This month is Halloween, but it is also Unblocktober a national campaign to improve the health of our drains, sewers, watercourses and seas – driven completely by the British public.
Every small action counts, and so I will be joining the campaign and I hope you will to. Too many people still put everyday items like wet wipes, fats, oils, and grease (collectively known as FOG) down the drain causing ‘fatbergs’ and other costly plumbing issues as well as huge ecological and environmental damage.
If every household and business made a commitment to dispose of waste correctly: our drains would be clearer, sewers would flow more freely and our seas would be less polluted.
The state of our sewers directly impacts the health of our rivers, seas and marine life. By making simple changes to what we put down our drains, each of us has the power to reduce pollution, protect wildlife and ensure that our water systems are healthy and sustainable.
So let’s take part in Unblocktober (see page 22) and encourage our friends and local businesses to do the same. We will be making a big difference, without having to make a big effort.
Best wishes, Kate
Copies of Villages in Focus are available to collect from Barleys hardware store in the centre of Middleton village.
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FRENCH BAKING COMES TO MIDDLETON
BY KATE STEWART
If you ever have the chance to talk to Tito, the man behind Le Blé d’Or, about bread – his love and passion for baking is unmistakable and infectious. He loves what he does and this shines through in the products he creates and delivers daily, right to the door of his customers in Bognor Regis, Felpham, Middleton-on-Sea and Elmer.
Tito grew up as the eldest of three brothers in a small village in Brittany. His mother owned her own hairdressing salon, which was attached to their house and his father was a teacher at a local primary school. At 16, Tito left school, much to his parent’s dismay and started a baking apprenticeship at a college in Vannes. It was during this time that he had a work placement at his cousin’s bakery and where his love of baking really took hold.
After two years of study and practical experience, Tito finished top of his class and began his career as a baker, working “seasons” in different bakeries in France. Then about 11 years ago Tito came across an advert for a Head Baker in a tiny village in Dorset where the bread was baked using a wood-fired oven. Tito contacted the owner of the bakery and that very same day Tito made the move to England. This was a courageous move as at the time Tito had little knowledge of the English language but it turned out to be one of the best decisions he made, both professionally and personally (this is where he met his wife). It was at Long Crichel Bakery in Dorset where he began to learn more about the “art” of baking and where he relied heavily on traditional methods of baking, which he still adheres to today. After leaving Long Crichel Tito continued to work in artisan bakeries where his desire to make the best bread possible never waned.
From the beginning of Tito’s career as a baker he has always dreamt of having his own bakery and has never given up on this dream. About 12 years ago Tito, his wife and children moved from London to Felpham, and last year he started his own small artisan bakery, Le Blé d’Or, which means The Golden Wheat. From then it’s been going from strength to strength with the support of his loyal customers.
Tito’s bread is all hand-scaled and hand-moulded, created from pure ingredients, free from preservatives and additives. One of the most important elements of the production is time, he lets the dough ferment slowly. This long fermentation not only improves the taste of the bread but also allows the gluten and yeast to develop fully which makes it easier for our bodies to enjoy and digest.
Tito’s passion for bread is stronger than ever and he loves having the control over the products he makes. So if you haven’t had a taste of his bread you really are missing out.
Le Blé d’Or bread is available Monday to Saturday for delivery to your door. To make an order or find out more, email lebledorbakery@gmail.com or call 07494 756455. You can also visit the bakery facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077197547610
Le Blé d’Or
Artisan Bread by Tito 07494 756455 lebledorbakery@gmail com
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Delicious sourdough bread delivered straight to your doorstep!
Place an order by midday to get FREE next morning delivery.
Text your order to 07494 756455 including your name, address and date of delivery
Deliveries available Monday to Saturday for those living in Bognor Regis, Felpham, Middleton-on-Sea and Elmer
Le Blé d’Or
Artisan Bread by Tito 07494 756455 lebledorbakery@gmail com
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ARTIST OF THE MONTH: JULIA MAYNARD
BY KATE STEWART
My passion for art began as a young girl drawing, painting and creating –starting out on my blackboard with coloured chalks! I went to Eastbourne College of Art & Design, where I learnt to try all the amazing ways to express myself, the real learning I found out is enthusiasm, practice, and perseverance.
With my family I owned and ran an art shop for several years, selling a wide range of art materials in the shop and online, I had a gallery/studio selling mine and other artist's work and running art classes for adults and children.
Growing up by the sea and living in Felpham where there is a constant source of inspiration many seascapes have been painted, on my daily dog walks I am always looking for ideas, taking photos of the shapes/colour/ texture of the sand/seaweed, the tide and the ever-changing colours, depth, fury of the sea and sky.
I love to create and invent paintings on various shapes and sizes and on different surfaces, canvas, watercolour paper, pebbles and driftwood, hand made paper, using a range of different mediums, acrylic, oil, gouache paint, painting a wide range of subject's and ideas that inspire me including portraits. Some of my work is commission based. My art classes take place in my Seafront Art Studio, which is rewarding and enjoyable, some of my students have never painted before and some just need some encouragement or a refresh to ignite their love of painting.
To find out more about my art or to join a class visit www.juliamaynardartist.co.uk Instagram maynard_julia_artist or Facebook Julia Maynard Artist. I also accept commissions.
Julia Maynard.
Sea the Moon.
The Coastal Path.
Sunset on Felpham Beach.
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FALL FOR AUTUMN
BY
GEMMA BROWN
Forget Christmas, this is the most wonderful time of the year! Autumn in the UK is a season rich with charm and tradition. Here are five reasons to fall in love with this time of year:
Spectacular Autumn Foliage: The UK is home to some of the most breathtaking autumnal landscapes. From the woodlands in the Lake District to the golden hues of the Cotswolds, the countryside is ablaze with colour at this time of year. Even city parks, like London’s Hyde Park or Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden, offer stunning autumn displays.
Bonfire Night: A uniquely British tradition, Bonfire Night on November 5th is a highlight of the autumn season. It’s a night filled with fireworks, bonfires, and the smell of roasting marshmallows. The historical significance of Guy Fawkes’ failed Gunpowder Plot adds an element of intrigue to the festivities.
Cozy Pub Culture: As the weather cools, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a traditional British pub. Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy a hearty meal by the fire, sample seasonal ales, or simply relax with a hot drink in the snug atmosphere of a country inn.
Seasonal Produce: Autumn brings a bounty of fresh, local produce to the UK. From apples and pears to root vegetables and game meats, the season offers the perfect ingredients for comforting dishes like roast dinners, stews, and pies. Farmers’ markets across the country brim with these autumnal delights. Mushroom foraging: If you’re a mushroom-lover, October is definitely the month for you. Join an organised mushroom walk and learn about unusual, tasty varieties as well as which ones to avoid! October is a wonderful time of year so pull on your jeans and boots and head out for some autumn fun.
LOCAL HISTORY
BY SYLVIA ENDACOTT
A historical building this month, that of the Bognor Picturedrome cinema. Designed by Arthur Smith and opened in 1886 costing £4,500, when it became known as the town’s “New Assembly Rooms.” In 1910 it was renamed the “Queen’s Hall” to commemorate the Coronation of George V. One of its features was the octagonal lantern tower, which in the early days had a revolving light, operated by a small boy pedalling a bicycle type mechanism.
During the course of the 1st World War the premises had new backers Mr Stoneham, Frederick Jenkins, and Mr Cooper local traders. The Picturedrome cinema was opened on 5 June 1919, with the proceeds of the evening being donated to the Bognor War Memorial Hospital Fund.
Progress continued and by 1930 the cinema had become equipped with ‘Western Electric Sound’ and by 1940 dances were being held in the upper hall where until recently it was a Screen Cinema.
In 1954 there was an extremely serious fire, which resulted in the cinema being closed for the first time for a period of four months. By 1962 the cinema had 553 seats operating beside the popular Bingo of the day. In 1983 the Cinema was taken over by “The Cannon Group” who added the second screen with approximately 80 seats.
Today the cinema is still in private ownership and continues to provide up to date films, event cinema and is developing into multiple screens for their watching public.
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BIRDS AND BEAKS
BY Alice McD ougall
Isn’t the evolution of birds incredible? Worldwide there are approximately 11,000 species, all with their own unique behaviours, shapes, sizes, colours and anatomies. This diversity of birds as we know them today began around 63 million years ago, after the last great extinction event - central to this evolution is the beak.
During Darwin’s second voyage on the HMS Beagle (1831–1836), he observed some small finch-like birds in the Galapagos Islands which had a significant influence on evolutionary theory. He observed that these birds, although broadly similar in shape, size and colour, had different beaks to suit the different environments from island to island. It was this observation that began his thinking on the origin of species; Darwin’s finches evolved into different species through adapting to different food sources.
Beaks are fundamentally about the birds’ ability to hunt and eat: Survival! Let’s look at a few of them:
Owls have short beaks which curve downward allowing for better vision. As carnivores, they need a strong sharp beak which will enable them to tear apart their prey of mice, voles and other small mammals. In a wonderful feat of engineering, the upper and lower edges taper to a sharp edge and overlap like scissors allowing them to tear the flesh of their prey.
Goldfinches have long pointed beaks designed for the delicate operation of tweezering into thistle blossoms and teasles. But as we have seen, not all finches are the same, and in contrast, the hawfinch has a large and exceptionally strong beak that is enables them to crack cherry stones and yew berries.
The curlew’s long, elegant, curved beak, is designed to probe deep down in the mud to find worms, clams or crabs. You may see them sway their heads from side to side – an approach which is understood to enhance their foraging success rate. Its curve allows it to explore a larger radius that a straight bill would. The little egret, like other waders, has a shorter dagger-like bill which it darts into the water to swiftly catch hold of its prey. You may see an egret stirring up the water with its beak, hoping to disturb its prey.
The red-breasted merganser is a sawbill – a duck with a long, slim, serrated, hook tipped bill which provides a strong grip on its fishy prey. Sawbills have something akin to teeth except made from lightweight keratin (rather than heavy enamel). The shoveler, however, is a dabbling duck and has a long flat spoon-shaped bill. They will take water into their open bills and then push it out again through the lamellae (specialist serrated mouth parts like a sharp comb) ejecting the smallest food objects but keeping the largest, such as insects and bits of plant.
Woodpeckers’ beaks are made of a hard but flexible bone, serving as shock absorbers which mitigate the impact of drilling against hard wood. Green woodpeckers have softer beaks, often used to drill into softer dead wood for ants and hooking its prey on its extremely long, barbed tongue. It’s impossible not to admire the uniqueness and precision of birds’ beaks. So next time you are observing the magnificent diversity of our bird species, consider the evolutionary journey that has determined their perfectly adapted beaks.
To find out what happening at Pagham Harbour and Medmerry RSPB this October: https://events.rspb.org.uk/paghamharbour
Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)
Curlew.
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CREATING A NATURAL HEDGEROW
BY RACHEL LEVERTON
Many of us will consider planting a hedge along the boundary of our property. Hedges buffer sound and offer a degree of privacy. While privet and leylandii remain popular choices for quick, dense hedges, I prefer a natural hedgerow, composed of a mix of native shrubs and trees, A natural hedge will promote biodiversity, providing food and shelter for birds, insects, and other wildlife. This creates a vibrant ecosystem in your garden, enhancing its beauty and ecological value.
Natural hedgerows are also more sustainable. They are better adapted to local soil and climate conditions, which means they require less maintenance and less chemical input like fertilizer and pesticide. They have a softer, less formal appearance, which will add charm and character to your garden.
When choosing plants for a natural hedgerow, consider a mix of native species that will provide year-round interest and habitat value. Here are some excellent choices:
• Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna): Known for its white spring flowers and red autumn berries, hawthorn is a hardy and versatile choice.
• Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa): This plant produces white flowers in early spring and sloes in autumn, which are loved by wildlife.
• Hazel (Corylus avellana): With catkins in late winter and edible nuts in autumn, hazel is both decorative and beneficial.
• Field Maple (Acer campestre): A small tree with lovely autumn colour, it’s perfect for adding height and diversity.
• Dog Rose (Rosa canina): This climbing shrub offers beautiful pink flowers in summer and bright red hips in autumn.
The best time to plant your hedgerow is from now until early spring, when the plants are dormant. Follow these steps to maximise your chance of success:
Preparation: Clear the planting area of weeds and grass. Dig a trench about 30cm wide and 30cm deep.
Spacing: Plant shrubs at intervals of 30-45cm. For a thicker hedge, plant in a double staggered row, with about 45cm between the rows.
Planting: Place each plant in the trench, ensuring the roots are well-spread. Fill in with soil, firming it around the roots, and water well.
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
A natural hedgerow requires minimal maintenance, but a few key tasks will keep it healthy and thriving:
Water: Ensure young plants are watered during dry spells until they are well-established.
Weed: Keep the base of the hedgerow free from weeds to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
Prune: Lightly prune in late winter to maintain shape and encourage dense growth. Avoid heavy pruning as it can reduce flowering and fruiting.
Feed: Apply a slow-release organic fertilizer in early spring to promote vigorous growth.
Embrace the charm of a natural hedgerow. It not only contributes to a beautiful garden but also supports local wildlife and contributes to a healthier environment. Happy gardening.
THE THRILL OF THE CHILL BY
LISA JOHNSON
Are you going to watch a horror movie, read a scary story, or go on a ghost walk this Halloween? The truth is, that most of us love a bit of scary spookiness, especially at this time of year. The allure of fear is a fascinating aspect of human psychology, so why do we love to be a little bit scared?
At the heart of this phenomenon is the concept of "safe fear." This type of fear occurs in controlled environments where we know, on some level, that we are not in real danger. Our brains can distinguish between actual threats and simulated ones, allowing us to experience the fear without the associated risks. This distinction is crucial because it turns a potentially harmful emotion into an exhilarating one. Psychologist Paul Rozin dubbed this phenomenon ‘benign masochism.’ The aspect of enjoying fear is the concept of ‘benign masochism’.
When we encounter a real-life scary situation, our bodies react with a fightor-flight response, releasing adrenaline and other stress hormones. This response heightens our senses, increases our heart rate, and boosts our energy levels. In a safe environment, these physiological reactions can actually be enjoyable, creating a rush of excitement and euphoria, similar to that experienced by athletes during intense physical activity. This "adrenaline rush" is a key reason why people seek out frightening experiences.
Facing fears in a controlled setting can also provide a sense of accomplishment and empowerment. Overcoming a scary situation, like watching a horror movie alone or navigating a haunted house, can lead to a feeling of triumph and increased self-confidence. It allows individuals to test their limits and confront their anxieties in a way that is both challenging and rewarding.
Social factors also play a significant role in our attraction to fear. Sharing a scary experience with friends or loved ones actually strengthens social bonds. When people experience fear together, they often support and comfort each other, enhancing group cohesion and creating lasting memories. The shared experience of surviving a frightening event can foster a sense of camaraderie and connection.
Furthermore, scary experiences can provide a temporary escape from everyday stress and monotony. Immersing oneself in a thrilling situation can divert attention from real-life worries and provide a mental break. This diversion can be particularly appealing in today's fast-paced, high-stress world, offering a form of escapism that is both intense and cathartic.
There are a few of us though who really don’t like to be scared. We hate even benign surprises, so definitely can’t cope with the fear induced by horror movies. This may be because our nervous systems are too easily overstimulated, or it could be because our ‘sweet spot’ for enjoying fear is vastly out of kilter with our peers.
So, as you settle down to enjoy a "jump scare" horror movie this Halloween, now you know why it’s so much fun, but also why your partner or friend refuses to join you!
WALK ALONG THE WEY AND ARUN CANAL
BY SIMON BAKER IRONS
The featured walk this month is along the restored section of the Wey and Arun canal at Loxwood. The dedicated efforts of the Canal Trust have restored this section so that it is fully navigable and frequent boat trips operate from the visitor centre. Originally stretching from the River Wey at Shalford in Surrey to the River Arun at Pallingham in West Sussex, The Wey and Arun Canal is often referred to as “London’s Lost Route to the Sea,” and has plenty of history dating back to the early 19th century. Originally constructed to connect London to the English Channel, the canal played a crucial role in the transportation of goods before the advent of the railway.
The starting point for the walk along the canal is next to the ‘Onslow Arms’, where you can find ample parking and easy access to the towpath. On joining the canal’s level tow path from the car park, you can venture either way along the canal.
Eastward Walk
• Heading east along the tow path, the route is very easy to navigate as it follows the canal all the way to Drungewick aqueduct.
• The canal winds through the farmland with some great views in places. You may see one of the canal boats gently cruising the waterway and you’ll probably actually find yourself walking faster than the boat.
• On the route you’ll pass two locks, Brewhurst Lock and Baldwins Knob Lock, the latter having got its name from an old Sussex term, Baldwin’s Knob is the small hillock just to the north of the canal here.
• After approximately 1.5 miles you will reach Drungewick Lane and the aqueduct which carries the canal over the River Lox. The canal from here continues further but unfortunately across private land.
• Retrace your steps back to the start and explore the canal in the other direction.
Westward Walk
• The second part of the walk heads west along the canal to the end of the navigable section at Southland Lock.
• Just passed the road bridge is Loxwood Lock and Devils Hole Lock, which is named after the oxbow lake and steep cliff that was formed when the River Lox was straightened to ease the building of the lock. In the 1940s, the lock was used for practice in laying explosives by Canadian Army Engineers.
• Enjoy the wildlife as you walk, you’ll likely encounter a variety of birds, including kingfishers, herons, and swans and being autumn, the landscape will be a tapestry of golden hues as the leaves change.
• At Southland Lock, the Navigable part of the canal ends. However, for a longer walk the old route of the canal can still be followed from here.
• Retrace your steps back to the start and enjoy some refreshments at the Onslow Arms.
On both walks there are Information Posts at various locations where the canal trust has carried out restoration work.
To see more photos and walks please follow me on Instagram @piertopiertrekking
Beautifully designed new 2, 3 & 4 bedroom shared ownership houses, located only 10 miles from Chichester.
This event will be hosted by Yapton-based Therapist, Jacqui Thomson and Homeopathic Practitioner Julia Challacombe, two local businesswomen with a passion for Women’s Health and a lived experience of menopause.
THE MENOPAUSE CAFÉ
National Registered Charity, is a safe space for anyone who has been impacted by Menopause. Offering you a chance to talk, listen and share experiences with others, whilst enjoying a cuppa and light lunch if you choose to.
This FREE monthly event occurs on the first Friday of the month 1-2pm at the Swan Hotel, 27-29 High Street, Arundel, BN18 9AG. Booking is advised through Eventbrite.
MENOPAUSE RETREAT DAY!
Sat 26 October 2024, a full day event dedicated to supporting you through this trans-formative stage of life. A selection of experts with a passion and a special interest in Menopause, all coming together to help you navigate this transition with grace and confidence. Don't miss this opportunity to take care of yourself and connect with a community of like-minded women. The retreat day full of informative workshops, interactive sessions and reflection time.
The incredible line up of guest speakers and workshop hosts include: A CBT Therapist, a GP, a Women’s Health Coach, a Vision Board Business Owner, a Stylist Coach, a Nutritionist, a Wellbeing Consultant and a Homeopath. Understanding how to deal with change, hear about your choices and discover new ways to embrace this stage of life with confidence. A safe and welcoming space for women going through menopause, peri or post menopause or just wanting to educate themselves.
The day is being held at The White Swan, 16 Chichester Road, Arundel, BN18 0AD. Lunch and refreshments included throughout the day and every participant will receive an exciting goody bag, we both look forward to welcoming you.
Any enquires please email: wellbeinghaven@outlook.com
UNBLOCKTOBER BY
TOM HANCOCK
BECAUSE DRAINS MATTER!
Unblocktober is a month-long national campaign aimed at improving the health of our drains, sewers, and watercourses. Held every October since 2019, it encourages individuals, households, and businesses to adopt better habits that prevent blockages and reduce environmental pollution.
During October there will be a public awareness campaign to highlight the problems caused by improper waste disposal. It will focus on educating people about what should and shouldn’t go down our drains and toilets. Everyday items like wet wipes, fats, oils, and grease (collectively known as FOG) can cause significant blockages, leading to 'fatbergs' and other costly plumbing issues.
Unblocktober is important for several reasons:
Environmental Protection: Improper waste disposal can lead to blocked sewers, which in turn can cause raw sewage to overflow into rivers, streams, and oceans. This pollutes our waterways, harming wildlife and disrupting ecosystems.
Preventing Fatbergs: Fatbergs are massive accumulations of FOG and non-biodegradable items. They can cause extensive damage to sewer systems, leading to expensive repairs and increased water bills for everyone.
Public Health: Blocked sewers can lead to flooding and sewage overflows, posing serious health risks to the community.
Joining in Unblocktober is simple and impactful:
Mindful Disposal: Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the sink. Instead, let them cool and dispose of them in the bin.
Flush Wisely: Only flush the three Ps: pee, poo, and (toilet) paper. Dispose of wet wipes, sanitary products, and other non-biodegradable items in the rubbish.
Spread the Word: Raise awareness by sharing tips and information about Unblocktober with friends, family, and colleagues.
By adopting these practices, you can help protect the environment, prevent costly plumbing problems, and ensure cleaner, healthier waterways. Join Unblocktober and be part of the solution! www.unblocktober.org
Please
• Say “goodbye” to gaps and dentures
Please
SUDOKU
How to Play Sudoku
It’s simple! Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.
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AUTUMN TRENDS
BY FELPHAM FASHION GURU VICKY BOOKER
Where did the summer go? The darker nights and slight chill in the air mean autumn is upon us; it’s time for seasonal fashion newness! Lots of my clients love autumn and the chance to cosy up in knits and layers. I’m a great advocate of being up to date, but not a slave to fashion – wear what feels right for you always. Although sometimes its good to push things a little and try something new. Here are my picks of my favourite looks from the catwalks – as always made wearable for us real folk …
Heritage Patterns and Classic Checks
Think a weekend at Balmoral! This is a classic country house look and is all about the fabric and cut. Whether you go for a tweed, a check, or perhaps an argyle knit, you’ll be cosy and autumn ready. You may already have something in the wardrobe – perhaps a check blazer. Pair it with a simple white tee, some smart wide leg jeans and a leather trainer for a modern take. I love this tailored houndstooth check tweed blazer from Marks and Spencer (right).
Neck & Neck
High and extravagant collars are this season’s answer to the statement sleeve we’ve seen so much of. If you have a long neck, then this is a great trend for you – go all out on the chunky roll necks and frills!
If you have a shorter neck, take a little care with this trend. Try an asymmetric style or add a pendant necklace to give the illusion of length. This merino ruffle V-neck jumper from Jigsaw (right) is ideal.
Leopard Print Galore
If you follow my social media, you’ll know that leopard is one of my signature prints. So, to me, it’s never out of fashion as such, just plodding along in the background until it has a renaissance. This season is that time – everything from tops and scarves to skirts and trousers (use caution to avoid Rod Stewart vibes!). But the key piece is the leopard dress. If head to toe feels too much, try a tunic styled over smart trousers or jeans to break up the print and give it a fresh look (right, Tunic by Soya Concept).
If you want to learn more about the key looks for the upcoming season and how to wear them, grab a ticket for my AW24 Style Update events. Held in my studio here in Felpham, these are a great way to get yourself up to date and try new things, with my advice on hand. There are four dates, both morning and evening to choose from in October – email me for more info and to book your place. Info here https://vickybooker.com/category/events/
Want personalised advice? Book a Style Consultation with me. Vickybooker.com or contact me for info – vicky@vickybooker.com
Vicky Booker.
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PAYING FOR LONG TERM CARE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Understandably, the thought of needing long-term care may not be a topic that many people like to dwell on. Nowadays, advances in technology, home adaptations and home care visits can support people to maintain their independence, and live safely at home for longer. However, there may come a time when this may not be enough, and you may need to consider putting long-term care support in place.
Whether it’s employing a live-in carer or a move into a residential or nursing home, the care costs involved are likely to be high. With average costs of residential care in England, in 2023, of almost £50,000 a year, and over £65,000 when nursing care is included,✳ it’s important for people to consider how they will fund their long-term care costs in a sustainable way, which makes best use of their finances.
According to data from the Office for National Statistics (ons.gov.uk), the South East region has the highest proportion of ‘self-funders’ in care homes – 47.5 per cent – that is, people who pay for their own care and support in full. So, what steps can you take, if you or someone in your family, is likely to be self-funding their long-term care costs?
We recommend that you start thinking about this at an early stage, and avoid the pressure of having to take immediate action in a crisis situation.
This will give you more time to research and consider:
• The type of care that you would prefer – would a live-in carer be more suitable or would you prefer to live in a residential setting? It might be worth contacting and visiting different care homes to compare the providers.
• The different options to pay the care fees and which would be most suitable for you – there are financial products available, such as care annuities, to pay for care fees. It is recommended you speak to an independent care fees adviser to understand the available options (see below for details of Carewise).
• Arranging Power of Attorney for someone to act on your behalf if you’re not able to – think about members of your family, or friends who you wish to appoint as your attorney. This can take around 8-10 weeks to register, and sometimes longer, so it’s best to have this in place before you need it.
You can also discuss and share your wishes with your friends and family. This will help to reduce pressure on them, should they need to take decisions on your behalf in the future.
All this can sound quite daunting, but the positive news is that there is information and support available.
Get specialist independent financial advice from Carewise. Set up by West Sussex County Council in partnership with Age UK, West Sussex, Brighton and Hove, the Society of Later Life Advisers, and West Sussex Partners in Care, the Carewise care funding scheme offers impartial information and advice to guide you through all these decisions.
The Carewise panel of care fees advisers are independent financial advisers and members of the Society of Later Life Advisers, so you can be reassured that you’ll receive expert advice you can trust.
They can:
• review your financial situation
• guide you through the many products and options available to you
• provide independent advice from across the whole financial market.
In addition to their professional qualifications, the advisers are also trained in safeguarding adults, checked by the Disclosure and Barring Service, and are approved by the Trading Standards’ Buy with Confidence scheme.
As well as care funding, they are also qualified to provide advice on related areas such as inheritance tax, pensions, and lasting power of attorney.
Your first consultation is free, so you have nothing to lose by exploring the different options, and ensuring that you choose the most cost-effective way of paying for your long-term care.
Contact Carewise today to find out more www.carewiseadvice.com carewise@westsussex.gov.uk 0330 222 7000
Do your research
Carewise is the perfect place to start on your care planning journey, but there are also many other reliable sources of information that you can turn to when you begin thinking about planning your care.
‘Financing later life care’ section at www.which.co.uk
Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA) –
www.societyoflaterlifeadvisers.co.uk
Phone 0333 2020 454
Email: admin@societyoflaterlifeadvisers.co.uk
Living well in your community: West Sussex Care
Guide
Information and advice about care and support services in West Sussex, including listings of home care and residential/nursing care home providers. www.westsussex.gov.uk/careguide publications@westsussex.gov.uk 01243 642121
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LITTLEHAMPTON PROBUS LADIES’ CLUB
COME AND JOIN US
We are a group of about 40 ladies who enjoy a monthly meeting in convivial company and with a delicious lunch (we have to admit that the dessert trolley is only for special occasions) followed, usually, by a speaker. The talks cover a variety of topics and we welcome suggestions from members.
We are also hoping to start a monthly Coffee Morning in the Autumn as well as other social activities – and encourage our members to let us have their ideas.
We meet at Ham Manor Golf Club, Angmering, on the fourth Friday of each month.
This year we celebrated our 40th Birthday so, of course, we made this a special event with little mementos for our members. We also had lunches for Diwali, Burns Night, Chinese New Year and, of course, the King’s Coronation – all with suitably themed menus.
If you would like to learn more about us/ join us for a lunch, please contact Margaret, the Membership Secretary, preferably by email –daisypopslibbtinternet.com – so that she can send you some information about the Club. Please include a telephone number. Her telephone number is 01903 787081.
We look forward to hearing from you,
Please
FLU JABS BY
SARAH DAVEY
While very few people now qualify for a free COVID vaccine, many groups of people qualify for a free flu jab, including those over 65, diabetics, asthmatics, people with chronic heart, liver or kidney disease, people with BMI over 40, carers and frontline health workers.
What many people don’t realise is that even if you don’t fall into one of the ‘at risk’ categories, a flu jab is still a sensible precaution. You’ll have to pay, but it’s inexpensive (generally under £20) and many pharmacists administer the vaccine on their premises, so you won’t have to book an appointment with your GP or take time off work.
Why should an otherwise healthy person need a flu vaccine? Well, seasonal flu is a substantial and unpleasant illness, far worse than the common cold, with which it’s sometimes confused. Flu generally requires a week or so off work to recover and can trigger other conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia.
The average person with flu infects one or two other people through sneezing, coughing and touch. If you work with the general public, in a shop or hair salon for example, you are more at risk of being exposed to the virus so you might consider a flu jab a worthwhile investment.
A business owner may consider the impact a week off sick would have on their business and opt to protect themself for that reason.
Children are much more likely to pick up and pass on bugs as they are in such close proximity to each other all day. For this reason, teachers and parents might think it wise to have a jab.
Flu jabs are generally safe unless you have an allergy to eggs or have had a previous allergic reaction to a shot. So, discuss protecting yourself with your pharmacist today. For more advice about the flu vaccination, speak to your GP, practice nurse, pharmacist or school immunisation team.
A GHOSTLY GOOD READ
BY NATASHA DONOVAN
If It Bleeds by Stephen King
This is a collection of four compelling novellas that showcase King's mastery of storytelling.
Mr Harrigan’s Phone: Craig, a young boy in a small town, befriends the reclusive and wealthy Mr. Harrigan. After Mr. Harrigan's death, Craig continues to text his old phone, which was buried with him, and astonishingly, receives responses. The story explores themes of friendship, technology, and the supernatural consequences of the digital age.
The Life of Chuck: This novella is told in three acts, beginning with the end. It chronicles the life of Chuck Krantz in reverse, starting with the apocalypse and moving backward to his childhood. The story is a meditation on the significance of individual lives and the marks they leave on the world, blending reality with magical realism.
If It Bleeds: A sequel to another story, “The Outsider," this novella follows Holly Gibney of the Finders Keepers detective agency as she investigates a school bombing. Holly discovers that the reporter on the scene, Chet Ondowsky, is not who he seems. As she digs deeper, she uncovers a shape-shifting entity that feeds on human suffering, leading to a tense confrontation. This story highlights themes of resilience and the battle between good and evil.
Rat: Drew Larson, a struggling writer, retreats to a remote cabin to finish his novel. Stricken with writer’s block and a series of unfortunate events, he makes a Faustian bargain with a rat, trading his success for a friend's life. The story examines the dark side of ambition, the cost of creativity, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in pursuit of their dreams.
Stephen King's ability to weave intricate tales that delve deep into the human psyche is legendary. And these four unconnected novellas are perfect for a bit of spooky-yet-easily digestible Halloween reading.
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