Harpenden Seniors Forum Handbook 2017

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

Your guide to local services, amenities and information in the event of an emergency.

JOIN TODAY – IT’S FREE

01582 462 926 Supported by:

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Repeat Prescriptions?

No need to go to the Doctor every time.

Now you can collect your repeat prescription FREE PRESCRIPTION straight from Manor Pharmacy!DELIVERY TO ORDER YOUR REPEAT PRESCRIPTION: • Nominate us to receive your prescriptions by email using the Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) • Leave your repeat request with us and simply phone and tell No need to you go to theorDoctor every time us which medicines need Now you collect your • Complete your can repeat request asrepeat neededprescription and hand it in to us or • Hand in the straight repeat request to the surgery yourself (but please from Manor Pharmacy! mark it clearly for collection by Manor Pharmacy) TO ORDER YOUR REPEAT PRESCRIPTION: What could be simpler?

Repeat Prescriptions?

To sign up for Electronic Prescription Service please fill in the form on page 55 What could be simpler? and hand in to any Manor Pharmacy!

sle!!

tion Service

HS Electronic Prescription Service means we a great new service. We will help you request our doctor so they will be “ready and waiting” anor Pharmacy whenever convenient or we edicines directly to your door – and all for free.

ards and forwards between your doctor’s surgery and need a prescription. Manor Pharmacy will save you assle. You don’t even have to leave home... y, so when you need a repeat prescription we can

eminder service

www.manorpharmacygroup.co.uk 2 High Street, Wheathampstead, Hertfordshire AL4 8AA Tel/Fax: 01582 832102 3 Leyton Green, 136 Southdown Road, 2 High Street,

Harpenden AL5 2TE Harpenden AL5 1PU Wheathampstead AL4 8AA www.manorpharmacygroup.co.uk tel/fax: 01582 760624 tel/fax: 01582 712783 tel/fax 01582 832102

elephone or email reminder service, so you never have medicines – alternatively you can request your e at any time. e – register today by completing your registration form 01582 832102 gister online visit our website at

Branches also in Elstree, Radlett, Bovingdon & Letchworth.

prescription reminder service

3 HSF HELPLINE - 01582 462926

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A big thank you to all our supporters Bretherton Law

2 & 153 Fonthill St Albans 137

Manor Pharmacy

3 & 55

Pension & Wealth Management Services Ltd

Hertfordshire Careline

5 & 85

Hicks Chartered Accountants 150

Harpenden Town Council

14

Tax Assist Accountants

Community Meals 42 Cook Harpenden 42 Wayside Dental Practice

59

Perfect balance Clinic

66

The Hearing Clinic

71

149

151

Taylor Walton Solicitors 155 Debenhams Ottaway Solicitors

156

Neves Solicitors 157 MJG Builders & Decorators Ltd

173

Chips Away Mobile Car Scratch & Body work Repairs 174 Discreet Hearing 72 20/20 Eyecare 77 Home Countiess Security Systems

118

NPA Insurance 121

Roland Carpets 175 Ross Witton Decorators 175 Chelford Fabrics 176 Flat Pack Furniture Installer

177

Saunders of Harpenden

128

Allsopp Estate & Letting Agent

129

Redbourn MOT 177

Harpenden House Serviced Apartments

131

Harpenden House 178

B&M Care Home

135

High Elms Tree Surgery Ltd

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CONTENTS • Harpenden Seniors Forum ----------

Page 6 to 8

• Emergency Numbers -----------------

Page 9

• Your Emergency Information -------

Page 10

• Support Groups -----------------------

Page 11 to 13

• Harpenden Town Council ----------

Page 14 to 18

• Allowances & Entitlements ---------

Page 19 to 39

Printed & Published by: Your Local Media 67 High Street, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2SL www.your-local-media.co.uk

• Health & Wellbeing ------------------

Page 40 to 88

Advertising Contact Tel: 01582 469117

• Learning ---------------------------------

Page 89 to 92

• Holidays & Travel ---------------------

Page 93 to 96

• Leisure ----------------------------------

Page 97 to 111

• Mobility ---------------------------------

Page 112 to 117

• Around the Home --------------------

Page 118 to 125

• Moving Home -------------------------

Page 126 to 131

• Nursing Homes -----------------------

Page 132 to 138

• Transport -------------------------------

Page 139 to 147

• Financial Planning -------------------

Page 148 to 164

• Bereavement --------------------------

Page 165 to 169

• Weights & Measures ----------------

Page 170 to 172

• Your Local Trades & Services ------

Page 173 to 179

Mike Hamilton mike@your-local-media.co.uk Tony Mcfarland tony@your-local-media.co.uk Design & Artwork: Pete Salo psdesign@rocketmail.com Disclaimer Every effort has been made to ensure that the information is correct at the time of printing. However, Your Local Media cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage arising from the use of the information in this publication - Full T&C’s on page 177

Your trusted community alarm and telecare service No upfront costs, equipment charges, or long term contracts

If you or a loved one lives alone, a community alarm offers peace of mind and could save a life £3.25

per week (includes maintenance of the equipment, monitoring of calls and Emergency Response Fallback Service) Provided in association with Hertfordshire County Council and

Free Medical Alert Card and Keyfinder Key Fob with every community alarm.

Careline is a not-for-profit service of NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL

Serving residents in Harpenden, St Albans and the whole of Hertfordshire.

0300 999 2 999 www.care-line.co.uk

5 HSF HELPLINE - 01582 462926

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FOREWORD

HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

FREE MEMBERSHIP

Harpenden Seniors Forum is a lively organisation for seniors in the town. Since it was set up by Alan Cox, Life President, it has grown and developed, offering members a range of benefits. Our aim is to offer seniors useful information through our phone-line, our events, the members’ newsletter and this handbook.

Any senior can call our phone-line staffed by a team of friendly volunteers and offering information about national and local organisations and local tradespeople.

Members receive a free newsletter which is hand delivered by volunteers twice a year.

Our events are free thanks to commercial sponsorship, and the events programme changes every year. We hold our events in local halls and in the Skew Bridge pub.

RECENT EVENTS: •

•

•

Seniors Fair with over 30 stands representing local organisations and businesses Computer taster sessions run for us by local charity Computer Friendly Health and Wellbeing events

HOW TO CONTACT US: Email: harpendenseniorsforum@btconnect.com Phone 01582 462926 Mon-Fri 10am-12noon (answering service)

www.harpendenseniorsforum.org

Alan D. Cox - Life President

JOIN TODAY – IT’S FREE 6

JOIN TODAY6 – IT’S FREE

www.harpendenseniorsforum.org JOIN TODAY AND 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: ...................................... ...................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................... ......................................................................................................................

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

I am happy to be contacted via email

CALL US ON: 01582 462926 Please complete & drop off into: Harpenden Directory, 67 High Street, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 2SL.

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: 01582 469117.

I hope you find this publication useful.

Alan D. Cox - Chairman HSF HELPLINE7- 01582 462926

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

Citizens Advice Bureau Shopping oppingg

T Travel

Homee Safetyy

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

+

Harpenden Volunteer Agency 8

JOIN TODAY8 – IT’S FREE

Places Of O Worship

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

0800 183 1515

Report a Leak

Telephone out of order

0800 111 999

0800 3765325

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

PCSO Safer Neighbourhood Team Harpenden & Rural Harpenden Town Centre PCSO Derek Holloway

01707 806143

Harpenden North & Batford PCSO Greg Coulshed 01707 806143 Harpenden South & West PCSO Tom Perrin 01707 806143 Wheathampstead PCSO Che Ponton

01707 806143

Redbourn PCSO Alex Peduto 01707 806143

HSF HELPLINE9- 01582 462926

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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: ....................................................................................................

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SUPPORT GROUPS & CHURCHES

HELP IS OUT THERE

01582 759052 218 222 01903

Looking for care and companionship? Let us help We all value different things at home and in our community that make us feel like we belong.

So if your confidence or ability to live alone is affected, there’s an awful lot at stake.

Whatever you need, we can help with tailored support that’s as unique as you are.

From everyday domestic jobs and personal care, through to full time live-in care, emergency and end of life care, our local team can support you at home or abroad.

Whether it’s one visit a day or several, we can stay for as long as you need. It’s all about you.

Email us rustington@alinahomecare.com harpenden@alinahomecare.com

Visit us www.alinahomecare.com

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.

Youth Town Council, Grant Aid to local organisations, Communications (Forum newsletter,Town Guide and website). Partnership working with retail, businesses and community groups.

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

Corporate Management, Administrative and Statutory responsibilities.

Environment The management of 15 allotment sites, the sustainable management and maintenance of the Common and other Greens and Recreation areas including Westfield, Porters Hill and Marquis Lane open space, Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve, the Nickey Line, Lydekker Park and car park, and the Parish Paths Partnership.

Land assets including the redevelopment of disused allotment sites. Restoration and rejuvenation projects such as Lydekker Pond and Marquis Lane Field.

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,

The Town 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 E: harpenden.town.council@harpenden.gov.uk W: www.harpenden.gov.uk

HSF HELPLINE15- 01582 462926

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HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCILLORS 2016/2017 Town Mayor

Deputy Town Mayor

Councillor Mrs Nicola Linacre Councillor David Heritage NORTH WARD

EAST WARD

Georgie Calle (Con) T: 07715 993060 E: georgie.calle@btinternet.com

Pat Kent (Con) T: 01582 764161 E: patkent80@gmail.com

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

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

SOUTH WARD

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

Anne James (Ind) T: 07817 953173 E: ajames57@gmail.com

Pip Martyn (Ind) T: 07864 896322 E: cllr.pipmartyn@btinternet.com

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

WEST WARD

Rod Cooley (Con) T: 01582 620682 E: rod.cooley@ntlworld.com

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

Harry Gilham (Con) T: 07477 660498 E: harry_gilham@hotmail.co.uk

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

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Rosemary Farmer (Con)

Chris Canfield (Con) T: 07952 833828 E: chriscanfield.community@btinternet.com

Daniel Chichester-Miles (Con) T: 01582 768278 E: cllr.d.chichester-miles@stalbans.gov.uk

Nicola Linacre (Con) T: 01582 766245 E: nkrlinacre@gmail.com

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

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D I S T R I C T COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES HARPENDEN NORTH Stephen Hodgson (Con) T: 07933 450500 E: cllr.s.hodgson@stalbans.gov.uk

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

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

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

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

Teresa Heritage (Con) T: 07818 580081 E: teresa.heritage@hertfordshire.gov.uk

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

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

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

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

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

Matt Stephens (Con) T: 01582 713128 E: cllr.m.stephens@stalbans.gov.uk

St Albans District Council Tel: 01727 866100

Website: www.stalbans.gov.uk

C OUN T Y COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES NORTH EAST

SOUTH WEST

David Williams (Con) T: 07733 225464 E: david.williams@hertfordshire.gov.uk

Teresa Heritage (Con) T: 07818 580081 E: teresa.heritage@hertfordshire.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

• you defer (delay) taking your State Pension

New State Pension The new State Pension is a regular payment from the government that you can claim if you reach State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016.

You can get the new State Pension if you’re eligible and you’re: • •

a man born on or after 6 April 1951 a woman born on or after 6 April 1953

You can still get a State Pension if you have other income like a personal pension or a workplace pension.

If you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016, you’ll get the State Pension under the old rules instead.

The full new State Pension is £155.65 per week, but that’s not the sum you’ll necessarily get. Those who have built up a certain amount of additional pension will get a higher amount, while those that were contracted-out before 6 April 2016 for a significant time will probably get less.

Working after State Pension age

The new State Pension increases each 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%

The actual amount you get depends on your National Insurance record.

The only reasons the amount can be higher are if: • you have over a certain amount of

Additional State Pension 20

You don’t have to stop working when you reach State Pension age but you’ll no longer have to pay National Insurance. You can also request flexible working arrangements.

Eligibility You’ll usually need at least 10 qualifying years on your National Insurance record to get any State Pension. They don’t have to be 10 qualifying years in a row.

This means for 10 years at least one or more of the following applied to you: •

•

you were working and paid National Insurance contributions you were getting National Insurance credits, e.g for unemployment, sickness or as a parent or carer

20 JOIN TODAY – IT’S FREE

•

you were paying voluntary National Insurance contributions

If you’ve lived or worked abroad you might still be able to get some new State Pension.

You might also qualify if you’ve paid married women’s or widow’s reduced rate contributions.

To qualify for a full State Pension you will need a 35 year record.

How to claim You won’t get your new State Pension automatically - you have to claim it. You should get a letter 4 months before your State Pension age, telling you what to do.

If you haven’t got a letter 3 months before you reach State Pension age, phone the claim line. They’ll discuss with you what you need to do.

scheme at: www.gov.uk/government/publications/ your-new-state-pension-explained.

If you want to keep working You can claim your new State Pension even if you carry on working. However, you have the option to defer which can increase the amount you get.

If you get divorced If you get divorced or your civil partnership is dissolved the court can decide that your Additional State Pension should be shared as part of the financial settlement.

For more information visit: www.gov.uk/new-state-pension/overview

Tax The State Pension is subject to income tax, you may therefore have to pay tax on your pension.

There are 4 ways to claim: •

•

•

Online State Pension claims www.gov.uk/claim-state-pension-online Over the phone – Tel: 0800 731 7898 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm (except public holidays) Download the State Pension claim form and send it to your local pension centre www.gov.uk/government/ publications/the-basic-state-pension

You can read ‘Your new State Pension explained’ for more detailed information about the changes to the State Pension

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Pensions

Last 2 digits of your

The basic State Pension (Old Rules) The basic State Pension is a regular payment from the government that you can get if you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016.

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

The most you can currently get is £119.30 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%

What you will get The maximum you can get is £119.30 per week. There are ways you can increase your State Pension up to or above the full amount.

Day your State

National Insurance number Pension gets paid

00 to 19 20 to 39 40 to 59 60 to 79 80 to 99

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Your first payment is made at the end of the first full week after you reach State Pension age. It won’t include the time between reaching State Pension age and your normal payment day if that’s less than one week.

Example You reach State Pension age on Monday 16 December 2013 and your first payday is a Friday.

The first full week ending on a Friday after the Monday you reached State Pension age is Saturday 21 December to Friday 27 December.

How it is paid

You won’t be paid between 16 December and 21 December because this is less than one week.

The basic State Pension is usually paid every 4 weeks into an account of your choice. You’re paid ‘in arrears’, i.e you’re paid for the last 4 weeks, not for the coming 4 weeks.

The day your pension is paid depends on your National Insurance number.

There are different rules if you live abroad.

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

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Eligibility You must claim the new State Pension if you reach State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016.

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

You need 30 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions or credits to get the full basic State Pension. This means for 30 years at least one of the following applied to you: •

•

•

•

• •

•

you were working and paid National Insurance you were getting National Insurance Credits, eg for unemployment, sickness or as a parent or carer you were paying voluntary National Insurance contributions

STATE PENSION CLAIM LINE Telephone: 0800 731 7898

If you have fewer than 30 years, your basic State Pension will be less than £119.30 per week but you might be able to top up by paying voluntary National Insurance contributions.

Textphone: 0800 731 7339 Monday to Friday: 8am to 6pm (except public holidays)

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

online State Pension claims www.gov.uk/claim-state-pension-online over the phone download the State Pension claim form and send it to your local pension centre - www.gov. uk/government/publications/thebasic-state-pension claim from abroad including the Channel Islands - www.gov. uk/state-pension-if-you-retireabroad/how-to-claim

Increase the amount you’ll get There are ways you can increase your basic State Pension if you:

If you haven’t received a letter you can phone the claim line. They’ll discuss with you what you need to do.

•

•

aren’t eligible for the full amount (£119.30 per week) want to receive more than the full amount

There are 4 ways to claim:

You should get financial advice when planning your retirement income.

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Voluntary National contributions

Insurance You might also qualify for the Additional

You need 30 years of National Insurance contributions to be eligible for the full basic State Pension.

If you have gaps in your insurance record, you may be able to make voluntary contributions to increase your pension.

Delay (defer) your State Pension Deferring your State Pension could increase your payments when you decide to claim.

The basic State Pension increases by 1% for every 5 weeks you defer.

State Pension or, if you’re on a low income, Pension Credit.

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 £155.60 (single people) or £237.55 (couples).

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

The extra amount is paid with your regular State Pension and can be claimed on top of the full basic State Pension amount.

You may not be eligible for Savings Credit if you reach State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016.

State Pension top up

You do not pay tax on Pension Credit.

Until 5 April 2017 you can apply for the State Pension top up. This lets you add up to £25 per week to your pension in exchange for a lump sum payment. You can get the top up in addition to the full basic State Pension amount.

Use the Pension Credit calculator to work out how much you might get. www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator

If you have gaps in your National Insurance record, it may be cost effective to make voluntary National Insurance contributions before topping up.

Other ways you could increase your pension If you’re married or in a civil partnership you may be eligible to increase your basic State Pension to £71.50 per week. Check if you qualify. - www.gov.uk/state-pension/eligibility 24

Change of circumstances 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 • change your bank account • marry or form a civil partnership • get divorced or have your civil

partnership dissolved • are widowed or your civil partner dies

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Grants

qualifying week. This is normally the first full week of December.

Find energy grants and ways to improve your energy efficiency You might be eligible for help with your energy bills or to make your home more energy efficient.

To find out what energy saving improvements can help, you’ll need to know: •

•

what kind of measures you already have (e.g, insulation or double glazing) a general idea of when your home was built

Visit www.gov.uk/energy-grants-calculator to see if you are eligible or contact your Local Council.

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

If you qualify but don’t get paid automatically, you’ll need to make a claim. Any money you get won’t affect your other benefits.

See page 29 for more information.

Christmas Bonus The Christmas Bonus is a one-off tax-free £10 payment made before Christmas, paid to people who get certain benefits in the

You don’t need to claim - you should get paid automatically.

How you are paid All benefits, pensions and allowances are normally paid into an account, eg your bank account. It may show up as ‘DWP XB’ on your bank statement.

Eligibility To get a Christmas Bonus you must be present or ‘ordinarily resident’ in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Gibraltar, any European Economic Area (EEA) country, or Switzerland during the qualifying week.

You must also get at least one of the following benefits in the ‘qualifying week’ this is normally the first full week of December: If you haven’t claimed your State Pension and aren’t entitled to one of the other qualifying benefits you won’t get a Christmas Bonus

Free older person’s bus pass You can travel free on local buses in England, but the age at which you can apply for your free bus pass depends on when you were born and where you live.

Contact your local authority for more information on how to apply. www.gov.uk/apply-for-elderly-person-bus-pass

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Get a free or discounted TV licence You can get a free TV licence if you’re 75 or over and a discount if you’re blind or in residential care.

You can get a 50% discount if you’re registered blind or live with someone who is. The licence has to be in the blind person’s name - if it isn’t you can transfer it by calling TV Licensing.

You can get a special licence for £7.50 if you’re in residential care.

You must be either: • retired and over 60 • disabled Your housing manager can apply for you.

You can also get a short-term licence if you’re 74. It’s valid until the end of the month before your 75th birthday.

Other Potential Entitlements Everyone aged over 60 gets free prescriptions and eye tests. But depending on your circumstances, you may be entitled to help with other NHS health costs.

Can I claim it?

Before paying for treatment, ask your dentist, optician or hospital staff for advice. Depending on your circumstances, you could get: • • • •

free NHS dental treatment free NHS prescriptions a free NHS eye test a voucher towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses 26

•

•

help with travel costs to receive NHS treatment free NHS wigs and fabric supports.

You will qualify if you and/or your partner receive: • the Guarantee Credit part of

Pension Credit • Income Support • income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance • income-related Employment and

Support Allowance • Working Tax Credit or Child Tax

Credit (in some circumstances) • Universal Credit.

If you don’t receive any of these benefits but have a low income, you may still get some help with health costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme. Call Help with Health Costs on 0300 330 1343 for a form or pick one up from a dentist, optician or hospital.

Other Senior Saving Tips Senior Railcard The Senior Railcard is an annual savings card that’s available to anyone aged 60 or over. You buy it for a one-off cost and it will allow you to make big savings on most rail fares in the UK.

Coach concessions There is no national concessionary scheme at present, but ask your coach operator if they offer any discounts. For example, National Express offers a Senior Coach-card for people who are 60 or over. It costs £10 and offers a third off your travel throughout the year.

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Housing Benefit

Spare bedrooms

Overview

Your Housing Benefit could be reduced if you live in council or social housing and have a spare bedroom. The reduction is: • 14% of the ‘eligible rent’ for 1

spare bedroom • 25% of the ‘eligible rent’ for 2 or

more spare bedrooms

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: • your ‘eligible’ rent • if you have a spare room • your household income

including benefits, pensions and

savings (over £6,000) • your circumstances, e.g age of

people in the house, if someone

has a disability You may also get extra help from your council called a ‘discretionary housing payment’ if your Housing Benefit doesn’t cover your rent.

Eligible rent Eligible rent means the reasonable rent for a suitable property in your area. It includes service charges (e.g for lift maintenance or a communal laundry) but not things like heating.

Example reduced housing benefit Your eligible rent is £100 per week.

Housing Benefit pays £50 and you pay £50.

You have 1 spare bedroom so the reduction is 14%. This means your Housing Benefit will be reduced by £14 per week.

Eligibility You may get Housing Benefit if: • •

•

you pay rent you’re on a low income or claiming benefits your savings are below a certain level - usually £16,000

You can apply if you’re employed or unemployed, but if you live with a partner, only one of you can get Housing Benefit.

If you’re single and under 35, you can only get Housing Benefit for bed-sit accommodation or a single room in shared accommodation.

Use a benefits calculator to check your eligibility or contact your council.

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Who isn’t eligible?

Usually you won’t get Housing Benefit if: • your savings are over £16,000 unless you get Guarantee credit of

Pension Credit • you live in the home of a close relative • you’re a full-time student - unless

you’re disabled or have children • you’re residing in the UK as an

European Economic Area jobseeker • you’re an asylum seeker or

sponsored to be in the UK • you’re subject to immigration

control and your granted leave

states that you can’t claim public funds You can’t get Housing Benefit and Universal Credit at the same time (unless you’re in certain kinds of supported housing).

Contact Jobcentre Plus to claim Housing Benefit with your claim for the following benefits: • • • •

Employment & Support Allowance Income Support Jobseeker’s Allowance Jobcentre Plus will send details of your claim for Housing Benefit to your council.

Jobcentre Plus Telephone: 0800 055 6688 Textphone: 0800 023 4888 Mon to Fri - 8am to 6pm Find out about call charges

If you’re claiming Universal Credit If you’re claiming Universal Credit, you can get help paying for housing with your Universal Credit payment instead of getting Housing Benefit.

You’ll have to pay rent to your landlord directly if you get Universal Credit.

Local Housing Allowance rates

If you’re claiming Pension Credit

LHA rates are based on rents, and limited by legislation. These rents are being paid by people with the same number of bedrooms as the property where you live, or the number of rooms you and your household needs.

Contact the Pension Service to claim Housing Benefit with your claim for Pension Credit.

You can check the LHA rates for you, based on the area you live in. https://lha-direct. voa.gov.uk/search.aspx

Pension Service

You can also check how many bedrooms you may be eligible for, based on the number of people in your household. www.lha-direct.voa.gov.uk/bedroomcalculator.aspx

How to claim If you’re claiming other benefits.

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The Pension Service will send details of your claims for Housing Benefit to your council.

Telephone: 0800 99 1234 Textphone: 0800 169 0133 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm

If you’re not claiming other benefits Apply through your local council if you’re not claiming other benefits.

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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 5 May 1953. 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 usually get a Winter Fuel Payment automatically if you get the State Pension or another social security benefit (not Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Child Benefit or Universal Credit).

If you qualify but don’t get paid automatically, you’ll need to make a claim.

Any money you get won’t affect your other benefits.

What you will get How much you get depends on your circumstances during the qualifying week.

The qualifying week for winter 2016 to 2017 is 19th to 25th September 2016.

Any money you get is tax-free and won’t affect your other benefits.

Born on or before 5 Jan 1953

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, Support Allowance (ESA) and Income Support. *** Your partner getting the benefit will get the Winter Fuel Payment on your behalf.

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How and when you’re paid You’ll get a letter telling you how much you’ll get and an estimated payment date.

Most payments are made automatically between November and December.

If you qualify and you’re not getting a social security benefit (or if you only get Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction or Child Benefit), you’ll need to make a claim.

All benefits, pensions and allowances are paid into an account, eg a bank account.

Eligibility You will qualify for Winter Fuel Payment if: • you were born on or before 5th May 1953 (for winter 2016 to 2017 - this date changes every year) • you’ll be living in the UK throughout the week of 19 to 25 September 2016 You may be able to get the payment if you live in Switzerland or a European Economic Area (EEA) country and you have a genuine link with the UK. You can’t get the payment if you live in Cyprus, France, Gibraltar, Greece, Malta, Portugal or Spain because the average winter temperature is higher than the warmest region of the UK.

When you won’t qualify You won’t qualify if throughout the week of 19 to 25 September 2016 you: • are in prison • are in hospital getting free treatment for more than 52 weeks • need permission to enter the UK and don’t qualify for help from the Department

for Work & Pensions • lived in a care home for the previous 12 weeks or more & get Pension Credit,

income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment & Support Allowance • lived in Cyprus, France, Gibraltar, Greece, Malta, Portugal or Spain

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.

Most Winter Fuel Payments are paid automatically. Write to the office that pays your Winter Fuel Payment if you want to cancel it.

You can’t claim Winter Fuel Payments for 2016 to 2017 after 31 March 2017.

Winter Fuel Payments helpline

Telephone: 03459 15 15 15 • From outside the UK: +44 (0)191 218 7777 Textphone: 0345 601 5613 • Textphone from outside the UK: +44 (0)191 218 7280 Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6:00pm

For more information please visit: www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment/how-to-claim 30

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Help if you are living with a disability Disability Living Allowance Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a tax-free benefit for disabled people who need help with mobility or care costs.

You can claim for DLA if you: • were born after 8 April 1948 and you make a claim in the same year you stopped receiving DLA

If you’re not eligible If you’re aged 65 or older and haven’t received DLA or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in the last year, you may be able to claim Attendance Allowance instead.

If you’re already claiming, you’ll continue to get DLA until the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) writes to tell you when your DLA will end and invites you to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Use the PIP checker to find out how your DLA will be affected by PIP. www.gov.uk/pip-checker The rate you get is made up of 2 components (parts). How much you get depends on how your disability or health condition affects you.

Care component Care Component

Weekly Rate

Level of help you need

£21.80

Help for some of the day or with preparing cooked meals

Middle

£55.10

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

Highest

£82.30

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

Lowest

Mobility component Mobility Component

Weekly Rate

Level of help you need

Lower

£21.80

Guidance or supervision outdoors

Higher

£57.45

You have any other, more severe, walking difficulty

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How you are paid DLA is usually paid every 4 weeks. All benefits, pensions and allowances are paid into an account, eg your bank account.

Extra help You could get extra benefits or tax credits if you get Disability Living Allowance. Check with the Disability Benefits Centre helpline or the office dealing with your benefit.

You could get between £21.80 and £139.75 a week. The rate depends on how your condition affects you, not the condition itself. You’ll need an assessment to work out the level of help you get. Your rate will be regularly reassessed to make sure you’re getting the right support.

Your carer could get Carer’s Allowance if you have substantial caring needs.

If you get Disability Living Allowance Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is ending for people who were born after 8 April 1948 and are 16 or over.

You’ll continue to get DLA until the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) writes to you to: • tell you when it will end • invite you to apply for PIP • Use the PIP checker to find out if and when you’ll be asked to claim.

You can keep getting DLA if you’re under 16 or you were born on or before 8 April 1948 and have an existing claim.

Getadviceorinformationaboutaclaimyou’vemadeforDisabilityLiving Allowance, Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payment.

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) Personal Independence Payment (PIP) If you were born on or before 8 April 1948 Telephone: 0345 605 6055 Textphone: 0345 604 5312 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm If you were born after 8 April 1948 Telephone: 0345 712 3456 Textphone: 0345 722 4433 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm

Attendance Allowance (AA) Telephone: 0345 605 6055 Textphone: 0345 604 5312 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm 32

Telephone: 0345 850 3322 Textphone: 0345 601 6677 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm

There’s a different number if you want to make a claim for PIP.

Postal address for DLA Adult

(aged 16 and over) Disability Living Allowance DLA 65+ Mail Handling Site A Wolverhampton WV98 2AH. Make sure you include your date of birth to confirm you’re 16 or over.

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Attendance Allowance You could get £55.10 or £82.30 a week to help with personal care because you’re physically or mentally disabled and you’re aged 65 or over.

This is called Attendance Allowance. It’s paid at 2 different rates and how much you get depends on the level of care that you need because of your disability.

The other benefits you get can increase if you get Attendance Allowance.

Your carer could get Carer’s Allowance if you have substantial caring needs.

What you’ll get Attendance Allowance is paid weekly at 2 different rates - the one you get depends on the level of help you need.

Attendance allowance is paid weekly at 2 different rates - the one you get depends on the level of help you need.

Attendance Allowance rates Rate

Level of help needed

Lower rate - Frequent help or £55.10 constant supervision

during the day, or

supervision at night Higher rate - Help or supervision £82.30 during both day and

night, or you’re terminally ill

You could get extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction if you get Attendance Allowance - check with the helpline or office dealing with your benefit.

How you’re paid All benefits, pensions and allowances are paid into an account, eg your bank account.

Changes of circumstances All benefits, pensions and allowances are paid into an account, eg your bank account.

Your circumstances can affect how much you get, e.g moving between the lower and higher rates. You must contact the Attendance Allowance helpline if your circumstances change. For example: • the level of help you need or your

condition changes • you go into hospital or a care

home for more than 4 weeks • you go abroad for more than 13 weeks • you’re imprisoned or held in detention You must also contact the helpline if: •

•

•

you change your name, address or bank details you want to stop receiving your benefit your doctor’s details change

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You could get a £50 civil penalty and have to repay overpaid benefits if you don’t report changes and are overpaid as a result.

Eligibility You can get Attendance Allowance if you’re 65 or over and the following apply: •

•

you have a physical disability (including sensory disability, eg blindness), a mental disability (including learning difficulties), or both your disability is severe enough for you to need help caring for yourself or someone to supervise you, for your own or someone else’s safety

Conditions

Assessments You might get a letter saying you need to attend an assessment to check your eligibility.

The letter will explain why and where you must go.

At the assessment, you’ll be asked for identification. You can use a passport or any 3 of the following: • • • •

birth certificate a full driving licence life assurance policy bank statements

For further information please visit: www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance/overview Or contact: Attendance Allowance helpline Telephone: 0345 605 6055 Textphone: 0345 604 5312 Monday to Friday - 8am to 6pm

You must also: • be in Great Britain when you claim

there are some exceptions, eg

members and family members of

the Armed Forces • have been in Great Britain for at

least 2 of the last 3 years • be habitually resident in the UK,

Ireland, Isle of Man or the Channel

Islands not be subject to immigration

control (unless you’re a sponsored

immigrant) There are some exceptions to these conditions if you’re living in another European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland.

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ALLOWANCES & ENTITLEMENTS Benefit fraud You commit benefit fraud by either: • intentionally not reporting a change in

your circumstances • being dishonest in order to get benefits

Losing benefits if you’re convicted of fraud Your benefits can be reduced or stopped for up to 3 years if you’re convicted of benefit fraud. The amount of time they’re stopped for depends on how many times you’ve committed fraud.

What happens if you’re suspected of fraud Only certain benefits can be reduced or You’ll be contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions, HM Revenue and Customs, the Service and Personnel and Veterans Agency or your local authority if you’re suspected of fraud.

stopped. These are called ‘sanctionable benefits’. But if you commit fraud on a benefit that can’t be reduced or stopped, your other benefits can be reduced instead.

You may be visited by Fraud Investigation Officers (FIOs) or asked to attend an interview to talk about your claim.

The following benefits can be reduced or stopped if you commit benefit fraud:

Your benefit may be stopped while you’re investigated. You’ll get a letter telling you about this if it happens.

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 you’ve committed fraud, you’ll be told to pay back the overpaid money. One or more of the following may also happen: • you may be taken to court or asked to

pay a penalty (between £350 and

£5,000) • your benefits may be reduced or stopped

Sanctionable benefits

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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

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• 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

Benefits that can’t be reduced or stopped The following benefits can’t be reduced or stopped if you commit benefit fraud: • • • • • • • • • •

•

• • • •

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 State Pension Social Fund Payments War Pension Constant Attendance Allowance

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• War Pension Exceptionally Severe Disablement Allowance • War Pension Mobility Supplement

Exceptions If you commit benefit fraud and you’re on any of the following benefits, none of your benefits can be stopped or reduced: • • • • • • • •

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 You could get a Funeral Payment if you’re on a low income and need help to pay for a funeral you’re arranging.

How much you get depends on your circumstances and if you qualify.

Repayments You’ll usually have to pay back any money you get from the deceased person’s estate (if they have one).

The estate includes any money or property they had but not a house or personal things left to a widow, widower or surviving civil partner.

What you’ll get How much you get depends on your circumstances.

The Funeral Payment can help pay for: • burial fees and exclusive rights to

burial in a particular plot • cremation fees, including the cost

of the doctor’s certificate • up to £700 for funeral expenses,

such as 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.

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You can find the full list of what can be included in the Funeral Payment in claim form SF200. Visit: www.gov.uk/government/ publications/funeral-payment-claim-form.

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 bank, building society or credit union 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

The rules are different if the person died outside the UK.

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 benefit..

•

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: • • •

• • •

•

•

Income Support income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance income-related Employment and Support Allowance Pension Credit Housing Benefit the disability or severe disability element of Working Tax Credit one of the extra elements of Child Tax Credit Universal Credit

How much you get also depends on any other money available, eg from an insurance policy or the deceased’s estate.

If there’s a close relative of the deceased who isn’t getting one of the qualifying

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 a baby stillborn after 24 weeks of pregnancy 38

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benefits you may not be able to claim Funeral Payment.

How to claim You can claim a Funeral Payment using form SF200 available at: www.gov.uk/ government/publications/funeral-paymentclaim-form or over the phone.

Call the Bereavement Service helpline. The adviser will also help you claim any other bereavement benefits you’re entitled to.

Telephone: 0345 606 0265 Welsh language: 0345 606 0275 Textphone: 0345 606 0285 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm You must claim within 3 months of the funeral.

Where to send your form Post it to “Freepost DWP Funeral Payments” you don’t need to write anything else on the envelope.

You can also take the form to your local Jobcentre Plus, but it can take longer to process.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING LIVE LONGER 38 40

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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

Harpenden Dental Practice: 01582 765910

The Elms Medical Practice: 01582 767444

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 Spire Harpenden Hospital: 01582 763191 St. Albans City Hospital: 01727 866122 Hemel Hempstead Hospital: 01442 213141 Luton & Dunstable Hospital: 0845 1270127 Queen Elizabeth II Hospital Welwyn Garden City: 01707 328111

Pure Dentistry: 01582 713 400 Southdown Dental Practice: 01582 769799 The Leyton Dental Practice: 01582 765219 Vaughan Dental: 01582 461000 Visage Dental Spa: 01582 715800 Wayside Dental Practice: 01582 712470

Dental Technicians J J Thompson Orthodontic

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

Appliances Ltd: 01582 834044 The Denture Clinic: 01582 462880

Local Opticians Allders Opticians Ltd: 01582 767524 Harpenden Eye Centre: 01582 462916 Lydon & Shirazi: 01582 713181 Skyes Opticians: 01582 712845 20/20 eyecare: 01582 766613

Boots Chemist 01582 713339 Manor Pharmacy 01582 760624 Manor Pharmacy (Southdown) 01582 712783 Manor Pharmacy (Wheathampstead) 01582 832102 Springfield Pharmacy 01582 712104 Topkins Chemist 01582 712708

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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

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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.

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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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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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 48

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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

HSF HELPLINE49- 01582 462926

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Quit Smoking with the help of Manor Pharmacy Give it up Giving up smoking is the most important thing that smokers can do to improve their health. 8th March 2017 is ‘National No Smoking Day’ and we have teamed up with Manor Pharmacy to provide some timely information and advice.

There are lots of benefits to quitting, and some of them begin immediately. Did you know that after: • •

•

•

•

• •

20 minutes: blood pressure and pulse return to normal 8 hours: nicotine and carbon monoxide levels in the blood reduce by half and oxygen levels return to normal 24 hours: carbon monoxide is eliminated from the body and lungs begin to clear themselves.

48 hours: there is no nicotine left in the body; the ability to taste and smell improves 72 hours: breathing becomes easier; bronchial tubes begin to relax and energy levels increase 2 to 12 weeks: circulation improves 3 to 9 months: coughs, wheezing & breathing problems improve as lung function is increased by up to 10%

All pharmacies are able to provide support to members of the public who have decided to give up smoking.

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At Manor Pharmacy we are passionate about helping smokers quite for good. We can provide tailored support, professional advice and, if appropriate, nicotine replacement products. (e.g. patches, gums, inhalers etc).

There is really good medical evidence that you can increase your chances of quitting successfully four-fold by using the right nicotine replacement products combined with the right advice. The even better news is that we can provide this for you FREE! as part of the NHS Stop-Smoking service.

We can provide that much-needed help and support in giving up smoking. Our pharmacist will explore the problems faced and go through all of the options to overcome the desire to smoke. We can provide on-going support, including advice on stepping down NRT support. Unlike a GP, you do not need an appointment to see a pharmacist, and we are local so you can drop in during a lunch hour or on your way home from work.

We have a private consultation room so you can speak to our pharmacist confidentially.

Please be assured that we are not there to judge your lifestyle - only to provide professional advice.

For more information and advice visit: www.npa.co.uk or www.smokefree.nhs.uk or call Manor Pharmacy see page 55.

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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

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.

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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.

Prescription costs (as of April 1st 2014)

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 54

Prescription prepayment certificates (PPC are available in England & they can save you money.

A 3 or 12 month PPC, covers all your prescriptions for that period, no matter how many you need.

A prescription costs £8.40 per item, but a PPC costs: • •

£29.10 for 3 months £104 for 12 months

This means if you’re going to buy 4 or more prescriptions in 3 months, or 14 or more prescriptions in 12 months, it may be cheaper to buy a PPC. PPCs are available by 12 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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• • • •

•

•

•

•

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

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

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.

For many people with 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.

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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 incontinence 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.

2. Quit smoking 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:

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6. Treat constipation promptly

10. Eat the right foods

Straining to empty your bowels weakens

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.

worse. Never delay the urge to empty your bowels. If you have constipation, it may help to change your diet and lifestyle. 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.

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

7. Cut down on caffeine

• Call the Bladder and Bowel Foundation

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.

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.

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 as they feel it causes more problems. makes incontinence worse because it reduces your bladder’s capacity.

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Looking after your Teeth

Medication and 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.

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.

Dentures are likely to need replacing mouth changes. If, for health reasons, you dentist may be able to visit you or you may be eligible for treatment through the Community Dental Service.

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.

Dental Implants At Wayside

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2 Douglas Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, • Tel:AL5 01582 2EW712470 • Email: practicemanager@waysidedental.co.uk • Web: www.waysidedental.co.uk

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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 natural part of ageing. over the age of 50 in the UK will break a bone, mainly because of osteoporosis. 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.

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.

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

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.

• water calcium rich foods on pages 45 & 46.

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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, carrying shopping, gardening and housework all count!

Drink sensibly 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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Health & Wellbeing

Q: What is a medicines use review & what is its purpose?

A: It is a chance to sit down in private with your pharmacist to discuss how you are getting on with your medicines. The purposes are four fold: (a) to help you find out more about the medicines that you are taking (b) to pick up any problems you may be having (c) to improve the effectiveness of what you take and (d) to prevent any unnecessary waste so that the NHS gets better value for money.

The NHS spends a staggering £10 billion on medicines each year, yet many people struggle for various reasons to take them as the doctor intended.

Q: How do I get a review?

A: You can ask your pharmacist for a review if you are regularly taking a prescription medicine or you are taking medicines for a long term condition such as asthma, arthritis, diabetes or epilepsy. Alternatively your doctor might suggest one; or your pharmacist might invite you in person or by letter.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: The medicines use review is an NHS service and is totally free of charge.

well you are getting along with them. For example you may be having difficulty swallowing your tablets or using an inhaler.

You will also discuss how you think that the medicines are working for you and if you have any questions or concerns such as side effects. Your pharmacist is someone who is there to listen and help so you can be open with them and say whatever you want in these meetings. Remember though that they will not have a record of prescriptions that you have picked up from another pharmacy, ones that you got from a hospital or medicines bought without a prescription.

Neither will they have your medical history so it is important that you tell them as much as you can.

Q: How should I prepare?

A: Make a note of all the medicines you take. Think about any questions and concerns you might have and write them down. Make sure you know when, where and who you are seeing.

Q: What happens afterwards?

A: You will be given an action plan noting any changes that you have agreed in the way that you take your medicines.

The action plan will be filled in by the pharmacist who did the review with you and a copy will also go to your doctor to be kept with your medical notes. You can always ask for a copy to be sent to another health professional involved in your care – for example, your district nurse - or to your carer. You may think that it will be useful for them to know about your review.

Q: What should I expect in the meeting?

A: Your meeting will be in a private area and your details and what you discuss will be kept confidential. You will be asked what medicines you take - including any herbal ones. Your pharmacist will also want to find out how you take your medicines and how

Of course, it may be that everything is ok and no changes are needed, but it always helpful to have reassurance.

Pharmacists are the experts on Medicines so always “Ask Your Pharmacist”

What is a Medicines Use Review?

This month, with the assistance of Manor Pharmacy Group and the National Pharmacy Association, we continue our series designed to help you stay fit and healthy by talking about a way to help you get the very best out of any medicines that you may be taking. It is known as a medicines use review.

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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

• Problems having sex

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

Treating anxiety

tasks.

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.

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 64

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 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 • 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, 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.

An occupational therapist can assess the

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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 0300 123 1053 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 1st Monday of the month from 1.30pm - 3pm at Harpenden Public Halls.

See website for more information: www.hhas.org.uk/forms/hearing-support-service-schedule.pdf

• 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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thehearingclinic Bridgitte Harley Hearing Care Ltd

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WOULD YOU LIKE TO IMPROVE YOUR HEARING? Discreet Hearing is operated by a father & daughter team providing a home visit service in Herts, Beds, Essex, and North London.

We offer FREE hearing tests, hearing aid demonstrations & hearing aid trials for those concerned about their hearing.

By demonstrating hearing systems in your own home you can immediately hear for yourself the benefits of modern technology from Phonak.

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WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT FROM OTHER HIGH STREET HEARING AID COMPANIES? Peter & Joma Ormrod have 2 decades of experience in the hearing aid industry and a lifetime experience of dealing with hearing loss.

Born to deaf parents, Peter himself has lived with a severe hereditary hearing loss for almost 40 years. He has worn every type of hearing system from the early NHS hearing aids to the latest computer based marvels of today.

We believe there is no one in the UK hearing aid industry able to give a more honest appraisal of the performance of digital hearing systems.

unique insight into the problems faced by the patient, and their family and friends.

Peter has a Masters Diploma in Clinical Rehabilitation, and was awarded a fellowship by the British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists.

Both Peter and Joma are also qualified in wax removal.

We offer a friendly and honest home-visit service with Joma looking after patients in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex and North London, while Peter is now looking after patients in Gibraltar, and along the Costa Del Sol, Spain.

Because of our family history we fully understand the impact of hearing loss, and by looking after our patients like we do our own family, we achieve a very high level of satisfaction.

In addition to their lifetime of personal experience with hearing loss, Peter & Joma are very highly qualified.

Joma has degrees in Hearing Aid Audiology and in Osteopathy, giving her extensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology. Combining this with her personal experience, she has a

Call now on 01438 517306 or 07887567978 to book an appointment.

HSF HELPLINE73- 01582 462926

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Hearing self-assessment questionnaire * The following questionnaire on opposite focuses on any difficulties you feel you may be having with your hearing.

It isnot definitive and should be used as a guide only.

Some people prefer a hearing assessment to be based on situations where they notice difficulties, rather than their perception of the problem.

Answer the questions on the right, add up your score, then read the appropriate conclusion below.

Less than 10 If you achieved a score lower than 10, you have passed this screening and do not demonstrate a hearing handicap, according to this questionnaire. You may still want to have your hearing tested, although it may not be necessary now. If you notice any change in your hearing abilities in the future, a hearing test should be conducted.

10 or more If you achieved a score of 10 or more, you did not pass this screening and demonstrate some hearing handicap, according to this questionnaire. It is highly recommended that you have your hearing tested and if relevant, begin discussions for a plan of hearing rehabilitation.

Further concerns If you have any hearing concerns, no matter how small, or have not been able to complete this questionnaire, then please call an adviser today on Freephone 0800 566 8821 .

For more information please visit:

www.ageukhearingaids.co.uk *Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly – Screening version (Ventry & Weinstein, 1983)

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For the following questions, answer ‘yes’, ‘sometimes’ or ‘no’. When you have finished, score each answer as follows – yes: 4, sometimes: 2, no: 0 1. Does a hearing problem make you feel embarrassed when you meet new people?

Yes (4) Sometimes (2) No (0)

2. Does a hearing problem make you feel frustrated when talking to members of your family?

Yes (4) Sometimes (2) No (0)

3. Do you have difficulty hearing when someone speaks in a whisper?

Yes (4) Sometimes (2) No (0)

4. Do you feel handicapped by a hearing problem?

Yes (4) Sometimes (2) No (0)

5. Does a hearing problem cause difficulties when visiting friends, relatives or neighbours?

Yes (4) Sometimes (2) No (0)

6. Does a hearing problem mean you attend meetings/events less often than you would like?

Yes (4) Sometimes (2) No (0)

7. Does a hearing problem lead to arguments with family members?

Yes (4) Sometimes (2) No (0)

8. Does a hearing problem cause difficulties when listening to TV or radio?

Yes (4) Sometimes (2) No (0)

9. Do you feel that any difficulty with your hearing limits or hampers your personal or social life?

Yes (4) Sometimes (2) No (0)

10. Does a hearing problem cause difficulties when in a restaurant with relatives or friends?

Yes (4) Sometimes (2) No (0) Total score

HSF HELPLINE75- 01582 462926

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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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HARPENDEN SENIORS FORUM

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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).

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

0300 3030 111 help@macularsociety.org 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 22nd to 28th September 2014. 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 82

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Enablement home care is usually provided

by Goldsborough in partnership with the County Council.

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.

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

by Health and Community Services.

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

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.

Intermediate care - recovery and getting your independence back

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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.

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Many clients comment to Herts Careline about how much reassurance the service brings.

Live your life independently – with help just a button-press away Herts Careline provides community alarms and telecare services to residents across Hertfordshire. It is a not-for-profit service provided by North Hertfordshire District Council in association with Hertfordshire County Council and Herts Independent Living Service.

Herts Careline services can make a big difference to the independence and wellbeing of people of all ages and circumstances across Hertfordshire, including: • Those who live alone • People returning home from hospital • Older people • Active retirees • Those prone to falls • People with disabilities or restricted mobility • Younger people with long term health needs • Vulnerable adults • Unpaid carers to help with their breaks • Those targeted by repeat or distraction burglaries.

“It’s an excellent source of support and provided my aunt with comfort on a number of occasions when she was unwell and had to press her pendant. The customer service is excellent, very friendly and a necessity, especially as I live some distance away from my aunt.”

Jackie Leach, Barnet, niece of St Albans service user “A few months ago my phone rang and displayed Herts Careline.

I Immediately knew something had happened and was told about my mother in-law’s fall and that an ambulance had been called.

She was in distress and was admitted to hospital. In all dealings the service received was succinct and professional. For lonely or vulnerable people this service is a must and from my experiences, proof of its necessity” Alan Doggett, Hitchin Find out more For more information about community alarms and telecare in Hertfordshire call 0300 999 2 999, visit www.care-line.co.uk or email careline@north-herts.gov.uk

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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.

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.

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

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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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.

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 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.

Another Day Centre offering training is: Douglas Tilbe House, Hall Grove, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire. AL7 4PH.

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 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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Online Shopping 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.

Looking for a computer course....

Harpenden Library can offer help!

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.

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How can I book a computer taster 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;• Ask in you local library for further details.

Is there a charge?

There is a charge of £7 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.

What computer ‘taster’ sessions are available?

There are three 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.

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Taster sessions are as follows: Getting started with computers • Understanding what a computer is and how it works • Using a keyboard and mouse or touchpad • Activities such as letter writing and using the internet • Using a computer safely.

Getting started with a tablet • Understanding how to use a tablet • Using a touch screen • Using the internet • Learning about apps.

An introduction to using the internet • Using web addresses to find information • How to use a Search • Staying safe online.

Disability & Learning 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 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 30 Broadstone Road Harpenden AL5 1RG T: 01582 621007 Social Club for people with learning disabilities aged 18 and over. Activities include games, Music, craft, and outings.

Harpenden Phoenix Holidays Mr Favell - Chairman 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 27 High Street, Harpenden, AL5 2RU T: 0300 1234049 www.hertsdirect.org/libraries Opening Times: Mon 9am – 6pm Tues 9am – 1pm

1pm – 6pm Weds 9am – 7pm Thurs 9am – 7pm Fri 9am – 1pm

1pm – 6pm Sat 9am – 5pm Sun Closed

Normal Service Self Service Normal Service Self Service Normal Service Self Service Normal Service Normal Service

Library facilities: Public parking nearby (Disabled parking bays) Wheelchair access Hearing induction loop Toilet (Disabled access) Baby changing facilities Services available - Access for people with disabilities.

• Photocopier - black and white only. 10p

for A4. 20p for A3 • Fax service • Sending : UK - 1st page £1.00,

additional pages 50p. (Rest of the

world - 1st page £2.00, additional

pages 50p.) Receiving : 50p per

fax for up to 5 pages, additional

pages 10p.

• Microfilm/microfiche reader/ printer • Display space • Study space Computers and internet • Book a computer • Wi-Fi (free) • Scanner • Computer costs: • Library members – 1 hour free,

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•

•

•

Non library members – £1.25 for 30 minutes Printing costs: 15p – single page, black & white and 50p – single page, colour IT Champion available: Mondays: 11am – 1pm

Rooms to hire – large and small Large Room - 12 person capacity, Disabled access via a lift, 2 tables. Room size – 3m x 7m. Free WiFi, PC compatible projector, Flipchart stand, Kitchen facility, Tea urn and disposable cups – bring your own tea!

Costs (large meeting room) 1 hour booking – £20, 4 hour booking – £70, All day – £130. Half price for charities and not for profit organisations.10% Discount when you make a block of 10 bookings over a 4 month period.

Small meeting room - 4 person capacity.

Disabled access via a lift, 1 table, Room size – 3m x 3m Free WiFi, Tea urn and disposable cups - bring your own tea!

Costs small meeting room, 1 hr booking – £15, 4 hr booking – £50, All day – £90, Half price for charities and not for profit organisations.

10% Discount when you make a block of 10 bookings over a 4 month period.

To book your meeting room visit:

beta.hertfordshire.gov.uk/services

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HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL NEW HORIZONS? HSF HELPLINE93- 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 94

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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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.”

“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 HSF HELPLINE97- 01582 462926

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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 98

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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 100

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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

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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 102

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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.

Contact: Tel: 01727 863870 Email: mail2@hscdc.org.uk 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 108

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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? 112

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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

Mobilty Aids

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.

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).

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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 • Three or four wheeled vehicles; • Not for domestic indoor use;

Outdoor use on uneven ground; Kerb climbing of 10cm or more; Medium/long distance range; Can be dismantled for transporting.

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 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.

Do you need insurance to drive one?

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.

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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) 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.

4. 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

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

Covering Harpenden, St Albans and surrounding villages.

Home Counties Security Systems is one of the areas premier security installation companies specialising in:

Security Systems, Alarms and CCTV for the Home & Commercial Buildings NSI Approved Installer

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www.homecountiessecurity.co.uk

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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

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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In 2013 Hertfordshire Trading Standards introduced their Approved Trader Scheme Buy With Confidence to help residents find a good trader. Since then the scheme has grown and brings together business from many areas.The scheme is constantly expanding following recommendations from happy consumers, there are builders and plumbers as you might expect but there are also will writers and care providers as well as Home Interior businesses.

For many years Hertfordshire Trading Standards had been unable to provide recommendations for businesses even though they often had to help consumers find a trader after a bad job or protect vulnerable people from being caught out by rogues.This was frustrating for officers and difficult for consumers who, having nowhere to turn could often be caught out again.

Buy With Confidence is different from other trader approval schemes, it is not just a case of paying a fee and being on the list. In order to become a Buy With Confidence member, a business must first apply or be recommended to join the scheme and must then pass a set of tailored background checks. Membership of the scheme is not given lightly – amongst other checks, each applicant has their complaints history reviewed, insurances checked and will receive a visit from Trading Standards. Good references are required from previous customers and applicants must agree to abide by the scheme’s code of conduct, which requires them to follow the letter and spirit of the law. Criminal record checks are also required if a business does work in a domestic home.

Only if all the scheme requirements are met will a business be granted membership and their conduct will continue to be monitored thereafter. Hertfordshire Trading Standards know how important it is to use a good trader but also how hard it is to find one.They cannot promise that Buy With Confidence members’ work will be perfect every time, but you can expect any problems to be dealt with fairly by the business, and you can turn to Trading Standards for advice in the event of an unresolved issue.

Once a business is accepted onto the scheme they feature on the Buy With Confidence website www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk and the Hertfordshire County Council website www.hertsdirect.org/bwc and Hertfordshire Directory.

The business is also entitled to use Hertfordshire Trading Standards for business advice and complaint resolution at no charge and can display the logo A list of members can also be provided to consumers who are not able to access the internet, please telephone 03454 040506.

The list will grow so please keep checking the website whenever you need to find a good trader.We are also on Facebook, like our page “Herts BWC” and follow us on twitter for new and helpful advice @HertsBWC If you are a business and are interested in applying to join the scheme further information please visit

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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:

• • • • • • • • •

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 3-4 Park Street Hitchin Herts SG4 9AH. 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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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 122

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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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 27

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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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& 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.

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 130

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.

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Our Serviced Apartments are available for short or long-term stays, providing a perfect residential retreat for business travellers on short term assignments, corporate relocations and leisure travellers.

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NURSING HOMES WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU 132

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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.

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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.

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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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TRANSPORT OUT AND ABOUT HSF HELPLINE139 - 01582 462926

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Our bus service will initially cover the Roundwood area of Harpenden, as well as Harpenden Town Centre.

It operates Tuesday – Thursday from 9.30am to 4.30pm Anyone can use the bus which will cost just £2.00 for an adult single journey.

(Children under 16 - £1.00). Senior bus passes will be accepted.

Our route has been carefully planned to serve the needs of all residents by stopping close to shops, The Memorial Hospital and the three Doctors’ surgeries.

The service will be a ‘Hail and Ride’ service, so simply hold out your hand to alert the driver and the bus will stop. Once on the bus, tell the driver where you want to get off and he will drop you at the closest safe place along the route.

What is the Harpenden Hopper?

It is a proposed community bus service running in parts of Harpenden for a 12 month Pilot.

Who is running the service?

It is going to be run via a charity called Harpenden Connect specifically set up for this purpose.

Who is behind the charity?

It has been set up by residents of Harpenden with the backing of local councillors.

Why was it set up?

There was a belief that some areas of Harpenden didn’t have the right level of bus service which could lead to isolation.

On what basis is it being run?

Initially it is a 12 month pilot run by volunteer drivers and staff paid for by donations sponsorship and potentially some local 106 funding.

What vehicle is it using?

It will be running with a second hand 17 seater Mercedes bus that was bought from the district council.

Is it just for the Elderly?

No it will be open to all users who are able to walk onto the bus.

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What route will it run?

Initially it will pick up at specific points in the Roundwood area and drop off in Church Green going via the 3 doctors surgeries.

How do I use it and when will it start?

There will be a published route guide with approximate stop times but it will be a Hop on Hop off service that can be hailed anywhere along the route aiming to start by the end of 2016.

How much will it cost and will bus passes be valid?

We are anticipating it to cost ÂŁ2.00 per one way trip and yes bus passes will be valid.

What route & time table will it run and why?

Initially 3 days a week from 9.30am till 4.30pm on a route around Roundwood as this is the least served area by existing public transport.

How do I find out how to volunteer or give donations to the project?

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Email: andrewbuchanan526@btinternet.com or simon@businessindependent.co.uk Phone: 01582 638007 Email: hopon@harpendenhopper.co.uk Web: www.harpendenhopper.co.uk

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www.harpendenhopper.co.uk

Hop on - hop off bus route

The Elms Medical Practice

Harpenden Railway The Village Surgery

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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 ÂŁ30. 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) • Must display a fare card.

Tel: 01582 822822 • Lodge Taxis (Airport Runs)

Tel: 01582 760086 • Village Cars (Airport Runs)

Tel: 01582 712369

• Are subject to vehicle inspections, in addition to the MOT test.

• Must have current vehicle insurance for taxi work.

Did you know there are two types 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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How can I tell the difference?

• 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.

‘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).

Drivers

Useful Travel Contacts

• All drivers have been vetted by the Council & must wear (Display) an identity badge.

• A yellow badge is issued to Hackney Carriage drivers.

• 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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Traveline Tel: 0871 200 22 33 Web: www.traveline.info

National Rail enquiries 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 HELPLINE147 - 01582 462926

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FINANCIAL PLANNING WE CAN GIVE YOU ADVICE 148

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We are a local firm of independent advisers and can:

• Explain the new pension freedoms and your choices • Consider immediate retirement options • Review pension funding, tax relief and the Lifetime & Annual Allowances • Provide ongoing financial advice & investment management

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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TAX & ACCOUNTANCY

When it comes to sorting out your tax and money we concentrate on keeping it quick and economical.

Because it should be.

Call in and see how we can help.

Visit us at: 126 Southdown Road, Harpenden AL5 1QQ.

01582 760 154 www.taxassist.co.uk/harpenden 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.

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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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HSF HELPLINE153 - 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 2015-16).

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 154

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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Multi-generational planning and support

Our Private Client Team work closely with you to create effective solutions to your needs. Find out how our experience can help you, by visiting taylorwalton.co.uk

Because experience counts Offices at: Luton, Harpenden & St Albans Tel: 01582 731161

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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.

Save it for the family or give it to the taxman?

If life were straightforward you wouldn’t need our Wills, trust & inheritance service.

St Albans: 01727 837161 Radlett: 01923 857171 debenhamsottaway.co.uk

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Your complete legal solution

Assisting families in Harpenden with a range of legal services for over fifty years

Call

01582 715234

Contact

info@nevesllp.co.uk

Visit

www.nevesllp.co.uk

Drop in

Tollgate House, 69-71 High Street, Harpenden, AL5 2SL

Offices also in

Luton & Milton Keynes

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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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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.

• 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: 0800 138 7777 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) 160

authorises such firms of advisers. To check if a firm is authorised, call the FSA Consumer Helpline on 0800 111 6768 or visit: www.fca.org.uk 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.

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.

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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

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.

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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 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 166

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.

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 168

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 HSF HELPLINE169 - 01582 462926

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WEIGHTS & MEASURES WEIGHING THINGS UP 170

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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 1 acre = 4,840 square yards = 160 square rods 1 square mile = 3,097,600 square yards = 640 acres

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

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

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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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BUILDERS

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UP YOUR STREET

LOCAL TRADES AND SERVICES

CAR BODYWORK REPAIR

Don’t delay, repair it today!

Professional quality repairs for less than your insurance excess!

BUMPER SCUFFS

We specialise in repairing all car paint and bodywork damage.

ChipsAway Mobile Service we come to you and carry out the estimate and repair at your home or work address.

ChipAway CarCare Centre we carry out larger repairs at our bodyshop at the address below. You can pop in for a free no obligation estimate at a time convenient to you.

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For a free no obligation repair estimate, call Brian Palmer on:

07807 665380 www.chipsaway.co.uk ChipsAway CarCare Centre, Unit 4, The Gryphon Industrial Park, Porters Wood, St Albans, Herts. AL3 6XZ.

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DENTS

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HARPENDEN’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED FLOORING SUPPLIER Established 1986

CARPETS & FLOORING

E-mail us now for a quotation - rolandscarpets@xln.co.uk

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

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All All Painting Painting & & Decorating Decorating Work Work Interior Interior & & Exterior Exterior Kitchen Kitchen Unit Unit Refurbishment Refurbishment Plastering Plastering & & Coving Coving • • Tiling Tiling • • Fully Fully Insured Insured Domestic Domestic Commercial Commercial & & Industrial Industrial Established Local Company Established Local Company Reviews on:

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FABRICS

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The home of Designer Fabrics for over 30 years

Largest stock of designer fabrics, blinds, poles and accessories.

Full making and fitting (plus free measuring) service available.

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ASSEMBLY SERVICE IN HARPENDEN

Harpenden Based Flat Pack Man available to take the headache out of building your IKEA furniture.

Fixed price quotes to assemble your furniture.

FURNITURE ASSEMBLY

FLAT PACK MAN

Professional, Clean, Friendly Service available in Harpenden, St Albans and surrounding villages.

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MOT CENTRE

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SERVICED APARTMENTS

Our Serviced Apartments are available for short or long-term stays, providing a perfect residential retreat for business travellers on short term assignments, corporate relocations and leisure travellers.

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Harpenden House serviced apartments are located in the heart of the Town Centre. The apartments are close to many bars and restaurants, the station is a 5 minute walk which offers a 20 minute fast rail service into London, along with Luton airport being a 15 minute taxi ride away.

info@harpendenhouse.com www.harpendenhouse.com

Tel: 01582 761642

65 High Street, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 2SL 178

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Flyer NEW April 2013_Layout 2 15/05/2013 12:04 Page 1

www.highelmstreesurgery.co.uk Email: info@highelmstreesurgery.co.uk

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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.

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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TREE SURGEON

01582 840144 07939 623675

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