship, and a wellloved community Day Care.
A friendly welcome, home made cakes, and freshly brewed tea and coffee await you.
ST (CofE)JULIAN’S
Hoping to reopen on Tuesdays in the Autumn. Check church website for details.
CHURCH
Pop in to the Aldersgate Café and escape the hustle and bustle of Hatfield Road.
Wednesday Afternoon Worship
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD
133B HATFIELD ROAD, AL1 4JX
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HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)
Creativity in Fellowship
Aldersgate Café
Tel: 01727 851834
SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY
ASHLEYMARSHALSWICKBAPTISTFREECHURCH(Baptist)CHURCH(Free)
ST ALBANS METHODIST CHURCHES
DAGNALL(Baptist)ST
Tel: 01727 855395
HATFIELD ROAD
ST(CofE)LUKE’S
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)
9 Email: www.mrmc.org.ukinfo@mrmc.org.uk
THE SALVATION ARMY 16-18 VICTORIA STREET, AL1 3JB
SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY
Wednesday Afternoon Worship
Thinking Lunches
DAGNALL
ASHLEYMARSHALSWICKBAPTISTFREECHURCH(Baptist)CHURCH(Free)
ST (RC)BART’S
ST (CofE)PETER’S
Chatterbox Café
Held at people’s homes, these small groups meet monthly and offer friendship and hospitality. If you would like to join one local to you please contact Maggie Dodd on 07462 586773 to find out more. (CofE)JULIAN’S
MICHAEL’S(CofE) ST STEPHEN’S(CofE)STALBANSCATHEDRAL(CofE) ST
ST(CofE)LUKE’S
Cameo Club
Coffee morning
ST ALBANS METHODIST CHURCHES
Meets every second Wednesday of the month for fellowship. Bring your lunch, meet new friends. Get in touch to find out more.
CHRIST(CofE)CHURCH
ST STEPHEN’S(CofE)STALBANSCATHEDRAL(CofE)
MARLBOROUGH ROAD METHODIST CHURCH
ST (CofE)JULIAN’S
A monthly informal worship with favourite hymns and simple liturgy. From 2.30pm lasting about 30 minutes. Followed by an optional craft activity and refreshments until 4pm. Free to attend.
Fellowship Groups
Call in on Saturday from 10am until midday for a cup of coffee and conversation. Open to all, a welcome stop in the bustling city centre.
Situated in the heart of the city behind The Maltings, this welcoming church offers monthly afternoon weekday worship and hosts regular speakers and coffee mornings.
Email: www.salvationarmy.org.uk/st-albansst.albans@salvationarmy.org.uk
HATFIELD ROAD ST (CofE)PETER’S ST SAVIOURS(CofE) (Baptist)ST
ST (RC)BART’S
SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY
City centre hospitality can be found at The Salvation Army Victoria Street.
on
ST(CofE)MARY’S
MARLBOROUGH ROAD, AL1 3XG
Pop in every Thursday from 10.30am until midday. A friendly place to chat and enjoy a freshly brewed tea or coffee.
First Thursday in the month from 12.30pm until 1.30pm. Bring your own lunch along and listen to a thought-provoking talk by a different guest speaker every month.
HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD
Wednesday Drop-In Café
ST (CofE)JULIAN’S
Why not stay on after Knit and Natter and enjoy lunch at St Luke’s. Friday Soup Lunch runs from 12noon-2pm every Friday (during term time only) and is open to all.
ST SAVIOURS(CofE)
ST(CofE)LUKE’S
A modern lively church serving The Camp and area east of London Road.
Tel: 01727 865399 | Email: office@saint-lukes.co.uk | www.saint-lukes.co.uk
SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY
ST LUKE’S CHURCH CELL BARNES LANE, AL1 5QJ
Meeting on the second Monday of each month, this friendly lunch club serves a delicious two-course home-cooked meal with lots of time to chat. Please contact the office for information or to book a place. Tel: 01727 846281 | Email: office@stpauls-stalbans.org | www.stpauls-stalbans.org
ASHLEYMARSHALSWICKBAPTISTFREECHURCH(Baptist)CHURCH(Free)
Friday Soup Lunches
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ST (CofE)JULIAN’S
CHURCH
ST(CofE)LUKE’S
ST(CofE)PAUL’S
Knit and Natter
Freshly brewed coffee and homemade cake are the order of the day from 10.30-midday, every Wednesday. No booking required, everyone welcome, just call in.
Lunch Club
HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)
ST PAUL’S CHURCH BLANDFORD ROAD, AL1 4JP
A thriving church for all ages on Sundays and throughout the week. Offering midweek groups across the Parish for prayer, Bible study & support as well as regular Alpha courses. Monthly Communion services are held on the first Wednesday each month at 10am. You are also welcome at our various activity and interest groups which include art, strolling, creation care, gardening and sewing. Please see the website or contact the office for full details.
Join this friendly group for a ‘Knit and Natter’ on a Friday morning, and enjoy hot drinks and conversation. From 10-11.30am. All welcome (with or without knitting!).
Coffee Morning
Open to all, this weekly Tuesday coffee morning from 10-11.30am provides an opportunity to relax and catch up with others from the local community.
ST (CofE)PETER’S
ST(CofE)MARY’S
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)
ST LUKE’S
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)
Parish Friends Group
Weekday Masses
14-16 BEACONSFIELD ROAD, AL1 3RB
ST (CofE)PETER’S
Cooking Club
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD
HOMEWOOD ROAD, AL1 4BH
ST (RC)BART’S ST(CofE)PAUL’S
ST(CofE)MARY’S
Run by Herts Community Kitchen this course consists of five weekly sessions on a Wednesday, from 11am-1.30pm, in the church hall. Learn to make delicious recipes and prepare a two-course lunch to eat together (and make enough to take a portion home).
Email: www.albanstephen.orgstalbans@rcdow.org.uk
PETER’S SAVIOURS(CofE)
ST (CofE)JULIAN’S
CHRIST(CofE)CHURCH
MARLBOROUGH(Methodist)
*1st Friday of the month only. All masses are livestreamed: SsAlbanandStephenCatholicChurchhttps://www.youtube.com/c/
This group is for St Albans residents over 65 who live alone. Places are limited, so to book please call Charlotte on 07890 038722 or email: hertscommunitykitchen@gmail.com – the next course is from 21st September to 19th October 2022, but future places will be available so do get in contact if you’d like to find out more.
ST(CofE)LUKE’S
The group organises Sunday tea parties, film shows, and a Knit and Natter group, arranges visitors and lifts to Sunday Mass for elderly, lonely or housebound parishioners. Contact the Church Office for further information.
ST
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Tel: 01727 853585
STEPHEN’S(CofE)STALBANSCATHEDRAL(CofE)
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)
(CofE)
SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY
MARSHALSWICKBAPTISTFREECHURCH(Baptist)
Wednesday Day Centre
HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)
Mon to Fri*: 10am Mon, Wed, Fri: 7pm
This thriving Roman Catholic church sits a stone’s throw from the city rail station.
A social and activity group for elderly people who meet on Wednesdays from 10am-2pm in the Back Hall. There is a limit on numbers but do get in touch if you would like to find out more.
ST SAVIOURS(CofE) DAGNALL(Baptist)ST
Tel: 01727 899117 | Email: secretary@homewoodurc.org | www.homewoodurc.org
Part of a cluster of United Reformed Churches in St Albans. Homewood Road offers a range of activities, including a walking group and sewing group – visit their website to see the complete list.
ST(CofE)PAUL’S
HOMEWOOD ROAD URC
ASHLEY(Free)CHURCH
HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)
Tuesday Get Together
1 SHERWOOD AVENUE, AL4 9QA
Tel: 01727 851544 | Email: stmarymars@gmail.com | www.marshalswick.org.uk
ST SAVIOURS(CofE)
HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC) ST(CofE)LUKE’S
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD
ASHLEYMARSHALSWICKBAPTISTFREECHURCH(Baptist)CHURCH(Free)
ST(CofE)PAUL’S
ALBAN STEPHEN&(RC)
Thursday Communion Service & Lunch Club
ASHLEY CHURCH
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)
ASHLEY(Free)CHURCH
ST(CofE)MARY’S
ST(CofE)LUKE’S
ST MARY’S, MARSHALSWICK
Just opposite Marshalswick’s thriving shopping area sits St Mary’s church.
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Every other Thursday, St Mary’s offer a Holy Communion service at midday, before their twice-monthly Lunch Club. All welcome to join the service. If you would like to join the Lunch Club please contact the Parish Office to check availability.
Part of the local community since 1939, this independent Christian church is based in the east of St Albans. A warm welcome awaits. Visit their website to find out more.
Saturday Morning Coffee Shop
Home Instead St Albans - Memory Café
ST(CofE)PAUL’S
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD
The café was set up to help people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, and has become a popular group, successfully running for 5 years. It creates the perfect opportunity for older people to socialise, have fun and meet new friends, whilst providing respite for family carers. Held every Wednesday from 10.30-12pm in St Mary’s Church Hall and run by local care providers Home Instead. Please contact Fiona Harrall on 01727 895941 for further information.
ASHLEY ROAD, AL1 5DA
Email: ashleychurchstalbans@live.co.uk | www.ashleychurch.org.uk
Meeting every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month from 2pm-4pm. A place for a chat, coffee and cake, table tennis, board games, puzzles, crafts and singing. Activities you can bring and share.
Pop along if you are near the Quadrant and enjoy freshly brewed tea and coffee. From 10.30am until 12.30pm every Saturday.
MARLBOROUGH
St Mark’s is as a loving, active charismatic evangelical church located in Colney Heath and offers a variety of drop-in groups.
ST(CofE)PAUL’S
Alternate Thursdays from 2.30-4pm. Enjoy a slice of cake and a cuppa in a relaxed atmosphere.
A friendly drop-in cafe which meets in the church on the first Thursday of the month from 10am until midday. All ages welcome.
ASHLEYMARSHALSWICKBAPTISTFREECHURCH(Baptist)CHURCH(Free)
SALVATIONMARLBOROUGHROAD(Methodist)ARMY
CHRIST CHURCH
Tea and Talk
ST MICHAEL’S(CofE)
ST SAVIOURS(CofE)
Tel: 01727 825175
ST(CofE)MARY’S
ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN(RC)
HATFIELD(Methodist)ROAD
ST (CofE)MARK’S
Tel: 01727 859806
Email: office@stmarkscolneyheath.co.uk www.stmarkscolneyheath.co.uk
HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)
ST (CofE)PETER’S
ST MARK’S COLNEY HEATH CHURCH LANE, COLNEY HEATH, AL4 0NH
The Gathering
First Tuesday of each month 2-3.30pm. Bible study and prayer time for Christian believers, and for those curious about faith, finishing with tea, coffee and cake.
Email: www.ccstalbans.org.ukenquiries@ccstalbans.org.uk
Craft Evening
ST STEPHEN’S(CofE)STALBANSCATHEDRAL(CofE)
Pastimes Small Groups
This regular informal service for our older people combines worship with a tea, meeting in the church at 2pm on the third Tuesday of each month. No booking required. Transport is available for people who live locally, contact the Church Office to find out more.
3 HIGH OAKS, AL3 6DJ
ST (CofE)JULIAN’S(RC)BART’S
DAGNALL(Baptist)ST
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ST(CofE)LUKE’S
Join this friendly group, which meets from 8pm-10pm on the first Tuesday of the month in the church hall. Open to all.
CHRIST(CofE)CHURCH
This church’s events for seniors focus on sharing faith through friendship, fellowship, food and fun. For more information do contact the church on the details below.
Community Café
ST
As an Anna Chaplain, I spiritually support older people in St Albans and I’m looking to put together a group of people (Anna Friends) who would like to support people in later life. This could be volunteering to chat and make tea at various clubs, supporting care home worship or visiting people in need of friendship and support. Does this sound like something you would like to do?
Would you like to be involved with Anna Chaplaincy?
There are a growing number of people in our communities and care homes who would value friendship and support. This past couple of years have been difficult for many, some people have lost confidence or mobility, or are living in care homes which have had restrictions on visitors and are now trying to re-establish church services and pastoral visiting.
If so, please do get in touch with me. Volunteering with vulnerable older people means you would require a DBS check (we can arrange that for you) and a safeguarding training session, but a willing and kind attitude is the most important thing.
Contact Maggie Dodd, Anna Chaplain, by calling 07462 586773 or email: mrsmaggiedodd@gmail.com or visit Facebook for more information: www.facebook.com/AnnaChaplaincyStAlbans
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I very much look forward to hearing from you.
When: Monthly, every third Thursday afternoon, 2pm until 3.30pm
Affirmation - that we are all held by God and that we can trust in His abiding presence.
Music - is an important key to memory and a familiar constant in Memory Worship.
WHAT IS MEMORY WORSHIP AND WHO IS IT FOR?
Sensory activities - can create pathways back to happy life memories.
Craft - creative skills can be retained and even learned by people living with dementia.
“At Memory Worship we believe in a God who accepts us and meets us where we are today”
Worship can be a channel for recalling the past, creating feelings of comfort, familiarity and spiritual fulfilment.
Worship for those with and without Dementia
MEMORY WORSHIP
Tell me the old, old story - a short Bible reading, using a well-known, well-loved passage.
Where: St Julian’s Church, 3 Abbots Ave, St Albans AL1 2HY (car park behind the church)
For further information: call Maggie Dodd, Anna Chaplain 07462 586773 / 01727 874347
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We all have a continuing need to worship and experience a loving encounter with God. The formal part of a Memory Worship service lasts 30 minutes before leading into a craft activity and hospitality. Everyone has an opportunity to connect with their own creativity by participating, and our dedicated team of community volunteers are always on hand with tea, cake and fellowship.
Memory Worship is a space where people with or without dementia can approach God, worship, and feel God’s caring presence together.
St Paul’s Church, Blandford Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 4JP 0800 328 https://capuk.org/i-want-help0006
• more time to pay
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1 Contact your supplier
You can ask for:
• access to hardship funds
Citizens Advice St Albans District Civic Centre, St Peters Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3JE 01727 Alsohttp://www.castad.org.uk811118haveanEnergyAdvice
The following four pages detail the help which is currently available, from energy cost support, to help with general living expenses, Government schemes and charitable grants. This information has been gathered from many sources and is correct as of August 2022, but things change quickly and more help may be announced.
• a review of your payments and debt repayments
Harpenden Money Advice Centre
Worried about rising energy costs?
All Saints’ Church, 129 Station Road, Harpenden, AL5 4UU 07954 http://www.hmac.uk276281
team who can offer face-to-face appointments.
CAP St Albans Debt Centre
0300 345 info@ageukherts.org.uk3446
They can support you to access help from your energy provider and carry out benefits checks to ensure that you are getting all the money to which you are entitled. As you can imagine these charities are all very busy, so please be patient.
If you are worried about paying your energy bills this winter – or you’re already struggling – don’t suffer in silence. There is help out there.
Age UK Hertfordshire
• payment breaks or reductions
• advice on how to use less energy
2 Contact a money advice service
Contact your supplier as soon as you can if you are worried about paying your energy bills or are in debt to your supplier. Suppliers must work with you to agree on a payment plan you can afford under Ofgem rules. This includes reviewing a plan you have agreed before.
from £140 to £2000 You can’t apply right now (closed until at least 2023)
wouldn’tSupplier confirm
With these providers you’ll usually need to be a customer of the firm to apply. However, British Gas offers help to non-customers as well. You usually need to have spoken to a money advice service before applying.
Bulb Energy Fund
Utility Warehouse Customer Support Scheme (in partnership with charity Citizens Advice)
Not yet finalised
Individuals and Families Fund
No set criteria, but based on needs and ability to pay energy bills
In or facing fuel poverty
(Also open to customers of Sainsbury’s Energy)
Big energy firms have charitable trusts and funds that can help if you’re in debt and struggling to repay.
No specific eligibility criteria
3 Seek help from the Energy Companies
See full info on the Octopus website
In receipt of: income support, jobseeker’s allowance, pension credit, or employment and support
CLOSED – not currently accepting applications
No set limit –depends on circumstancesyour
Not yet finalised You can’t apply right now (expected to reopen later this year)
In financial difficulty - See full info on the Bulb website
See full info on the Citizens Advice website
Via Scottish Power’s web form
Call Utility Warehouse on 0333 777 0777
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See full info on the EDF website
No specific eligibility criteria
See full info on the Shell Energy website
See full info on the E.on Next website
No set limit –depends on circumstancesyour
Seeallowancefullinfo on the Scottish Power website
(Also open to customers of Affect Energy, Cooperative Energy, Ebico Living, London Power, M&S Energy)
Shell Energy Support Fund
See full info on the British Gas website
wouldn’tSupplier confirm
Ovo Energy Energy Fund
wouldn’tSupplier confirm
dependingVaries on need and funds available
Call Shell on 0330 094 5800
Open to customers of the named suppliers ONLY
Can’t have had British Gas grant in past two years
Scottish Power Hardship Fund
E.on Next Energy Fund
Open to customers of ALL suppliers
Octopus Energy Octo Assist Fund
Up to £1,500 Via a debt advisor or the British Gas website
EDF Energy Customer Support Fund
Via the ‘Let’s Talk’ web form 0800online/Loginhttps://forms.lets-talk.orbycalling269450(1)
Via the Octopus web form (you must be logged into your account)
Via the ‘Let’s Talk’ web form 0800online/Loginhttps://forms.lets-talk.orbycalling269450(1)
Experiencing hardship, or struggling to manage energy debt
British Gas Energy Trust
In fuel poverty, or about to go into energy debt or run out of prepay credit
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• Free TV licence – for people over 75
5 Help to reduce phone/ broadband bills and water bills
• Warm Home Discount of £150 a year
Attendance Allowance
4 Make sure you are getting all the income to which you are entitled
If you get Pension Credit you may also be entitled to:
This is extra money you can claim if you’re over State Pension age and have a long-term disability or health condition, for example if you need help with personal support, or supervision to keep you safe. It is not meanstested, so you can claim it whatever your income or savings. You have to apply for it.
Special discounted broadband packages – sometimes known as ‘social tariffs’ – are available to people on benefits including pension credit and Universal Credit. Check with your broadband supplier to see what they can offer. For example BT Home Essentials broadband & line package is £15/month, plus £9.99 upfront. Sky Basics broadband & line package is £20 a month.
• Housing Benefit - rent paid in part or full rent paid, potentially worth £1,000’s a year
You may be eligible for £61.85 a week if you need help either in the day or at night, or £92.40 a week if you need help both during the day and night.
WaterSure schemes can cap the amount you have to pay for your water bill if you’re on means-tested benefits, such as Pension Credit, and need to use a lot of water, for example for a medical condition, such as incontinence. Call Affinity Water on 0345 357 2401 Metered Accounts or 0345 357 2402 for Non-metered Accounts
To apply call the Government Attendance
• If you are over 75 and are turned down for Pension Credit because your income is up to £20 a week too great, St Albans Old People’s Trust will pay for your TV licence for a year
• Vouchers towards the cost of glasses
• Carer Premium – extra money for carers
Ask a money advice service for a benefits check. Or use an online benefits checker. Two of the main benefits are Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance, both of which have dedicated Government helplines.
To apply call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234, visit their website, or ask a money advice service for help to apply.
Pension Credit
• Council Tax reduction, potentially worth £1000’s a year
Reducing Water Bills
• Free NHS dental treatment
helpline on 0800 731 0122, visit their website, or ask a money advice service for help to apply.
Pension Credit is extra money that you can claim to top up your pension income, by an average of £55 a week. 1500 people of pensionable age living in St Albans District are missing out on a total of £4 million each year. Although it is called ‘credit’ you do not need to repay it, but you do have to apply for it.
Reducing Phone and broadband charges
• Winter Fuel Payment – for people born on or before 25 September 1956. For winter 2022-2023 winter fuel payments will usually be £200 per household or £300 if a member of the household is over 80. To check that you are registered for this payment call the Winter Fuel Helpline: 0800 731 0160
6 Check that you are getting all the Government help towards energy costs
- Pensioner households will receive an extra £300 in November of December 2022 as a top up to the winter fuel payment. You need to be registered for the Winter Fuel Payment.
• Warm Home Discount – a £150 discount for some people getting Pension Credit or some people in low-income households. The money is not paid to you - it’s a one-off discount on your electricity bill, between October and March.
• Household Support Fund
• One off pensioner cost of living payment
• Cost of Living Grant – the second instalment of the grant, £324, for those on means tested benefits, including Universal Credit and Pension Credit will be paid in autumn 2022.
Turn2Us – provides an online grantschecker, which can help you find charities which give grants. https://www.turn2us.org. uk/ No phone service is available.
The Trust’s approach to support for energy bills is under review – please see the website for latest details, or call the team. Tel: 01727 260 701
Mobile: 07541 659
The Household Support Fund helps those in most need with payments towards the rising cost of food, energy, and water bills. It is administered by the County Council and has been extended to March 2023. Call Herts Help on 0300 123 4044
Redbourn Care Group
• Cold Weather Payment – a £25 payment for every 7 days of very cold weather (below freezing) between November and March, if you are on benefits including Universal Credit or Pension Credit. You do not need to apply. If you’re eligible to get a Cold Weather Payment, you’ll be paid it automatically. You’ll be able to check if your area is due a payment from November 2022.
The Redbourn Care Group can provide grants for items for residents. To apply call 01582 794550
St Albans Old People’s Trust – provides free goods and services for residents across St Albans District, aged 60 or over, who are on low incomes. Goods include kitchen appliances, carpeting, recliners and mobility aids. Services include the provision of care alarms and a free annual boiler service.
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Email:grants.admin@staopt.orghttps://oldpeoplestrust.org.uk/442
7 Ask a charity for support
Harpenden Trust
Wheathampstead Community Group
Local grant providers include:
Harpenden Trust’s Care Fund provides a range of support for older residents of the AL5 postcode, including a Christmas hamper. The Trust may provide an annual grant towards energy bills for older residents on low incomes. To apply call 01582 https://www.theharpendentrust.org.uk/460457
The Wheathampstead Community Group can provide grants for items for residents. To apply call 07539 176481
FLEETVILLECAMPMARSHALSWICK
If you’re unable to make it to church due to mobility issues it may be possible for someone to come to you and offer you Home Communion. Do contact me, Maggie, the Anna Chaplain, using the email address or phone number below and I’ll try and put you in contact with someone who can help.
PORTERS WOOD NEWBATCHWOODGREENSTOWNSENDBERNARDSHEATH
If you live in a sheltered housing block and think you might like to host a monthly Communion service or an informal Christian worship service in your lounge or common room please get in touch and I’ll do my best to organise this for you.
Maggie Dodd, St Albans Anna Chaplain Email: mrsmaggiedodd@gmail.com or call: 07462 586773
ST JULIANS
Home Communion or worship services at your sheltered housing block or flat complex.
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