Harpenden Seniors Forum Handbook

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We are getting older and wiser at John Cu Talk to a Senior Partner about our Exclusive Seniors Offer at enquiries@JohnCurtis.co.uk HARPENDEN OFFICE 01582 764471 36 High Street, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2SX VILLAGE AND COUNTRY OFFICE 01582 839200 35 High Street, Wheathampstead, Herts AL4 8BB

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Emergency Numbers: Ambulance, Fire, Police URGENT

999

Non Emergency Police

101

Non Emergency Medical Help

NHS DIRECT

111

Harpenden Police

(Non - Urgent)

0845 3300222

Police Headquarters

(Non - Urgent)

01707 345000

Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Gas Emergency

Electricity Problems Water Problems

0800 183 1515

Telephone out of order

0800 111999

0800 807 060

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Harpenden Seniors Forum Helpline Monday – Saturday 10am – 12 noon 01582 462926

Safer Neighbourhood Team Harpenden & Rural Harpenden North & East PCSO 6514 Derek Holloway 01707 354192 Harpenden South & West PCSO 6222 Paul Fletcher 01707 354192 Harpenden Town Centre PCSO 6514 Derek Holloway 01707 354192 Redbourn PCSO 6639 Alli Dewar 01707 354192 Sandridge PCSO 6661 Chris Stokes 01707 354192 Wheathampstead PCSO 6678 Joanna Heighes 01707 354192

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HSF HELPLINE - 01582 462926

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A big thank you to all our supporters 20/20 Eye Care A1 Pestmaster Ahmco Plumbing Supplies Allsopps Estate Agents Amthal Security Ltd AV82 B & M Care Badger Landscapes Bangkok Lounge Big D’s Tyres Billy’s Bar & Restaurant Chelford Fabrics Cinnamon Indian Restaurant Citronics Car Servicing Claridge & Hall Bros Ltd Concept Construction Cook Frozen Foods Debenhams Ottaway Solicitors Electrix Home Counties Ltd FM Car Wash Fonthill House Retirement Home Fullwoods Ladies Fashion Glyn Griffith (Jewellers) Ltd Graffiti Ristorante & Pizzeria Hackett’s Hairdressers Handymen Direct Harpenden Building Society Harpenden Cleaning Harpenden Dry Cleaning Harpenden Interiors Harpenden Nutrition Harpenden Osteopaths Harpenden Property Maintenance Harpenden Skin Clinic Harpenden Town Council Harrison Murray Estate Agent Healthy & Wise Health Store Hearing Healthcare Practice Hicks Accountants High Elms Tree Surgery Ltd Holistic Health Care Holly Lodge Care Home Home Counties Rentals Home Counties Security HPO Osteopath 4

J. Foley Building & Handyman Services Jacks Fish and Chips Shop Jackson Kitchen Specialist Jacksons Plumbing Supplies John Curtis Estate Agent Locksmith Services Luton Hoo Walled Garden M.L. Williams Painting & Decorating Manor Pharmacy Mark Rowntree Cabinet Maker M J Taylor King Ltd MJG Builders & Decorators Ltd NPA Insurance Neves Solicitors OKKA Restaurant OMNI Home Design P S Halsey & Son Pensions WMS Plumbsmith Quingo Mobility Redbourn MOT Centre Rennie Grove Hospice Care Rolands Carpets Rollings Wine Ross Witton Decorating Rowlington Tilley Wills & Probate S A Law Solicitors Saunders Removals Sculleries Kitchens SDK Design & Build Shine Homecare Strutt & Parker Estate Agents T Godfrey & Sons Tates Coaches TaxAssist Accountant Taylor Walton Solicitors Tech-Angels The Bell Studham The Carpenters Arms The Denture Clinic The Engineer The Floor Shop The Golden Apple Osteopath The Old Cock Inn Town and Garden Gift Shop Victoria Garage Wayside Dental Practice Yummy Mummy’s Cakes

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CONTENTS • Emergency Numbers ----------------- Page 3 • Harpenden Seniors Forum ---------- Page 6 to 10 • Support Groups ----------------------- Page 11 to 13 • Harpenden Town Council ---------- Page 14 to 18 • Allowances & Entitlements --------- Page 19 to 36 • Health & Wellbeing ------------------ Page 37 to 83 • Learning ---------------------------------Page 84 to 90 • Holidays & Travel --------------------- Page 91 to 95 • Leisure ---------------------------------- Page 96 to 109 • Mobility --------------------------------- Page 110 to 116 • Around the Home -------------------- Page 117 to 125 • Moving Home ------------------------- Page 126 to 133 • Nursing Homes ----------------------- Page 134 to 142 • Protecting Older People ------------ Page 143 to 144 • Transport ------------------------------- Page 145 to 151 • Financial Planning ------------------- Page 152 to 171 • Bereavement -------------------------- Page 172 to 176 • Weights & Measures ---------------- Page 177 to 179 • Up Your Street - Local Shops ------ Page 180 to 190 • Your Local Trades -------------------- Page 191 to 210 • Your Personal Details ---------------- Page 211 Printed & Published by Your Local Media Ltd - 67 High Street, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2SL www.your-local-media.co.uk Editorial Content: Advertising Contacts - Tel: 01582 469117 Claire Gillies - info@your-local-media.co.uk Tony Mcfarland - tony@your-local-media.co.uk Publication Design & Artwork: Pete Salo - info@your-local-media.co.uk Mike Hamilton - mike@your-local-media.co.uk All publications below are designed & printed by Your Local Media Ltd. Full T&C available on page 208.

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FOREWORD

When 18 stalwarts of Harpenden met to discuss how best our Senior Citizens should be informed with regards to their health, safety and wellbeing; the concept of an information handbook was dismissed immediately.

The reason being we thought that by the time it was published it would be out of date. Also, each senior citizen would need a copy and with over 6500 in Harpenden this was seen as prohibitive. It was agreed that in the 21st century the computer, with access to the multitude of websites was the way forward.

The Harpenden Seniors Forum has diligently explored and developed its own IT (information technology) system to run in tandem with our hardback copy. Like all information sources numerous errors occur due to poor or late input beyond our control.

One local government website was, in places, 3 years out of date, therefore, very misleading! Even as I write the Harpenden Seniors Forum is in the throes of moving to a new location. The Day Centre is to be re-developed so we are moving to the new library complex in the High Street.

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Alan D. Cox - Chairman

JOIN TODAY6 – IT’S FREE

When we are established, call in and have a chat Monday to Saturday 10.00 a.m. to 12 noon. Our Weekend Task Force will still be operational but only on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Harpenden Directory, with their local knowledge and expertise, have produced and published this information handbook and it is free to Harpenden Seniors Forum members. This should be useful as I know many members have no access to IT and in some cases do not wish it.

The handbook should also benefit Silver

Surfers as a back-up when their computers begin to have minds of their own.

It is financed by advertising and sponsorship indicating that the community spirit is still alive. The Harpenden Seniors Forum cannot endorse any of the trades and professions but I know our supporters are genuine.

If you see a “Supporters Sticker” in their window you know you will be treated with respect, patience and dignity. In some cases the new Privilege Card could be useful but not all give discounts as they are up against the same financial problems as we all are.

The information handbook will be published and updated annually, so if you see an error or have ideas for improvements please contact Tony or Mike at: Harpenden Directory, 67 High Street, AL5 2SL Tel: 01583 469117.

I hope you find this publication useful.

Alan D. Cox - Chairman

www.harpendenseniorsforum.org

JOIN TODAY & HAVE YOUR SAY, IT’S FREE! I would like to register as a member Please complete in BLOCK CAPITAL LETTERS

Mr/Mrs/Ms: ..................... First Name: .................................................................

Surname: .............................................. Address: ................................................. .................................................................................................................................

Harpenden AL5 ......................................................................................................

Email: ......................................................................................................................

I am happy to be contacted via email.

CALL US ON: 01582 462926 Please complete and drop off into Harpenden Seniors Forum office at the New Library.

HSF HELPLINE7- 01582 462926

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Why the Forum?

Statistically we are informed that people are living to a greater age than before and most are choosing to continue to live in their own home as long as is reasonably practicable. This change, together with families breaking down and children moving on, has created a unique situation. The elderly are now quite often left to cope for themselves on a day-to-day basis.

The forum helpline and website can help in many ways by giving information & guidance on what is available locally with regard to events, services, support, sports, pastimes, etc. This volume of information, if used, can help seniors get together, try something new & help break down social isolation.

Why a Voice?

The forum is a non-political organisation but at times may have to voice an opinion either to save a local service or insist on a greater response to the needs of seniors. Lone protests in today’s society tend to achieve little, but we believe a large collective voice may have some impact. If over 6,000 seniors in Harpenden voice a collective opinion, local government and even politicians may sit up and take notice! This is why the HSF needs a registered membership: it must be able to prove that it represents the majority - so join today, it’s FREE. Why Harpenden?

Harpenden is designated by the media as one of the richest towns in the country. BUT not all of us can buy a big house, knock it down and build an even larger one! We are perceived to be mega-rich.

In reality Harpenden is similar to other towns; some people have a great deal of tangible assets, down to those who have none. Seniors are living longer; loved ones, friends and relatives pass on and often isolation sets in. The Forum can assist by directing those in need to what is available locally, helping to break down isolation and creating new horizons. Remember, seniors are not just a statistic. Join the forum today, become part of the community and have your say.

The Weekend Task Force.

The Weekend Task Force is a unique low-key support initiative for vulnerable seniors that have nonlife threating problems. We have been informed that on some occasions an elderly person has been without heat, light and the basic home comforts for days on end. It is with this in mind that we wish to promote a level of care that should alleviate this type of hardship, especially in the event of the perceived climate change and financial instability. A two-person team will be available from 10am -12 noon on Sundays to answer calls. They will visit, with permission, and assess the problem(s) and contact a known professional who can deal with the problem. Our network covers all trades so no-one need be left wanting for any reason. We can only act in an advisory capacity and ensure a fair price for any work done. This could include: from changing batteries and bulbs through to major domestic disasters.

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JOIN TODAY8 – IT’S FREE

The aim of the Weekend Task Force is to ensure home comforts, availability of public utilities and personal health, safety and welfare. If you know someone in need, do not let them sit in the dark or freeze over the weekend, give our helpline a call – Tel: 01582 462926 Aims and objectives The Harpenden Seniors Forum will: (i) Ensure elderly residents in Harpenden are fully aware of available services, government / council initiatives, technical / personal support and travel / entertainment options. (ii) Establish a central helpline to ensure the elderly can readily access information regarding their health, safety and welfare. (iii) Promote and distribute up-to-date information to the membership.

The Seniors Forum has been developed by seniors of Harpenden FOR the seniors of Harpenden.

ALERT seniors to any changes in Government/District/Local political initiatives that may affect their health safety and welfare.

INFORM seniors of what is available locally with regards to service, support and useful information.

RESPECT the needs of seniors to ensure they are not left wanting because of the lack of knowledge.

Voice OPINIONS & INFLUENCE the decision makers on matters that may impact on their every-day lives.

The ageing Process Stage 1 Forgetfulness This is a stage that can happen to anyone, anytime, BUT the elderly tend to succumb more frequently as age progresses.

Stage 2. Senior Moments The most annoying stage, you know the answer, it’s on the tip of your tongue but it takes time to come through!

This is part of the ageing process and the mind needs to be excercised and kept active to slow the decline.

Stage 3. Craft Occasions Cannot Remember A Flipping Thing! A statement coined by one of Harpenden’s great ladies; it is now a national quotation. This really is the forgetful stage and others should be aware of this predicament, as it comes to us all in time. How sad!

Join Harpenden Seniors Forum today IT’S FREE!

Call 01582 462926

HSF HELPLINE9- 01582 462926

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HELPLINE 01582 462926 Email: info@harpendenseniorsforum.org www.harpendenseniorsforum.org Harpenden Helping Hand

Citizens Advice Bureau Shopping oppingg

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Home Ho H Security S Se Health & H Disability D

Care Services es

Clubs & C Organisations O

Events, Sports & Pastimes

Financial F Fi

Transport rt

District Distri Di Distr istrri Council

County t Council The Th Harpenden Trust

Government & Town Council Initiatives

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Harpenden Volunteer Agency 10

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Places Of O Worship

SUPPORT GROUPS & CHURCHES HELP IS OUT THERE HSF HELPLINE11- 01582 462926

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SUPPORT GROUPS & CHURCHES Adult Care Services - Tel: 0300 123 4040 Age Concern - Tel: 0845 601 3446 Alzheimers Society 22 Catherine Street St Albans AL3 5BX Tel: 01727 812035 Email: viv.roberts@alzheimers.org.uk Web: www.alzheimers.org.uk Citizens Advice Bureau Town Hall Leyton Road, Harpenden AL5 2LX Tel: 08444 111 444 Web: www.stalbans-cab.org Community Meeting Point A local mental health charity 11/12 Harding Parade Station Approach Harpenden Herts AL5 4SW Tel: 01582 762576 Alt Tel: 01582 762576 Email: cmp@hpcha.org.uk Web: www.cmp-h.org.uk Drug Care 29 Upper Lattimore Road St Albans AL1 3UA Tel: 01727 834539 Grove House Hospice Waverley Road St Albans AL3 5QX Tel No: 01727 731002 Web: www.grove-house.org.uk Harpenden Helping Hand Tel: 01582 460507 Email: annbrooks100@aol.com Web: www.helpinghand.co.uk Harpenden Mencap Services for Adults and children with Learning Disabilities . Stairways 19 Douglas Road Harpenden AL5 2EN Tel: 01582 460055 Email: office@harpendenmencap.co.uk 12

Harpenden Money Advice Centre.

All Saints’ Church, Station Road, Harpenden, AL5 4UU. Tel No: 07954 276281 (Appointments Only) Email: harpendenmoneyadvicecentre@yahoo. co.uk Harpenden Trust 90 Southdown Road Harpenden AL5 1PS Tel: 01582 460457 Email: admin@theharpendentrust.org.uk Web: www.TheHarpendenTrust.org.uk Hertfordshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre 14-15 Such Close Letchworth SG6 1JF Tel: 01462 684214 Email: info@hertsmstherapy.org.uk Web: www.hertsmstherapy.org.uk Harpenden Seniors Forum 27 High St, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2RU Tel: 01582 462926 Website: www.harpendenseniorsforum.org Email: info@harpendenseniorsforum.org Iain Rennie Grove House Hospice Care (St Albans) Grove House, Waverley Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL3 5QX. Iain Rennie Grove House Hospice Care (IRGH) supports patients, families and carers living with cancer or life-threatening illness. Our services are available to patients of GPs in St Albans, Harpenden & the Dacorum area. All services are free of charge.

Tel: 01727 731000 Email: enquiries@grove-house.org.uk Web pages: www.grove-house.org.uk St Albans District Citizens Advice Bureau Civic Centre, St Peters St, St Albans, Herts AL1 3JE. Tel: 08444 111444 Web: www.stalbans-cab.org

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St Albans & District Bereavement Network PO Box 671, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 3ZX Tel: 01727 841 841 Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) Meeting House: 12 Southdown Road Tel: 01582 761686 Web: www.quaker.org The Cinnamon Trust The Trust’s primary objective is to respect and preserve the treasured relationship between owners and their pets. To this end it works in partnership with owners to overcome any difficulties that might arise. For example, walking the dog for a housebound owner.

A national fostering service is provided for pets whose owners face a spell in hospital volunteers take pets into their own homes and supply love and care in abundance until owner and pet can be reunited.

The Cinnamon Trust also provides long term care for pets whose owners have died or moved to residential accommodation which will not accept pets. For more information visit: www.cinnamon.org.uk or Tel: 07136 757900

Churches All Saints C of E - 129 Station Road, AL5 4UU Tel. 01582 765524 (St Nicholas Office) Web: www.stnicholasharpenden.org.uk Batford Methodist Lower Luton Road, Batford, Harpenden, Herts.

Tel: 01582 712431 Bethany Community Church (in association with Newfrontiers) at St George’s School Assembly Hall, Sun Lane. Office: 130a Southdown Road, Harpenden AL5 1PU Tel: 01582 763860 Email: info@bethanycc.org.uk Web: www.bethanycc.org.uk

Crabtree Church (Independent Evangelical) Crabtree Lane Harpenden, Herts AL5 5RD Tel: 01582 769724 Web: www.crabtreechurch.org.uk High St. Methodist (Next to WH Smith) Tel: 01582 713056 Web: www.highstreetmethodist.org.uk Our Lady of Lourdes R.C. Church Parish Office: 1 Kirkwick Ave Tel: 01582 712245 Web: www.olol-harpenden.org.uk Southdown Methodist Southdown Road, Harpenden, Herts Tel: 01582 769871 www.southdownchurch.org.uk St George’s School Chapel Carlton Road, Harpenden, Herts Tel: 01582 765477 Email: amanning@stgeorges.herts.sch.uk St John’s C of E The Church on the Common, St Johns Road, Harpenden, Herts Parish Office: 01582 712776 Web: www.stjohnsharpenden.org.uk St Mary’s C of E Kinsbourne Green, Luton Rd, Harpenden, Herts Email: office@stnicholasharpenden.org.uk Web: www.stnicholasharpenden.org.uk St Nicholas C of E Parish Office: Tel 01582 765524 Email: office@stnicholasharpenden.org.uk Web: www.stnicholasharpenden.org.uk The Salvation Army Leyton Green, Harpenden, Herts Church Office: 01582 469399 Web: www.harpendensa.co.uk United Reformed Church Vaughan Road, Harpenden, Herts.

Tel: 01582 713110 Web: www.harpendenurc.com

HSF HELPLINE13- 01582 462926

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Visit Us: The Town Hall and Information Point is open: Monday to Friday 10.00am to 4.00pm for visitors and enquiries in person.

Call Us: Monday to Thursday 8.45am 5.15pm & Friday 8.45am - 4.45pm when telephone calls can be taken.

The Town Hall is situated between Busy Bees Day Nursery and Rothamsted Park entrance gates on Leyton Road.

Harpenden Town Council was created in 1974 following the reorganisation of local government and the disbanding of Harpenden Urban District Council.

Harpenden St Albans of almost Councillors 16 and 17.

is the largest parish in the District with a population 30,000 represented by 16 in the Wards shown on pages

Mission Statement: To promote the area as a place to live, a place to work, a place to visit & a place to invest.

Corporate Objectives • To promote and represent the community’s views and aspirations at local, county, regional and national level.

• To serve those who live in the Town, work in the Town and visit the Town.

• To promote growth of Council activities where new services can be taken on effectively and efficiently.

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• To strive to improve the quality of life for all residents of the Town.

• To work in partnership at local, county, regional and national level to promote and provide for the wellbeing of the Town.

Harpenden Town Council delivers a wide range of services to the local community including:

Environment The management of 15 allotment sites, sustainable management and maintenance of the Common and other Greens, the Nickey Line, Lydekker Park and car park and Parish Paths Partnership. Land assets including the redevelopment of disused allotment sites. Restoration and rejuvenation projects such as Lydekker Pond and Southdown Ponds.

Community Services The Town Hall and Information Point, Park Hall community building, Harpenden in Bloom, Farmers’ Market, Community safety including CCTV and Restricted Alcohol Zone. Christmas celebrations (Christmas lights, poster competition, and the window display competition). Public toilets plus other services like bus shelters, litter bins, dog bins, notice boards, bicycle stands and children’s play areas. Events including the Discovery Day and Armed Forces Day.

Democratic Representation and Management Committee and Member support, Civic Representation (Town Mayor support), Planning and Development Control. Town Twinning, Youth Town Council, Grant Aid to

local organisations, Communications (Forum newsletter, Town Guide and website).

Partnership working with retail, businesses and community groups.

Corporate Management, Administrative and Statutory responsibilities.

TheTown Council has three main committees all with delegated responsibilities, plus several Community Forums and Working Parties. Full Council meetings are held six times a year, at which all Councillors are involved in all policy decisions of the Council. Meetings are held at 7.30pm in the Council Chamber at the Town Hall.

The Town Council also has a Youth Town Council which was set up in 1998 & comprises young people between 11 & 18 years attending local schools or living in Harpenden.

Meeting monthly, the Youth Councillors aim to represent & communicate the views and needs of all young people locally.

For further details on the Town Council, the services it provides, speaking at Council & Committee meetings, please contact:

Harpenden Town Council Town Hall Leyton Road Harpenden Hertfordshire AL5 2LX Tel: 01582 768278 Fax: 01582 760026 Email:

harpenden.town.council@harpenden.gov.uk

HSF HELPLINE15- 01582 462926

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HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCILLORS 2013/2014 Town Mayor

Deputy Town Mayor

Councillor Rosemary Farmer Councillor Mary Maynard NORTH WARD

EAST WARD

John Chambers

Michael Ellis

T: 01582 715550

T: 01582 462630 E: michael.ellis@btinternet.com

James Newns T: 07753 618106 E: jamesnewns@aol.com

Albert Pawle T: 01582 620617 E: cllr.a.pawle@stalbans.gov.uk

Michael Weaver T: 01582 713128 E: michaelcweaver@hotmail.com

SOUTH WARD

T: 01582 712076 E: ra.farmer@btinternet.com

Mary Maynard T: 07774 783509 E: marymaynard@virginmedia.com

Caroline Vincent T: 01582 624846 E: caroline.vincent@harpenden.gov.uk

WEST WARD

Brian Ellis T: 01582 767621 E: cllr.b.ellis@stalbans.gov.uk

Dr Rachel Frosh T: 07790 757306 E: rachel.frosh@hotmail.com

Pat Kent T: 01582 764161 E: pat.kent@harpenden.gov.uk

Guy Thomas T: c/o 01582 768278

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Rosemary Farmer

Daniel Chichester-Miles T: c/o 01582 768278 E: cllr.d.chichester-miles@stalbans.gov.uk

Simon Leadbeater T: 07833 308750 E: Simon.leadbeater@btinternet.com

Nicola Linacre T: 01582 766245 E: nicolalinacre@aol.com

David Williams T: 07733 225464 E: jdavidwilliams@ntlworld.com

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D I S T R I C T COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES HARPENDEN NORTH Julie Bell T: 01582 624714 E: cllr.j.bell@stalbans.gov.uk

Albert Pawle T: 01582 620617 E: cllr.a.pawle@stalbans.gov.uk

Geoffrey Turner T: 01582 769882 E: cllr.g.turner@stalbans.gov.uk

HARPENDEN SOUTH Brian Ellis T: 01582 767621 E: cllr.b.ellis@stalbans.gov.uk

David Heritage T: 01582 761014 E: cllr.d.heritage@stalbans.gov.uk

Teresa Heritage T: 01582 761014 E: cllr.t.heritage@stalbans.gov.uk

HARPENDEN EAST Rosemary Farmer T: 01582 712076 E: ra.farmer@btinternet.com

Dean Russell T: 07801 750720 E: cllr.d.russell@stalbans.gov.uk

Michael Wakely T: 01582 764688 E: mike_wakely@hotmail.com

HARPENDEN WEST Daniel Chichester-Miles T: c/o 01727 819281 E: cllr.d.chichester-miles@stalbans.gov.uk

Julian Daly T: 01582 715645 E: cllr.j.daly@stalbans.gov.uk

Michael Weaver T: 01582 713128 E: michaelcweaver@hotmail.com

St Albans District Council Tel: 01727 866100 C OUN T Y COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES NORTH EAST

SOUTH WEST

David Williams T: 07733 225464 E: jdavidwilliams@ntlworld.com

Teresa Heritage T: 01582 761014 E: cllr.t.heritage@stalbans.gov.uk

HSF HELPLINE17- 01582 462926

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Park Hall Community Hall Managed by Harpenden Town Council, Park Hall is the ideal venue for all types of functions including wedding receptions, dinner/dances, children’s parties, craft fairs, sales and exhibitions. Many clubs hold their meetings in the hall and several dance and exercise classes take place weekly. The hall is decorated annually (in August) to keep it to the highest possible standard. Located opposite Harpenden Common and adjoining Rothamsted Park it provides exceptional photographic opportunities for wedding receptions, christenings, etc.

The main hall is 36’ x 33’ and can hold 180 people for a standing reception, 85 for a Dinner Dance and 155 for a seated meeting. The hall is on one level throughout making it fully accessible to wheelchair users and it also boasts a disabled toilet with baby changing facilities. We suggest you have no more than 100 guests for a disco or formal dinner. It is non-smoking throughout. The hall is licensed for entertainment but does not hold an alcohol licence (you can serve alcohol but you cannot sell it) or have a bar.

Outside bars can be brought in as well as a disco or other entertainment if required.

For further information on other halls for hire in Harpenden please visit: www.harpendendirectory.co.uk or www.harpenden.gov.uk

Park Hall, Leyton Road

Harpenden Information Point

– Your local “One Stop Shop” Information Service

Centrally located in Harpenden next to the photogenic Rothamsted Park, this Locally Listed Building is a lovely venue, which is beautifully decorated throughout annually.

Ideal venue for Family Parties/Discos, Anniversary Celebrations, Dinner/Dances, Quiz Nights, Sales, Meetings, Trade fairs and all other events.

Facilities include flexible table layout, fully equipped kitchen, store area for a bar, portable stage, microphone, access for the disabled and private car park to the rear.

The hall holds 150 for a standing reception and up to 100 for a seated meal.

Bookings and enquiries to Harpenden Town Council Tel: 01582 768115 E-mail: harpenden.town.council@harpenden.gov.uk Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk

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Based at Harpenden Town Hall, Leyton Road (rear of Park Hall), the Information Point delivers a wide range of services and information on behalf of the Town, District and County Council’s including: Bus Pass Scheme Blue Badge applications Taxi Voucher Scheme Refuse Collections/Recycling Council Tax and Rent payments/enquiries Council Tax and Housing benefit forms Parking – Parking Zone and Senior Citizen’s permits Allotments Local Information leaflets including maps, forthcoming events and Bed and Breakfasts.

Councillor Details Planning and Building Control The Information Point is open Monday to Friday from 10.00am to 4.00pm.

Tel: 01582 768278 Email: harpenden.town.council@harpenden.gov.uk Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS GET WHAT’S DUE TO YOU HSF HELPLINE19- 01582 462926

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Pensions The Basic State Pension The Basic State Pension is a regular payment from the government that you can get when you reach State Pension age.

To get it you must have paid or been credited with National Insurance contributions.

The most you can currently get is £110.15 per week.

The basic State Pension increases every year by whichever is the highest: • Earnings - the average percentage growth in wages (in Great Britain) • Prices - the percentage growth in prices in the UK as measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI)

What you will get The maximum you can get is £110.15 per week. If you are married or in a civil partnership and expect your basic State Pension to be below £66 per week you could top it up to that amount but there are qualifying rules.

You may have to pay tax on your basic State Pension.

Use the online State Pension calculator to get a quick estimate or apply for a detailed State Pension statement.

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You might also qualify for the Additional State Pension or, if you are on a low income, Pension Credit.

How it is paid The basic State Pension is usually paid 4-weekly into an account of your choice.

There are different rules if you live abroad.

Eligibility The earliest you can get the basic State Pension is when you reach State Pension age.

Your basic State Pension depends on the number of years you have paid National Insurance or got National Insurance credits, e.g. while unemployed or claiming certain benefits.

To qualify for a basic State Pension at least one of the following must apply to you: • You were working and paying

National Insurance • You were getting certain benefits,

e.g. for unemployment, sickness • You were a parent or carer and

claiming certain benefits or credits • You have a spouse or civil partner

whose National Insurance

contributions cover you • You were paying voluntary

National Insurance contributions You need 30 years’ worth of contributions or credits to get the full basic State Pension. These are your ‘qualifying years’.

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If you have fewer than 30 years, your State Pension will be less than £110.15 per week but you might be able to top up by paying voluntary National Insurance contributions.

How to claim You will not get your State Pension automatically - you have to claim it. You should get a letter 4 months before you reach State Pension age, telling you what to do.

If you have not got a letter 3 months before your State Pension age, phone the claim line. They will discuss with you what you need to do.

There are 3 ways to claim: • Onlinewww.gov.uk/state-pension/how-to-claim • Over the phone • Send a claim form to your local pension centre

STATE PENSION CLAIM LINE Telephone: 0800 731 7898 Textphone: 0800 731 7339 Monday to Friday: 8am to 6pm (except public holidays)

Further information Your circumstances change You must tell the Pension Service if anything in your circumstances changes, e.g. if you: • Move home • Go into or come out of hospital • Move abroad or return to the UK • Go into a care home • Marry or form a civil partnership • Get divorced or have your civil partnership dissolved • Are widowed or your civil partner dies

What happens to your State Pension when you die?

If your spouse or civil partner is over State Pension age when you die, they should contact the Pension Service to check what they can claim. They may be able to increase their basic State Pension by using your qualifying years if they do not already get the full amount.

If they are under State Pension age when you die any State Pension based on your qualifying years will be included when they claim their own State Pension. For this to happen they cannot have remarried or formed a new civil partnership by the time they reach State Pension age.

You are single or divorced If you are single, divorced or your civil partnership was dissolved and you die after you have reached State Pension age, your estate can claim up to 3 months of your basic State Pension. They can only do this if you have not claimed it.

HSF HELPLINE21- 01582 462926

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Extra money from deferring your State Pension If you decided to defer your State Pension and built up an extra amount, your spouse or civil partner may either claim the extra State Pension or get a lump sum.

If you deferred for less than 12 months your spouse or civil partner can only get extra State Pension, not a lump sum.

If you deferred for 12 months or more they can choose to get extra State Pension or a lump sum payment.

Provided they haven’t remarried or formed a new civil partnership since your death they can get this when they reach State Pension age.

Pension Credit Pension Credit is an income related benefit made up of 2 parts - Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit.

Guarantee Credit tops up your weekly income if it’s below £145.40 (single people) or £222.05 (couples).

Savings Credit is an extra payment for people who have saved some money towards their retirement, eg a pension.

You do not pay tax on Pension Credit.

Your circumstances Single people

Guarantee Credit per week Top up to £145.40

Savings Credit per week Up to £18.06

Couples

Top up to £222.05

Up to £22.89

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v1.0.

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Grants

Visit the online calculator: www.gov.uk/calculate-state-pension

Grants and Funding for Senior The calculator gives an estimate for your Citizens of UK Grants and funding for senior citizens are a necessary factor towards financing the retirement years especially if there is little income from a personal pension.

It is a fact that four in ten people in the UK leave work with only around £10,000 with which to buy an annuity, and this is why state pensions are so important for a great number of senior citizens.

State Pensions The basic State Pension is a regular payment from the government that you can get when you reach State Pension age. To get it you must have paid or been credited with National Insurance contributions and the most you can currently get is £110.15 per week.

The basic State Pension increases every year by whichever is the highest: • earnings - the average percentage growth in wages (in Great Britain) • prices - the percentage growth in prices in the UK as measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) • 2.5% Calculate when you’ll reach State Pension age or Pension Credit qualifying age and how much you may get in today’s money for your basic State Pension.

basic State Pension. It doesn’t estimate any Additional State Pension. The Additional State Pension is an extra amount of money you could get with your basic State Pension.

It’s based on your National Insurance contributions.

You get the Additional State Pension automatically, unless you’ve contracted out of it.

Count tax years from 6 April to 5 April and don’t count any years twice (e.g when you were working and getting benefits). Don’t count the current tax year.

The calculator uses a simplified calculation based on the current law. It can’t take into account every circumstance that might affect you. Don’t make future financial decisions based on its results.

Council Related Benefits If you are over 60 and on a low income there are a number of benefits that you can apply for. Your eligibility for these benefits will be based on a means test, and if successful you may receive funding towards council tax and housing costs. The means test will be different from the tests that would have taken place before you were 60, so even if you were refused these benefits before the age of 60 you may now be eligible to receive the benefits.

HSF HELPLINE23- 01582 462926

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Winter Fuel Payments If you are over the age of 60 you will get a winter fuel payment every year. At the moment the winter fuel payment is a tax free lump sum of £200, £300 if you are over 80. This money can be spent anyway you choose and does not have to be spent on heating costs. Most people do not have to make a claim for this payment, although there are exemptions as to who will get a fuel payment such as those over 60 claiming job-seeker’s allowance and certain exemptions for those in care homes - See page 27 for further information for eligibility.

Christmas Bonus Senior citizens over the age of 60 who are in receipt of retirement pension or pension credit will be eligible for a £10 Christmas bonus.

Help with Transport Most people at retirement age will receive funding towards public transport costs.

Local buses and some national coaches will be free to senior citizens, and senior citizens can get discounts on national rail travel with a senior citizen rail card.

travel costs. They may also be able to help with crisis loans and budgeting loans.

The eligibility for these loans & grants will depend on your circumstances and income.

Other Benefits Common benefits that apply to senior citizens will be free television licences and help with health costs including free prescriptions and eye tests. There are also a number of concessions that apply to senior citizens such as reduced prices on adult education classes and discounts on many leisure and entertainment activities.

Grants and funding for senior citizens may not be something that you think about when you are imagining your retirement years. However, when it comes to planning financially for your retirement, these benefits can make a large difference towards an adequate standard of living, and a decent source of income.

Courtesy: www.financingretirement.co.uk/grantsand-funding-for-senior-citizens.html

The Social Fund If you are looking for alternative grants and funding for senior citizens you can try your local council’s social fund. They may be able to offer community care grants to help with the purchase of household items such as beds, cookers, removal costs and 24

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Housing Benefit Overview You could get Housing Benefit to help you pay your rent if you are on a low income.

Housing Benefit can pay for part or all of your rent. How much you get depends on your income and circumstances.

You can apply for Housing Benefit whether you’re unemployed or working.

You may also be able to get help with your rent if your benefits stop.

What you will get There is no set amount of Housing Benefit. How much you get depends on: • If you rent privately or from a council • Whether you have unoccupied rooms and live in council or social housing • Your household income and circumstances (including your partner’s) Income includes money from savings (over £6,000), benefits and pensions.

You may get help with all or part of your rent . From April 2013, you may also be able to get extra help from your local council called a ‘discretionary housing payment’ if your Housing Benefit does not cover your rent.

Council and social housing rent How much you get depends on: • Your ‘eligible’ rent - eg what’s a reasonable rent for a suitable property where you live • Your household income

• Your circumstances - eg your age, your family and their ages, if anyone in the family is disabled, the number of rooms you don’t use • If you have to pay service charges - eg lift maintenance, communal laundry facilities

Under-occupied rooms From April 2013, if you live in council accommodation or other social housing and are assessed as having at least 1 extra bedroom in your house, your Housing Benefit could be reduced by: • 14% of the ‘eligible rent’ if you have 1 extra bedroom • 25% of the ‘eligible rent’ if you have 2 or more extra bedrooms The reduction is worked out based on your eligible rent (including any eligible services), not on your Housing Benefit.

Example Your eligible rent is £100 per week.

Of this, Housing Benefit pays £50 and you pay £50.

You have 1 extra bedroom so the reduction is 14%.

This means your Housing Benefit will be reduced by £14 per week.

Some people’s Housing Benefit won’t be reduced, eg foster carers with one extra bedroom. Ask your local council if you will be affected.

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Private rent How much you get is usually based on the Local Housing Allowance Limit in your area, your income and circumstances.

Property Weekly amount 1 bedroom (or shared accommodation) 2 bedrooms 3 bedrooms 4 bedrooms

Up to £250 Up to £290 Up to £340 Up to £400

Exception If you have been getting Housing Benefit since before 7th April 2008, these limits only apply if you: • change address • have a break in your claim for Housing Benefit

How you are paid Housing Benefit is paid by your local council as follows: • Council tenants - into your rent account (you will not receive the money) • Private tenants - into your bank or building society account (rarely by cheque)

The benefit cap The benefit cap puts a limit on the total amount of benefit that most people aged 16 to 64 can get, and started to affect some local councils from 15th April 2013.

If you are affected, your Housing Benefit will go down to make sure that the total amount of benefit you get is not more than the cap level.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v1.0.

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Winter Fuel Winter Fuel Payment You could get between £100 and £300 tax-free to help pay your heating bills if you were born on or before 5th January 1952. This is known as a ‘Winter Fuel Payment’.

Most payments are made automatically between November and December; you should get your money by Christmas.

You should get a Winter Fuel Payment automatically if you get the State Pension or another social security benefit (not Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction or Child Benefit).

If you qualify but do not get paid automatically, you will need to make a claim.

Any money you get will not affect your other benefits.

What you will get How much you get depends on your circumstances during the qualifying week. For winter 2013 to 2014 this is 16th to 22nd September 2013.

Born on or before 5 Jan 1952

Aged 80 or over in the qualifying week

£200

£300

You qualify and get one of the benefits listed**

£200

£300

You live with someone under 80 who also qualifies

£100

£200

You live with someone 80 or over who also qualifies

£100

£150

You qualify and live with your partner or civil partner and they get one of the benefits listed**

Nil***

Nil***

£100

£150

Circumstance You qualify and live alone (or none of the people you live with qualify)

You qualify but live in a care home and don’t get one of the benefits listed**

** Benefits: Pension Credit, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). *** Your partner getting the benefit will get the Winter Fuel Payment on your behalf.

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How you are paid All benefits, pensions and allowances are paid into an account, e.g. a bank account.

Eligibility Usually, you will qualify for Winter Fuel Payment if: • you were born on or before 5th January 1952 (for winter 2013 to 2014 - this date changes every year) • you normally live in the UK throughout the week of 16th to 22nd September 2013 (again, these dates change annually.)

You may still be able to get the payment if you live in another European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland.

You must have a genuine link with the UK to claim from abroad.

Exceptions You do not qualify if throughout the week of 16th to 22nd September 2013 you: • • •

were in prison were in hospital getting free treatment for more than 52 weeks needed permission to enter the UK and did not qualify for help from the Department for Work and Pensions • lived in a care home for the previous 12 weeks or more and got Pension Credit, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or incomerelated Employment and Support Allowance

Change of circumstance Report any change of circumstance as these can affect how much you get. For example, if the qualifying person stops getting a benefit, moves out, dies or goes into care.

Contact the office paying your benefits - their details are on any letters they sent you.

Applications for 2013 to 2014 will be available in August.

Winter Fuel Payments helpline

Telephone: 08459 15 15 15 From outside the UK: +44 (0)191 218 7777 Textphone: 0845 601 5613 Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v1.0.

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Help if you are living with a disability Disability Living Allowance (under 65) You could get between £21 and £134.40 a week to help with the extra costs caused by a disability if you’re aged under 65.

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is paid at different rates depending on the level of help you need. You may need an assessment to work out what you need.

The other benefits you get can increase if you get DLA.

Care component Care Component Lowest Middle Middle

Weekly Rate

Level of help you need

£21

Help for some of the day or with preparing cooked meals

£53

Frequent help or constant supervision during the day, supervision at night or someone to help you while on dialysis

£79.15

Help or supervision throughout both day and night, or you’re terminally ill

Mobility component Mobility Component

Level of help you need

Weekly Rate

Lower

£21

Guidance or supervision outdoors

Higher

£55.25

You have any other, more severe, walking difficulty

Attendance Allowance (over 65) If you aged over 65 you could be entitled to £53 or £79.15 a week to help with personal care because you’re physically or mentally disabled. It is paid at 2 different rates and how much you get depends on the level of care that you need because of your disability.

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Rate Lower - £53 Higher - £79.15

Level of help you need Frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night Help or supervision throughout both day and night, or you’re terminally ill

Disability Benefits Helpline Telephone: 08457 123 456 Textphone: 08457 224 433 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Carer benefits Disability (under 65)

Living

Allowance

Income related benefits for pensioner carers

Pension Credit If you are in receipt of the basic State Addition Pension you usually cannot be paid Carer’s Allowance. However you may still be able to get some extra money in recognition of your caring role. The rules around this are very complicated.

State Pension and Carer’s Allowance are classed as ‘overlapping’ benefits; essentially they are classed by the government as the same thing - a payment in lieu of paid working. So you cannot get both.

However, if you are caring and your basic State Pension is less than Carer’s Allowance, it can be topped up to the level of Carer’s Allowance – so it may still be worth making a claim. Even if your basic State Pension is more than the level of Carer’s Allowance, it may still be worth making a claim as it can act as a gateway to other financial support.

Examples of when it might be worth claiming Carer’s Allowance as a pensioner: • If you are already getting an income related/means tested benefit, such as Pension Credit, you may be paid more of it.

• Even if you were recently refused an income-related/means tested benefit it may be worthwhile checking if you would be entitled once you have claimed Carer’s Allowance.

with

Carer

Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people aged 60 or over on a low income.

However the exact age when you qualify will vary depending on your ‘qualifying age’. For women this is their State Pension age (which depends on their date of birth).

For men the ‘qualifying age’ it is what their State Pension age would be if they were a woman.

Pension Credit has two parts: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit.

• Guarantee Credit can be claimed by people over the ‘qualifying age’. If you are under the ‘qualifying age’, but your partner is of the ‘qualifying age’, your partner can claim it for both of you.

Your income and savings will affect the amount you get.

• Savings Credit rewards people who have a second pension or modest savings. It is paid to you if you or your partner are 65 or over, but again your income and savings will affect the amount you get.

When working out how much you are entitled to, the Pension service will allocate you an extra amount if you are a carer; this is called the Carer Addition.

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Housing Benefit This benefit is claimed from your local council/trust and helps you to pay your rent. Your income and savings will affect the amount you get.

Council Tax benefit This benefit is claimed from your local council and helps you to pay your Council Tax. Your income and savings will affect the amount you get.

Information from Carers UK: www.carersuk.org

Carer’s Credit What you’ll get Carer’s Credit will help build up your National Insurance contributions. This means: • there won’t be any gaps in your National Insurance record if you have to take on caring responsibilities • you’ll be able to build up your entitlement to the basic State Pension and additional State Pension

Eligibility To get Carer’s Credit you must be: • aged 16 or over • under State Pension age • looking after one or more people for at least 20 hours a week

• Attendance Allowance • Constant Attendance Allowance If the person you’re caring for doesn’t get one of these benefits, you may still be able to get Carer’s Credit. When you apply, fill in the ‘Care Certificate’ part of the application form and get a health or social care professional to sign it.

How to claim Apply via the Carer’s Credit application form.

The form includes a Care Certificate - ask a health or social care professional to sign it for you.

You can also get a form by contacting the Carer’s Allowance Unit.

Carer’s Allowance Unit cau.customer-services@dwp.gsi.gov.uk Telephone: 0845 608 4321 Textphone: 0845 604 5312 Monday to Thursday, 8:30am to 5pm Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm Send the completed application form and Care Certificate to: Carer’s Credit Palatine House Lancaster Road Preston PR1 1HB

The person you’re looking after must get one of the following: • Disability Living Allowance care component at the middle or highest rate 32

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Which benefits can be reduced or stopped

Benefit fraud

What happens if you’re suspected The of benefit fraud You’ll be contacted by either the Department for Work and Pensions, HM Revenue and Customs or your local authority. You may be visited by Fraud Investigation Officers (FIOs) or be asked to attend an interview to talk about your claim.

Your benefit may be stopped while the matter is investigated. If this happens, you’ll get a letter telling you what will happen next.

following benefits can be reduced or stopped if you commit, or have committed, benefit fraud: • • • • • • •

What happens after a benefit • fraud investigation FIOs will gather facts about your case and decide whether to take further action. If there’s evidence that you’re committing benefit fraud (or have committed fraud in the past), one or more of the following may happen: • You may be taken to court • You may be asked to pay a penalty (between £350 and £2,000) instead of going to court • Your benefit may be reduced or

• • • • • • • • • •

stopped • You’ll be asked to pay back the overpaid benefit

• • •

Carer’s Allowance Employment and Support Allowance Incapacity Benefit Income Support Industrial Death Benefit Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit Industrial Injuries Reduced Earnings Allowance Industrial Injuries Retirement Allowance Industrial Injuries Unemployability Supplement Jobseeker’s Allowance Severe Disablement Allowance Housing/Council Tax Benefit Pension Credit Universal Credit War Disablement Pension War Widow’s Pension War Pension Unemployability Supplement War Pension Allowance for Lower Standard of Occupation Widowed Mother’s/Parent’s Allowance Widow’s Pension/Bereavement Allowance Working Tax Credit

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The benefits on the previous page can also be reduced or stopped if you commit, or have committed, fraud on any of the following benefits: • • • • • • • • • •

Attendance Allowance Bereavement Payment Child Benefit Child Tax Credit Christmas Bonus Council Tax Benefit Disability Living Allowance Graduated Retirement Benefit Guardian’s Allowance Industrial Injuries Constant Attendance Allowance (where a Disablement Pension is payable) • Industrial Injuries Exceptionally Severe Disablement Allowance (where a Disablement Pension is payable) • Personal Independence Payment

34

• State Pension • Social Fund Payments • War Pension Constant Attendance Allowance • War Pension Exceptionally Severe Disablement Allowance • War Pension Mobility Supplement Your benefits can’t be stopped or reduced if you commit benefit fraud on the following benefits: • • • • • • • •

Diffuse Mesothelioma Scheme (2008) Health in Pregnancy Grant Maternity Allowance Pneumoconiosis (Workers’ Compensation) 1979 Statutory Adoption Pay Statutory Maternity Pay Statutory Paternity Pay Statutory Sick Pay

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Help with Funeral Costs The Government Funeral Payment can help pay for: • burial fees • cremation fees, including the cost of the doctor’s certificate • up to £700 for funeral expenses, eg funeral director’s fees, flowers, coffin • travel to arrange or go to the funeral • the costs for moving the body within the UK - but only for the part of the journey that’s over 50 miles If the person who died had a pre-paid funeral plan, you’ll only get help for items not covered by the plan.

How the money is paid Usually, if the funeral director hasn’t been paid, the money is paid to them.

If the funeral director has been paid, the money is paid into your account - eg a bank account.

Eligibility To get a Funeral Payment you must be responsible for the funeral and: • claim in time • get certain benefits or tax credits • meet the rules on your relationship with the deceased

When to claim You must apply within 3 months of the funeral. You can make a claim even if you’re waiting for a decision on a qualifying benefits.

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Rules on your relationship with the deceased You must be one of the following: • The partner of the deceased when they died • A close relative or close friend of the deceased • The parent of the still-born baby • The parent of the deceased child, if they were under 16 (or under 20 and not in full-time education) If the parent is ‘absent’, you must be responsible for the child and the absent parent must get a qualifying benefit.

Benefits and tax credits You (or your partner) must get one of the following: • Income Support • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance • Income-related Employment & Support Allowance • Pension Credit • Housing Benefit • Ihe disability or severe disability element of Working Tax Credit • One of the extra elements of Child Tax Credit • Universal Credit

Bereavement Service helpline Telephone: 0845 606 0265 Textphone: 0845 606 0285 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v1.0 36

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HEALTH & WELLBEING LIVE LONGER HSF HELPLINE37- 01582 462926

37

FREE FREE DELIVERY DELIVERY

Repeat Prescriptions?

No need to go to the Doctor every time Now you can collect your repeat prescription straight from Manor Pharmacy!

TO ORDER YOUR REPEAT PRESCRIPTION: • Leave your repeat request with us and simply phone and tell us which medicines you need or • Complete your repeat request as needed and hand it in to us or • Hand in the repeat request to the surgery yourself (but please mark it clearly for collection by Manor Pharmacy)

What could be simpler?

3 LeytonGreen, Harpenden, Herts, AL52TE. Tel: 01582 760624 136 Southdown Road, Harpenden, Herts, AL51PU. Tel: 01582 712783 2 HighStreet, Wheathampstead, Herts, AL48AA. Tel: 01582 832102 & 01582 629675

www.manorpharmacygroup.co.uk 38

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HEALTH & WELLBEING Useful Local Contacts

Local Dentists

Local Doctors

A.V Bramwell Dental Practice: 01582 460452

Davenport House Surgery: 01582 767821

Church Green Dental Surgery: 01582 763420

The Elms Medical Practice: 01582 767444

Harpenden Dental Practice: 01582 765910

Thompsons Close Surgery: 01582 765266

Harpenden Orthodontics: 01582 465 200

The Village Surgery: 01582 712021

Harpenden Smiles Dental Studio: 01582 763420

Local Hospitals

The Hertfordshire Centre For Dentistry: 01582 764931

Bowers Way Dental Surgery: 01582 761609

Harpenden Memorial Hospital: 01582 760196 St. Albans City Hospital: 01727 866122 Hemel Hempstead Hospital: 01442 213141 Luton & Dunstable Hospital: 0845 1270127 Queen Elizabeth II Hospital Welwyn

Pure Dentistry: 01582 713 400 Southdown Dental Practice: 01582 769799 The Leyton Dental Practice: 01582 765219 Wayside Dental Practice: 01582 712470

Dental Technicians

Garden City: 01707 328111

J J Thompson Orthodontic

Local Chemists

Appliances Ltd: 01582 834044

Local Chemists have a late night opening rota with at least one Chemist staying open until 7.00pm each weeknight and at weekends a duty Chemist will open on a Sunday between 12 noon and 1.00pm.

The Denture Clinic: 01582 462880

Local Opticians Allders Opticians Ltd: 01582 767524 Les Yeux Opticians: 01582 761564 Harold Smith Opticians: 01582 760352

The duty chemist is advertised in the local paper, in the surgery and on the door of each Chemist in Harpenden.

Harpenden Eye Centre: 01582 462916

Boots Chemist 01582 713339

20/20 eyecare: 01582 766613

Lydon & Shirazi: 01582 713181 Skyes Opticians: 01582 712845

Manor Pharmacy 01582 760624 Manor Pharmacy (Southdown) 01582 712783 Springfield Pharmacy 01582 712104 Topkins Chemist 01582 712708

HSF HELPLINE39- 01582 462926

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independently?

Would you like to have the reassurance of someone Would you like support to live visiting you?

Would you like to feel meals delivered?

safer in your home by having

Hertfordshire Community Meals is a charitable, not-for-profit, social enterprise that has delivered a caring meals on wheels service to frail, elderly, and disabled adults since 2007. Today we deliver nutritious meals to over 2000 people in their homes and at lunch clubs 365 days a year in every district in Hertfordshire. To find out how we could help you or your loved ones, please contact our Customer Service Team, based in Hemel Hempstead, who will be happy to advise you about our services in ree Rivers. Alternatively, you can find out more about our services on our website.

Hemel Hempstead office: 01442 243 352 hemel@hertscommunitymeals.co.uk is office looks aer our clients in Borehamwood, Bushey, Dacorum, ree Rivers, Watford, and the surrounding areas.

If you represent an organisation in ree Rivers and would like to organise meals for a lunch club, please contact: Annie Carmalt on 01442 243 352 or via email at: annie.carmalt@hertscommunitymeals.co.uk

Supported by:

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Hemel Hempstead office: 01442 243352 hemel@hertscommunitymeals.co.uk This office looks after our clients in Borehamwood, Bushey, Dacorum, Three Rivers, Watford, and surrounding areas.

Letchworth office: 01462 678423 letchworth@hertscommunitymeals.co.uk This office looks after our clients in North Herts, Stevenage, and surrounding areas.

St. Albans office: 01727 847264 stalbans@hertscommunitymeals.co.uk This office looks after our clients in St. Albans, Harpenden, Potters Bar, Hatfield, and surrounding areas.

Ware office: 01920 333030

•Would you like support to live independently?

• Would you like to feel safer in your home by having meals delivered?

•Would you like to have the reassurance of someone visiting you?

ware@hertscommunitymeals.co.uk.

This site looks after our clients in Broxbourne,

Lunchtime meals, East Herts, Welwyn and surrounding areas. teas, and breakfasts delivered to your door 365 days a Please visit our website for further information about us: year everywhere in Hertfordshire www.hertscommunitymeals.co.uk

OR D

Local delivery available:

y

LL

Mon AM & Thurs PM

Home Deliv er 01 58

to the following postcodes:

D.NET

A OR C

Harpenden

O FO

COOK

AT COOK ER

14 2 7 6 44

AL1, AL2, AL3, AL4, AL5, LU1, LU2 and WD7

10% OFF bers of Monday to Wednesday to mem HARPENDEN SENIORS

*Terms and conditions apply. Minimum order applies. This offer is only valid for delivery from COOK Harpenden to the following postcodes: AL1, AL2, AL3, AL4, AL5, LU1, LU2 and WD7 at www.cookfood.net or for orders placed over the telephone to 01582 764414. Not valid for the purchase of Gift Vouchers.

Discounts only apply whilst COOK/Bourne Retail Ltd are part of the Harpenden Seniors Forums Privilege Scheme.

FORUM

COOK

• 11 Bowers Parade, High St, Harpenden, AL5 2SH • 01582 764414

harpenden@cookfood.net

HSF HELPLINE41- 01582 462926

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Nutrition and Diet

• Iron-rich foods

As people advance in age, dietary needs change; healthy eating plays an essential part in maintaining good health. Your body may change, but a balanced diet will help you stay healthy.

Iron is important for our general health; a lack of iron can make us feel as though we have no energy, so include some iron-rich foods in your diet.

Whatever your age, it is important to eat a healthy, balanced diet. This should include: • Plenty of fruit and vegetables – aim for at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables a day • Plenty of bread, rice, potatoes, pasta and other starchy foods – choose wholegrain varieties if you can • Some milk and dairy foods • Some meat, fish, eggs, beans and other non-dairy sources of protein – try to eat at least two portions of fish a week, including a portion of oily fish • A small amount of foods and drinks that are high in fat or sugar

Make sure your diet includes.....

• Plenty of foods rich in starch and fibre Fibre-rich foods include wholegrain or brown types of starchy foods such as bread, rice, pasta and breakfast cereals. Other good sources of fibre are potatoes, oats, beans, peas, lentils, fruit and vegetables.

Eating foods containing fibre could be good for your digestion. Constipation tends to become more of a nuisance as you get older, but fibre-rich foods can prevent constipation and other digestive problems.

42

The best source of iron is lean red meat, however, if you eat more than 90g (cooked weight) of red and processed meat a day, the Department of Health advises that you cut down to 70g.

Iron is also found in pulses (such as peas, beans and lentils), oily fish such as sardines, eggs, bread, green vegetables and breakfast cereals with added vitamins.

Liver is a good source of iron, but be careful how much liver you eat as it’s also rich in vitamin A, too much of which can be harmful.

• Less salt Many of us in the UK eat too much salt. Too much salt can raise your blood pressure, which puts you at increased risk of health problems such as heart disease or a stroke.

Try to have less than 6g of salt a day.

Most of the salt we eat is already in foods such as cereals, bread, tinned soups and other ready-prepared foods. Check food labels before you buy and choose ones that contain less salt and don’t add salt to your food when cooking and at the table.

• Enough vitamin D Vitamin D (‘The Sunshine Vitamin’) is also essential for healthy bones as it helps you

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For free information and individual advice and assistance for particular health problems please pop in.

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Whilst we all know that a balanced nutritional diet is good for our health, the realities of life can make this feel hard to achieve. Harpenden Nutrition recognises this and strives to provide realistic, achievable and personalised nutritional advice tailored to meet your needs and optimise your uniqueness.Harpenden Nutrition uses a wide range of tools to assess and identify potential nutritional imbalances and understand how these may contribute to an individual’s symptoms and health concerns. Nutritional guidance may benefit individuals with chronic health conditions and those wishing to generally improve their health and wellbeing.

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absorb calcium. We mainly get our vitamin D through the effect of summer sunshine on our skin, however it is also important to get some in your diet.

Good sources include eggs, oily fish, some fortified breakfast cereals & fortified spreads.

• Vitamin A Having too much vitamin A (more than 1.5mg from food and supplements) might increase your risk of bone fracture.

Liver is high in vitamin A. Don’t eat liver or liver products, such as pate, more than once a week, or eat them in smaller portions. If you do eat liver more than once a week, do not take any supplements containing vitamin A or fish liver oils (which also contain high levels of vitamin A).

• Maintain a healthy weight Try to keep your weight at a healthy level, it is not good to be either overweight or underweight.

As you grow older, if you are overweight, you will become less mobile. This can affect your health and quality of life; being overweight also increases your risk of diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

• Plenty of fluids Aim to drink about 1.2 litres (or two and a half pints) of fluid every day to stop you getting dehydrated. This is about six 200ml or eight 150ml glasses, cups or mugs.

When the weather is warm or when you are active, you will probably need more than this.

All non-alcoholic drinks count towards your daily fluid intake, including tea and coffee.

The benefits of a balanced, healthy diet • A stronger immune system resulting in higher levels of resistance to disease and illness • Speedier recuperation when an illness occurs • An increase in mental awareness and acuity • Chronic health problems are easier to manage • Overall better mental health and a more positive outlook

Being underweight isn’t healthy either and may be a sign that you are not eating enough or that you are unwell. Being underweight also increases your risk of osteoporosis.

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Calcium-rich foods Find calcium-rich foods from this list of nutrients a bone-healthy diet [1]. Serving sizes are based on average portions [2].

Food Serving Size (average) Calcium (mg) Milk -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Milk, semi-skimmed glass, 200 ml 240 Milk skimmed glass, 200 ml 244 Milk whole glass, 200 ml 236 Milkshake takeaway, 300 ml 387 Soy drink, calcium enriched glass, 200 ml 178 Yoghurt and Cream -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Yoghurt, low-fat, fruit pot, 150 g 210 Yoghurt, low-fat, plain pot, 150 g 243 Cream, double, whipped portion, 45 g 26 Cream single tablespoon, 15 g 13 Cheeses --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Danish blue portion, 40 g 195 Edam portion, 40 g 318 Feta portion, 40 g 144 Camembert portion, 40 g 94 Cheddar medium chunk, 40 g 296 Cheese spread portion, 30 g 149 Cottage small pot, 112 g 142 Mozzarella, fresh portion, 56 g 203 Parmesan, fresh portion, 30 g 308 Vegetables ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Broccoli, boiled serving, 85 g 34 Watercress, raw small bunch, 20 g 34 Curly Kale serving, 95 g 143 Okra, stir fried 8 medium, 40 g 88 Red kidney beans, canned 3 tablespoons, 105 g 75 Chick peas, boiled 3 tablespoons, 90 g 41 Green/French beans serving, 90 g 50 Baked beans serving, 135 g 72 Nuts -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Almonds 12 whole, 26 g 62 Brazil Nuts 6 whole, 20 g 34 Hazlenuts 20 whole, 20 g 28 Sesame seeds 1 tablespoon, 12 g 80 Walnuts 12 halves, 40 g 38 Tahini Paste 1 heaped teaspoon, 19 g 129

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Food Serving Size (average) Calcium (mg) Desserts -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Cheesecake, fruit average slice, 120 g 94 Custard made with milk average portion, 120 g 166 Rice pudding, canned average portion, 200 g 176 Ice cream, dairy, vanilla average serving, 75 g 75 Fromage frais, fruit small pot, 60 g 52 Fish -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sardines in oil, tinned portion, 100 g 500 Whitebait, fried portion, 80 g 688 Salmon, tinned average portion, 100 g 91 Fish paste small jar, 35 g 98 Breads and grains -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Pasta, plain, cooked portion, 230 g 85 Rice, white, boiled portion, 180 g 32 White bread slice, 30 g 53 Wholemeal bread slice, 30 g 32 Muesli, Swiss style portion, 50 g 55 Fruits -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Apricots, raw, no stone 4 fruit, 160 g 117 Figs, ready to eat 4 fruit, 220 g 506 Currants 2 tablespoons, 50 g 47 Orange peeled, 160 g 75 Other foods --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Tofu, soy bean, steamed 100 g 510 Omelette, cheese 2 eggs, 120 g 344 Quiche, cheese & egg average slice, 140 g 367 Macaroni cheese portion, 220 g 374 Pizza, cheese & tomato 9” - 10” pizza, 410 g 873 Lasagne portion, 420 g 420 References 1. Food Standards Agency (2002) McCance and Widdowson’s The Composition of Foods, Sixth Summary Edition. Cambridge: Royal Society of Chemistry.

2. Food Standards Agency (2002), Food Portion Sizes.

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Exercise - why should you be more active?

Benefits of exercise Being active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle for people of all ages. But as you get older, your muscles get weaker, you tend to get more aches and pains, and you become more prone to falls and injuries.

Research has shown that adults who do physical activity are healthier and less likely to develop serious long-term conditions than those who do not. Embarking on an exercise programme is a great way to improve your quality of life and make new friends and, providing you are sensible, exercising has very few risks.

Regular exercise can reduce your risk of developing: • Heart disease and stroke • Type 2 diabetes • Osteoporosis, osteoarthritis & back pain • High blood pressure • Some cancers, such as bowel cancer Regular exercise has other benefits too: • Improves muscle strength and tone • Increases ability to continue with everyday activities • Improves cognitive abilities, such as memory and reasoning skills • Increases sense of wellbeing and self-esteem

How much exercise?

The recommended healthy level of physical activity for adults is 150 minutes (two and a half hours) of moderate intensity exercise over a week in bouts of 10 minutes or more.

Exercise can include things you do as part of your normal daily such as walking, housework and gardening; you don’t have to join the gym!

Try to include at least two weekly activities to build up muscle strength. This sort of exercise involves working against a resistance, such as your own weight, for example lifting and carrying bags of shopping.

If you’re at risk of falls, try to also include physical activity that will improve your balance and co-ordination, such as yoga, on at least two days a week.

Getting started • Speak to your doctor for help in designing an exercise plan.

• Start slowly and build up how much physical activity you do – doing a little is better than nothing but aim to reach the recommended 150 minutes in a week.

• Keep motivated – if you exercise with a group, you can all encourage each other.

• Exercise safely – if you feel discomfort, stop and rest, and speak to your doctor if necessary.

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HPO Harpenden Physiotherapy and Osteopathic Clinic

PHYSIOTHERAPY OSTEOPATHY AND CHIROPODY Our clinic intergrates the strengths of the Physiotherapy, Podiatry and Osteopathic professions in association with numerous other treatments.

WHAT WE OFFER

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• Massage • Gait Analysis • Orthotic Specialist • Nutrition Advice • Acupuncture • Reflexology • Footwear Advice • Shoes • Counselling

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OFF Registered Chiropractor Chiropractic can be useful in the treatment of a number of common complaints including:

•Arthritic Pain •Whiplash Symptoms • Back & Neck Pain • Shoulder Injuries • Knee Pain • Sports Injuries

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Some basic first aid knowledge Basic first aid - Stay safe If there has been an accident, check that you are safe and that there is no further danger to the victim or anyone nearby.

Do not move the victim unless they are in immediate danger (i.e. not breathing).

Get help If the person is seriously injured, seek emergency assistance first. Dial emergency services, or ask a bystander to call.

Check for unconsciousness Make sure the injured person can breathe properly.

Gently shake the person’s shoulders and ask if they can hear you.

If they do not respond, follow the ABC sequence: • Airway Place one hand on the victim’s forehead and gently tilt their head back. Check their mouth for obstructions and lift their chin using two fingers only.

had a heart attack and need heart compression. If there are signs of life but they’re not breathing, give the kiss of life.

Control severe bleeding To control external bleeding, first apply immediate, direct and firm pressure to the wound and elevate it above the heart, then wrap firmly with a dressing.

Look out for shock The signs of shock include: disorientation; restlessness; trembling; pale, bluishtinged, cool or clammy skin; fast and shallow breathing; and a reduced level of consciousness. Call emergency services or get someone else to do so and follow the ABC sequence opposite.

Know the recovery position Turn them on their side, lift the chin forward to keep their airway open and place their hand under their cheek.

All advice provided by St John Ambulance.

• Breathing Look to see if the chest is rising and falling, listen for breathing and feel for breath against your cheek. If they are not breathing, give two rescue breaths.

• Circulation Spend 10 seconds checking for signs of blood circulation, including movement of their eyes, attempts to swallow, and the colour of their skin and lips. If there is no breathing and no sign of life, they may have

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Offering: Clinical & Remedial Massage Cranio Social Therapy Deep Tissue Massage Scenar Therapy Common conditions that respond well to our treatments are: Neck & Shoulder pain; Whiplash Headaches; Migranes Back Pain; Sciatica Frozen Shoulder Sports Injuries

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Holistic Health Clinic are experts in helping with your musculoskeletal conditions and passionate about using our skills to eliminate your pain & improve range of movement.

All treatments are tailored to support your individual needs. For an appointment call us on:

t:

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e: info@holistichealthclinic.org www.holistichealthclinic.org 64b High Street, Harpenden AL5 2SP

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Burns and Scalds

More serious burns will require professional medical attention; you should go to a hospital A&E department for: • all chemical and electrical burns

Burns and scalds are damage to the skin caused by heat, both are treated in the same way.

• large or deep burns – any burn bigger A burn is caused by dry heat, from an iron or fire for example; a scald is caused by something wet, such as hot water or steam.

Burns can be very painful and can cause blisters and charred, black or red skin.

Treating burns and scalds To treat a burn, follow this NHS advice: • Immediately get the person away from the heat source to stop the burning.

• Cool the burn with cool or lukewarm water for 10-30 minutes. Do not use ice, iced water or any creams or greasy substances, such as butter.

• Remove any clothing or jewellery that is near the burnt area of skin, but do not move anything that is stuck to the skin.

• Make sure the person keeps warm for example by using a blanket but take care not to rub it against the burnt area.

• Cover the burn by placing a layer of cling film over it.

• Use painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, to treat any pain.

When to get medical attention According to NHS statistics around 13,000 people each year are admitted to hospital for burns and scalds. Many thousands more go to hospital accident and emergency departments.

than your hand • full thickness burns of all sizes – these burns cause white or charred skin • partial thickness burns on the face, hands, arms, feet, legs or genitals these are burns that cause blisters If someone has breathed in smoke or fumes, they should also seek medical attention. Some symptoms may be delayed and can include coughing, a sore throat, difficulty breathing or facial burns.

People who are at greater risk from the effects of burns, such as children under five years old and pregnant women, should also get medical attention after a burn or scald.

The size and depth of the burn will be assessed and the affected area cleaned before a dressing is applied; you should also be given instructions on changing your dressing.

If you need advice about a burn, you can: • call NHS Direct on 111 • go to a minor injuries unit (MIU) • go to an NHS walk-in centre • call or see your GP

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Blood pressure High blood pressure is just one of the risk factors for developing heart and circulatory disease, along with high cholesterol, diabetes and other lifestyle factors. As many as 5 million people in the UK are walking around, undiagnosed, with high blood pressure.

The only way to know whether you have high blood pressure is to have it measured.

Everyone should know their blood pressure.

The British Heart Foundation recommend that everyone over 40 gets their blood pressure taken by a nurse or doctor as part of a health check to assess their risk for getting heart and circulatory disease.

What is blood pressure?

Put simply, blood pressure is the pressure of blood in your arteries - the tubes that carry your blood from your heart to your brain and the rest of your body. You need a certain amount of pressure to get the blood round your body.

The pressure of the blood flowing through your arteries changes at different times in the heartbeat cycle. The pressure in your arteries will be at its highest when your heart is contracting and lowest as it relaxes before it pumps again.

What do the numbers mean?

Every blood pressure reading consists of two numbers or levels. They are shown as one number on top of the other and measured in mmHg, which means millimetres of 52

mercury. If your reading is 120/80mmHg, you might hear your doctor or nurse saying your blood pressure is “120 over 80”.

• The first (or top) number represents the highest level your blood pressure reaches when your heart contracts and pumps blood through your arteries your systolic blood pressure. An example might be 130mmHg. • The second (or bottom) number represents the lowest level your blood pressure reaches as your heart relaxes between beats - your diastolic blood pressure. An example might be 75mmHg. You should have your blood pressure measured so that you know what your target is. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, your blood pressure should be below 140/90mmHg. If you have had heart or circulatory disease, including being told you have coronary heart disease, angina, heart attack or stroke, have diabetes or kidney disease, then it is usually recommended that your blood pressure should be below 130/80mmHg.

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure - or hypertension means that your blood pressure is constantly higher than the recommended level. High blood pressure is not usually something that you can feel or notice, but over time if it is not treated, your heart may become enlarged making your heart pump less effectively, which could lead to heart failure.

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Having high blood pressure increases your chance of having a heart attack or stroke.

There isn’t always an explanation for the cause of high blood pressure, but these can play a part: • Not doing enough physical activity • Being overweight or obese • Having too much salt in your diet • Regularly drinking too much alcohol or • Having a family history of high blood pressure.

Even if you don’t have high blood pressure, making simple lifestyle changes may help prevent you having it in the future.

What can I do to reduce my blood pressure?

Type 2 Diabetes Diabetes is a lifelong condition that causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high.

In the UK, approximately 2.9 million people are affected by diabetes. There are also thought to be around 850,000 people with undiagnosed diabetes.

Types of diabetes There are two main types of diabetes, referred to as type 1 and type 2.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin to function properly, or the body’s cells don’t react to insulin; this is known as insulin resistance.

Type 2 diabetes is far more common than type 1 diabetes, which occurs when the body doesn’t produce any insulin at all; in the UK, about 90% of all adults with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.

If your doctor or nurse says you have high blood pressure, he/she is likely to encourage you to make some lifestyle changes to help reduce it. This may include increasing your physical activity, losing weight, reducing the salt in your diet, cutting down on alcohol and eating a balanced, healthy diet.

If your blood pressure is very high or these lifestyle changes do not reduce it enough, your doctor is likely to prescribe you medication to control it and to reduce your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

Information from the British Heart Foundation

Type 2 diabetes usually affects people over the age of 40, although increasingly younger people are also being affected.

Symptoms Diabetes can cause various symptoms.

Symptoms common to both types of diabetes include: • Feeling very thirsty • Urinating frequently, particularly at night • Feeling very tired • Weight loss and loss of muscle bulk

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You should visit your GP as soon as possible if you notice these symptoms.

Causes of type 2 diabetes Insulin is a hormone produced by part of the pancreas, a large gland located behind the stomach.

Insulin controls the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. It moves glucose from the blood into your cells, where it is converted into energy.

In type 2 diabetes, not enough insulin is produced to maintain a normal blood glucose level (insulin deficiency), or your body is unable to use the insulin that is produced effectively (insulin resistance).

Treating type 2 diabetes The NHS stresses that it is important diabetes is diagnosed as early as possible. Diabetes cannot be cured, but treatment aims to keep your blood glucose levels as normal as possible to control your symptoms and minimise health problems developing later.

Complications Left untreated, diabetes can cause many health problems; large amounts of glucose can damage blood vessels, nerves and organs.

Even a mildly raised glucose level that does not cause any symptoms can have damaging effects in the long term.

Living with diabetes If you have type 2 diabetes, you will be advised to look after your health carefully.

Caring for your health will also make treating your diabetes easier and minimise your risk of developing complications.

The NHS advises people with diabetes eat a healthy, balanced diet, stop smoking (if you smoke), drink alcohol in moderation and take plenty of regular exercise.

If you are diagnosed with diabetes, you may be referred to a diabetes care team for specialist treatment, or your GP surgery may provide first line diabetes care.

In some cases of type 2 diabetes, it may be possible to control your symptoms by altering your lifestyle, such as eating a healthy diet. However, as type 2 diabetes is a progressive condition, you may eventually need medication to keep your blood glucose at normal levels.

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pharmacist to help you by dividing up your week’s medication. You could also buy a daily tablet box to remind you what to take and when.

Drugs and Medicine There are two types of medication, those that require a prescription and those that are bought over the counter.

Before taking medication you should consider the following questions: • What is the name of the medication and what is it for?

• Are there any side effects? And what to do if you get any.

• How long will you need to take the medication for?

• Will it affect any other medical problems which you may have?

• What do you do if you forget to take your medication?

• Will the medication interfere with any other types which you may be taking?

• Is there anything which you should try and avoid whilst taking it?

• Are you taking the lowest possible effective dose?

If you are taking more than one type of medication you can ask your local pharmacist to help you by dividing up your week’s medication. You could also buy a daily tablet box to remind you what to take & when.

If you are taking more than one type of medication you can ask your local

Prescription costs (as of April 1st 2013) Prescription prepayment certificates (PPC) are available in England and they can save you money.

• The current prescription charge is £7.85 (£15.70 per pair of elastic hosiery).

• A three monthly PPC is £29.10. This saves you money if you need four or more items in three months.

• A 12 month certificate is £104.00 and saves money if 14 or more items are needed in 12 months.

PPCs are available by 10 monthly direct debit instalment payments. The prescription prepayment certificates allow anyone to obtain all the prescriptions they need for £2 per week. If you need to access the services below then medicines are free: • Medicines administered at a hospital or an NHS walk-in centre.

• Prescribed contraceptives.

• Medicines personally administered by a GP. • Medicines supplied at a hospital or primary care trust (PCT) clinic for the treatment of a sexually transmitted infection or tuberculosis.

You can get free NHS prescriptions if, at the time the prescription is dispensed, you:

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initial development nor improve vision already lost (AMD Alliance).

The Macular Disease Society has created a DVD ‘Living with Macular Disease’, which can be viewed on their website at www. maculardisease.org.

• • • •

•

•

•

•

are 60 or over are under 16 are 16-18 and in full-time education are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months & have a valid maternity exemption certificate (MatEx) have a specified medical condition & have a valid medical exemption certificate (MedEx) have a continuing physical disability that prevents you from going out without help from another person and have a valid MedEx hold a valid war pension exemption certificate and the prescription is for your accepted disability are an NHS inpatient

You are also entitled to free prescriptions if you or your partner (including civil partners) are named on, or are entitled to, an NHS tax credit exemption certificate or a valid HC2 certificate (full help with health costs), or you receive either: • Income Support • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, or • Pension Credit Guarantee Credit • Universal Credit 56

If you would like further practical advice on macular disease please contact the MDS helpline on 0845 241 2041.

Glaucoma Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases in which the optic nerve, which connects your eye to your brain, is damaged by the pressure of the fluid inside your eye.

This may be because the pressure is higher than normal, or because the nerve is more susceptible to damage from pressure. This may affect one or both of your eyes.

Because you cannot feel the pressure, and the damage happens slowly, you may not know you have glaucoma until a lot of damage has been done. That damage cannot be put right, so it is particularly important that you find out early. The best way to make sure of this is to have a regular eye examination with an optometrist. If you are at risk of developing glaucoma, you should have an eye examination at least every two years, or more often if your optometrist recommends it.

If you have glaucoma but do not treat it, your eyesight will gradually get worse, and you could eventually go blind. The good news is that treatment with eye drops may stop it getting worse.

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Message in a bottle The “Message in a Bottle” scheme was started by a police officer in Perth in Scotland and has been enthusiastically taken up by Lions and other clubs around the country.

Some of the money raised by the Harpenden Lions fundraising activities finances a life saving project which helps frail, elderly and those living alone to store vital medical and personal information in such a way that it can be easily found by the emergency services.

People taking part fill in a short form detailing name, doctor, medication and other useful information. The confidential information is stored in a plastic bottle in the fridge - a secure and easily - identifiable location.

The label (Above) is displayed on the refrigerator door and on the inside of the house front door to help the emergency services locate the bottle containing the medical information.

Stocks of free ‘Message in a Bottle’ kits are available from doctors’ surgeries, pharmacists and other locations.

See overleaf to find your nearest location:

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HARPENDEN Doctors’ Surgeries Davenport House Surgery, Bowers Way, Harpenden, Herts Elms Medical Practice, 5 Stewart Road, Harpenden, Herts Village Surgery, Amenbury Lane, Harpenden, Herts

Pharmacies Manor Pharmacy, 3 Leyton Green, Harpenden, Herts Manor Pharmacy, 136 Southdown Road, Harpenden, Herts Manor Pharmacy, 2 High Street, Wheathampstead, Herts Springfield Pharmacy, 19 High Street, Harpenden, Herts Topkins, 6 Station Road, Harpenden, Herts

Others Harpenden Memorial Hospital (Red House), Carlton Road, Harpenden, Herts District Nurses Team and Paramedic Response Unit, Harpenden, Herts Helping Hand Group, c/o Day Centre, Leyton Road, Harpenden, Herts If you need help in obtaining a bottle, or if you have any questions, email the club on

info@harpenden-lions.co.uk or call the helpline on:

0845 833 7426 If you are one of the above outlets & need more stocks please contact as above.

Also available from:

67 High Street, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2SL. 58

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Coping with Incontinence

2. Quit smoking

Losing control of your bladder or bowel may make you want to withdraw from family, friends, and social activities.

If you smoke, you put yourself at risk of incontinence because coughing puts strain on your pelvic floor muscles. Advice to help you stop smoking is available from your GP or pharmacist.

You can also call the NHS smoking helpline on 0800 022 4 322.

Millions of otherwise healthy adults are successfully dealing with incontinence every day. Contrary to popular opinion, incontinence is not a natural part of ageing.

Growing older can certainly affect one’s bladder health, but it is not necessarily a given that incontinence will occur. Simple exercises can increase muscle strength while reducing the risk of accidents.

Your GP can assess whether you have incontinence, decide which type of incontinence you have, give general advice on controlling symptoms of incontinence, provide information on pelvic floor exercises and bladder retraining, and give treatment for incontinence with prescribed medicines.

3. Do the right exercises High-impact exercise puts pressure on your pelvic floor muscles and can increase leakage. Sit-ups can also make you leak by straining your pelvic floor muscles. If you want to strengthen your pelvic floor to relieve symptoms, replace jogging and aerobics classes with Pilates. This gentle method of stretching and strengthening core muscles is becoming more popular as a treatment for stress incontinence.

4. Avoid lifting if you have For many people with incontinence, incontinence the following self-help tips and lifestyle changes, from the NHS, are enough to relieve symptoms.

1. Do daily pelvic floor exercises Pelvic floor exercises can be really effective at reducing leakage, but it’s important to do them properly. You may have to do pelvic floor exercises for three months before you see any benefits.

Lifting puts strain on your pelvic floor muscles so avoid it wherever you can.

When you do need to lift something, such as when picking up children or shopping bags, tighten your pelvic floor muscles before and during the lift.

5. Lose weight Being overweight can weaken your pelvic floor muscles and can cause incontinence because of the pressure of fatty tissue on the bladder. Your symptoms may improve, and could clear up completely, if you lose the excess weight.

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6. Treat constipation promptly

10. Eat the right foods

Straining to empty your bowels weakens your pelvic floor muscles and makes leakage worse. Never delay the urge to empty your bowels. If you have constipation, it may help to change your diet and lifestyle.

Eating more fibre and taking more exercise can help. It may also help if you change the way you sit and use your muscles to empty your bowels. A specialist physiotherapist can advise you on this.

Avoid spicy and acidic foods, such as curries and citrus fruits, as they can irritate the bladder and make leaks and other incontinence symptoms worse.

7. Cut down on caffeine

• Call the Bladder and Bowel Foundation (B&BF) confidential helpline on 0845 345 0165, or use the continence clinic directory on the B&BF website (you have to register to use this online facility).

• Call your local hospital for details of your nearest clinic.

Caffeine irritates the bladder and can make incontinence worse. Coffee has the biggest effect, so stop drinking it or switch to decaffeinated. Fizzy drinks, tea and cocoa also contain caffeine, so cut down on these too and replace them with water and herbal or fruit teas.

If lifestyle changes do not solve the problem, your GP can refer you to a continence adviser or specialist.

To find details of your local NHS continence clinic:

8. Cut down on alcohol Alcohol is a diuretic, a substance that makes you urinate more often. Cutting down may help your incontinence symptoms.

9. Drink plenty of water Drink six to eight glasses of water a day (but not more) unless your doctor advises you otherwise.

Many people with urinary incontinence avoid drinking fluids as they feel it causes more problems.

However, limiting your fluid intake makes incontinence worse because it reduces your bladder’s capacity.

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Looking after your Teeth Looking after your teeth is really important, especially as you get older. To ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy, it is important to brush your teeth effectively and see a dentist regularly. If you have false teeth, regular check ups with a dentist are just as important.

Dentures are likely to need replacing every five years as the shape of your mouth changes. If, for health reasons, you have difficulty getting to a dentist, your dentist may be able to visit you or you may be eligible for treatment through the Community Dental Service.

Medication and your teeth Be aware that some medicine can have side effects that could affect your teeth and gums, and could mean you need to take extra care. • Bisphosphonates - used to treat osteoporosis (you might know them as alendronic acid or fosamax) can affect the strength of your jaw bone. • Some Blood pressure drugs could cause dry mouth, which will make you more susceptible to gum disease and also to decay.

NHS dental charges The system is based on three bands of treatment & charges are reviewed annually. People on a low income may be entitled to help with the cost of NHS dental treatment.

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www.thedentureclinic.org.uk www.albanydenturecentre.co.uk

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• Family Dental Care • Cosmetic Dentistry • Tooth Whitening • Invisible Braces • Implants • Laser Dentistry Contact us

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Looking after your Bones

Get your sunshine quota

From our 40s onwards, our bones Your body needs vitamin D, the ‘Sunshine gradually lose their density as a Vitamin’, to help it absorb calcium. Vitamin D is found in oily fish, liver, fortified spreads natural part of ageing.

One in two women and one in five men over the age of 50 in the UK will break a bone, mainly because of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis has no symptoms; the first clue may be seen if you have an X-ray for some other reason, or you fracture a bone.

Whether you have osteoporosis or just want to build strong bones for the future, there are several things you can do to maintain your bones.

Eat calcium-rich foods Adults should eat at least 700mg of calcium a day, and 1,200mg if diagnosed with osteoporosis. You could consume 700mg in one day by eating a yoghurt, a cheese sandwich, a handful of almonds and a spinach salad.

Top 10 calcium rich foods: • low-fat yoghurt • milk • cheese • canned salmon • spinach or kale • nuts and seeds • tofu • dried fruit • flour • water

and cereals, and egg yolks. But amazingly your body can also make its own vitamin D by exposure to sunshine.

Most people in the UK get enough vitamin D by spending 15 minutes in the sun two to three times a week; generally, normal levels that are built up in the summer will be enough to last through the winter.

Don’t eat too much protein Excessive amounts of meat, cheese and protein make body acid, which drains the body of calcium and weakens bones; you need to maintain a balanced diet.

Stop smoking Smokers are more likely to get osteoporosis.

Cut out the salt Salt is thought to speed up the body’s loss of calcium. Most of us consume 9g of salt a day, but the recommended limit is 6g, which is just a teaspoonful. Don’t add salt to your food, and look at food labels to help you cut down.

Avoid foods that contain 1.5g of salt per 100g (or 0.6g of sodium) or more.

Crisps, ham, cheese, cooking sauces and processed foods such as pies, pizza and soups are all high in salt.

You will find a more extensive list of calcium rich foods on pages 44 & 45.

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Be active Bones get stronger when you use them; by doing 5 hours of ‘weight-bearing’ exercise a week you will help to strengthen your bones. Good weight-bearing exercises are walking, running, dancing, golf, tennis or netball. Bones also benefit if you lift and carry things, carrying shopping, gardening and housework all count!

Drink sensibly Alcohol, tea, coffee, cola and other fizzy drinks reduce the amount of calcium you absorb, and weaken bones. Stick to the recommended amounts of alcohol, and swap your caffeine-fuelled drinks for water and diluted juice.

Maintain a healthy weight Losing too much weight too fast can increase your risk of osteoporosis. Weight loss can cut the amount of oestrogen (a hormone that helps to protect your bones) in your body.

If you need to lose weight, do it sensibly.

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Dementia According to the Alzheimer’s Society there are around 800,000 people in the UK with dementia. One in three people over 65 will develop dementia, and two thirds of people with dementia are women.

The number of people with dementia is increasing because people are living longer. It is estimated that by 2021, the number of people with dementia in the UK will have increased to around 1 million.

The NHS recommends that you talk to your GP if you are becoming increasingly forgetful, particularly if you are over the age of 65.

As you get older, you may find that memory loss becomes a problem. It is normal for your memory to be affected by age, stress, tiredness, or certain illnesses and medications. This can be annoying if it happens occasionally, but if it is affecting your daily life or is worrying you or someone you know, you should seek help from your GP.

What is dementia?

Dementia is a common condition that affects about 800,000 people in the UK. Your risk of developing dementia increases as you get older, and the condition usually occurs in people over the age of 65.

Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of the brain and its abilities.

This includes problems with: • Memory loss

• • • • •

Thinking speed Mental agility Language Understanding Judgement

People with dementia can become apathetic or uninterested in their usual activities, and have problems controlling their emotions. They may also find social situations challenging, lose interest in socialising, and aspects of their personality may change.

A person with dementia may lose empathy (understanding and compassion), they may see or hear things that other people do not (hallucinations), or they may make false claims or statements.

As dementia affects a person’s mental abilities, they may find planning and organising difficult. Maintaining their independence may also become a problem.

A person with dementia will therefore usually need help from friends or relatives, including help with decision making.

Your GP will discuss the possible causes of memory loss with you, including dementia.

Other symptoms can include: • increasing difficulties with tasks and activities that require concentration and planning • depression • changes in personality and mood • periods of mental confusion • difficulty saying the right words Most types of dementia can’t be cured, but if it is detected early there are ways you can slow it down and maintain mental function.

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Living with Anxiety Anxiety is a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can be mild or severe.

Anxiety can significantly affect your daily life, making it difficult to carry out everyday tasks.

Fear and anxiety can last for a short time and then pass, but they can also last much longer and you can get stuck with them. In some cases they can take over your life; affect your appetite, sleep and concentration; stop you travelling, going to work or school, or even leaving the house.

Typical symptoms Anxiety suffers experience a combination of the following symptoms: • Heart beat gets very fast - maybe it feels irregular • Breathing gets very fast • Muscles feel weak • Sweat more • Stomach is churning or your bowels feel loose • Hard to concentrate on anything else • Feel dizzy • Feel frozen to the spot • Cannot eat • Hot and cold sweats • Dry mouth • Tense muscles • A more nagging sense of fear • Irritability • Trouble sleeping • Headaches • Trouble getting on with work and planning for the future 66

• Problems having sex • Loss of self-confidence.

Treating anxiety There are several different treatments available to ease your psychological and physical symptoms; if you are worried that you, or someone you know, are showing signs of anxiety contact your GP.

Self help tips for Anxiety *Regular exercise *Relaxation- this can be as simple as breathing exercises, or you could give yoga and pilates a try *Diet- reduce caffeine and alcohol and try to eat a healthy balanced diet. *Give up smoking and reduce your alcohol consumption.

Support groups for anxiety Support groups can give you useful advice about how to effectively manage your anxiety. They are also a good way to meet other people with similar experiences.

Ask your GP about local support groups for anxiety in your area or look online for local services: www.nhs.uk/Service-Search

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What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation within a joint.

In the UK, around 10 million people have arthritis; the condition affects people of all ages including children.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in the UK, affecting an estimated 8.5 million people.

The cartilage (connective tissue) between the bones gradually wastes away, leading to painful rubbing of bone on bone in the joints; the most frequently affected joints are in the hands, spine, knees and hips.

Osteoarthritis often develops in people who are over 50 years of age. However, it can develop at any age as a result of an injury or another joint-related condition.

A good diet and regular exercise will help keep muscles strong and control your weight, which is good for osteoarthritis.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a more severe, but less common, form of arthritis than osteoarthritis. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the affected joints, causing pain and swelling to occur; this can lead to a reduction in movement and the breakdown of bone and cartilage.

In the UK, Rheumatoid Arthritis affects around 400,000 people, and often starts in

Osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

people between the ages of 40 and 50 years old. Women are three times more likely to be affected by the condition than men.

Symptoms of Arthritis There are many different symptoms of arthritis and the symptoms you experience will vary depending on the type of Arthritis you have.

Common arthritic symptoms include: • Joint pain, tenderness and stiffness • Inflammation in and around the joints • Restricted movement of the joints • Warmth and redness of the skin over the affected joint • Weakness and muscle wasting Having Arthritis often means extra expense, you may be able to get state benefits to help with the extra costs of having arthritis or if you are unable to work. It is worth checking that you’re claiming everything that you are entitled to.

More information is available online from Arthritis Care, www.arthritiscare.org.uk

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Caring for someone with Arthritis You may not realise it, but if you are caring for someone with arthritis you are one of six million people in the UK who look after an ill or disabled partner, child, relative or friend.

Arthritis is a very common condition which can be disabling because of the pain it causes or the effects it has on the joints.

If the person you care for has arthritis, one of the best things you can do is to learn as much as you can about the condition.

Most people with arthritis will feel some discomfort, pain, stiffness and fatigue.

These symptoms can be frustrating and upsetting, particularly if they lead to a loss of strength and grip, making it harder to move around and carry out daily tasks.

This does not mean that the person you care for will need to stop having an active lifestyle, however, they may need to make some changes to their way of life.

Everyday tasks Arthritis can make physical tasks much more difficult. The person you care for may often be physically or mentally tired, even if they have slept well. Fatigue can make the person you care for irritable and bad tempered, which can lead to depression; if you think this is the case, encourage them to speak to their GP who will be able to recommend a support group for people with their condition.

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person with arthritis and suggest practical ways to help them continue with their normal routine. They may also suggest specialist equipment and aids around the home; an assessment can usually be arranged through the person’s GP or local authority social services.

Health and nutrition It’s very important for people with arthritis to maintain a healthy weight through healthy eating and exercise. Excess weight puts more stress on the joints, making the condition more painful.

Call Carers Direct on 0808 802 0202 Free, confidential information and advice for carers.

Lines are open 9am to 8pm Monday to Friday (except bank holidays), 11am to 4pm at weekends. Calls are free from UK landlines and mobiles or you can request a free call back.

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Flu and the Flu Jab Flu is a highly infectious illness that spreads rapidly through the coughs and sneezes of people who are carrying the virus.

If you are at risk of complications from flu, make sure you have your annual flu jab available from September onwards.

Who should have the flu jab?

See your GP about the flu jab if you are 65 or over, or if you have any of the following problems (however old you are): • a serious heart complaint • a chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including asthma, bronchitis and emphysema • serious kidney disease • diabetes • lowered immunity due to disease or treatment such as steroid medication or cancer treatment • if you have a problem with your spleen or you have had your spleen removed • if you have ever had a stroke Your GP may advise you to have a flu jab if you have serious liver disease, multiple sclerosis (MS) or some other diseases of the nervous system.

If you think you need a flu vaccination, check with your GP, practice nurse or your local pharmacist.

When should the flu jab be given?

The best time of the year to have a flu vaccination is in the autumn from

September to early November. Most GP surgeries arrange flu vaccination clinics around this time; it is free and is effective against the latest flu virus strains.

Even if you have already had a flu jab in previous years, you need another one this year. The vaccination may only protect you for a year; this is because the viruses that cause flu are always changing.

How effective is the flu jab?

No vaccine is 100% effective; however, people who have had the flu jab are less likely to get flu. If you do get flu despite having the jab, it will probably be milder.

What are the side effects?

The flu jab does not cause flu as it does not contain live viruses. However, you may experience side effects after having the jab, such as a temperature and aching muscles for a couple of days. Your arm may feel sore at the site where you were injected.

The flu vaccine only protects against flu, but not other illnesses caused by other viruses, such as the common cold.

Who shouldn’t have the flu jab?

You shouldn’t have the flu vaccination if: • you’ve had a serious reaction to a flu vaccination before • you have a high temperature (postpone it until you’re better) Speak to your GP, practice nurse or pharmacist if you have any further questions.

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Hearing At least 30% of people over 60 have some hearing loss, most of which is treatable.

According to the RNID four million people in the UK are not wearing hearing aids when they could benefit from them, leading to isolation in social situations and frustration of not being able to follow conversations with friends and family.

If you are concerned about your hearing, see your GP who can refer you to a free HNS specialist, such as: • An ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist • A hearing specialist (audiologist), particularly if you’re over 60 • A clinic run by audiology staff at your GP surgery, local hospital or health centre The specialist will assess your hearing to find the cause of your hearing loss. Some people may not need a hearing aid, for example, if an ear infection affects your hearing temporarily.

There are many high street services offering tests privately.

Hearing Aids If the specialist advises that you need a hearing aid, they’ll recommend the most suitable type. Hearing aids can be analogue or digital, depending on the type of technology they use to process sound.

NHS hearing aids include: • Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids: these have an earmould that sits inside your ear and the rest sits behind your ear.

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Hearing Advisory Service provides public mobile service in Harpenden on the 4th Thursday of the month from 1.30pm - 3pm at Harpenden Public Halls.

See website for more information: www.hhas.org.uk/hearing-support-hertfordshire

• Body-worn hearing aids: these have a small box containing the microphone that clips to your clothes or goes in your pocket, and a lead connecting the box to an earmould.

• Bone conduction hearing aids: these use a special removable headband to deliver sound by vibrations through the skull.

• Bone anchored hearing aids (BAHA): these are a type of bone conduction hearing aid that require a permanent surgical implant in the bone behind your ear.

• CROS (contralateral routing of signals) & BiCROS hearing aids: these are for people with hearing in only one ear & work by transmitting sound from the side with no hearing to your hearing ear Some types of hearing aids are not available on the NHS, for example: • In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids.

• In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids.

• Completely in the canal (CIC) hearing aids.

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Vision and Ageing The risk of falling increases with age, many of these falls are linked to failing vision.

Regular eye examinations will pick up any problems and help maintain vision.

What happens as you get older?

It is normal for our eyes to change as we get older. Normal changes include losing the ability to focus on things that are closeup (presbyopia), finding that it takes longer to adapt to changing lighting conditions and finding that we need more light to see things.

As we get older we are also more likely to develop eye disease. The most common eye diseases in older people are cataract, age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma.

Who is more likely to fall?

There are several reasons why people fall over and not all are related to your vision. People who are most at risk of falling include those who: • • • •

Are aged over 75 Are women Who have fallen before Have Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, diabetes, Meniere’s disease or dementia • Are taking sedatives, antidepressants or more than four prescription medicines per day.

What you can do to reduce the chance of you falling

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• Have good lighting. Energy saving bulbs are fine providing they are positioned correctly.

• Have a good contrast difference between things can make them easier to see, for example, a dark bathroom floor if you have white suite.

• If you are dazzled by the sunshine when you are out, wear sunglasses that absorb the UV light and/or a hat with a brim to shield you from the sunlight.

• People who wear bifocals or varifocals may be more likely to fall, even if they are used to them. If you take part in regular outdoor activities it may be best to also have a pair of distance glasses to wear outdoors and when you are in unfamiliar places, or to take your glasses off if your distance prescription is not very strong. Your optometrist will be able to advise you about this.

Watch your step!

Be aware of your vision in each eye separately. Many conditions appear in one eye first. By regularly checking your vision (with glasses if you need them) by covering each eye in turn, you are more likely to notice changes. If you notice changes in your vision you should seek advice from your optometrist.

Eye tests for the over 60s Everyone over the age of 60 is entitled to a free NHS sight test. Most optometrists will provide this service, and we recommend that you look for an optometrist who is a member or a fellow of the College of

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A practice with the emphasis on customer service!

20/20 Eyecare Optometry practice was started in 2005 by Lesley Connors following a conversation between Lesley and optometrist colleague Kathy Steer. They were both working in hospital based eye care but were keen to relocate their clinical experience to the high street optics.

With the help of the staff at 20/20, Lesley has built up the practice from scratch to the family friendly business it is today. Their aim is to provide affordable eye care with the emphasis on care.

Lesley Connors, with a background of 25 years working as an orthoptist in the NHS has proved invaluable in setting up and running 20/20 Eyecare. Being involved in clinical treatment of patients of all ages from small children to elderly retired people, showed me the importance of continuity of care and well dispensed spectacles.

At 20/20 Eyecare, they put you at the centre of a tailor made service in a family friendly relaxed environment. Their fully qualified staff are always happy to discuss all aspects of your eye care.

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Optometrists (MCOptom or FCOptom).

You do not need to be registered with a particular practice, so just make an appointment when it is convenient.

Poor vision does not have to be an inevitable part of ageing; optometrists are eye health specialists who can help people see as clearly and as well as possible.

What are the symptoms?

AMD is not painful and never leads to total blindness because it is only the central vision that is affected. This means that almost everyone with AMD will have enough side (or peripheral) vision to get around and keep their independence.

In the early stages of AMD, central vision

Age-related macular degeneration may be blurred or distorted and things may (AMD) look an unusual size or shape. This may Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss for people over the age of 50 in the western world. It occurs when the delicate cells of the macula – the small, central part of the retina responsible for the centre of our field of vision – become damaged and stop working.

There are two types of AMD: the ‘dry’ form and the more severe ‘wet’ form. Dry AMD is the most common, develops gradually over time and usually causes only mild loss of vision. The wet form accounts for only 10 to 15 per cent of all AMD but the risk of sight loss is much greater. Because macular degeneration is an age-related process it usually involves both eyes, although they may not be affected at the same time.

Children and young people can also suffer from an inherited form of macular degeneration called macular dystrophy.

Sometimes several members of a family will suffer from this condition and, if this is the case, it is very important that their eyes are checked regularly.

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happen quickly or develop over several months, although if only one eye is affected it may not be noticed. People with AMD may become sensitive to light or find it harder to distinguish colours.

The macula enables people to see fine detail so those with the advanced condition will often notice a blank patch or dark spot in the centre of their sight. This makes activities like reading, writing and recognising faces very difficult.

Who is at risk from AMD? The cause of AMD is unknown but several factors appear to increase the risk. These include smoking, a high-fat diet and excessive sun exposure. Risk also increases with advancing age and may be more common in those with a family history of AMD.The incidence is higher among women and those with light skin or eye colour.

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How can your optometrist help?

Optometrists have an important role to play in detecting and monitoring AMD by checking your standard of vision and examining the macula for signs of the disease at routine eye examinations.

If AMD is suspected, your optometrist may put drops into the eyes to widen the pupils and see more of the retina.

Early detection is essential to treating some types of AMD. Your optometrist will advise you whether you need to be referred to a GP or hospital for medical advice. If your vision is affected, you may be given stronger glasses lenses or special magnifiers to help you see better.

What can be done?

There is currently no treatment for dry AMD but the wet form can be treated in several ways. Various forms of laser treatment may be used to halt or slow the progression of abnormal blood vessels and prevent further sight loss. These are simple procedures that can be carried out on an outpatient basis.

Drugs are also becoming available for treating wet AMD, whether in the early or late stages. Trials are also taking place for new types of drugs and for combination therapies using drugs and laser treatment.

There is evidence that improving your diet by eating fresh fruits and dark green, leafy vegetables may delay or reduce the severity of AMD. Some studies show that taking nutritional supplements may be effective in slowing the progression of AMD although they do not prevent its

initial development nor improve vision already lost (AMD Alliance).

The Macular Disease Society has created a DVD ‘Living with Macular Disease’, which can be viewed on their website at: www.maculardisease.org.

If you would like further practical advice on macular disease please contact the MDS helpline on: 0845 241 2041

Glaucoma Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases in which the optic nerve, which connects your eye to your brain, is damaged by the pressure of the fluid inside your eye.

This may be because the pressure is higher than normal, or because the nerve is more susceptible to damage from pressure. This may affect one or both of your eyes.

Because you cannot feel the pressure, and the damage happens slowly, you may not know you have glaucoma until a lot of damage has been done. That damage cannot be put right, so it is particularly important that you find out early. The best way to make sure of this is to have a regular eye examination with an optometrist. If you are at risk of developing glaucoma, you should have an eye examination at least every two years, or more often if your optometrist recommends it.

If you have glaucoma but do not treat it, your eyesight will gradually get worse, and you could eventually go blind. The good news is that treatment with eye drops may stop it getting worse.

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Who gets glaucoma?

Anyone can develop glaucoma. The risk of developing glaucoma goes up if you are: • Aged over 40 • Very short-sighted • Of African or Caribbean origin • Closely related to someone with glaucoma.

Glaucoma tends to run in families. If one of your parents or children, or a brother or sister, has glaucoma, and you are over 40, the NHS will pay for your eye examination.

Because glaucoma causes no symptoms at first, if you are risk you must have regular eye examinations to detect it early.

What will happen if I have glaucoma?

If your optometrist suspects that you may have glaucoma, he or she will refer you to an ophthalmologist (a specialist eye doctor). If you do have glaucoma, you will be given eye drops to use every day. They will reduce the pressure and help control the build-up of fluid. They will not hurt.

Because you will not feel different in any way, you will not be able to tell that the treatment is working. This is why it is very important that you: • Go to your follow-up appointments • Keep on using the drops. If you find it hard to use the eye drops, you can get special bottles or holders to make it easier.

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In a small number of cases, an ophthalmologist may recommend that you have an operation to help drain away the fluid.

There is no cure for glaucoma but it can be treated effectively, normally with eye drops.

Any existing eye damage will probably be permanent, but your sight could get much worse quite quickly if you stop the treatment. It is very important that you use the eye drops every day, even if you cannot tell that they are helping.

Glaucoma can be managed. Most people with glaucoma lead perfectly normal lives.

I have been told that the pressure inside my eye is high, but I do not have glaucoma.

Some people naturally have pressure that is above the normal range, but this pressure does not cause any damage to their eyes. This means they do not have glaucoma. However, they are more likely to develop glaucoma, so your optometrist or ophthalmologist will tell you how often you should have this checked.

National Eye Health Week National Eye Health Week is from 17th to 24th September 2013. It is a chance for eye health organisations to remind people how important their eyes are, and point out that most people should have their eyes examined every two years.

If you are over 40, or of African Caribbean origin, or have a close family member with an eye condition like glaucoma, you should

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bear in mind that you are at a greater risk than average of having an eye condition that may not have any symptoms (signs that something is wrong). That means you might not find out about a problem until it is difficult to do something about it.

Information courtesy of the Royal College of Optometrists

www.lookafteryoureyes.org

Your Heart How your heart works Your heart is a pump that keeps blood moving around your body. It delivers oxygen and nutrients to all parts of your body, and carries away unwanted carbon dioxide and waste products.

The structure of the human heart The heart is made up of three layers: • Pericardium - thin outer protective sack • Myocardium - specialised cells making up the thick muscular wall • Endocardium - thin inner lining of the heart Inside the heart there are four chambers two on the left side and two on the right.

• The two small upper chambers are called the atria • The two larger lower chambers are called the ventricles The left and right sides of the heart are divided by a muscular wall called the septum.

There are four valves in your heart. They act like ‘gates’ that open and close, making sure that your blood travels in one direction through your heart - a bit like a one-way traffic system. They are called the tricuspid valve and the pulmonary valve on the right side of the heart, and the mitral valve and the aortic valve on the left.

Like every other living tissue, the heart itself needs a continuous supply of fresh blood. This blood supply comes from the coronary arteries which branch off from the main artery (the aorta) as it leaves the left ventricle. The coronary arteries spread across the outside of the myocardium, supplying it with blood. How blood travels around your body As your heart muscle contracts, it pushes blood through your heart. With each contraction, or heartbeat: • Your heart pumps blood forward from its left side, through the aorta (the main artery leaving the heart) and into the arteries. Blood from the right side is pumped to your lungs.

• The blood continues through the arteries, which divide off into smaller and smaller branches of microscopic capillaries. Travelling through this network of capillaries, blood reaches every part of your body.

• The blood then travels back to the heart from the capillaries into the veins. The branches of the veins join to form larger veins, which deliver the blood back to the right side of your heart.

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As the heart relaxes in between each heartbeat or contraction, blood from your veins fills the right side of your heart and blood from the lungs fills the left side of your heart.

and being aware of dangers such as smoking, drinking, high blood pressure, and stress are all important for your long term heart health, whether you currently have heart disease or not.

The two sides of the heart are separate, but they work together. The right side of the heart receives dark, de-oxygenated blood which has circulated around your body. It pumps this to your lungs, where it picks up a fresh supply of oxygen and becomes bright red again.

1. Eating healthily

The cardiovascular system

• plenty of fruit and vegetables • plenty of starchy foods such as bread, rice, potatoes and pasta. Choose wholegrain varieties wherever possible • some milk and dairy products • some meat, fish, eggs, beans and other non-dairy sources of protein • only a small amount of foods and drinks high in fats and/or sugar.

This movement of blood around the body, pumped by the heart, is called circulation.

This system is called the cardiovascular system (or heart and circulatory system).

• It contains about five litres (eight pints) of blood, which your heart is continuously circulating.

• Each day, your heart beats about 100,000 times.

• It pumps about 23,000 litres (5,000 gallons) of blood around your body.

A healthy diet helps to reduce your risk of developing heart disease, or if you have already got heart problems it will help to protect your heart.

Try to eat:

Choose options that are lower in fat, salt and sugar whenever you can.

2. Being active

For your heart to keep pumping regularly, it needs an electrical supply. This is provided by a special group of heart cells called the sinus node, which is also known as your heart’s natural pacemaker.

People of all ages who are physically active are less likely to get cardiovascular disease as those that are inactive.

Preventing heart disease

Having friends around you who are supportive of your goals is very important.

Keeping your heart healthy, whatever your age, is the most important thing you can do to help prevent and manage heart disease.

Taking exercise, eating a healthy diet, encouraging children to be heart healthy 78

3. Getting the right support

Information courtesy of the British Heart Foundation

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Depression Mental health problems are not an expected part of aging; however a significant number of people do develop dementia or depression in old age and depression affects more older people than any other age group.

Depression is difficult to diagnose in older people because it often occurs alongside other mental and physical illnesses. In addition many older people do not seek help from their GP; if you, or someone you know, is showing signs of depression it is important to seek help as early as possible.

According to the Mental Health Foundation, between 10-16% of people over 65 have depression with an estimated 2-4% have severe depression. Older people living alone or in residential/nursing care and those with physical illnesses and/ or disabilities are more at risk, with some 40% affected by depression.

Many older people experience psychological or emotional distress associated with factors linked to old age, including isolation, loss of independence, loneliness and losses of many kinds, including bereavements.

Depression describes a range of moods, from feeling a bit low in mood to feeling unable to cope with everyday life. People with severe depression experience a range of symptoms including low mood, loss of interest and pleasure and feelings of worthlessness or guilt.

Older people are more vulnerable to many of the factors that are known to cause depression, including: • being widowed or divorced • being retired/unemployed • physical disability or illness • loneliness and isolation.

Self-help strategies that can help reduce the risk of depression *Regular exercise *Planning for major life transitions such as retirement or moving home *Seeking support from family and friends following the death of a long-term partner *Maintaining interests, activities and social involvement, including learning

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Coming home from hospital

Together you will draw up a plan of what you want to achieve & how they will assist you.

Enablement Homecare - If you need help getting back on your When you are talking about your needs you may also feel that you feet If you need help getting back on your feet after a hospital stay or illness, you can get enablement home care; this is free and can last up to four weeks.

Enablement in your own home is a type of homecare that helps you become independent again quickly after an illness or a fall; it is provided for up to four weeks and is free.

The service is intended to help you regain some or all of the independence you may have lost as a result of a long term health condition or as a result of an illness, accident or operation.

If you are already receiving a home care service you might also benefit from this particular kind of support to enable you to do more on your own in future.

Enablement home care is usually provided

by Goldsborough in partnership with the County Council.

To access the enablement service, you first need to have an assessment of your needs

by Health and Community Services.

Following a referral from Heath and Community Services someone from Goldsborough Home Care, or sometimes another provider, will visit you at home and talk with you about what you can and cannot do - and what your aims are.

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could benefit from simple equipment or need other advice about the range of support services available to you.

Continuing Healthcare - If you have ongoing health needs If you have ongoing critical health needs the NHS can provide you with continuing healthcare at home or in a care home.

Continuing health care is provided free of charge and can include personal care.

There is national guidance for deciding who qualifies for NHS continuing healthcare.

This can be found by searching for ‘continuing healthcare’ on the Department of Health website or NHS Choices website.

There is also an NHS public information booklet called NHS continuing healthcare and NHS-funded nursing care which can be found on the Department of Health website.

In your own home, the NHS will pay for healthcare services like a community nurse or specialist therapist, and personal care such as help with washing and dressing.

In a care home, the NHS will pay for your care home fees, including board and accommodation.

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If you feel that you, or someone you care for, need an assessment for NHS continuing healthcare, and you / they are registered with a GP in Hertfordshire, you can contact the NHS Continuing Care Department:

It could come from a range of professionals including care staff, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, your local GP surgery, social workers or community nurses. The healthcare professionals working with you will be able to advise you about the options available to you.

Tel: 01707 369574 Fax: 01707 369572 Continuing Care Department, NHS Hertfordshire, Charter House, Parkway, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6JL.

Intermediate care - recovery and getting your independence back You may need a period of rehabilitation after an illness or operation. Intermediate care in a nursing or care home, or in your own home, can help with your recovery.

Intermediate care helps older people to regain their independence when they come out of hospital and, just as importantly, prevents them from going into hospital if they do not need to.

This support may be provided in your own home, a hospital, a nursing home or a care home, and may be provided through health agencies, social care services or private providers.

The people who provide you with this support will depend on your situation and the kind of help you need.

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Changes in Public Health Care Services Local NHS health services From 1st April 2013 the NHS has gone through a number of changes; these are listed below.

Clinical Commissioning Groups These groups are led by local GPs and are responsible for commissioning (planning and buying) health services on behalf of local people. In Hertfordshire there are two clinical commissioning groups: • East and North Hertfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group which covers a population of around 573,000 people registered with GPs in North Herts (Except Royston) Stevenage, Welwyn Hatfield, Broxbourne and East Herts. www.enhertsccg.nhs.uk • Herts Valleys Clinical Commissioning Group covers a population of more than 592,000 people registered with GPs in Dacorum, Hertsmere, St Albans, Three Rivers and Watford. www.hertsvalleysccg.nhs.uk

Central Eastern Commissioning Support Unit The Commissioning Support Unit (CSU) provides a wide-ranging portfolio of services that includes contracting support, business intelligence, medicines management, continuing care placements, ICT and communications and engagement to the CCGs in Bedfordshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, and Luton.

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The Essex,

CSU covers Luton and

Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire.

NHS England NHS England commissions primary care health services - those provided by GPs, dentists, community pharmacists and optometrists. www.england.nhs.uk

Area Teams of NHS England Hertfordshire and South Midlands is one of the eight area teams (ATs) that make up the Midlands and East of England region and is one of the largest ATs, serving a population of 2.7 million people. Its function is to oversee the commissioning work of the CCGs.

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Public Health The public health team transferred to Hertfordshire County Council. Their responsibilities include: • • • • • •

Sexual health services Child measurement programme NHS Health Check Alcohol and drugs Stop smoking services Public health advice to NHS commissioners

Health services are delivered through a series of NHS Trusts.

• East and North Herts NHS Trust & West Herts NHS Trust provide hospital based treatment.

• Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust (HCT) provides community healthcare.

• Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (HPFT) provides mental health services and specialist learning disability services.

The East of England Ambulance Service This service covers Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Essex, Cambridgeshire, Suffolk and Norfolk. It provides patient transport services to hospitals throughout the area, both emergency and non emergency journeys every year.

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LEARNING IT’S NEVER TOO LATE! 84

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LEARNING Age Concern Computer Courses Age UK Hertfordshire offers computer training opportunities at venues in Hatfield for people over 50. In partnership with the Workers Educational Association training courses for beginners are delivered in the Silver Surfer Room at: Jim MacDonald Centre: 3 MacDonald Court, High View, Hatfield, AL10 8HR The room is fully equipped with six computers; the courses are run in small friendly groups with a tutor to guide learners at their own pace.

More advanced courses are held at: Onslow St Audrey’s Secondary School, Old Rectory Drive, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 8AD. When courses are not running the Silver Surfer room is available for practice, internet research and emailing.

Interested?

To find out more about computer training courses, drop-in facilities or volunteering please call 01707 323 272.

Computers & New Technology Don’t be scared!

More and more seniors are making friends with their computers and realising the

benefits associated with staying connected through technology.

Learning new skills can be daunting, but there is support available to help older people learn and experience the huge potential new technology has to offer.

There is also a charity that offers teaching of computers to residents of the Harpenden and St Albans area called Computer Friendly. The prime objectives of the charity is to assist anyone in St Albans & District, including disadvantaged & excluded people, in gaining computer skills.

For more information regarding the courses please visit: www.computerfriendlystalbans.org.uk/about.html or call: 020 3239 1559 - local rate Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays between 9.00am to 1.00pm only.

Reduce Depression Spending time on line apparently reduces depression. You can maintain contact with friends and family when mobility becomes an issue and you can connect with sources of social support. Technology is a great way to keep the generations connected you can email, Skype or use Face Time to keep in touch. If you use Skype or Face Time you can actually see family members and friends; you could read a bedtime story to a grandchild, or hear about their day at school and see their latest certificate!

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9 ½ Computer Tips Everyone Should Know

this, opt for a laptop cooling pad/tray so it won’t conduct heat.

“People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing.” - Dale Carnegie.

Give these simple tips and shortcuts a whirl.

They’re practical for everyday use to ensure you have more fun with your computer!

6. Give it some juice! A laptop’s biggest battery-life-sucking part is its display. To eke out more juice, turn down the brightness to the lowest level your eyes can stand. Do this in Display Settings in Control Panel.

1. Explore the world from the comfort of your sitting room with Google Street view.

For example check out the Eiffel Tower by typing in Google: ‘Google Maps Street View Eiffel Tower Paris’ and then click drag and drop the little yellow man onto the map to become a virtual visitor and view the stunning 360 degree view. Start globetrotting!

2. Some of your files and pictures too big to email? You can use free services like Dropbox or YouSendIt, etc to share huge files.

3. Nifty shortcuts – • Ctrl + C - Copy the highlighted text or selected item • Ctrl + V - Paste the text or object that’s in the clipboard • Ctrl + Z -Undo any change • Windows flag + L - Locks your computer 4. ALWAYS back-up - It’s not a case of IF your computer will fail, but WHEN. So ensure you have an automatic back-up system in place from a reputable online back-up supplier so you’ll always have access to your precious files.

5. Keep Cool - Thanks to their small size, laptops are prone to overheating. To prevent 86

7. When you install something, watch what you’re doing instead of just NEXT, NEXT, NEXT through everything. A lot of programs will install annoying toolbars by default, which take up space on your screen and are difficult to remove.

8. If you get any random pop-ups don’t just click NEXT, NEXT, NEXT or ACCEPT. Many of these pop-ups are viruses so BE CAREFUL. If you don’t recognise the pop-up, or to double-check what it is, call up your computer support company.

9. Google Tricks: • Find weather and movies – In Google type “weather” or “movies” followed by the town to display current weather conditions or movies in your area.

• Track airline flight and packages - Enter the airline & flight number to display the status of an airline flight.

Final ½ Secret - For any trouble with your computer visit the Troubleshooting FAQs at www.tech-angels.co.uk or call 01727 568869. Also you’ll find video tutorials to help you further.

- These tips where brought to you by Frontline Connect Tech Angels, Harpenden’s award-winning home computer support.

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Online Shopping

• Ask in you local library for further details.

As well as keeping in touch, the internet also enables those who have limited mobility to bank and shop from the comfort of their own homes. Online shopping really does take the stress out of shopping; the delivery drivers will even carry the shopping into your kitchen for you.

Is there a charge?

There is a charge of £5 per person per session. There is no charge for library members who have a disability, or who are on low incomes and receiving benefits. We give you a free course booklet to take away for practice.

Looking for a computer course....

What computer ‘taster’ sessions Harpenden Library can offer help! are available?

Library staff specialise in helping people who are beginners with computers. They offer a friendly, safe way of starting to use a computer, with a computer ‘taster’ session.

What is a computer ‘taster’ session in a library?

It is an informal one-to-one introduction to basic computing at your own pace. Taster sessions happen in most Hertfordshire libraries, using the public access computers.

The hands-on, one hour sessions are aimed at adults with little or no experience of using a computer.

There are five different ‘taster’ sessions available. You can do as many or as few as you like, although if you are a complete beginner you will need to do the ‘Getting started with computers’ session first.

1. Getting started with computers • Understanding what a computer is and how it works • Using a keyboard and mouse or touchpad • Seeing some uses, such as letter writing and using the Internet • Using a computer safely and securely

How can I book a computer taster 2. Using the Internet - an introduction session?

You can book a computer taster session using the following contact methods: • Email: hertsdirect@hertscc.gov.uk putting “Library computer taster session” in the email subject line.

Please state which library you would like to attend; • Telephone: 0300 123 4049; 88

• Using the basic tools of the Internet • Using a web address to find a webpage and access information • Using a search engine to explore the Internet • Staying safe online

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3. Introduction to email

Disability & Learning

• Setting up a web-based email account • Opening and sending emails and attachments

Community Meeting Point Harpenden 11-12 Harding Parade Station Road Harpenden AL5 4SW T: 01582 762 579 E: cmph@hpcha.org.uk W: www.cmph.org.uk

• Setting up and using a contact list / address book • Using email securely

4. Introduction to word processing • • • •

Creating a basic document Adding, editing and formatting text Saving and printing a document Checking spelling and grammar

5. Beginner’s guide to family history and the Internet * • Understanding the different formats of documents available online • Using short-cuts to family history websites • Searching Hertfordshire Names Online for Hertfordshire ancestors • Searching online sources such as Ancestry and FindMyPast *you will need to have basic Internet search skills.

Community Meeting Point Harpenden is managed by a professional staff team with the help of volunteers. CMP runs a hub offering day opportunities to adults with mental health issues and a charity shop, which is located directly next door.

Harpenden Gateway Club Natalie Chaston 30 Broadstone Road Harpenden AL5 1RG T: 01582 621007 E: Natalie@chastons.biz Social Club for people with learning disabilities aged 18 and over. Activities include games, Music, craft, and outings.

Harpenden Phoenix Holidays

6. Introduction to social networking Mr Favell - Chairman • Setting up and using a Facebook account • Adding ‘friends’ and sharing photos on Facebook • Using Facebook safely and securely • Basic introduction to Twitter

11 Falconers Field Harpenden AL5 3EU T: 01582 764179 E: john.favell@tiscali.co.uk Provide holidays & days out for disabled people

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Harpenden Library/ Library Express 27 High Street, Harpenden, AL5 2RU T: 0300 1234049 W: www.hertsdirect.org/libraries Opening Times: Mon 09.00 – 19.00 Tues 09.00 – 14.00

14.00 – 19.00 Weds 09.00 – 13.00 Thurs 09.00 – 19.00 Fri 09.00 – 14.00

14.00 – 19.00 Sat 09.00 – 16.00 Sun Closed

Normal Service Library Express Normal Service Library Express Normal Service Library Express Normal Service Normal Service

Library Express will be offering a “Library Express” service in the front section of Harpenden Library. This means that you can use the self-service kiosks to: • Issue and return books, magazines for loan, DVD’S and CD’S • Pay overdue charges • Renew items • Check the items that you have on loan Borrow popular items of stock and collect reserved books.

Access emails and the Internet by using one of the two 30 minute’s non-bookable computers.

The full range of library services including enquiries, photo coping, scanning and printing from computers will only be available during normal library opening times.

Access for people with disabilities • Disabled parking nearby • Automatic doors • Wheelchair access 90

• Hearing induction loop • Accessible computer facilities • Supernova software for screen-reading and magnification • Electronic magnifier MENCAP Harpenden Society Karen Stafford - Director of Services Stairways 19 Douglas Road Harpenden AL5 2EN T: 01582 460055 E: office@harpendenmencap.co.uk W: www.mencap.org.uk Harpenden Mencap society supports people with a learning disability in their everyday lives.

Scope Redclyffe N Barney - Service Manager 21 Salisbury Avenue Harpenden AL5 2QF T: 01582 620000 F: 01582 620001 E: redclyffe@scope.org.uk W: www.scope.org.uk Scope is a national disability organisation whose focus is people with cerebral palsy.

Scope’s aim is that disabled people achieve equality: a society in which they are as valued, and have the same human and civil rights as everyone else.

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HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL NEW HORIZONS? HSF HELPLINE91- 01582 462926

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HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL Ten Money Saving Tips for your Holiday

An EHIC isn’t a substitute for travel insurance - it is only for medical cover.

2. Make sure you have travel If you are off around Europe, ensure you insurance 1. Get a valid EHIC

have an up-to-date European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): It is valid across the EU and entitles you to free or discounted medical treatment in state-run hospitals in any European Union country (plus a few others.)

Get travel insurance as soon as you book, if not, you will not be covered for cancellation or changes. Take an annual travel insurance policy if you travel abroad more than twice a year.

3. Do not pay airport prices for It entitles you to the same treatment travel accessories as a local. This is extremely useful in emergencies, and means if it’s free for them, it’s free for you. Keep it on you at all times when you’re away to ensure you’re covered.

Pick up travel accessories like adaptor plugs, eye masks and flight socks at the airport and you risk paying inflated prices.

Plan ahead - you can pick up much cheaper products on the High Street; it is worth giving the pound shops a try.

If you are buying adaptor plugs so you can charge gadgets abroad, note down which type you’ll need before you buy.

The Travel Adaptor website has useful country-by-country info: www.travel-adaptor.com

4. When flying with a budget airline take your own food It does not cost a penny. Don’t just Google “EHIC”; there are a host of unofficial sites that charge a fee of about £15 - £20 to do it for you. Apply via the official link: www.ehic.org.uk 92

Budget airlines make extra money by, among other things, selling snacks at sky high prices. It is only liquids which are restricted so you can easily take a picnic for the flight.

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Tates Coaches DAY TRIPS TOURS SHORT BREAKS EXECUTIVE COACHES FOR CORPORATE & PRIVATE HIRE

We turn the miles into smiles!

Tel: 01582 840297

44 High Street, Markyate, St Albans. AL3 8PA

www.tatescoaches.co.uk

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5. Change your money before you travel You will be a captive customer if you leave it until the last minute to change your money, so you will probably end up with the worst exchange rates. If you must get your travel cash from the airport, order for pick-up to get a better rate.

6. When flying be aware of your luggage allowances Check the guidlines for your airline (they are not all the same,) and make sure you weigh your case; you will be charged if you go over the allowance.

Most airlines will give you a free hand luggage allowance...you will be amazed at what you can fit in!

To minimise weight, wear your heaviest clothes and shoes. If near the weight limit, put heavy gear in your pockets, then stow your jacket under your seat on the plane.

7. Choose your sunscreen carefully The British Skin Foundation state, “Don’t choose a sunscreen based on price or retailer. The two factors you need to look out for are its SPF and UVA rating.

Firstly SPF, or sun protection factor, is the level of protection sunscreen gives against UVB radiation, the type that causes sunburn. This is usually on the front of the product. We recommend choosing one at SPF 30 or higher.”

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“Secondly, check the UVA rating, which tends to be on the back. It may be a circle with UVA inside it, or star rating from zero to five. Ideally, aim for four or five stars.”

You do not need to buy new sun tan lotion every year; some will last for 24 months once opened.

The British Skin Foundation advise people that when using sun cream you need to keep an eye on is the Period After Opening (PAO) number on the back of the bottle.

This normally looks like a jar with an open lid with a number next to it (eg, 12 or 24).

This is the number of months you ought to keep and use the product for before throwing it away once opened. Sun tan lotions may, given time, start to separate and become less effective, so it’s always worth noting down on the bottle when it was first opened.

8. Turn off mobile 3G and data roaming to avoid charges Using the internet abroad can be very expensive. The most sensible plan is to turn your phone off completely while you are on holiday abroad, but if you cannot, there are ways to slash costs, including data-roaming add-ons, free wi-fi hotspots abroad, and even switching your Sim. Speak to your network provider for more information.

9. Book your car hire before you go on holiday Hiring a car is more convenient, and often cheaper, than getting taxis on holiday.

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Make sure you research which companies are offering the best deals; using a comparison website (for example TravelSupermarket) will save you time and money.

The insurance can often be a pricey add on, so make sure you take this into consideration when choosing the best company.

10. Always book cheap airport parking Airports often make more from parking and shopping than planes. If you leave your car there without booking first and you risk high rates.

By booking first, even on the day, you could save money. See the Cheap Airport Parking guide for more tips.

Tips for applying Sun Tan Cream Be generous... Your skin certainly won’t thank you for being stingy. At least twenty minutes before you go out in the sun, apply cream generously to all areas.

Be thorough. It’s not enough to just cover the bigger areas that you can reach easily.

Pay particular attention to where your body bends. Don’t forget your feet - the soles & between your toes - your hands, nose, ears...

Repeat. If you’re staying out in the sun, you’re going to need your lotion with you to top up your protection.

If you take a dip, then re-apply.

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES FIND SOMETHING TO OCCUPY YOURSELF 96

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES Coffee Mornings The Harpenden Trust Coffee Morning ----------------------------------------Free coffee and biscuits provided for seniors between 10 and 11am on Tuesdays at the Trust Centre, 90 Southdown Road, Harpenden AL5 1PS, and on Thursdays at High Street Methodist Church Hall, Harpenden.

Contact: Telephone us any time 01582 460457

Harpenden Seniors Club Coffee Morning -----------------------------------Leyton Rd Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2HU. Will be closed shortly for re development.

Contact: Tel: 01582 768319

Wesleys Coffee Shop ---------------------------------------------------------Open Monday to Saturday 10 - 12. High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden, AL5 2RU. Contact: Tel: 01582 713056

Sport and Leisure Harpenden & District Indoor Bowling Club --------------------------------Harpenden & District Indoor Bowling Club is located about half a mile east of Harpenden town centre. It serves an area bounded by Luton to the north, St Albans to the south, Hemel Hempstead to the west and Welwyn Garden City to the east.

Inside the building there are four rinks for indoor bowling all the year round, with two locker rooms, a kitchen and a bar all fully equipped, together with a large meeting room for social events and formal occasions.

The current membership of about 350 takes a full and active part in bowls competitions at clubs, county and national level as well as league competitions, inter-club matches and weekly roll-ups. The club stages a course of bowls tuition and it caters in its programme of bowling for all ages and abilities.

HDIBC takes pride in making every member feel a part of the club and includes spoon drives, galas and whist drives amongst its social events.

Please visit the Club website for further information. www.harpendenibc.co.uk Contact: Tel: 01582 767305 Email: spburg1982@yahoo.co.uk

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES Harpenden Bowling Club --------------------------------------------------------Harpenden Bowling Club is located at Spenser Road.

It is open every day from 10.30am until dusk from the last Saturday in April to the third Saturday in September.

The club was formed in 1908 to play the game of lawn bowls. It is the only outdoor bowling club in Harpenden. Short mat bowling in clubhouse during the closed season.

Membership is open to men and women. New members welcome. Please visit the Club website for further information. www.harpendenbowlingclub.co.uk Contact David Brooks: Tel: 01582 833696 Email: david.brooks@freeuk.com

Good Afternoon Bridge Club ---------------------------------------------------Friendly duplicate bridge for any age at Harpenden Public Hall (Thursday from 1.30pm to 5.00pm.)

Contact Sylvia Culverhouse, Secretary/Treasurer: Tel: 01582 765067 or contact Linda King: Tel: 01582 622165 Email: culverhousesm@aol.com

Seven of Diamonds Bridge Club (Harpenden) ------------------------------Friendly bridge club who meet on Tuesdays from 7.25pm at the Friends Meeting House, Southdown Road. Contact Helen Tingle: Tel: 01582 764644 Email: tingles@lineone.net

Harpenden Rubber Bridge Club ------------------------------------------------Every Wednesday from 2.00pm to 5.00pm at the day Centre, Leyton Road. Please contact the Secretary in advance for more details.

Contact Mrs M Taylor, Secretary: Tel: 01582 760964

Elliswick Lawn Tennis Club ------------------------------------------------------Located in a residential area of Harpenden with seven astroturf courts surrounded by prizewinning gardens we cater for all ages and levels of play. Social tennis is the backbone of the club. The attractive clubhouse offers modern facilities, with a lounge and bar, kitchen & changing rooms, a panoramic view of all seven courts & a superb venue for our busy social calendar.

Contact: Tel: 01582 462529 Email: elliswick.sec@googlemail.com 98

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES Harpenden Lawn Tennis Club ---------------------------------------------------Harpenden LTC was established in 1906 at the current grounds on the edge of Rothamsted Park, close to the centre of Harpenden. It is a private club owned by its members and is one of the leading tennis clubs in the country.

The Club offers top class facilites for all classes of player from beginners to county/national standard and at the same time retains the friendly atmosphere of a members’ club. Play is possible on synthetic grass and clay courts (subject to weather) all year round during daytime and under floodlights. From October to April five synthetic grass courts are covered by airhalls.

In the summer the grass courts are also available during daylight hours.

Contact: Tel: 01582 713202 Email: admin@harpendenltc.co.uk

Come and visit The Walled Garden for a wide range of learning activities and events, aimed at all age groups, in a beautiful setting.

Visits to the Garden • Guided Tours • Garden Shop • Creative Writing Illustrated Talks & Lectures • Gardening Master Classes Herbal Workshops Art Workshops • Children’s Workshops Children’s Book Festival • Pumpkin and Apple Gala & Much More!

Events throughout the year, so visit our website for more details.

Become a Friend and enjoy some amazing benefits.

Become a Volunteer and learn new skills. Become a donor a donation, no matter how small, will help make the restoration happen.

Luton Hoo, Luton, Beds, LU1 4LF Tel: 01582 879089 Website: www.lhwg.org.uk Email: office@lhwg.org.uk

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES Brambleton Model Railway Club ----------------------------------------------Highfield Oval, Ambrose Lane,Harpenden.

Contact Mr H Foster: Tel: 01767 261250 Web: www.brambleton.co.uk

Harpenden RFC Squash Club --------------------------------------------------Redbourn Lane, Harpenden. Contact: Tel: 01582 762694 Web: www.harpendensquash.org.uk

Harpenden Cricket Club ---------------------------------------------------------Harpenden Common. Contact: Tel: 01582 763620 Web: www.harpenden.play-cricket.com

Cribbage League -------------------------------------------------------------------36 Tallents Crescent Batford Harpenden AL5 5BS. Contact: Tel: 01582 767558 - Thursday evenings September - May

Harpenden Common Golf Club ------------------------------------------------Cravells Road, East Common, Harpenden, AL5 1BL. Tel: 01582 711320 Web: www.hcgc.co.uk

Harpenden Golf Club -------------------------------------------------------------Hammonds End, Redbourn Lane, Harpenden AL5 2AX. Contact: Tel: 01582 712580 Web: www.harpendengolfclub.co.uk

Aldwickbury Park Golf Club ----------------------------------------------------Piggottshill Lane, Harpenden Herts AL5 1AB. Contact: Tel: 01582 760112 Web: www.aldwickburyparkgolfclub.co.uk

Redbourn Golf Club --------------------------------------------------------------Kinsbourne Green Lane, St Albans Herts AL3 7QA. Contact: Tel: 01582 793493 Web: www.redbourngolfclub.com

Harpenden Swimming Pool -----------------------------------------------------50+ Aquafit- Mondays at 10.30 am, Thursdays at 11.30 am/Senior Swim- Mondays at 11.30 am Adult Only Swimming- Mondays 8.30 pm - 10 pm; Wednesday andThursday 9pm-10pm Rothamsted Park, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 2HU. Contact: Tel: 01582 460683 Web: www.harpersfitness.co.uk 100

100 JOIN TODAY – IT’S FREE

LEISURE ACTIVITIES Harpenden Arrows Running Club ---------------------------------------------Tuesdays & Thursdays 7.30pm - Meet at St Georges School Sports Centre, Carlton Road, Harpenden.

Contact Mrs Vernon: Tel: 01727 833604 OR Mrs Chapman Tel: 01727 758669 Email: membership@harpendenarrows.co.uk Web: www.harpendenarorunners.co.uk

Harpenden JKA Karate Club ----------------------------------------------------Batford Methodist Church Lower Luton Rd, Harpenden AL5 5AH. Beginners welcome, especially Forum members. Get fit and be confident you can defend yourself. Training Tuesdays and Thursdays in Batford Methodist Church, AL5 5AH. Contact: Simon Marchant-Jones, karate instructor: Tel: 07956 678118 Email: mail@harpendenjka.com Web: www.harpendenjka.com

Harpenden Sports Centre (Harpers Gym) ----------------------------------Leyton Road, Harpenden, AL5 2HU. Lots of classes and facilities for all ages and abilities.

Contact: Tel: 01582 767722 or 01582 76772 Web: www.harpersfitness.co.uk/harpenden-leisure-centre

Arts and Crafts Harpenden Arts Club -------------------------------------------------------------Harpenden Public Hall, Southdown Road (7.30 – 9.30 most Thursday evenings.)

Web: www.harpendenartsclub.org.uk

Harpenden Evening Decorative & Fine Arts Society (HEDFAS) -----------Local branch of NADFAS (National Association of Decorative and Fine Arts Societies.)

Holds monthly lectures covering all aspects of the decorative and fine arts.

Membership Enquiries: Ann Saint Email: mail@harpendenjka.com Web: www.hedfas.net

Art Group – Hertfordshire Visual Arts Forum -------------------------------PO Box 894 St Albans AL1 9EG. Contact: Tel: 07813 100651 (Open Studio Coordinator) Email: harpenden@hvaf.org.uk

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES Harpenden Horticultural Society ----------------------------------------------Contacts: Membership Secretary Mrs K Petty; Show Secretary Mrs P Kemp.

Contact Mr H Foster: Tel: 01727 812554 Email: cpKemp@btinternet.com Web: www.harpendenhorticulturalsociety.org

Harpenden Photographic Society ----------------------------------------------7.45pm – 10.00pm 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, September to June. Harpenden Trust Hall, Southdown Rd. Contact: Tel: 01582 715369 Web: www.hpsociety.co.uk

Harpenden Floral Decoration Club -------------------------------------------Meeting Held At Harpenden Public Hall Enquiries. Meeting Date1st Tuesday (except 10 May) at 2pm (No meetings in January or August) Contact: Tel: 01582 621757

Music and Dance Harpenden Barbershop Harmony Club (The Kings of Herts Chorus) -------Rehearse at Sir John Lawes School, Manland Way, Harpenden AL5 4QP (7.45 – 10.00 most Thursday evenings.) Contact: Tel: 01582 712580 Web: www. kingsofherts.co.uk

Choral Society ----------------------------------------------------------------------United Reformed Church Hall Vaughan Rd Harpenden AL5 4HA. Contat: Tel: 01727 833604 Email: info@harpendenchoralsociety.org Web: www.harpendenchoralsociety.org

Hardynge Choir --------------------------------------------------------------------Harpenden/Wheathampstead based choral society.

Contact: Tel: 01582 760854 Web: www.hardynegchoir.org

The Drum Den ---------------------------------------------------------------------Learn to play the drums in a professional studio. With over 20 years experience.

78a High Street, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2SP. Contact: Tel: 01582 622349 Email: lessons@thedrumden.co.uk Web: www.thedrumden.co.uk

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES Harpenden Light Operatic Society --------------------------------------------Meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, St John’s Hall at 8.00pm.

Contact: Tel: 01582 622 420 or 01582 768 574 Web: www.harpenden-operatic.co.uk

Magic Voices Contemporary Choir -------------------------------------------Every Monday at 8pm at The British Legion, 21 Leyton Rd, Harpenden, AL5 2HU. Web: www.magicvoices.co.uk

The Lea Singers --------------------------------------------------------------------Harpenden-based chamber choir (rehearse at St George’s School, Wednesday 19.45 – 22.00.)

Contact: Tel: 01582 620993 Email: leasingerspress@fsmail.net Web: www.leasingers.co.uk

Music Makers Choir of Harpenden --------------------------------------------Rehearsal address: The Parlour, Harpenden High Street Methodist Church.

Contact Judith Caunce: Tel: 01582 765006 Email: jac@events-plus.co.uk

Musicale Adult Band --------------------------------------------------------------Tuesday evenings, all standards welcome.

Contact: Tel: 01582 713333 Email: info@musicale.co.uk

Web: www.musicale.co.uk

English Miscellany Folk Dance Display Group -----------------------------St John’s Hall, Harpenden. Contact: Tel: 01483 755278 Web: www.englishmiscellany.com

Heil & Toe Club --------------------------------------------------------------------Harpenden Methodist Church, High Street, Harpenden.

Contact: Tel: 01582 769607 Web: www.hielandtoeclub.co.uk

Scottish Country Dancing Club ------------------------------------------------Meet at Lourdes Hall at 8.00pm: Tuesdays for experienced dancers & Thursday for beginners & improvers.

Contact: Tel: 07855 661510 Web: www.HSCDC.org.uk

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES Walks Harpenden Health Walks --------------------------------------------------------Led by trained volunteers from various locations in Harpenden.

Contact: Heather Catterfeld: Tel: 01462 459395 Email: healthwalks.cms@hertscc.gov.uk Web: www.hertslink.org/cms/healthwalks

Other Clubs Probus Secundus Club Harpenden --------------------------------------------The club is for retired and semi-retired professional and business men. Its primary aim is to provide fellowship with the opportunity to develop friendship and acquaintances through monthly luncheon meetings and talks, excursions to places of interest, as well as short holidays in the UK and abroad.

There is an associated ladies club which meets every other month and has its own programme, while participating in some of the activities of the men’s club.

The club meets at Harpenden Golf Club on Redbourn Lane on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 12noon for 12.45pm. Will be closed for re development shortly.

Contact: Tony Cartwright, Committee Secretary Tel: 01582 460368 or Peter Webster, Chairman Tel: 01582 766093 Web: www.probus-secundus-harpenden.co.uk There are a number of other Probus Clubs in the area: Village Probus club of Harpenden. Forum Probus Club & two other Women’s Probus Clubs.

For more details on these clubs, please call the Harpenden Seniors Forum on 01582 462926

Harpenden History Society -----------------------------------------------------Harpenden and District Local History Society was founded in 1973 with the intention of researching and recording Harpenden’s history and making it known by means of meetings, publications and exhibitions. They organise a series of meetings each year, usually on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 8pm in the Southdown Room, Harpenden Public Hall.

Contact: Tel: 01582 764359 Web: www.harpenden-history.org.uk

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES St.Nicholas Club For The Retired ----------------------------------------------This Club meets every Wednesday in the St.Nicholas Church Hall, Harpenden at 14.30 – 16.3Opm. The club provide activities including Table Tennis, various Board Games and a Christmas Lunch. Membership is available to retired people who either would like some gentle exercise or want to keep their minds active; it costs £2.00 per week which includes tea and biscuits.

The club is looking for new members and anyone interested should come along on a Wednesday where you will be made most welcome.

Contact: Marie Elledge, Chairperson Tel: 01582 760270 Contact: Roger Cook Secretary Tel: 01582 592567 Email: rogerspencerc@tiscali.co.uk

Harpenden Seniors Club (Will be closed shortly for re development) -------------------Membership restricted to active residents of Harpenden of pensionable age. Members must be able to look after themselves as the centre organisation is provided by volunteers.

Services available are: tea, coffee, snacks, hot lunch, hairdressing for ladies, chiropody, large print books, social activities and two computers, with internet connection are available for members to use. Minibus and volunteers cars provide transport to the Seniors Club: 01582 768319.

Tail lift vehicle for hire to groups within Harpenden when not in use by the Seniors Club.

Please contact David Oxley on: 01582 622590 for further details.

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 10.00am-3.00pm.

For More Information please call: 01582 768319, preferably between 10an & 1pm Monday to Friday. Email: info@harpendenseniorsclub.org.uk

Civil Service Retirement Fellowship (Harpenden) -------------------------Quarterly lunches held at various locations. Any retired civil servants or former civil servants and widows or widowers of civil servants may apply for membership.

Contact A G Thomson: Tel: 01582 713250 (29 Westfield Drive, Harpenden, Herts AL5 4LN)

Courage Club -----------------------------------------------------------------------11 Falconers Field, Harpenden. Contact: Tel: 01582 764179

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES Computer Friendly ----------------------------------------------------------------A charity that offers teaching of computers to residents of the St Albans & Harpenden area.

Contact: Tel: 020 3239 1559 Web: computerfriendlystalbans.org.uk

University of the Third Age Harpenden --------------------------------------This is an informally run organisation for retired and semi-retired people, run by its members to provide educational and social activities. There is a weekly meeting with a guest Speaker, or contributions from members and special interest groups also meet to cater for a variety of particular subjects and activities.

For further information Contact Anne Willis, Membership Secretary: Tel: 01582 715326

Women’s Institutes Harpenden Village Womens Institute -----------------------------------------This group meets at the Guide Hut Townsend Lane, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2RN at 7.30pm on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Contact Mrs Ruth Read (Secretary): Tel: 01582 769724

Kinsbourne Green Womens Institute -----------------------------------------This group meets at St Mary’s Church Hall, Kinsbourne Green, north Harpenden AL5 3QE at 7.30pm on the third Tuesday of the month.

For more information Contact Mrs Mary Wright (Secretary): Tel: 01582 627195

Civil Service Retirement Fellowship (Harpenden) -------------------------Quarterly lunches held at various locations. Any retired Civil Servants of former Civil Servants and widows and widowers of civil servants may apply for membership.

Contact A G Thomson: Tel: 01582 713250 29 Westfield Drive, Harpenden, Herts AL5 4LN

Herts Theatre Club ----------------------------------------------------------------The Herts Theatre Club presents a great way to enjoy trips to the theatre and short holidays in comfort and safety and in the company of like-minded local people. Trips to various places of interest and events including Stately Homes, Gardens, Museums and Art Galleries will also be included.

Contact Marian Durbidge: Tel: 01582 469338 Web: www.htclub.co.uk 106

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES French Circle -----------------------------------------------------------------------Meetings at Members’ homes. Contact: Tel: 01582 762 063 or 01581 768 094

Friends of the Nickey Line -------------------------------------------------------Free led health walks available in Wheathampstead.

Contact: Tel: 01582 622771 Web: www.nickeyline.org

Goodlife -----------------------------------------------------------------------------The GoodLife is an informal social club for 50+ singles who want to boost their social life, make new friends and enjoy a range of activities.

Contact: Tel: 01582 410558 Web: www.the-good-life.org.uk

Upper Lea Valley Group ---------------------------------------------------------91 Lower Luton Road, Harpenden. Contact: Oliver Randell Secretary Tel: 01582 761277 Email: ulvg@ulvg.org.uk Web: www.ulvg.org.uk

Harpenden Village Inner Wheel ------------------------------------------------Harpenden Village Inner Wheel meets monthly for an evening meal, usually with a speaker. Members take part in social, fund raising and service events etc.

Email: iwchv@hotmail.co.uk

Lions Club of Harpenden --------------------------------------------------------Harpenden Lions Club is a service organisation providing help and assistance to those in Harpenden, Wheathampstead, and Redbourn. The Club raises money for local, national and international charities.

Contact: Tel: 0845 8337426 Email: info@harpenden-lions.co.uk Web: www.harpenden-lions.co.uk

Rotary Club of Harpenden ------------------------------------------------------We meet on Wednesday’s at 7.30pm at Aldwickbury Park Golf Club, Harpenden.

For more details about the Club please visit: Web: www.hvrc.net or Email: secretary@hvrc.net

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES

Grow Your Own! Allotments not only provide you with fruit, vegetables and flowers at a very reasonable cost, but allotment gardening is also a very healthy relaxing outdoor exercise.

Harpenden Town Council provides allotments at 15 sites throughout Harpenden. Two allotment societies administer the allotments on the Town Council’s behalf; these are East Harpenden Gardening Club and South Harpenden Allotments and Gardens Society.

All sites have a water supply and most have an adjoining car park. If you would like more information, or would like to rent an allotment, please contact one of the allotment societies or the Town Council.

East Harpenden Gardening Club -----------------------------------------------The Club was formed about forty-five years ago as a trading club. For the past thirty-five years, the Club has administered allotment sites in the Batford area in co-operation with Harpenden Town Council.

The Club’s Headquarters and store are at Holcroft Road (next to Batford Memorial Hall) and are well-stocked, with a wide variety of horticultural requisites at very competitive prices. The store is open on Sundays between 10.00am and 12noon.

Contact: Phil Batchelor Tel: 01582 462866 Email: buildconsultancy@clara.co.uk

South Harpenden Allotments & Gardens Society -------------------------The Society manages over 400 plots on 9 sites across the Town.

To enquire about plot availability and membership, please Email: allotlet@gmailcom or visit the Society’s shop on a Sunday morning between 10am and 12pm. The shop is located on the Piggottshill site in Dark Lane, Harpenden, AL5 1QA. It stocks a wide range of seeds, compost, fertilizer and more. Harpenden Horticultural Society members may also use the shop upon presentation of their HHS membership card.

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LEISURE ACTIVITIES Allotment Sites In Harpenden East Harpenden Gardening Club 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

BATFORD, opposite Holcroft Road RIVERSIDE, off Lower Luton Road PICKFORD HILL, of Lower Luton Road MARQUIS LANE, off Station Road CRABTREE LANE, off Crabtree Lane WESTFIELD, off Westfield Road

South Harpenden Allotments and Gardens Society 7. ALDWICKBURY, off Dark Lane 8. HARPENDEN RISE, off Luton Road 9. CROSS LANE, off Welbeck Rise 10. TOPSTREET WAY, off Topstreet Way 11. SIBLEY AVENUE, off Grove Road 12. HEATH CLOSE, off Southdown Road 13. OAKLEY ROAD, off Grove Road 14. CHURCHFIELD, entrance from Somerfield Supermarket car park.

15. PIGGOTTSHILL, off Grove Road

The Benefits of an Allotment are Varied!

The health benefits are extensive: organic produce is pesticide-free and the taste is excellent. There are the advantages for all members of the family to get involved in some form of exercise in the fresh air.

Individuals have an opportunity to make friends with others of a similar interest regardless of social/economic background and age! There is a wealth of help, support

and advice that new plot-holders may seek from experienced plot-holders if required.

There is an opportunity to make your own compost, thereby recycling garden waste and encouraging natural biodiversity.

Overall, the benefits of allotment gardening are excellent value - and much better than just watching gardening programmes!

Access for All The Town Council is keen to ensure that anyone who wants one can have an allotment. If you have a disability which requires the adaptation of an existing allotment plot, please contact the Town Council or the relevant allotment society to discuss what changes can be made.

HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL TOWN HALL, LEYTON ROAD, HARPENDEN, HERTS AL5 2LX Telephone: 01582 768278 Fax: 01582 760026 E-mail: harpenden.town.council@harpenden.gov.uk

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MOBILITY DO YOU NEED HELP? 110

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MOBILITY Mobility around the home

Bath Lifts

Being able to stay living in your own home is important to many people; however doing so can be dangerous to some. Many accidents occur in the home as people get older. To make life easier, and safer, you may want to have mobility and access assists installed.

There is a variety of lifts available depending on the size of bathroom and the level of assistance required. There are also walk in baths available as well as bathroom refits with handles & supports throughout the room.

Orthopaedic Beds Orthopaedic beds assist you in getting a good nights’ sleep by helping you avoid back pain and muscular discomfort.

Orthopaedic beds and mattresses are designed with spine, skeletal and muscular support as their primary objectives. Millions of people suffer with back pain and, in many cases, it could be cured by replacing your existing bed with an orthopaedic one.

Automatic beds are also available; these help you into a sitting position, raise your legs etc.

Stair Lifts Installing a stair lift is an effective way of staying in your home for as long as possible.

When purchasing a stair lift it is best to shop around as many companies will offer large discounts and different payment plans. A relatively small outlay now could lead to significant rewards in terms of your maintained independence.

Mobilty Aids Harpenden Trust for short-term wheelchair loans available please call: 01582 460457.

The British Red Cross, volunteer-led mobility aids service provides wheelchair hire and short-term loans of mobility aid equipment at almost 1,000 outlets in the UK, helping tens of thousands of people every year.

Equipment is usually available within 24 hours in an emergency and is loaned free of charge, although a refundable deposit may be requested.

The service helps people return to their own homes after a hospital stay, enables them to go on holiday with friends or family, and promotes independence. The main types of mobility aid provided include: wheelchairs, backrests, bath seats, walking sticks and frames, commodes, bedpans & urinals.

The nearest centre to Harpenden is: Hammer Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Herts HP2 4EU. Telephone: 01442 260157 For more information visit: www.redcross.org.uk

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Mobility Scooters Many people who have mobility problems prefer to use mobility scooters instead of manual or electric wheelchairs, as they find them easier to use.

scooters on a hire purchase agreement of between one and three years. However, to do this you must give up all or a proportion of your regular DLA payments to Motability (who run the scheme) to pay for your mobility scooter.

Buying a Mobility Scooter Unlike manual and electric wheelchairs, mobility scooters are not part of the Wheelchair Scheme. This means that you will need to purchase your mobility scooter by yourself on a private basis, usually without outside help.

Things to Consider • Consider how much distance the mobility scooter needs to cover • Will you have to take your mobility scooter in the car?

• Can you easily get on and off the seat?

• Armrests can increase your comfort levels when using the mobility scooter, and they can help with getting on and off the scooter.

• Are the controls easy to use?

• Is the supplier accredited by the British Healthcare Trades Association?

• Is there enough room in your home to store the mobility scooter near to a power point?

Financial Assistance The Motability Scheme offers financial assistance for people who are receiving the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

Accredited suppliers can offer mobility 112

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Find out about the different types of mobility scooters on the market

• • • •

Class 2 Scooters

*Buggies

Legally these scooters can travel up to 6.4kph (4mph) on pavements and are allowed on the road to cross from one side of the road to the other. Within the category of class 2 scooters some are more suited to indoor use as they are smaller and more compact.

• • • •

Class 2 vehicles can be divided into subsections:

These generally have features similar to Class 2 vehicles, but tend to be larger and can be used on the roads where. They include a speed selector with two speed settings, usually changed by the flick of a switch, 12.8kph (8mph) for road use, 6.4kph for pavement use. Class 3 vehicles will have lights, indicators, horn, rear view mirror and rear reflectors as these are required by law.

*Micro Scooters • Small and compact; • Designed to fit easily into a car boot; • Indoor use and outside on even surfaces only; • Short distance range; • Smaller wheel base and therefore less stable.

*Indoor Scooters • • • •

Three or four wheeled vehicles; Mainly suitable for indoor use; limited outdoor use on even surfaces; Some have a limited kerb climbing facility (9cm); • Medium distance range; • Can be collapsed/dismantled for transporting.

*Outdoor Scooters

Four-wheeled vehicles (car shaped); No indoor use; Outdoor use including rough ground; Kerb climbing of 10cm or more; cannot be dismantled.

Class 3 Vehicles

Class 3 vehicle users do not require a driving license but should obey the Highway Code at all times. Class 3 vehicles are not allowed on motorways, bicycle tracks or bus/cycle lanes. Although legally allowed on dual carriageways, this is not recommended.

It is advisable to do a training course - especially if the user is not used to driving on roads. Details of these may be obtained from the local road safety officer.

Class 3 vehicles can be divided into:

Scooters

• Three or four wheeled vehicles; • Not for domestic indoor use; 114

Outdoor use on uneven ground; Kerb climbing of 10cm or more; Medium/long distance range; Can be dismantled for transporting.

• Three and four -wheeled vehicles;

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• • • • • •

Not for domestic indoor use; Outdoor use including uneven ground; Tiller steering; Kerb climbing of 10cm or more; Medium/long distance range; Cover long distances.

Buggies • • • • •

Four-wheeled vehicles (car shaped); Not for indoor use; Kerb climbing of 10cm or more; Cover long distances; Cannot be dismantled and therefore require ramps or lifts to transport them in a vehicle or car trailer.

and are equipped to be used on the road as well as the pavement.

2. When you are on the road you should obey the guidance and rules for other vehicles; when on the pavement you should follow the guidance and rules for pedestrians.

3. Pavements are safer than roads and should be used when available. You should give pedestrians priority and show consideration for other pavement users, particularly those with a hearing or visual impairment who may not be aware that you are there.

Do you need insurance to drive one? 4.

Insurance is not legally required for any powered vehicle in either category, Class 2 for pavement use or Class 3 for pavement and road use. However, it is recommended that the purchaser have at least public liability insurance, covering accidental damage to other people and property.

Some policies cover additional losses from fire, theft and damage and can include a breakdown recovery service.

Mobility Scooter Rules 1. There is one class of manual wheelchair (called a Class 1 invalid carriage) and two classes of powered wheelchairs and powered mobility scooters. Manual wheelchairs and Class 2 vehicles are those with an upper speed limit of 4 mph (6 km/h) and are designed to be used on pavements. Class 3 vehicles are those with an upper speed limit of 8 mph (12 km/h)

Powered wheelchairs and scooters MUST NOT travel faster than 4 mph (6 km/h) on pavements or in pedestrian areas. You may need to reduce your speed to adjust to other pavement users who may not be able to move out of your way quickly enough or where the pavement is too narrow.

5. When moving off the pavement onto the road, you should take special care. Before moving off, always look round and make sure it’s safe to join the traffic. Always try to use dropped kerbs when moving off the pavement, even if this means travelling further to locate one. If you have to climb or descend a kerb, always approach it at right angles and don’t try to negotiate a kerb higher than the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

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6. You should take care when travelling on the road as you may be travelling more slowly than other traffic (your machine is restricted to 8 mph (12 km/h) and may be less visible).

7. When on the road, Class 3 vehicles should travel in the direction of the traffic.

Class 2 users should always use the pavement when it is available. When there is no pavement, you should use caution when on the road. Class 2 users should, where possible, travel in the direction of the traffic. If you are travelling at night when lights MUST be used, you should travel in the direction of the traffic to avoid confusing other road users.

8. You MUST follow the same rules about using lights, indicators and horns as for other road vehicles, if your vehicle is fitted with them. At night, lights MUST be used.

Be aware that other road users may not see you and you should make yourself more visible - even in the daytime and also at dusk - by, for instance, wearing a reflective jacket or reflective strips on the back of the vehicle.

9. Take extra care at road junctions.

When going straight ahead, check to make sure there are no vehicles about to cross your path from the left, the right, or overtaking you and turning left. There are several options for dealing with right turns, especially turning from a major road.

If moving into the middle of the road is difficult or dangerous, you can - stop on the left-hand side of the road and wait for a safe gap in the traffic - negotiate the 116

turn as a pedestrian, i.e. travel along the pavement and cross the road between pavements where it is safe to do so. Class 3 users should switch the vehicle to the lower speed limit when on pavements. If the junction is too hazardous, it may be worth considering an alternative route. Similarly, when negotiating major roundabouts (i.e. with two or more lanes) it may be safer for you to use the pavement or find a route which avoids the roundabout altogether.

10. All normal parking restrictions should be observed. Your vehicle should not be left unattended if it causes an obstruction to other pedestrians - especially those in wheelchairs. Parking concessions provided under the Blue Badge scheme will apply to those vehicles displaying a valid badge.

11. These vehicles MUST NOT be used on motorways. They should not be used on unrestricted dual carriageways where the speed limit exceeds 50 mph (80 km/h) but if they are used on these dual carriageways, they MUST have a flashing amber beacon.

A flashing amber beacon should be used on all other dual carriageways.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v2.0.

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AROUND THE HOME STAY SAFE KEEP SAFE HSF HELPLINE117 - 01582 462926

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AROUND THE HOME Bogus Callers Older people are less likely than any other age group to be victims of crime. But there is one one type of criminal that target older people: bogus callers.

Bogus callers, or distraction burglars, target older people. They trick their way into people’s homes to steal money and valuables while the householder’s attention is elsewhere.

Most callers are genuine and mean you no harm, but bogus callers can often seem very plausible and will try to fool you. They might pretend to be an official from a gas or electricity company, or a salesperson. They might pose as a charity worker, although there are also many legitimate door-todoor fundraisers. It may even be someone with a hard luck story claiming to need to borrow a few pounds or wanting to use your telephone in an emergency.

Age UK advises people to carry out the following steps before answering the door: • Lock - Lock all your other outer doors before you go to the front door. Some burglars work together – one keeps you chatting on the doorstep while another gets in through a back door.

• Stop - Think about whether you’re expecting anyone.

• Chain - Put the door chain on (don’t keep the chain on all the time as it will 118

prevent anyone with a key from entering, such as a home help). Look through the window or spy-hole to see who is there.

• Check - Ask for an identity card and examine it carefully. If you have seen identification, but are still unsure, check who they are by phoning the company that they represent. Get the number from a bill or your phone book rather than calling a number they give you as they could be putting you through to an accomplice.

Rogue traders Doorstep selling can present a number of risks – for example, dishonest trades people may carry out unnecessary work to a poor standard at inflated prices.

It is wiser never to buy anything from callers who you have not bought from before (and know to be reliable).

The selling techniques used by ‘rogue traders’ can be difficult to resist: the best defence is not to expose yourself to them (you can download a ‘No Cold Calling’ sign from the internet).

Remember that if you sign a contract for a purchase above £35 from a seller in your home, in most cases you have at least seven days to change your mind (the ‘cooling off’ period). This applies even if you invited the salesperson into your home. However, if your seller is a rogue trader and you cannot

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trace them, your consumer rights may not be of much use. Do not be pressured into making any payments - particularly in cash - or signing documents until you have had a chance to think about things or discuss them with family or friends. A reputable company will not try to force you into an instant decision. Take your time and shop around to see whether you have been offered a good deal.

If you need to have work carried out on your property you should choose the contractor yourself; do not be tempted by someone who knocks on your door.

Personal recommendation from those you trust is often a good way to find a reliable trader.

Contact your local Trading Standards office or the Harpenden Directory office; they may have a list of approved local contractors.

Neighbourhood Watch Neighbourhood Watch is the largest community safety organisation in the U.K, with around 10 million members.

St.Albans & District Neighbourhood Watch is not police-run; it is run by volunteers who work in partnership with Hertfordshire police and St.Albans City & District Community Safety Partnership.

St.Albans Neighbourhood Watch works by developing close liaison between households in a neighbourhood and the local police. It aims to help people protect themselves and their properties and to reduce the fear of crime by means of improved home security, greater vigilance, accurate reporting of suspicious incidents 120

accurate reporting of suspicious incidents to thepoliceandbyfosteringacommunityspirit.

By joining, you can do something that will really make a difference to your local area; you do not need to dedicate lots of time.

There are four neighbourhood watch areas within Harpenden (North, South, East and West;) you can find out more online: www.harpenden-east.neighbourhoodwatch.org www.harpenden-west.neighbourhoodwatch.org www.harpenden-south.neighbourhoodwatch.org www.harpenden-north.neighbourhoodwatch.org

Keeping Safe - Fire Smoke Alarms • Smoke alarms are cheap and easy to install & they are easily found on the high street & Internet. Look out for one of these symbols, which shows the alarm is approved and safe.

British Standard Kitemark

• There are a variety of different models to choose from, your local Fire & Rescue Service will be happy to give you advice on which one is best suited for you (they will also be happy to install one for you.)

• You need to install a smoke alarm on every level of your home.

• Test the batteries in your smoke alarm on every level of your home.

• Test the batteries in your smoke alarm every week & change them every year... make sure you never remove them.

FREE home safety visit call: 0300 1234046 or visit: www.hertsdirect.org/fire

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• Strobe light and vibrating-pad alarms are available for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Contact the Royal National Institute for Deaf People Information Line on 0808 808 0123.

How to avoid electrical fires • Always check that you use the right fuse to prevent overheating.

• Make sure an electrical appliance has a British or European safety mark when you buy it.

• Certain appliances, such as washing machines, should have a single plug to themselves, as they are high powered.

• Try and keep to one plug per socket.

• Look out for signs of dangerous or loose wiring such as scorch marks, hot plugs and sockets, fuses that blow or circuit-breakers that trip for no obvious reasons, or flickering lights.

• Check and replace any old cables and leads, especially if they are hidden from view – behind furniture or under carpets and mats.

• Unplugging appliances helps reduce the risk of fire; unplug when you are not using them or when you go to bed.

• Ensure that furniture has a ‘fire resistant’ label.

• Store electric blankets flat, rolled up or loosely folded to prevent damaging the internal wiring.

• Unplug blankets before you get into bed, unless it has a thermostat control for safe all-night use.

• Try not to buy second hand blankets and check regularly for wear and tear.

• Secure portable heaters to the wall where possible.

• Keep heaters clear from curtains and furniture and never use to dry washing.

Know your escape route • Plan an escape route and make sure everyone knows how to escape.

• Make sure exits are kept clear.

• The best route is the normal way in and out of your home.

• Think of a second route in case the first one is blocked.

• Take a few minutes to practice your escape plan.

• Review your plan if the layout of your home changes.

• Make sure door and window keys are accessible.

• If your escape route is blocked try and get everyone into one room, ideally with a window and a phone. Put bedding around the bottom of the door to block out the smoke, then open the window and call “HELP FIRE”.

If there is a fire, what should you do?

• Do not tackle fires yourself.

• Keep calm and act quickly, get everyone out as soon as possible.

• Do not waste time investigating what’s happened or rescuing valuables.

• If there’s smoke, keep low where the air is clearer.

• Before you open a door check if it is warm. If it is, do no open it – fire is on the other side.

• Call 999 as soon as you are clear of the building.

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Community Alarm Service A Community Alarm Service provides an emergency call system for elderly and disabled people living in the Harpenden, St Albans and District area (in both private and public sector housing).

It operates through the existing telephone network and provides a 24 hour, 365 days a year emergency link to a control centre. In an emergency, if you press the button on the pendant or control button, an operator at the control centre will be able to speak to you through the system and summon the help you need.

How to apply: The Housing Support Team St Albans City & District Council St Peter’s Street, St Albans AL1 3JE Tel: 01727 819231 Email: housingsupportgroup@stalbans.gov.uk For more information please visit www.stalbans.gov.uk/housing/communityalarms

HCSS

Home Counties Security Systems

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Andy Hoyte 01582 469 595 Supporter of

7 Church Green, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2TP

Tel: 01582 469595 Fax: 01582 760936 email: home.counties@btconnect.com www.homecountiessecurity.co.uk

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NPA Insurance Broking Group is one of the UK’s Top 50 Independent Insurance Brokers providing tailor-made insurance solutions to private clients.

Most home insurance is based on a 'one size fits all' approach but at NPA we understand that all customers and their homes are different.

NPA offer advice based on an understanding of the possessions you own and the protection you seek, we cover homes, second homes, cars, jewellery and art collections in the UK and abroad.

Our services include:

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Home Visits Detailed Risk Assessments Expert Advice on a Specialist Policy best suited to your needs Worldwide 'All Risks' Cover Warranty Free Policies Agreed Value for Valuables and for Cars A Fast, Fair Claims Service Personal Service Cover arranged with an Extensive Panel of Insurers

If you wish to make further enquiries about NPA and its service then please contact our Harpenden Representative, Dan Hillier on 01462 440088 or email danh@npainsurancebroking.com NPA Insurance Broking Group Private Clients Division Address: NPA House 122 Whinbush Road Hitchin Herts SG5 1PN. Tel: 01462 440088 Fax: 01462 477888 Web: www.npainsurancebroking.com NPA Insurance Broking Group is a trading style of NPA Commercial Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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Harpenden Fire & Rescue Service, Leyton Road

01582 684800 (Fire Station)

0300 1234046 (Fire Safety and Advice) Always dial 999 in an emergency harpenden.fire@hertscc.gov.uk www.hertsdirect.org/fire

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, poisonous gas produced by incomplete burning of carbon-based fuels, including gas, oil, wood and coal. Carbon-based fuels are safe to use. It is only when the fuel does not burn properly that excess CO is produced, which is poisonous.

When CO enters the body, it prevents the blood from bringing oxygen to cells, tissues, and organs. You cannot see it, taste it or smell it but CO can kill quickly without warning.

According to the HSE* statistics every year around 11 people die from CO poisoning caused by gas appliances and flues that have 124

not been properly installed, maintained or that are poorly ventilated. Levels that do not kill can cause serious harm to health if breathed in over a long period. In extreme cases paralysis and brain damage can be caused as a result of prolonged exposure to CO. Increasing public understanding of the risks of CO poisoning and taking sensible precautions could dramatically reduce this risk.

There are signs that you can look out for which indicate incomplete combustion is occurring and may result in the production of CO: • Yellow or orange rather than blue flames (except fuel effect fires or flueless appliances which display this colour flame) • Soot or yellow/brown staining around or on appliances • Pilot lights that frequently blow out • Increased condensation inside windows.

There are a number of simple steps that gas consumers can take to keep themselves safe.

Carbon Monoxide can be produced by any combustion appliance, including those that burn fossil fuels e.g. oil, wood and coal.

If you have one of these appliances you should make sure that it is serviced and maintained by a competent person and the chimney is regularly swept. An audible carbon monoxide alarm is a good way to ensure you are immediately alerted to any carbon monoxide in your home and is cheap and easy to fit. Carbon monoxide detectors are widely available from DIY stores, usually found in the smoke detector

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aisle, or through your energy supplier.

But just as a smoke alarm does not detect carbon monoxide, your carbon monoxide alarm is not a replacement for a standard smoke alarm - you will need one of each.

What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Early symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can mimic many common ailments and may easily be confused with food poisoning, viral infections, flu or simple tiredness. Symptoms to look out for include: • • • • • • • •

headaches or dizziness breathlessness nausea loss of consciousness tiredness pains in the chest or stomach erratic behaviour visual problems

What should I do if I think my appliance is spilling carbon monoxide?

• Switch off the appliance and shut off the gas supply at the meter control valve • Open all doors and windows to ventilate the room • Visit your GP and tell him/her that you believe your may have been exposed to carbon monoxide.

Call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 *Information courtesy of the Health & Safety Executive www.hse.gov.uk

Keeping Warm over Winter As energy bills rise, lots of us think twice before turning up the thermostat. So before you crank up the heating have a look at the following tips for keeping warm: • Wear several thin layers, rather than one thick layer.

• Wear clothes made from wool, cotton or fleecy fabrics, if possible • A lot of heat is lost through the head and neck, try wearing a hat and scarf • If you arre sitting down, a shawl or blanket will provide extra warmth.

• Keep your feet up (lots of draughts are at floor level!)

• Wear warm clothes in bed.

• Draw your curtains, to stop the heat escaping and the draughts coming in • Keep any windows & internal doors closed • Your body keeps warm by burning food you have eaten, so make sure you have regular hot meals that contain carbohydrates, such as potatoes, pasta, bread and rice.

You could also: • Have your heating system serviced and chimney swept • Check your water stopcock is working properly • Get a keyhole cover – it should only cost a couple of pounds and will help keep the draughts out in cold weather.

• Fit thermal linings to your curtains • Check out the benefits & grants available to help with insulation and energy efficiency, such as cavity wall insulation.

You can find out more about winter fuel benefits on page 24

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MOVING HOME PROPERTY SALES AND LETTINGS 126

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MOVING HOME Moving and downsizing solutions for older people Moving to a smaller place? Over time, we tend to accumulate stuff - lots of stuff. We have drawers full of stuff, gifts that we have never used (and never will), furniture we don’t really need but keep “just in case” and items that we’ve had for years may be difficult to part with due to nothing more than familiarity while serving no functional purpose.

Now is the time to get rid of excess baggage (literally!) and pare down to the essentials.

Moving home at any time of life can be a stressful experience but moving home when you are older is particularly taxing, mentally and physically, especially if family members are not close by or able to help.

Follow the tips below for stress free preparation before your move.

1. Write a list of all the items you love and can’t live without; it will help you bid adieu to things that didn’t make the list.

“It’s hard to persuade people they can’t take everything with them, but by keeping what’s on your wish list, you won’t be upset about the things you can’t keep.”

2. Start thinning out your belongings at least three months before the move. Take some time each day, to go through that jammed coat closet or overflowing filing cabinet.

“Paper is the real killer, so tackle it one box

at a time. The same goes for photos, which require a lot of attention.

3. Get a feel for the size of your new rooms by comparing them to rooms of similar dimensions in your present home. For instance, your living-room-to-be might be roughly the same size as your current bedroom. You may think you can squeeze in two sofas, but this kind of reality check could help you realize that only one will fit comfortably.

4. Take a good look in rooms with items that don’t have as much sentimental value.

Take the kitchen, for example; most people don’t need 10 mixing bowls and won’t get teary-eyed over losing a second spatula. If you’re downsizing from a house to a flat, target the garage. Snow shovels, the lawn mower, ladders - you won’t need any of them.

5. Don’t throw anything in the rubbish.

Recycle, reuse, sell and donate instead.

As tempting and easy as it is to ditch wire hangers, musty clothes and shabby furnishings, be environmentally responsible and find a home for everything. A can of cleaning fluid could make someone else’s sink sparkle if you don’t want it; consider giving supplies items to a shelter, neighbour or cleaning lady.

6. Get an objective opinion. If you can’t decide whether to keep or kiss that dusty ‘70s-era sewing machine goodbye, it’s good to have another opinion.

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7. When selling your goods, try an auction for high-end items. Often, they can buy all of your wares or put you in touch with booksellers and other specialty dealers. Some dealers will come to your home, take what you don’t want and even drop off the charity stuff, that way you won’t be trudging all over town.” If you can’t sell an item, donate it to a shelter.

8. Use floor plans to prearrange your furniture before the move. This is another useful reality check. To start, draw plans if you don’t have any and sketch in a furniture layout. Then look at the plans realistically; if you’ve crammed in side table or chairs, you need to edit more, don’t wait until after you move to contend with furniture you’ll just end up tripping over.

9. Once you get to the packing stage, use a colour-coded system to organize all of your boxes.

Choose a colour for each room and mark the boxes destined for that room with a coordinating colour sticker. You can also do the same thing numerically; for example, if room No. 1 is the kitchen, then all boxes marked No. 1 will go there. A simple and efficient organizing idea to make the move that much easier!

Do you need a removal company?

Never underestimate the amount of physical and mental organisation it takes to move the contents of your home to a new one. Packing boxes is one thing, but lugging them in and out of vans and up continued on page130

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rtis!

We are getting older and wiser at John Cu Talk to a Senior Partner about our Exclusive Seniors Offer at enquiries@JohnCurtis.co.uk HARPENDEN OFFICE 01582 764471 36 High Street, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2SX VILLAGE AND COUNTRY OFFICE 01582 839200 35 High Street, Wheathampstead, Herts AL4 8BB

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& down stairs is another, and can be extremely exhausting, especially if you’re on a tight deadline to vacate the property. If you’ve a sizeable amount to shift, or lots of valuable items, such as antique furniture or fragile pieces, it’s best to choose a removal company to take the burden off your shoulders, so you can concentrate on organising the rest of your move.

Get a number of quotes Make sure that you get several professional quotes well in advance of any proposed completion date. Take into account the price, the service you will receive and when the companies are able to conduct the move. For extra ease and convenience, many larger removal companies will offer a packing service, too, so that you can be confident that everything will be taken care of. Many will give you an instant indicative quote online, but it’s better to get a detailed assessment from the removal company. Most removal companies will send out a sales estimator to see what you have to move. This allows them to price the quote more accurately and should help you choose a removal company more easily.

Give yourself enough time The quotation process can take a couple of weeks and finding an available date might take another couple of weeks, so give yourself enough time to choose a removal company. Remember, many removal companies are booked up weeks in advance, so it pays to start looking for a removal company well before your completion date is due.

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Proud to support the

Harpenden Senior Forum If you are considering downsizing, purchasing a new home or just would like some honest, straightforward advice with no obligation, we would be very pleased to help.

Sally Noakes Partner

At Strutt & Parker we are striving to change people’s perceptions of estate agents! We are highly motivated people who aim to dispel the myths of estate agency by giving our clients the sort of service we would want and expect to receive ourselves. We work with you to make the entire process as painless as possible.

Ask about our Harpenden Senior Forum offer and put us to the test.

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Lovely 2 bed apartment in Arcadian Court

49 High Street | Harpenden | Herts | AL5 2SJ 01582 764343 | sally.noakes@struttandparker.com struttandparker.com

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With over 25 years of experience, we have developed an extensive knowledge of the local property market enabling us to offer a wide-ranging service that is both friendly

and

professional

befits our reputation.

as

ALLSOPP Estate & Letting Agents Management & Valuers

We are committed to providing our customers, whether buying, selling or renting with individual high quality advice based on the wealth of experience of our local dedicated sales team.

In addition we do specialise in the sale of all types of retirement properties in the Harpenden area. Our firm have been involved with selling apartments and houses in the four retirement complexes in the town since 1985.

Why not ‘pop’ in and see us or give us a call!

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Make sure you’re insured Most removal companies will provide you with dedicated moving insurance against loss or breakages of your property while it’s in transit. Make sure this is the case before booking anyone. You should also contact your home contents insurer to find out if your current policy will insure your property while it’s being moved, too.

Negotiate on price If you’re comfortable negotiating the price, see if you can get any discounts from the removal company. Be aware that moving house at peak times, such as Saturdays and during school holidays, will be more expensive, as demand is usually very high at these times. If you can, try and arrange to move on a normal weekday

when it might be cheaper and there may be more room for a discount.

Be safe Avoid the cowboys!

It’s a good idea to check that any removal companies you contact are members of either The British Association of Removers or The National Guild of Removers and Storers.

These organisations are dedicated to providing excellence in the removals industry for the benefit of both removal companies and their customers. They set standards and a code of conduct for their members, so you should be reassured of their professionalism and conduct at all times.

Do you want...

• the best price for your property?

• a caring, honest & professional team to ensure your move goes smoothly?

If the answer is "yes" then call us for a free, no-obligation valuation

01582 766161

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NURSING HOMES WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU 134

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NURSING HOMES Food for thought when considering a Nursing Home.

6 - Decide what type of nursing home you or the person moving in wants to live in; local authority home, a private home or a voluntary home?

Moving into a nursing home can be a nerve wracking and worrying experience. It is vital to do your research before choosing a nursing home, so you or your relative will move into a home where they feel comfortable and at home.

7 - Make sure the nursing home has the right facilities to meet your needs or the needs of the person moving in, such as a lift, assisted bath and wheelchair access. Also ask if the home has facilities that are important to you or the person moving in, such as bedrooms with en suite, bathrooms and induction loops if you are hard of hearing.

1 - Ask each potential nursing home for their brochure, take it home and read it at your leisure, writing down any questions you have for nursing home staff about the issues raised in the booklet.

2 - Ask the nursing home manager for a copy of any recent inspection reports.

3 - Check out the area the home is in. Take in to consideration what is there and how long it will take relatives and friends to visit.

4 - Spend time checking that the staff at the home are qualified, experienced and caring.

5 - If you or the person moving in have specific cultural requirements, such as religious or dietary needs, check that the nursing home can accommodate these, and also ask what choice of meals they serve on a day to day basis so you can gauge whether you or the person moving in will like what they have on offer.

8 - If you or the person moving in has a pet and would like to keep it at the nursing home then you must check in advance if the nursing home allows pets.

Six key things to consider when moving into a Care Home Moving into a care home is a big decision whether you are doing it for yourself or for a loved one. So where do you start?

Well, according to Age UK, there are six key things you need to think about before making the next steps.

1. Do you actually need to move into a care home?

It may have been suggested, because of an accident or some other event, but it is not always the right decision.

Getting advice is important, but you or the person you’re caring for have to make the final decision.

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2. What type of care home do you want?

Not all care homes are the same. Some offer accommodation and help with personal care, such as washing and dressing. Other care homes offer nursing care, as well as the basic help. Although they are no longer classed as such, this is the difference between residential homes and nursing homes.

There are also other care homes that offer extra care & support, often due to dementia.

3. How to find a care home Get hold of a list of local homes and visit a few to get an idea of what they are like. Think of it as like buying a house – you need to get a feel for what is out there before making a decision. Personal recommendations are also important, so talk to friends or relatives, as they may be able to point you towards a home with a good reputation.

4. What to look for in a care home Make sure you take a friend or relative with you when you are visiting - second opinions can be vital.

Before you visit, make a list of all the questions you want to ask and all the things you want to look out for – it is easy to forget things and doing as much research as you can is important.

Also, try to get to talk to current residents.

They’re a good barometer of what the life is really like in the home.

5. How much will it cost?

There is a lot of difference in care home fees. If the local council is paying, it will set a maximum cost that it’s willing to contribute.

This means that, if you find a care home that charges above that level, you may need to find a relative or friend to top up the amount. You are not normally able to pay the top-up yourself.

If you have no choice about which home to choose, because the council’s price limit was too low, then the council should pay the extra costs.

If you are funding the care home costs yourself, it is important to make sure you can afford the fees.

6. Who pays for the care home?

There are a lot of variables that determine who pays for your care home. If you have been assessed and definitely need a place in a care home, the local council carries out a financial assessment to work out how the fees will be paid.

This assessment is based on two things: 1. Your savings and assets, including your home 2. Your income

Age UK provide a wealth of information, including factsheets and checklists, on line: www.ageuk.org.uk

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The difference between Care/ Retirement Homes and Nursing Homes Moving an elderly parent into a residential care or nursing home is a major decision and not one to be taken lightly. There are financial, welfare and psychological aspects to be considered and very often it is a last resort. Sending elderly parents to a care or nursing home often makes people feel very guilty, quite apart from the effect it has on the parent, so think very carefully.

It is also a decision that has to be taken together, so include you, your parents and any other relatives and close friends of your parents who are likely to be affected.

The difference between care homes and residential homes is the type of need your elderly parent has.

Care / Retirement Home A Care / Retirement Home or Nursing Home, provides a safe communal living environment for people who can no longer live safely in their own homes, even with support from family, friends and carers.

A Care / Retirement Home provides accommodation, usually a single bedroom, 24 hour supervision, meals and personal care. This includes help with washing, dressing, toileting, moving safely out of bed and the bath, off a chair and walking.

A Nursing Home provides all the above services and also has registered nurses on the staff 24 hours a day to provide regular nursing tasks.

Nursing homes can manage more complex needs than residential homes. Some care homes offer specialist support for example working with people with learning disabilities or supporting people with dementia. Both residential and nursing homes must be registered with the Care Quality Commission who regularly inspect the homes.

For more information go to: www.islington. gov.uk/Health/ServicesForAdults/care_homes Under the Care in the Community legislation, elderly and disabled people have a legal right to a full assessment of their needs and a written care plan from Social Services, so if you want this help, contact your local Social Services office.

The assessment must look at help that can be provided to keep the person in their own home and, if services such as home help are required, they must be provided.

The advantages of care for older people in care or nursing homes are: • Handing over responsibility for their care to professionals means that, when you go to see them, you can spend quality time with your elderly parents.

• There is the social element to nursing, or residential, homes in that your elderly parents can make friends with the other residents.

The disadvantages are: • The guilt that is associated with it.

• Finding the right home can be difficult and stressful

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Get as much information as possible on all of the topics that are important to you and your elderly parent and then match each of the homes you see against that information.

Don’t be taken in by grand furnishings and facilities; they are important but so is atmosphere, care and the lifestyle that is on offer. You should be able to get a feel for the home the moment you step inside it - the atmosphere, the smell and so on. The key thing is that your elderly parent will feel at home.

It’s a huge decision to send your elderly parent to a care or nursing home. You will probably feel guilty that you are making it/ have made it. However, if you can honestly say that you have done everything possible to find the best home for your elderly parent, depending on them and their personality, then there is no need for guilt.

The payment rules and arrangements for care in a homes are complex and you will need to contact your local Social Services office, who will explain them to you.

Financial support from Hertfordshire County Council may be available. This will depend on the care required, if your care needs meet the Council’s criteria and your financial circumstances.

Generally:

For more information contact Hertfordshire County Council to discuss the situation, and if required, arrange a care assessment.

Hertfordshire County Council Web: Online contact form Email: hertsdirect@hertscc.gov.uk Tel: 0300 123 4040

Sourcing your home There are a number of different websites that you can go to, to find lists of all types of homes. Below are a few sites that are worth visiting: www.hertsdirect.org/ www.ageuk.org.uk/home-and-care/carehomes www.carehome.co.uk www.nursing-home-directory.co.uk www.carehomeharpenden.co.uk

If you have under £23,250 individually in savings or capital, and you are assessed as eligible for social care support, you may be eligible for financial support from the Council.

The Council will work out how much you will have to pay towards your care costs.

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If you have over £23,250 individually in savings or capital (including the value of your home) you will have to pay the full cost of the care services you require. People in this situation are known as ‘self-funders’.

Special note: The value of your home is only included in the calculation if you require care in a care home (residential or nursing care).

www.bmcare.co.uk www.fonthillcare.co.uk www.housingcare.org www.quantumcare.co.uk

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Holly Lodge has had a long tradition of providing Care within the Community of Harpenden. Back in the 1930’s, the property was originally a privately owned nursing home run by Miss Debenham and was the forerunner to the Harpenden Memorial Hospital maternity unit known locally as the Red House.

In the 1950s the property was acquired by the Abbeyfield Society Charitable Trust & for many years provided elderly people with independent living within a warden assisted environment.

Residential Care Home for the Elderly

In 1997, the present owner took over to establish Holly Lodge Residential Care home for the Elderly, thus retaining this fine Victorian home for the Care of the Elderly in this Community.

Holly Lodge is set within a quiet residential area of Harpenden, only a short walk from Lydekker Park and the shops and amenities of the town centre.

There is easy access to the M1, M25 and A1(M) and an excellent rail service to London (King’s Cross Thameslink) taking approximately 25 mins.

With just 14 single rooms, Holly Lodge really is home from home!

12 Clarence Road, Harpenden, Herts AL5 4AJ Telephone: 01582 712640 Fax: 01582 765555 Email: hollylodge.enquiries@gmail.com

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We provide skilled and compassionate care in your own home that will make a positive difference to everyday life Shine Homecare is a joint venture between three local hospices The Hospice of St Francis, The Peace Hospice and Rennie Grove Hospice Care. All profits are used to provide more free care for hospice patients and their families.

call us on 01923 256888

visit www.shinehomecare.co.uk email karen@shinehomecare.co.uk

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PROTECTING OLDER PEOPLE Safe Guarding Older People from Abuse If you know an older person who is being abused or who may be at risk of abuse, then you might find the following information from Age UK useful.

Whether you know the individual involved through your role as a professional, carer, relative or friend, we all have an important part to play in safeguarding them from abuse.

Any form of abuse is unacceptable, no matter what justification or reason may be given for it, and it is very important that we are aware of this and know that help is available.

What is elder abuse?

Cases of abuse against older people regularly come to light and many instances of abuse may also go unreported. Abuse can occur in a person’s own home or whilst they are receiving a service, for example in a hospital or care home.

The abuse may be perpetrated by a friend, family member or a stranger, or it might be by a professional in the course of their work with an older person.

The charity Action on Elder Abuse defines abuse as: “A single or repeated act or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person (1993)” 144

Different forms of abuse Abuse can take many forms. The following is a list of the main types of abuse: • • • • • • •

financial abuse neglect physical abuse sexual abuse psychological/emotional abuse discriminatory abuse institutional abuse.

Abuse can be a very complex issue and a number of the above categories may occur at the same time. For example psychological abuse may play a part in physical or financial abuse. An example of this may involve someone living in fear once they have been physically abused and then complying with inappropriate demands for money from the individual who perpetrated the physical abuse.

Also, what may be seen by someone as abuse in one circumstance may not be seen in the same way by another person.

A downloadable factsheet with more information can be found on the Age UK website: www.ageuk.org.uk/health-wellbeing/ relationships-and-family/protectingyourself or contact the HSF HELPLINE

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TRANSPORT Hospital & Community transport schemes Community transport schemes assist older people, the frail and people with disabilities living in Hertfordshire. They may offer countywide coverage or be restricted to the residents of a particular parish. Journeys may be limited, for medical reasons, for any other reasonable purpose or at the discretion of the scheme organiser. There is a charge for some of these services.

Useful Contacts ---------------------Hertfordshire Dial-a-Ride

All they ask is as much notice as possible, and a small donation to the charity for the help received.

This is a door to door transport service for those who are unable to use regular public transport utilising wheelchair accessible minibuses.

Tel: 01582 764599 between 10am - 6pm Monday - Friday

If you are new to Dial-a-Ride please ring after 2pm.

Pick up area: Redbourn Village & surrounding countryside Times: 7 days a week Transport for Doctors, dentist, optician, foot clinic and hospital appointments.

Tel: 01707 343600 Email: dialaride@hertscc.gov.uk Web: www.hertsdirect.org

Harpenden Helping Hands Wants to help anyone in Harpenden who needs a ‘helping hand’, whatever their age or circumstances. They help by befriending, collecting prescriptions or shopping for the housebound or those recently out of hospital. The single biggest activity though is transport. They drive people to hospitals and doctors’ surgeries, the Day Centre the dentist and the shops - when taking public transport or a taxi would be difficult. They trust this valuable service will only be used by those with a real, practical need.

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Redbourn Care Group

Tel: 01582 794550 between 10am - 6pm Monday - Friday

Wheathampstead Community Group Pick up area: Wheathampstead Parish Times: 7 days a week.

Eligibility: Residents of Wheathampstead unable to use public transport.

Transport: All local hospitals and associated clinics, surgeries, dentists, opticians and physiotherapists.

Tel: 01582 833186

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British Red Cross

County Transport Services

Covers East Herts, Broxbourne, Welwyn, Hatfield & St Albans. British Red Cross provides transport and escort services for people who are unable to use public transport to medical and other appointments. Further details on these services are available on their website.

The County Council’s County Transport Services run 167 wheelchair accessible coach built minibus vehicles providing transport for 65 day centres and family support centres throughout Hertfordshire.

These vehicles can be available for group hire off peak (between 11.00 and 14.00 Monday to Friday and all day weekends).

For more information call: Tel: 01707 343612

Tel: 01992 639561 Email: c.cromar@redcross.org.uk Web: www.redcross.org.uk

St Albans Association for the Hertfordshire Action on Disability (HAD) Disabled A seven-strong fleet of adapted, fully accessible vehicles transporting disabled people to work, doctor’s appointments, hospitals, shopping, holidays and other leisure activities 24 hours a day. Four self drive Citroen Dispatch Multi Purpose Vehicles are also available. These are ideal for family holidays as well as day trips and shorter journeys. HAD’s transport service is available 24 hours a day and can be booked to take disabled people wherever they want to go.

Tel: 01707 375159 Email: transport@hadnet.org.uk Web: www.transport@hadnet.org.uk

Age Concern Hertfordshire Age Concern Hertfordshire offers a wide range of services for older people across Hertfordshire.

Tel: 01707 323272 Email: info@acherts.org.uk Web: www.acherts.org.uk

Tel: 01727 865 060

St Albans Scheme

Good

Neighbour

Tel: 01727 830713

Free Bus Passes The national bus pass now allows anyone of pensionable age and eligible disabled people under 60 to travel on local buses throughout England for free. A local bus is considered as any vehicle which is not a coach (check with individual operators if you are unsure). You can use your bus pass in Hertfordshire 24 hours a day (if a service is operating), other counties may have restrictions (normally after 9.30am).

A free companion pass may be available for those who need to be accompanied by an individual when travelling. www.nationalbuspass.co.uk

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New or Replacement Passes You may obtain a new pass via the online concessionary travel pass system or alternatively may collect an application booklet at your local library, district / borough council office, tourist information office.

within the London and South East Network Railcard area.

The savings A Senior Railcard will give you savings on a wide range of tickets including all First Class and Standard Advance fares.

For any lost, stolen or damaged passes customers should call the Customer Service Centre on 0300 123 4050.

Your new pass should arrive within 10 working days of your form being returned to us and it will be valid for up to five years from the date of issue.

For more information and terms and conditions, please contact the Concessionary Travel Team by email on: csc.concessionarytravel@hertfordshire.gov.uk or call on 0300 123 4050.

Senior Railcards With a Senior Railcard anyone 60 years or over can save 1/3 on Standard and First Class rail fares throughout Great Britain for 12 whole months. A 1 year Senior Railcard costs just £30. www.senior-railcard.co.uk

Using your Railcard You can use your Senior Railcard for long and short trips at almost any time during the week and at weekends. The only restriction is for travel during the morning peak period, Monday to Friday (not including Public Holidays) when journeys are made wholly.

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Local Taxi Companies

• Can be hailed in the street.

• Euros Taxis (Local)

• Can be booked by telephone.

Tel: 01582 566566 • Harpenden Taxi Co (Local)

Tel: 01582 800800

• Must have a meter which has a maximum fare set by the Council.

• Harpenden Taxis (Local)

Tel: 01582 822822 • Lodge Taxis (Airport Runs)

Tel: 01582 760086 • Village Cars (Airport Runs)

Tel: 01582 712369

• Must display a fare card.

• Are subject to vehicle inspections, in addition to the MOT test.

• Must have current vehicle insurance for

Did you know there are two types taxi work. of licensed vehicles that can be • Private hire vehicles (PHVs, also called hired by members of the public?

Hackney Carriages (Taxis) Licensed Hackney Carriages: • Taxis or Hackney Carriage Vehicles can be hired immediately - you can get one at a rank or hail one in the street - or by pre-booking.

• Must display a yellow licence plate on the rear of the vehicle which gives the licence and registration numbers, type of vehicle and licence expiry date.

• A small repeater plate is displayed inside the vehicle, either on the partition or on the vehicle windscreen.

• The majority of Hackney Carriage vehicles are white and have reflective yellow stripes down the sides.

• Can stand on taxi ranks.

minicabs) are licensed only to collect passengers who have pre-booked with a licensed operator.

• Must display a green licence plate on the rear of the vehicle which gives the licence and registration numbers, type of vehicle and licence expiry date.

• Are not subject to fare scales set by the Council although many of the Private Hire vehicles in St Albans have meters set at the same scale. It is always advisable to agree your fare, or how the fare will be determined at the point of booking.

• Are subject to vehicle inspections, in addition to the MOT test.

• Must have current vehicle insurance for private work.

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• Are driven by Council licensed drivers.

Both vehicles and their drivers must be licensed to ensure they meet legal requirements. In the case of PHVs, the operator (who arranges the hiring’s) must also be licensed. Both taxis and PHVs have a maximum of eight passenger seats.

How can I tell the difference?

‘You can tell by looking at the licence plate, Yellow for Hackney Carriage and Green for Private Hire’ ‘Hackney carriage vehicles display the word Taxi on a sign on the roof of the vehicle’ (Some signs are integrated into the vehicle roof).

Useful Travel Contacts

Drivers • All drivers have been vetted by the Council & must wear (Display) an identity badge.

Traveline

• A yellow badge is issued to Hackney Carriage drivers.

National Rail enquiries

• A green badge is issued to Private Hire drivers.

Checks are undertaken by the Local Authority to ensure that the drivers of both types of vehicles are fit and proper to do so, this includes medical checks, driving licence checks, local area knowledge tests and criminal record checks.

The badge will contain the following information: • Council’s logo • Driver’s photograph • Driver’s number • Driver’s name

Know the difference!!!!

Why should you know the difference?

‘If you undertake a journey in a Private Hire Vehicle that has not been pre-booked it is illegal and it invalidates the drivers insurance for that journey’.

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Tel: 0871 200 22 33 Web: www.traveline.info

Tel: 08457 484950 Email: dialaride@hertscc.gov.uk Web: www.nationalrail.co.uk

Passenger Transport Unit Tel: 0300 123 4050 Web: www.hertsdirect.org/passengertransport

Intalink (Buses) The Intalink Partnership, c/o Passenger Transport Unit, Hertfordshire County Council, County Hall, CHN101, Hertford, SG13 8TJ. Tel: 0300 123 4050 Web: www.intalink.org.uk

HCC Customer Services Centre General Enquiries Tel: 0300 123 4040 Textphone: 0300 123 4041 Web: www.hertsdirect.org/contact

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Hertfordshire Travellink

London Luton Airport

Provides information and assessment for health transport.

London Luton Airport, Navigation House, Airport Way, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 9LY. Web: www.london-luton.co.uk

Tel: 01438 737252 Web: www.intalink.org.uk

National Express

First Capital Connect First Capital Connect, Customer Relations Department, PO Box 443, Plymouth, PL4 6WP. Tel: 0845 026 4700 Web: www.firstcapitalconnect.co.uk Special Assistance Helpline (24 hours notice required if possible) Tel: 0800 058 2844 Textphone: 0800 975 1052

Tel: 08717 818178 Web: www.nationalexpress.com

Disability Information Bureau Tel: 01438 737444 Textphone: 01438 737359 Web: www.hertsdirect.org/disability/ facetofaceorphone/dib

Do you have the time?

Unlike many charities Harpenden Helping Hand doesn’t need your money it needs your time.

Since 1971, our volunteers have been providing practical help such as driving the elderly, infirm and disabled to hospitals, clinics, surgeries and shops.

We also help with shopping and fetch prescriptions as well as befriending & occasional gardening.

As requests for help increase we need more volunteers.

Can you spare a little of your time every one or two weeks to help.

To find out more please telephone Helen O’Donovan on:

01582 712587 www.harpendenhelpinghand.co.uk HSF HELPLINE151 - 01582 462926

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FINANCIAL PLANNING WE CAN GIVE YOU ADVICE 152

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We are a local firm of independent advisers and can: • See if your pension savings will meet your retirement income needs • Review pension fund performance • Check pension fund charges • Provide ongoing financial advice

Contact us today for an initial meeting which is free of charge.

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FINANCIAL PLANNING 10 Key Pieces of Financial Advice 1. Consolidate your financial affairs - this helps you plan for the future; having all financial information in one place really helps.

2. Plan what will happen to any family businesses when you retire- plan for successions, exit and inheritance well in advance so that there is a smooth hand over and the business can continue to operate effectively.

3. Ensure your pension is secure - Check that your pension providers are financially strong.

4. Check your savings and investments are secure - Are you comfortable with your investment risk?

Do you know the current costs you are paying?

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Are they reasonable?

5. Have loan protection on any loans you may have - Will all outstanding loans be paid off in the unfortunate event of yours or your partner’s death.

6. Find out what you can do to improve your retirement plan.

7. Plan for inheritance tax- Ensure that your affairs are set up in the most tax efficient manner.

8. Make sure you have an emergency fund - It is always good to have funds in place for a rainy day.

9. Make plans for any long term care - If you or your partner needs care, it is important that you have planned for the best package for your situation.

10. Make sure you have a current will.

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01582 760154

www.taxassist.co.uk/harpenden

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Making a Will A will is one of the most important financial issues that you should sort out. A will is a witnessed document that sets out, in writing, a person’s wishes for his/her possessions (‘estate’) after death.

Why make a Will?

If you do not have a will when you die the law decides what will happen to your property.

A will can ensure that proper arrangements can be made for your dependents and that your property is distributed in the way you wish after you die. You need to remember that wills can be disputed, so make sure yours is written in simple and straightforward language.

A person who dies having made a valid will is said to have died testate; if you die testate all of your possessions will be distributed in the way set out in your will. It is the executor you named to make sure that your wishes are carried out.

After you die, somebody has to deal with your estate gathering all of your money and possessions, paying any debts and finally distributing what is left.

What happens if you die without making a Will?

A person who dies without making a will (or with an invalid one,) is said to have died intestate.

If you die intestate your estate will be distributed in accordance to the law.

Practical legal advice for individuals, families and business Wills & Probate Powers of Attorney l Family Law & Divorce l House Sale & Purchase l Property & Planning Law l Employment Law l Dispute Resolution l Contracts & Business Law l l

ST ALBANS:

01727

837161

lawyers@dolegal.co.uk www.dolegal.co.uk

Leading Firm - Legal 500 and Chamber & Partners legal directories. Authorised & Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority

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Are you prepared for whatever the future holds?

Quite often people are not prepared for the emotional turmoil that accompanies the loss of a loved one. Writing a will and ensuring your estate is in order is the most important task you’ll ever carry out for them.

Rowlington Tilley & Associates offers experience, understanding and the professionalism you’re looking for. Services offered are tailored to your individual requirements and include:

Wills Power of Attorney Estate Planning Probate Services

� � � �

Specialists In Elderly Care We offer a FREE 45 minute consultation to see if we can help.

Home visits and evening appointments are available.

Supporter of

Supporter of

5% Discount for the members of HSF on production of the Privilege Card HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

Contact Lyn on Tel: 01582 469613 30 Piggottshill Lane, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 1LH www.rowlingtontilley.co.uk Email: enquiries@rowlingtontilley.co.uk

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Inheritance Tax and the probate process Probate (or confirmation in Scotland) is the system you go through if you’re handling the estate of someone who’s died. It gives you the legal right to distribute the estate according to the deceased’s wishes. Inheritance Tax forms are part of the process even if the estate doesn’t owe Inheritance Tax. If the deceased left a will, it usually names one or more ‘executors’ who can apply for the grant of probate.

If the named executor doesn’t want to act, someone else named in the will can apply (depending on a strict order of priority). This person is called ‘the administrator’ and they apply for a grant of ‘letters of administration with will’.

If the deceased died without leaving a will, a blood relative can apply for a grant of ‘letters of administration’. This is based on a strict next-of-kin order of priority defined in the ‘rules of intestacy’. The person who applies is also called the administrator.

The catch-all term for a grant of probate, letters of administration with will or letters of administration is a grant of ‘representation’.

The catch-all term for an executor or administrator is ‘personal representative’.

The probate process - at a glance Here is an overview of the steps to take in England and Wales. Again, the process differs in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

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1. Value the estate and speak to the deceased’s banks and other financial organisations to establish whether you need a grant of representation (or confirmation).

2. If you do need a grant of representation, complete the relevant application and Inheritance Tax form - the Inheritance Tax form will vary depending on whether or not the estate owes Inheritance Tax. 3. Send the forms to the relevant government bodies (in England & Wales, that’s the Probate Registry & HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)).

4. Pay whatever Inheritance Tax is due.

5. Attend in person at a Probate venue or at the office of any commissioner for oaths (usually a solicitor’s office) to swear an oath.

6. Wait for the grant of representation (or confirmation) to arrive in the post - banks and other organisations will ask to see this before they allow access to the deceased’s assets.

7. Pay any debts owed by the estate and then distribute the estate.

Step 1 - Value the estate to see if you need a grant of representation When you might not need a grant of representation A grant may not be needed if the estate: • is a low-value estate - generally worth less than £5,000 (though this figure can vary) & doesn’t include land, property or shares • passes to the surviving spouse/civil partner because it was held in joint names

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Your family wealth matters For expert advice on conveyancing & everything you need to keep moving house simple

Our experience in the use of wills and trusts can help protect your family wealth for future generations.

Effective Solutions for Individuals Call 01582 765111 or visit www.taylorwalton.co.uk Offices at: Luton, Harpenden & St Albans HSF HELPLINE159 - 01582 462926

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When you contact the deceased’s bank or other financial institutions, they will either release the funds or tell you to get a grant of representation (or confirmation) first. Some banks and financial institutions may insist on a grant before giving you access to even a small amount of money.

When a grant of representation is usually needed You will almost certainly need a grant if the estate includes: • assets generally worth more than £5,000 in total (though again this figure varies) • land or property in the sole name of the deceased, or held as ‘tenants in common’ with someone else • stocks or shares • some insurance policies

don’t owe Inheritance Tax still require a full Inheritance Tax account.

If you’re not sure whether the estate is an excepted estate, you’ll need to start filling in a Return of Estate Information form (form IHT205 in England and Wales). Depending on your answers to certain questions, the form will make clear when you should stop filling in that form and switch to form IHT400 (a full Inheritance Tax account) instead.

Step 3 - Send the forms to the relevant government bodies Send completed IHT205 forms and the PA1 Probate Application form to your nearest Probate Registry. You’ll also have to include the original will (if there is one), the death certificate, and the probate fee.

Step 2 - Applying for a grant of The process is different in Scotland and Northern Ireland. representation Step 4 - Pay any Inheritance Tax You’ll have to fill in an Inheritance Tax form in due addition to the PA1 Probate Application form, even if the estate doesn’t owe Inheritance Tax. The estate will only owe Inheritance Tax if it’s over the threshold (£325,000 in 2013-14).

The Inheritance Tax forms you need depend on the following: • where the deceased lived - England & Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland or abroad • the size of the estate • whether it is an ‘excepted estate’ (i.e you don’t need to fill in a full Inheritance Tax account - form IHT400) Usually, if an estate has no Inheritance Tax to pay, it will be an excepted estate. However, this is not always the case. Some estates that 160

If the estate owes Inheritance Tax, you won’t receive the grant of representation (or confirmation) unless you pay some or all of the Inheritance Tax first. The ‘due date’ is six months after the date of death.

Steps 5 to 7 - What happens next?

Once you’ve paid any Inheritance Tax and sent off the forms to the Probate Registry, the process takes about eight weeks if there are no problems. There are three stages: • examination of forms and documents Probate Registry staff check the forms and documents and prepare the papers for your interview if you are attending a

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“Who’s going to

look after your affairs when you can’t?”

Niamh Minihane

Wills, Tr ust and Probate solicitor If you lose the mental or physical ability to manag e your affairs, a Lasting Power of Attor ney is the best way to ensure that your affairs are dealt with by somebody you tr ust.

“What will happen

to my estate if I don’t make a Will?”

If you do not have a Will your estate may not pass to those to whom you intend, we can help ensure that it does and save thousands of pounds with some simple ideas which can be included in a Will. We also can help you with Inheritance Tax planning Business Law

Debt Collection

Landlord & Tenant

Collaborative Family Law

Disputes

Notaries Public

Commercial Property

Divorce & Family Law

Residential Property

Co. and Commercial Law

Employment Law

Wills, Estates, Trusts & Taxation

Call me on:SOLICITORS

Your complete legal Solution.

01582 715234

niamh.minihane@nevesllp.co.uk Tollgate House 69-71 High Street Harpenden Hertfordshire AL5 2SL

HARPENDEN | LUTON | MILTON KEYNES | NORTHAMPTON

Established since 1867

www.nevesllp.co.uk

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probate venue or they will send you the oath to take with you to a commissioner for oaths • swear the oath - all the personal representatives who have applied for a grant of representation will need to swear an oath, either at a Probate venue or at the office of any commissioner for oaths (usually a solicitor’s office) • probate is granted - the grant of representation is sent to you by post from the Probate Registry After you get the grant of representation (or confirmation) and have paid any Inheritance Tax due, you can collect in the money from the estate. You can then pay any debts owed by the estate and distribute the estate according to the will or the rules of intestacy.

Credit Unions are not for profit community banks which are owned and run by their members for the benefit of their members.

Members are encouraged to save and these savings provide the funds from which loans to members are made.

Unlock the many features and benefits of the St Albans District Credit Union by exploring our website www.stadcu.org or by calling 01727 859135 today St Albans District Credit Union is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Help local people with cancer and life-limiting illness.

A gift in your Will to Grove House – no matter how small – will make a real difference to the care we offer to local people.

After taking care of those you love, consider leaving a gift to Grove House.

Tel 01442 890222 www.renniegrove.org Registered Charity No 1140386

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putting your affairs in order Whatever you need, our friendly and experienced solicitors are there for you.

And you couldn’t be in better hands.

We’re longstanding members of Solicitors for the Elderly and the Society for Trusts and Estate Practitioners. We’re also ranked as a leading advisor for wills, trusts and probate by independent researcher The Legal 500.

We can help you to reduce inheritance tax, ensure you’re making the most of your property and assets, or simply prepare or change your will. We’re also able to set up and administer a trust or charity, or advise on lifetime giving.

We’re also experts at dealing sensitively with powers of attorney, probate, administering estates, and protecting those who are vulnerable.

For further information or a free, confidential conversation about your requirements, please contact one of our team members.

Karen Chase Head of Wills Trust and Probate Solicitor STEP, SFE karen.chase@salaw.com

Shamima Monsur Solicitor shamima.monsur@salaw.com

Catherine Robson Solicitor STEP, SFE catherine.robson@salaw.com

www.salaw.com | 01727 798000

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Dealing with Debt If you are in debt, you cannot just ignore the problem and hope that it will go away; the longer you leave it, the worse it will get.

Some of us get into debt when we stop working because our income drops sharply, yet we still have the same expenses to pay.

Changes in circumstances, like divorce, bereavement, illness and disability can also contribute to debt problems.

Make sure you get free debt advice if you need it. Ignore any texts, telephone calls or emails advertising debt advice services. You can call Age UK Advice on 0800 169 6565 to find your nearest, free, reputable agency.

Before you go to a debt adviser, gather all the information related to your debts, overdue bills, letters from debt collectors, etc. This will help you and your advisor to list details of all creditors and debts, and decide how to approach them.

If you find yourself in debt No matter how much you plan your debt repayments, unexpected events can leave you struggling to keep up repayments.

StepChange Debt Charity’s advice on dealing with debt It is crucial not to worry alone, or to use further credit to keep up with repayments.

You should seek free professional advice and support from a debt charity such as StepChange Debt Charity, Citizens Advice or National Debtline as soon as you realize that you have a problem.

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There is a wide range of solutions available to you, depending on your circumstances.

The main solutions to consider are: • Debt Management Plan (DMP) DMPs allow a debtor to reschedule their debt repayments and repay their debts over time in a way that the individual can afford and according to a plan which both the debtor and creditor have agreed to.

• Bankruptcy Bankruptcy involves the writing off all of a debtor’s unsecured debts. The debtor may be asked to sell valuable assets such as their home, but are able to keep most of the things they will need for day-to-day living.

Bankruptcy normally lasts for a year. The debtor’s name will go on the Insolvency Register and be published in local newspapers. It will also be on the debtor’s credit file for 6 years.

• Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVA) An IVA is a legally binding arrangement between a debtor and their creditors, where they agree to an affordable monthly payment over a period of usually 5 years. It is not possible to arrange an IVA without an Insolvency Practitioner. The debtor’s name will go on the Insolvency Register and be published in local newspapers. It will also be on the debtor’s credit file for 6 years.

• Debt Relief Order (DRO) Debts are frozen for a period of 12 months during the DRO, and creditors agree not to pursue the outstanding debt, nor add

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Continued on page 166

Your local Building Society Harpenden Building Society is delighted to support the Harpenden Seniors Forum, in its work to assist local people of middle age and above to enjoy a full and active life.

In 2013, the Society is celebrating sixty years of providing a friendly, personal service for mortgages & savings. We were established to give people living in this area the support of a Building Society which is here to help them and their community.

Being a Mutual, we can focus on meeting members’ long-term needs, rather than having to satisfy outside shareholders.

Our mortgages have no age restrictions, and our savings accounts are designed to www.harpendenbs.co.uk

be easy to operate. In the Society’s most recent member survey, 99% of respondents said they are happy with the knowledge and friendliness of its staff, and 100% are satisfied with the response to telephone calls.

For more information, please visit the Harpenden Building Society branch at: Aberdeen House, 14 Station Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 4SE Telephone 01582 344204 or visit www.harpendenbs.co.uk

Mortgages designed to fit your needs

Are you looking for a residential mortgage that is tailored to meet your circumstances, rather than having to fit into a computerised ‘tick box’ approach?

At Harpenden Building Society we review each case on an individual basis, so we can understand your mortgage requirements.

To find out more about how we could help you, please call 01582 463133 or visit www.harpendenbs.co.uk

Residential mortgages for Purchase Remortgage Refurbishment Additional Borrowing Second Homes Release of Equity Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and A Prudential Regulation Authority. Firm reference number: 157260 YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

Head Office: Mardall House, 9-11 Vaughan Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 4HU

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further interest on the balance. If, after the 12 months, the debtor still cannot pay the debts back at a reasonable amount each month, they are written off.

To be considered for a DRO, a debtor must: • owe less than £15,000 in unsecured credit debts, • not be a home owner, • have no more than £300 assets (although one car up to the value of £1,000 will be exempt), • and have less than £50 a month income left over after they have covered all of their living costs.

The debtor’s name will go on the Insolvency Register and be published in local newspapers. It will also be on their credit file for 6 years.

• Token payments A small payment made in acknowledgement of an obligation. This is usually temporary which the debtor undertakes until they find a more long-term solution or their situation improves.

• Full and final settlement This is when a debtor receives a lump sum of money and uses it to offer their creditors a one-off payment to clear their debts.

The offer may be less than the outstanding balance but, if accepted by the creditor, this can be classed as full payment. A lump sum of money may result from selling an asset such as a property or vehicle, receiving an inheritance, or a gift from family or friends.

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• Debt consolidation This involves taking out a loan and using it to repay debts. StepChange Debt Charity urges caution with debt consolidation loans and emphasises the importance of understanding how much it will cost to repay the loan in full.

If a loan is extended over a longer term than the original debts the debtor could end up paying more in interest and so increasing the amount of debt they have.

• Equity release Equity release allows homeowners aged 55 and over to release some of the money tied up their home, without the need to move. They can release some of the equity in their home to provide a tax-free cash lump sum, a regular income or a flexible borrowing reserve. How much a debtor can release varies between providers, and usually depends on how old the debtor is, the value of his/her home and the type of plan he/she chooses.

There are 3 types of equity release plans: • Interest Only Lifetime Mortgages • Lifetime Mortgages • Home Reversion Plans Where to go for help National Debtline is the national telephone helpline for people with debt problems in the UK. The service is free, confidential and independent.

Tel: 0808 808 4000 www.nationaldebtline.co.uk

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StepChange Debt Charity provides expert free debt help by phone and online.

Tel: 0800 138 1111 www.stepchange.org Money Advice Service provides tailored advice, both in person or by phone. It also has a wide range of printed material on financial matters.

Tel: 0300 500 5000 www.moneyadviceservice.co.uk

Investment Advice Savings and investments are very different.

Savers usually want a safe place for their money where they can get at it easily.

Investors tend to want their money to grow by at least the rate of inflation, and accept that it may be tied up for some time.

Each investment has its own level of risk.

There is no guarantee that you will make money, or even make your money back.

If you are considering investing with a financial company, thoroughly research their strength and reputation.

Seeking financial advice Seek professional advice from an independent financial advisor before investing your money. Only authorised financial advisers can advise on certain on certain types of investment, including pensions, life assurance, shares, unit trusts and lifetime mortgage equity release schemes.

The Financial Services Authority (FSA)

authorises such firms of advisers. To check if a firm is authorised, call the FSA Consumer Helpline on 0845 606 1234 or visit the FSA website and follow the Firm Check Service link.

Make your Savings Work for You! With so many different savings accounts to choose from you may feel confused and unable to make an informed decision.

The following steps might help you make the right decision!

1. Look at the tables in the personal finance sections of newspapers or visit money comparison sites to find the best current rates.

2. Review your savings accounts regularly to check whether the rate of interest being paid is still competitive - interest rates often drop sharply after the first year and so it pays to move your money to a new account. The interest rate of an account is often linked to how long you save your money for.

3. Check whether your money is tied into the account or not. Some accounts let you take out your money whenever you want, but for others you may have to give notice to take out money without incurring a penalty, or not be able to make a withdrawal until the end of a fixed period.

4. You can invest a certain amount of money in an Individual Savings Account (ISA). Cash ISAs often offer a higher rate of interest than other savings accounts and the interest is paid free of Income Tax.

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5. Claim your tax back. Interest on most savings accounts is paid with 20% Income Tax deducted. If you do not pay tax, you can fill in a form from your bank or building society to arrange for the interest to be paid without this deduction. Even if you are a taxpayer, you may be able to reclaim part of the tax.

6. An independent financial adviser may be able to help you arrange your savings in the most suitable way for you.

Energy Prepayment Meters Prepayment meters allow you to pay for your gas and electricity as you use it. They are usually installed by an energy supplier if they feel that customers are unable to make their bill payments. However they can also be used by other customers as some believe this type of payment system helps with budgeting.

What is a prepayment meter?

Prepayment meters allow you to pay for your gas and electricity as you use it.

If you are trying to manage your household budget, you can also request to have a prepayment meter installed, though this is not advisable as the gas and electricity you use is charged at a much higher rate than other energy tariffs.

How do prepayment meters work?

Prepayment meters work like pay-as-you-go mobile phones. Instead of paying for your gas and electricity after you have used it, you will pay upfront by topping-up your account.

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There are three types of prepayment meter: • Smartcard • Keys • Token meters All these meters can be topped up in newsagents and garages, wherever the Payzone or Paypoint symbols are displayed.

Some branches of the Post Office also allow customers to top up their cards and keys.

Over 50s Health Insurance Private health insurance is a form of personal insurance which can cover the costs of medical treatment. It can be used to pay for consultant fees, treatment at a private hospital, physiotherapy and further care at home. It is important to note that it is designed to cover the costs of what are termed ‘acute’ conditions, these are illnesses or diseases which are likely to respond quickly to treatment, for example, a fractured arm or cataract surgery.

What it does NOT cover is pre-existing and chronic conditions. Basically, these are illnesses which the policyholder had (or has) before taking out the insurance. A chronic condition is one which is likely to be long term and so require constant monitoring, check ups and control of symptoms.

It is important to note that private health insurance does not cover accident and emergency treatment. This requires specialist facilities, such as a trauma unit, which are best dealt with by an NHS hospital. This type of treatment is not catered for at most private hospitals.

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In general, the NHS is still your best bet if you are involved in an accident or an emergency.

For many people, health insurance means that they can have instant access to treatment rather than having to wait. Rather than having to spend time on an NHS waiting list, which can mean putting up with pain and discomfort as well; health insurance can avoid this and so provide peace of mind.

It means being able to see a consultant or specialist quickly, and at a time and date to suit you. If you have to be admitted to hospital then you have a choice of hospital and location.

Staying in a private hospital will mean a private room with en-suite facilities and other home comforts. This can also include one to one nursing care. This is especially attractive to those people who value their privacy and their home comforts.

You can buy private health insurance from an insurance company, an independent adviser or from an insurance agent (includes banks, building societies or retail outlets).

Before you do so, it is important to decide upon what type of cover you need (and what you don’t need) beforehand. There are many types of cover available which also include cover for specialist issues such as sports injuries, children and road traffic accidents.

In general, there are six main types of health insurance which includes cover for the over 50’s and the elderly. As you get older the body does not always work as well as it used to and so is prone to things going wrong, such as arthritis, heart disease and cancer.

Statistically, an older person is more likely to require medical treatment than a younger person. If this medical treatment is non-urgent then you are looking at treatment on the NHS which can mean long waiting lists. This is where private health insurance can be most useful.

What is worth bearing in mind is that many insurance providers will charge a higher premium for an older person than a younger person, and, this premium rises with age. A provider will see an older person as more of a risk than a younger person even though this is not always the case.

However, there are some companies, such as AXA PPP Healthcare and Standard Life which can offer special schemes for the over 50’s or non age-related premiums. Other options include checking with your employer to see if they offer a health insurance scheme for retired employees. Another option is to see if your union does any special deals for older or retired employees. If you are self-employed then many providers will offer packages aimed at small businesses. These include BUPA, Standard Life and AXA PPP Healthcare.

If you are retired or about to retire and are planning to spend a set amount of time abroad then it is worthwhile considering expatriate health insurance.

You may have bought a second home aboard, for example, southern Spain, or looking to do some travelling around the world. If so, then it would be wise to have some form of health insurance in case you are taken ill or involved in an accident.

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If that happens in the UK then you have the NHS to fall back on but if you are in another country then very often this can mean extortionate bills for medical treatment. Many countries do not operate a free healthcare system like the UK, and if even they do, you need to have the right paperwork to access this treatment.

Healthcare abroad can be better or worse than the UK but if you do not have cover then you are faced with expensive bills, or having to travel to another country in order to access a decent standard of treatment.

Expatriate health insurance will cover the costs of medical treatment aboard plus the costs of flying you back to the UK. Plus, if you have been outside of the UK for more than 6 months (within the EU) then you are not eligible for free NHS care.

Information provided by www.over50.co.uk

Over 50s Life Insurance Life insurance is a form of insurance which pays out a lump sum, upon the death of an insured person. This lump sum is usually paid to specified beneficiaries, and is mainly used to cover costs incurred from the death of the insured.

This is not an issue many people like to think about but it is one which can cause a great deal of heartache for those left behind, who are then faced with the funeral expenses.

There are two types of life insurance: 1. Protection only 2. Investment type 170

Protection only insurance, also called ‘term insurance’ pays out a pre-determined amount if the insured person dies within a stated period of years. If you do not then you get nothing. Basically, it is the cheapest way of buying the cover you need.

There are many variations on this basic cover such as whole-of-life policy, and a maximum protection policy. These too provide cover for as long as you live. The maximum protection policy enables you to purchase a high level of cover for a low premium although only at an initial stage.

The problem with this is that the premiums can increase, and quite substantially in later years.

With protection only or term insurance the policy and amount of premiums are determined by your age, health, lifestyle, the level of cover and the term you choose.

There are several types of term insurance which include amongst others, increasing term insurance, increasable term insurance, decreasing term insurance and renewable term insurance. There are advantages and disadvantages to all of these and so you will need to determine which best suits your requirements.

If you have a job, hobbies, or a lifestyle which is seen as risky then you may find that you are quoted a higher premium than normal, or you may even be refused cover.

Investment type or endowment policies can pay out if you die within a specified period, or even if you don’t but they take a long time to build up in value and can

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be an expensive way of buying cover even though they may seem an attractive option.

They are however, not an ideal choice of protection for your dependents.

If you decide to go ahead and purchase life insurance the next step to consider is how much. What you will need to take into account is the needs of any dependents that you may have. If you were unable to work for a long period of time or to die, then financial hardship may ensue for your partner and dependents. This is especially the case if you were the main breadwinner.

This means everyday living costs such as bills and mortgage (if applicable) would need to be taken care of.

So, you will ascertain what amount of income your family would need in the event of your death, which will determine the amount of life insurance you will need.

This can either be a lump sum paid out to cover existing mortgage payments or to replace your income which ceases upon your death. This lump sum is tax free.

You and your partner may be thinking of taking out individual policies but there is also the option to take out a joint life policy.

This type of policy operates as follows: a ‘first death’ policy which will cover both of you and pays out on the death of whoever dies first. And, secondly, a ‘last survivor’ policy which pays out when the remaining partner dies.

If the proceeds of a life policy are paid to your estate upon your death then this could be liable for inheritance tax.

There could also be a long delay before it becomes available to your dependents. If you choose to write an insurance policy in trust, then this avoids these issues and so ensures that the proceeds go directly to your dependents. Most insurance companies will offer this option, at no extra cost, and will have standard forms for doing so.

Another alternative is a ‘life of another’ policy: This will pay out directly to someone else when you die, for example, spouse or unmarried partner. There are two options: ‘own life’ policy for payment on your own death, and ‘life of another’ policy in which your partner takes out life insurance which is based upon your life.

With all forms of life insurance, you must have an insurable interest in the life of the person covered, at the time of taking out the policy. This means you stand to lose out financially if that person were to die.

It is assumed that you have an unlimited insurable interest in your life and that of your partner.

Information provided by www.over50.co.uk

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BEREAVEMENT WITH OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY 172

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BEREAVEMENT What to do after someone dies When someone dies there are three things you must do in the first few days: 1. Get a medical certificate – you will get this from a doctor (GP or at a hospital) and you need one to register the death.

2. Register the death within 5 days of the death - you will then get the documents you need for the funeral.

3. Arrange the funeral - you can use a funeral director or do it yourself.

Sorting out the person’s affairs, e.g. selling their property, can be done later.

Register the death If the death has been reported to a coroner you can’t register the death until the coroner gives permission.

The death has to be registered at a Register Office. It’s best to go to the register office in the area where the person you cared for died. If you go to another office it may take longer to get the documents needed and slow down the funeral arrangements.

When you get the medical certificate, ask for the address of the local register office. Telephone before you go and make an appointment if you need to.

The closest Register Office to Harpenden is The Gate House, 1 Victoria Square, Victoria Street, St. Albans, AL1 3TF. Tel: 01727 774030

Arrange the funeral The funeral can usually only take place after the death has been registered. Most people use a funeral director. Get more than one quote to compare costs.

You should choose a funeral director who’s a member of either: • National Association of Funeral Directors • Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors

Funeral costs Funeral costs can include: • Funeral Director fees • Things the funeral director pays for on your behalf (called ‘disbursements’) - eg a newspaper announcement about the death • Local authority burial fees Often funeral directors list all these costs in their quote.

Paying for a funeral The funeral can be paid: • by you or other family members or friends • from a financial scheme the person had - e.g. a pre-paid funeral plan or insurance policy • from money from the person’s estate (e.g. savings) - getting access to this is called applying for a ‘grant of representation’ (sometimes called ‘applying for probate’)

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If you have difficulty paying for the funeral, apply for a Funeral Payment (see page 35 for more details.)

• arranging for the funeral to be in the country the person died in • bringing the body back to the UK

Moving a body out of England or Wales

All deaths must be registered in the country where the person died.

You need to get permission from a coroner to move a body for a funeral abroad. Apply at least 4 days before you want the body to be moved. Find a local coroner using the Coroners’ Society of England and Wales website: www.coronersociety.org.uk

Bringing the body home

Tell Us Once and organisations you need to contact You will need to report the death to various organisations and government departments.

Most local councils run a service called Tell Us Once - they will contact different government services for you.

The registrar will explain your options for using Tell Us Once. These are: • Online • By phone - the registrar will give you the phone number • In person, by making an appointment with your local council bereavement adviser Your registrar will give you a unique reference number to use the Tell Us Once service.

Death abroad If the person died abroad, the British Consulate in that country can give advice about: • registering the death - how this is done depends on the country.

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To bring the body home you need: • a certified English translation of the death certificate • permission from a coroner (or equivalent) in the country where the person died to remove the body The British Consulate can help to arrange this.

You can find out more on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website: www.gov.uk/fco Contacting a register office in England & Wales You need to take the death certificate to the register office in the area the funeral is taking place.

As the death has already been registered in the country the person died in, the registrar will give you a ‘Certificate of no liability to register’. You should give this to the funeral director so the funeral can go ahead.

When a coroner is involved If the person is to be cremated, you need a certificate from the coroner (form Cremation 6).

Whether the person is to be buried or cremated, a coroner will be involved if the cause of death abroad is unknown

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or if it was sudden, violent or unnatural.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v1.0.

More useful information regarding bereavement please visit: www.gov.uk/browse/births-deathsmarriages/death

Useful National Contacts for Bereavement These organisations provide further information & support about bereavement.

Government Advice website www.gov.uk/browse/births-deaths-marriages/death

St Albans & District Bereavement Network PO Box 671, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 3ZX Help & Information: 01727 841 841

Bereavement advice centre Supports bereaved people on a range of practical issues via a single free-phone number.

Helpline: 0800 634 9494

National association of widows Offers support, comfort and advice for widows and widowers.

Helpline: 024 7663 4848

Survivors of bereavement by suicide A self-help, voluntary organisation which aims to meet the needs and break the isolation of those bereaved by the suicide of a close relative or friend. 0844 5616855

Support Line Telephone Helpline 01708 765200, email info@supportline.org. uk - Provides emotional support and details of agencies, support groups, helplines and counsellors throughout the UK.

The Bereavement Register 01732 467940 or 0800 0821230 (24 hour automated registration service), www.the-bereavement-register.org.uk.

A service specifically designed to remove from databases and mailing files, the names and addresses of people who have died.

Bereavement Trust Helpline 0800 435 455 6pm-10pm every evening www.bereavement-trust.org.uk. Support for anyone who has been bereaved.

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Welcome to the St Albans & District Bereavement Network

The St Albans Bereavement Network is an independent charity providing professional bereavement support to anyone living in the St Albans area. Since 2002 we have been guiding Adults, Families, Young People and Children through the bereavement process and are here as a helping hand when dealing with loss.

With over ten years of experience and a network of over 100 specially trained volunteers and qualified counsellors, we have helped more than 3,000 people cope with their grief, make sense of their loss and move forward with hope.

Whether you yourself have been affected by loss or you would like to help someone deal with their grief, if you live in the St Albans area, then we can help you as well.

Our advice and support is free to our clients.

Donate now

Call our Helpline: 01727 841841

(Our lines are open 9.30am - 1.00pm Mon – Fri or you can leave a message on our Ansaphone)

Email: help@sabn.org.uk Website: www.sabn.org.uk 176

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WEIGHTS & MEASURES WEIGHING THINGS UP HSF HELPLINE177 - 01582 462926

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WEIGHTS & MEASURES Common Weights and Measures Length

Area

Metric System

Metric System

1 millimetre = 1/1,000 metre 1 centimetre = 1/100 metre 1 decimetre = 1/10 metre 1 metre (basic unit of length) 1 decametre = 10 metres 1 kilometre = 1,000 metres

1 square centimetre = 1/10,000 square metre 1 square decimetre = 1/100 square metre 1 square metre (basic unit of area) 1 are = 100 square metre 1 hectare = 10,000 square metres 1 square kilometre = 1,000,000 square metres

American and British Units

American and British Units

1 inch = 1/36 yard = 1/12 foot 1 foot = 1/3 yard 1 yard (basic unit of length) 1 rod = 5 1/2 yards 1 furlong = 220 yards = 40 rods 1 mile = 1,760 yards = 5,280 feet 1 fathom = 6 feet 1 nautical mile = 6,076.1 feet

1 square inch = 1/1,296 square yard = 1/144 square foot 1 square foot = 1/9 square yard 1 square yard (basic unit of area) 1 square rod = 30 1/4 square yards

Conversion Factors 1 centimetre = 0.39 inch 1 inch = 2.54 centimetres 1 metre = 39.37 inches 1 foot = 0.305 metre 1 metre = 3.28 feet 1 yard = 0.914 meter 1 metre = 1.094 yards 1 kilometre = 0.62 mile 1 mile = 1.609 kilometres 178

1 acre = 4,840 square yards = 160 square rods 1 square mile = 3,097,600 square yards = 640 acres Conversion Factors 1 square centimetre = 0.155 square inch 1 square inch = 6.45 square centimetres 1 acre = 0.405 hectare 1 hectare = 2.47 acres 1 square kilometre = 0.386 square mile 1 square mile = 2.59 square kilometres

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WEIGHTS & MEASURES Volume & Capacity (Liquid & Dry)

Conversion Factors

Metric System

1 cubic centimetre = 0.06 cubic inch 1 cubic inch = 16.4 cubic centimetres 1 cubic yard = 0.765 cubic meter 1 cubic meter = 1.3 cubic yards 1 millilitre = 0.034 fluid ounce 1 fluid ounce = 29.6 millilitres 1 U.S. quart = 0.946 litre 1 litre = 1.06 U.S. quarts 1 U.S. gallon = 3.8 litres 1 imperial gallon = 1.2 U.S. gallons = 4.5 litres 1 litre = 0.9 dry quart 1 dry quart = 1.1 litres 1 dekalitre = 0.28 U.S. bushel 1 U.S. bushel = 0.97 imperial bushel = 3.5 dekalitres

1 cubic centimetre = 1/1,000,000 cubic meter 1 cubic decimetre = 1/1,000 cubic meter 1 millilitre = 1/1,000 litre = 1 cubic centimetre 1 centilitre = 1/100 litre 1 decilitre = 1/10 litre 1 litre = 1 cubic decimetre (basic unit of capacity) 1 dekalitre = 10 litres 1 hectolitre = 100 litres = 1/10 cubic meter American and British Units 1 cubic inch = 1/46,656 cubic yard = 1/1,728 cubic foot 1 cubic foot = 1/27 cubic yard 1 cubic yard (basic unit of volume) 1 U.S. fluid ounce = 1/128 U.S. gallon = 1/16 U.S. pint 1 British imperial fluid ounce = 1/160 imperial gallon = 1/20 imperial pint 1 pint = 1/8 gallon = 1/2 quart 1 quart = 1/4 gallon 1 U.S. gallon (basic unit of liquid capacity in the United States) = 231 cubic inches 1 imperial gallon (basic unit of liquid capacity in some Commonwealth nations) = 277.4 cubic inches 1 dry pint = 1/64 bushel = 1/2 dry quart 1 dry quart = 1/32 bushel = 1/8 peck 1 peck = 1/4 bushel 1 U.S. bushel (basic unit of dry capacity in the United States) = 2,150.4 cubic inches 1 imperial bushel (basic unit of dry capacity in some Commonwealth nations) = 2,219.4 cubic inches

Weight (Mass) Metric System 1 milligram = 1/1,000,000 kilogram = 1/1,000 gram 1 centigram = 1/100,000 kilogram = 1/100 gram 1 decigram = 1/10,000 kilogram = 1/10 gram 1 gram = 1/1,000 kilogram 1 dekagram = 1/100 kilogram = 10 grams 1 hectogram = 1/10 kilogram = 100 grams 1 kilogram (basic unit of weight or mass) 1 metric ton = 1,000 kilograms

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UP YOUR STREET LOCAL GOODS AND SERVICES 180

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Genuine Freehouse Nestled in the Countryside...

...& Free Wi-Fi! ...Good Honest Freshly Prepared Food! ... Cask 2 Glass Ale!...Functions Catered for! 01582 872460

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Wash & Blow Dry

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10% HARPENDEN INTERIORS delivering undeniable quality

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on Selected Items in Store Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

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THE CARPENTERS ARMS

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

THE CARPENTERS ARMS

Your Hosts Maria & Tony have been at The Carpenters Arms for over 7 Years now. Serving Delicious Home Cooked Food, Great Quality Ales & Fine Wines.

• Themed Evenings are held every Lunchtime Main Meals Only Tuesday 7pm - 9pm valid Mon - Thurs on production of your • Regular Quiz & Live Band HSF Privilege Card Entertainment or Bus Pass.

• BBQ’s Served in a Enchanting, Booking Essential to Secluded Garden apply for discount.

• Charity Events/Parties Catered for • Cricket, Golf & Football Teams, which you are welcome to join Supporter of

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Fri-Sat 11.30am-12 midnight. Sunday 12pm-10.30pm

CALL TONY OR MARIA ON

01582 460311

14 Cravells Road, Harpenden, Herts AL5 1BD

info@thecarpentersarms-harpenden.co.uk HSF HELPLINE183 - 01582 462926

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

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ristorante & pizzeria a taste of Italy

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Supporter of Graffiti offers a wonderful combination of traditional and modern Italian dishes along with comfortable, contemporary and stylish surroundings.

Tel: 01582 460300

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32 Station Road, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 4SE

Monday Closed. Tuesday - Friday Lunch 12pm - 2pm. Evening 6pm - 10pm Saturday & Sunday Evening 6pm - 10pm

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HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

WE DELIVER! 10%

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01582 769538

ROLLINGS WINE COMPANY - 26 STATION ROAD, HARPENDEN, AL5 4SE. Tel 01582 769538 info@rollingswine.co.uk www.rollingswine.co.uk

The Engineer Pub 12 St Johns Road, Harpenden

Freshly prepared local food cooked for lunch & evening meal by our culinary team from our exciting menu.

Conservatory Restaurant, Patio Dining & large lawned area 5 big screens with Sky & ESPN showing all major fixtures - Large Car Park

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

The Engineer Pub

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The Engineer Mobile Bar can be hired for any event Weddings – Christenings – Business Events & more Contact us at parties@theengineerharpenden.co.uk

Contact us on: 01582 460478 www.theengineerharpenden.co.uk

HSF HELPLINE185 - 01582 462926

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

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10% DISCOUNT on production of your HSF Privilege Card

Fish and chips are loved and enjoyed by every generation, so why not indulge in the �inest �ish & chips in your area and visit Jack's Fish & Chip shop.

We’re passionate about great tasting food and are committed to producing consistently high quality products and delivering excellent customer service to our loyal customers, all this with Free delivery on orders over £10.00

01582 769602

34 Station Road, Harpenden, Herts

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(Monday - Thursday) Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Supporter of

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How do you buy the perfect gift?

Buying gifts for friends & loved ones can be tricky!

But don’t worry, because Town Garden has an incredible range of gifts for the home and garden. Each item chosen with care to ensure your gift represents the best quality and value.

Town Garden’s choice is unbeatable, with friendly staff and good old fashioned customer service helping to ensure that your gift is perfect.

The selection includes French homeware by Comptoir de Famille; English pottery; handmade glass and candles from Cornwall; RHS endorsed gardening gloves.... plus so much more!

What if the recipient likes a different colour, size or maybe style? Don’t worry, the gift can simply be returned in the same condition for an exchange or credit against a future purchase.

The perfect gift? Town Garden.... where else!

Town Garden is a long standing supporter of HSF & continues to offer HSF cardholders 10% OFF all purchases.

(Not in conjunction with any other offer or sale items)

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57 High Street, Harpenden, AL5 2SL - www.towngarden.co.uk

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Fullwoods The ONLY Lingerie stockist in Harpenden

10% DISCOUNT

with your HSF Privilege Card on selected items Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Supporter of

2a Leyton Road, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 2TL.

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TEL: 01582 764444 01582 762567 OR 01582 764121

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HSF HELPLINE187 - 01582 462926

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

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BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER CHILDREN’S MENU AVAILABLE OKKA | CAFE | BRASSERIE

OKKA is a lively, rustic and incredibly popular restaurant/cafe situated in the heart of Harpenden.

Whether you want a coffee & some cake, a speedy lunch or a relaxing evening with three courses & a bottle of wine.

10% DISCOUNT

MONDAY - TUESDAY LUNCHTIME

&

TUESDAY - THURSDAY Early Dinner 4.00pm - 6.30pm

Supporter of

www.okkacafe.co.uk

01582 763975

62 High Street, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 2SP Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer applies to food only.

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

£5 off

2 main courses

Monday to Thursday

Food served 12pm - 9pm

The Old Cock Inn is a traditional 16th Century pub with a relaxed ambiance where anyone & everyone is welcome.

The menu is reasonably varied serving home cooked food & daily specials, this attracts families & professionals at weekends & during the week.

Supporter of

01582 712649

58 High Street, Harpenden, HertsAL5 2SP

www.theoldcockinn.co.uk

Facebook: OldCock Inn Coaching House Twitter: @OldCockInnB_B

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HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

Yummy Mummys Cakes 10%

OFF

Cakes for all occasions

Tel: 01582 712 700

When you spend £5 or more on production of your HFS Privilege card Supporter of

Email: maria@yummymummyscakes.com

Harpenden Dry Cleaners

114 Southdown Road, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 1QQ

Tel: 01582 712239

Independent family run dry cleaners with 25 years experience Fully Hand Finished Dry

Household Furnishings

Cleaning Service

Suede and Leather

Same Day Service

Repairs and Alterations

Shirt Service

Carpet Cleaner Hire

Evening Wear Specialists

Shoe Repairs

Duvets

Quick Drop Service

Door-to-Door Collection and Delivery

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

10%

OFF

64a High Street Harpenden AL5 2SP

Opening hours : Monday to Friday 10am - 5.30pm • Saturday 9:30 - 4pm

on production of your HFS Privilege card

Supporter of

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

EAT IN OFFERS

OFF

£10

WHEN 2 PEOPLE SPEND £50 OR OVER

OR

£20

OFF

Probably the only Genuine Thai Restaurant in the area... Try it for yourself!

Lunchtime Menu Available 7 days - Starting from Only £6.95

Join the Bangkok Lounge facebook group to get your Exclusive Offers facebook.com/bangkoklounge

@bangkok_lounge

WHEN 4 PEOPLE SPEND £100 OR OVER on production of your HSF Privilege Card & This Advert.

Supporter of

Shefford: 2 Bedford Road,Shefford, Beds SG17 5DJ Tel: 01462 338 287/338 292 Harpenden: 80 High Street, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2SP Tel: 01582 461 282/469 383 One voucher per party excluding Fridays, Saturdays & Special days ie: Mother’s Day, New Year’s Eve etc.

Terms & Conditions apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

info@bangkoklounge.com

www.bangkoklounge.com

HSF HELPLINE189 - 01582 462926

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

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CALL TODAY FOR A

FREE QUOTATION

Quality work at competitive prices in Harpenden & the surrounding areas.

Re-roofing - Luton Hoo

New Build Roof - Harpenden

New Flats - London Colney

New Build Roof - Harpenden

Please telephone: Graham Parkins for advice or a FREE QUOTATION on 01582 715267 or email clarhall@gotadsl.co.uk 48 Coldharbour Lane, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 4UR

HSF HELPLINE191 - 01582 462926

Supporter of

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

191

BUILDERS

01582 715267

WE SPECIALISE IN ALL TYPES OF ROOFING WORK FULL INTERIOR & EXTERIOR DECORATING SERVICE AVAILABLE

TRADES

YOUR LOCAL TRADES

BUILDERS

M

Est. 1970

AYLOR KING LTD

Incorporating B. E. King & Sons Ltd.

BUILDING CONTRACTORS

>> >> >> >>

EXTENSIONS AND ALTERATIONS NICEIC ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS DECORATIONS AND BATHROOMS JOINERY MANUFACTURERS

TEL: 01582 763430 / 766456 FAX: 01582 461156 enquiries@mjtaylorking.co.uk

www.mjtaylorking.co.uk

BUILDERS

Unit D Batford Mill Lower Luton Road Harpenden Herts AL5 5BZ

MJG

Builders and Decorators Ltd

M

AYLOR KING LTD

FREE

No Obligation Quotation!

Supporter of

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

MJG

10%

Est 1989 off All general Building & Decorating work on production undertaken including: of your HSF • Full Refurbishment • Interior & Exterior PRIVILEGE •FREE Extensions Decorating QUOTES FREE ADVICE Card PACKING SERVICE AVAILABLE • Loft Conversions • Wall Papering Supporter of HOME OR OFFICE MOVES • Kitchens CONTAINERISED • Coving & Plastering STORAGE • Bathrooms EXPERT WRAPPING • General Maintenance CRATE HIRE

ForANTIQUES a FREE Estimate call us now & PIANOS

Tel: 01582 761815 M: 07702 190277

ARCHIVE STORAGE & RETRIEVAL SERVICE

mjgproperty@btinternet.com 192

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HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

BUILDERS

Looking for something different?

Stephen Tutt O7712 669247 Quality kitchens, bathrooms, FREE Quotations

For further information please contact us on:

01582 765388 07712 669247

bedrooms and interior fitted furniture designed to suit your individual specification.

We have the experience to make your ideas a reality!

Supporter of

info@omnihomedesign.co.uk www.omnihomedesign.co.uk Find us on © The Symphony Group plc

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

BUILDERS

Pete Halsey

OFF

10%

Labour on production of your HSF Privilege Card

Supporter of

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

HSF HELPLINE193 - 01582 462926

193

BUILDERS

From bespoke pool houses to extensions, let SDK transform your project from dream to reality.

Full project management gives you peace of mind as well as input regarding interior and exterior design.

SDK. Converting your dreams into reality.

Extensions Renovations Landscaping Alterations Bathrooms Out Buildings

BUILDERS

Call in for a no obligation informal chat to discuss your ideas

Tony Godfrey 07506 000321 New Build Specialists Extensions Conversions Refurbs

Supporter of

We work with the best Architects and Architectural Designers in Hertfordshire.

Your dreams can become reality - we will: Design it, Plan it, Conduct Surveys, Build it and Decorate it ! We can put you up for the duration of the build in our 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom house or one of our luxury 2 or 3 bedroom apartments of charge!

HARPENDEN 01582 767695 Mob: 07506 000321 Email: tony@tgodfrey.co.uk SENIORS FORUM 3 Station Approach, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 4SP. www.tgodfrey.co.uk Tel:

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on production of your HSF PRIVILEGE Card

CAR SERVICING

20%

off Labour

Supporter of

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

Friendly Local Service Centre All types of work carried out to the highest standard

Servicing • Repairs • MOT's • Tyres • Exhausts • Brakes • Fault Finding • Clutches

Free Delivery & Collection in Harpenden & surrounding areas!

VICTORIA GARAGE

FREE DELIVERY

& COLLECTION IN HARPENDEN & SURROUNDING AREAS!

Supporter of

Call Today on:

01582 760551 / 01582 622321 Victoria Road, Harpenden, Herts AL5 4EB

HSF HELPLINE195 - 01582 462926

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

195

CAR SERVICING

VICTORIA GARAGE

CAR VALETING

HARPENDEN

HAND CAR WASH & VALETING SERVICE

£10 HARPENDEN

FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

Welcome to FM Professional Hand Car Wash!

From the moment you drive in, you are guaranteed the ultimate luxury hand car wash experience.

We don’t use Brushes or rollers, just excellent products, expert valeters, and good old customer service to ensure that excellent shine every time.

OPEN

Mini Valet on production of your HSF Membership Card Mon - Thurs

HARPENDEN

Supporter of

6 Days a Wee 8am - 7pm k Sundays 10am - 5pm

Call Sam on: 07733 323128

Chelford House, Chelford Fabrics Car Park, Coldharbour Lane, Harpenden, AL5 4UN.

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

CARPENTER

Mark Rowntree Cabinet Maker

With over 20 years experience as a Cabinet Maker, I specialise in designing and making both traditional & contemporary furniture for the home with all budget and lifestyle in mind.

Made to measure:

• • • • • • • •

Alcove Units AV and Lounge Units Built-in or Free standing Wardrobes Storage and Shelving Units Tables Wooden Flooring Bespoke Kitchens

Mark Rowntree 07787 420164 Supporter of

Bedroom Furniture

For more information or a free quotation please get in touch.

Tel: 07787 420164

Kimpton Hall Farm, Kimpton, Herts SG4 8EJ 196

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HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

Specialist in Dry Carpet Cleaning and Upholstery Cleaning

10% OFF

All services on production of your HSF PRIVILEGE CARD

CARPET CLEANING

H ARPENDEN C LEANING For a free quotation please call:

01582 715 641 07870 946 269

65 High Street, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2SL www.harpendencleaning.co.uk grant@harpendencleaning.co.uk

HARPENDEN’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED FLOORING SUPPLIER Established 1986

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

FREE

Liftup & Removal of existing carpets includes moving of furniture on production of your HSF PRIVILEGE Card (Terms & Conditions apply)

Supporter of

REMEMBER: We have over 4,000 carpets and 800 vinyl samples.

We also undertake floor repairs, screeding, boarding etc.

You’ll be amazed how competitively priced we are!!

The Area’s Leading Fitted Carpets Specialist Since 1956

14 Church Green, Harpenden

01582 763424 HSF HELPLINE197 - 01582 462926

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

197

CARPETS

E-mail us now for a quotation - rolandscarpets@xln.co.uk

Supporter of

DECORATOR

W M

M. L. WILLIAMS PAINTING & DECORATING

QUALITY INTERNAL & EXTERNAL DECORATING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE COMMENDED BY LOCAL ESTATE AGENTS FRIENDLY & RELIABLE SERVICE DISCOUNTS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS

Martin Williams O7812 213036 FREE Quotations Supporter of

Tel: 01582 764978 Mob: 07812 213036

E: info@mlw-decorators.co.uk W: www.mlw-decorators.co.uk

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

DECORATOR

Ross Witton Painting & Decorating Services

High Class Decorating at sensible prices All Painting & Decorating work Interior & Exterior Kitchen Cupboard Painting Wooden Worktop/Furniture Restoration Plastering & Coving/Tiling Fully Insured Well Established Local Company

Ross Witton 07952 265849 Supporter of

Tel: 07952 265849

Email: ross@yourregiondecorators.co.uk www.yourregiondecorators.co.uk 65 High Street Harpenden Herts AL5 2SL 198

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HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

ADVERTISE WITH US! www.harpendenseniorsforum.org

Looking to grow your business with

Get online for as little as ÂŁ120 for 1 year!

Call Mike or Tony on: 01582 469117

DISCOUNT on Labour on production of your HSF Privilege Card

Supporter of

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

HSF HELPLINE199 - 01582 462926

199

ELECTRICIAN

5%

FLOORING

Hardwood & Laminate Flooring Specialists FREE Local Delivery FREE No Obligation Estimates Complete Installation Service Floor Restoration & Repair Service Buy Now Pay Up To 12 Months Later NEW CARPET & RUG SHOWROOM

NOW OPEN! 10% OFF on production of

Supporter of

your HSF Privilege Card or Bus Pass.

6B Leyton Road Bounds Green Ind Estate Bounds Green Road Harpenden London N11 2UL Herts AL5 2TL Tel: 01582 768 770 Tel: 020 8368 4586

Pat 01582 768 770

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

www.thefloorshop.co.uk Sales: 0800 849 2312 200

200 JOIN TODAY – IT’S FREE

Kitchen design & installation Bathroom design & fitting Plumbing Plastering Electrical works Painting & decorating Gardening service General house maintenance

ern c on C Age by e ar e w pproved ds & a tandar o gS Tradin ich Trader to a Wh

www.handymendirect.co.uk info@handymendirect.co.uk

Part of the

www.vandrgroup.co.uk

Russell Alexander

07815 867729 HANDYMAN

J. Foley

Building & Handyman Services 335 Luton Road, Harpenden, Herts AL5 3LW

HANDYMAN

We can take care of the needs of the elderly around the home by trusted tradesmen

From changing a light bulb to a complete house renovation inside & out.

Jason Foley 07885 106643 J. Foley Building & Handyman Services handle most forms of building including Plastering, Plumbing, Electrics, Carpentry, Fencing, Landscaping, Painting Decorating, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Brickwork, Patios, Sheds, Garage Conversions, Extensions etc.

We also handle the smaller jobs from hanging pictures, curtains poles, etc to fixing gates, installing doorbells... in fact if you name it chances are we can do it!

Telephone Jason on:

Harpenden 467990 or Mobile 07885 106643

www.harpendendirectory.co.uk/Jason-Foley-Handy-Man-726.html

HSF HELPLINE201 - 01582 462926

Supporter of

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

201

HANDYMAN

Harpenden Property Maintenance Handyman Services

• •

Decorating • Kitchens • Carpentry • Renovations Bathrooms • Brickwork • Plumbing • Plastering

Darren Graham O7598 282898

Supporter of

No Job too Small! All other building work undertaken.

Tel: O7598 282898

KITCHENS

enquiries@hpmaintain.co.uk www.hpmaintain.co.uk

Family run business with over 30 years experience.

We design, supply and install Kitchens, Bathrooms, Bedrooms and Studies.

Kitchens and Bathrooms to suit all budgets including replacement door makeovers.

KITCHENS

All work undertaken from supply only to full project management including �ling, plastering and building work.

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HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

98 High Street, Harpenden AL5 2SP Tel / Fax 01582 766557 info@jacksonskitchens.co.uk www.jacksonskitchens.co.uk Opening Hours Mon – Fri 9am – 5.30pm & Sat 9.30am – 3pm

LANDSCAPER

BADGER LANDSCAPES LANDSCAPING & GARDENING SERVICES

A friendly and d professio profession professional approach to our work w wor ork is our key ey focus. focus Badger Landscapes specialises ad a adger dger ger Landsc L La a scapes sp pecialises alises lises llise es iin n tthe products following ollo pro oducts s and services. vi e vice

• • • • • •

Garden Design & Patios Decking & Fencing

Pete Stevenson 07989 394041

Pergolas & Turfing, Sheds & Bases

Supporter of

Paths & Driveways,

Tree work & Hedge cutting.

Tel: 01582 715456 Mob: 07989 394041

See some examples of our work at:

www.badgerlandscapes.com 65 High Street, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2SL

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

LOCKSMITH Larry Neal 07917 570526

off

10% Supporter of

Tel: 01582 206 399 HSF HELPLINE203 - 01582 462926

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

203

JUST MOT’s JUST MOT’s

JUST MOT’s

JUST MOT’s

NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED, WHILE - U - WAIT SERVICE WE TEST CARS - PRIVATE BUSES

redbournmot.com JUST MOT’s

JUST MOT’s

PEST CONTROL

JUST MOT’s

St Albans • Harpenden • Redbourn • Wheathampstead • Luton

204 JOIN TODAY – IT’S FREE

JUST MOT’s

“Repairs” or “Sales Pressure” No “Spares”,Just a fair test!

JUST MOT’s

204

JUST MOT’s

JUST MOT’s

JUST MOT’s

JUST MOT’s

JUST MOT’s

MOT CENTRE

JUST MOT’s

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PLUMBER

plumbing • heating • bathroom & kitchen specialist

Plumbsmith are a local business providing complete design & build solutions to domestic & commercial clients.

“We recently had our bathroom refurbished by Plumbsmith.

They offered a brilliant service from start to finish.

They were very professional & took care of every detail, making sure we were happy & suggesting great ideas.

We are left with a beautiful new bathroom with an excellent finish. We would highly recommend them and would like to thank them for their hard work.”

Mrs Watt - Harpenden

Receive a minimum of 15% Discount on all Sanitary Ware from Jackson’s Bathrooms when booking with Plumbsmith

Contact Simon Smith on:

Simon Smith 07961 067894 Supporter of

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

07961 067894 or 01582 765060

simon@plumbsmith.co.uk www.plumbsmith.co.uk HSF HELPLINE205 - 01582 462926

205

PLUMBING SUPPLIES

Formerly known as LHS, we have come a long way since we first opened in July 2008.

We are now the areas leading independent plumbing & heating merchant also specialising in bathrooms & kitchens.

Bathrooms Boilers Fires Kitchens Lighting Radiators Spares Underfloor Heating Wetrooms

Renovation Innovation 206

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Stockists & Suppliers of:

10%

DISCOUNT on Selected Items in Store!

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

PLUMBING SUPPLIES

PLUMBING, HEATING & BATHROOM SPECIALISTS

Supporter of

FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HEATING AND BATHROOM REQUIREMENTS, POP INTO JACKSONS FOR A FRIENDLY SERVICE!

Tel: 01582 766144

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

92-94 High Street, Harpenden, AL5 2SP

www.highelmstreesurgery.co.uk Email: info@highelmstreesurgery.co.uk

NPTC CERTIFIED POLLARDING RESHAPING STUMP REMOVAL HEDGES TRIMMED, SHAPED & REMOVED DEAD WOODING REDUCTIONS CROWN LIFTING

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LOGS DELIVERED TREE REMOVAL T.P.O. & PLANNING APPLICATIONS 24hr EMERGENCY CALL-OUT TREE SURVEY INSPECTIONS & REPORTS

5% Discount on Labour on production of your HSF Privilege Card Supporter of

No Job too small FREE Estimates & Advice Fully Insured to £10 million & Approved by Local Authorities Herts, Beds, Bucks & London + we will beat any written quotation Registered in England No. 5005478 VAT Reg. No. 847 4261 12

HSF HELPLINE207 - 01582 462926

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

207

TREE SURGEON

01582 840144 07939 623675

TYRE FITTER

Big D’s offers a mobile tyre fitting service brought to your home.

No need to wait, just book an appointment for a home visit.

FREE

No obligation Tyre Inspection at your home

Supporter of

FREE Tyre Safety Inspection!

Harpenden

01582 467800

www.bigdsharpenden.co.uk p en.co.uk

dunc du duncan@bigdsharpenden.co.uk nca ca @b gds a pe d

Find us on

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Published by; Your Local Media Ltd, No 67 High Street, Harpenden Herts AL5 2SL Tel: 01582 469117 Email: info@your-local-media.co.uk Web: www.your-local-media.co.uk Copyright Statement: All rights are reserved. This handbook has been compiled and published by the publisher above, who are the owners of the copyright to the handbook and the information contained herein. The handbook nor the information may be copied or otherwise reproduced, repackaged, further transmitted, transferred, disseminated, redistributed, resold, or stored for subsequent use for any such purpose, in whole or in part, in any form or manner or by any means whatsoever, by any person without prior written consent from the publisher. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means graphic, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or information storage and retrieval including data entry into any database or contact management system without the written permission of the publisher, which must be sought and received in writing in advance.

Classification Headings: The headings in this handbook are intended to be used as useful “finding terms” for handbook users and should not be read as trade descriptions with the meaning of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968. The appearance of a business or individual under a heading does not necessarily indicate that goods or services of the kind suggested by the heading are provided by that business or individual nor are they legally entitled professionally qualified to carry on a particular trade, business or profession. The publisher is not an agent for the business and individuals within the handbook and is unable to vouch for the advertising claims, professional qualifications, trade certifications, memberships, trade associations, or content of web sites whose addresses who may be shown in individual entries published anywhere in the handbook.

208

The publisher advises users of the handbook to satisfy themselves as to the exact type of goods and services offered or qualification held by the business or individual appearing in the handbook.

Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information and entries, the publishers cannot accept any responsibility for errors in the inclusion of an entry or omissions of an entry. All information contained herein is obtained by the publisher from sources believed to be accurate and reliable. With the possibility of human and mechanical error as well as other factors including without limit that the publisher updates the information on a daily basis, however, such information is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind and the publisher in particular, makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, timeless or completeness of any such information.

Under no circumstances shall the publisher have any liability to any person or entity for (a) any loss or damage in whole or in part caused by, resulting from, or relating to, any error (negligent or otherwise) or other circumstances involved in procuring, collecting, compiling , interpreting, analysing, editing, transcribing, transmitting, communicating or delivering any such information, or (b) any direct, indirect, special, consequential or incidental damages whatsoever, even if the publisher is advised in advance of the possibility of such damages, resulting from the use of, or inability to use any such information.

Full complete details, Terms and Conditions of sale please visit our website.

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Notes:

HSF HELPLINE209 - 01582 462926

209

CONSTRUCTION OF HARPENDEN Here at Concept we pride ourselves on the quality of each & every project we deliver regardless of size. With many years experience backed up by our creative design team we feel we are able to take your dreams and turn them into a reality.

Richard Downes 07960 993344 Supporter of

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

• Mobility Aids • Design & Build Specialists • Extensions & Refurbishment • Patios & Driveways • Garage & Loft Conversions

• Bath/Shower Room Adaptations • All Work Guaranteed • 20 Years Experience • FREE Initial Design & Consultation • New Build Guaranteed

T: 01582 620994 M: 07960 993344 E: info@conceptbuild.org W: www.conceptbuild.org Cedral Weatherboard Cladding recommended installers, including Facia Soffit & Gutter replacement.

210

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Your Emergency Information If you are unsure who to call and it’s an Emergency please dial 999, remain calm, described the situation and DO NOT hang up.

Name: ...............................................................................................................................................

Address: ......................................................................................................................................... ......................................................................................................................................................... .........................................................................................................................................................

Telephone: ........................................................ Mobile: ................................................................

Your Doctor’s Name: .....................................................................................................................

Surgery Address: ............................................................................................................................. ..........................................................................................................................................................

Surgery Telephone Number: ..........................................................................................................

Medication you are on: ................................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................

In case of Emergency Next of Kin: Name: ...............................................................................................................................................

Address: ............................................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................

Telephone Number: ............................................... (Day) .............................................. (Evening)

Services Who supplies your ELECTRICITY: ...................................................................................................

Emergency Telephone Number: ......................................................................................................

Where is your Electrical Consumer Unit: .......................................................................................

Who supplies your GAS: .................................................................................................................

Emergency Telephone Number: ......................................................................................................

Where is your Gas Meter: ...............................................................................................................

Who supplies your WATER: .............................................................................................................

Emergency Telephone Number: ......................................................................................................

Where is your Water Stop Cock: ....................................................................................................

HSF HELPLINE211 - 01582 462926

211

www.harpendenbs.co.uk

Mortgages designed to fit your needs

Are you looking for a residential mortgage that is tailored to meet your circumstances, rather than having to fit into a computerised ‘tick box’ approach?

Residential mortgages for

At Harpenden Building Society we review each case on an individual basis, so we can understand your mortgage requirements.

Purchase Remortgage

To find out more about how we could help you, please call 01582 463 133 or visit www.harpendenbs.co.uk

Refurbishment Additional Borrowing Second Homes

Head Office: Mardall House, 9-11 Vaughan Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 4HU

Release of Equity

Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. Firm reference number: 157260 YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE