Dartford Pride returns for a fourth year, and this time it finds its home at Orchard West.
Taking place on Sat 28 June, the community event is run in partnership with The Orchard Theatre and Dartford Borough Council. Headline acts include Jake Quickenden, Luzahnn from Livin’ Joy, Drag Race UK’s Victoria Scone, and hosted by X Factor’s Anton Stephans and Drag Race UK favourite La Voix.
Other acts include upcoming pop star Smashby, local drag queens Dee Star, Blaze and Theodosia and vocal duo Mollie & Sophie. Further entertainment includes an opening “Pink Parade” and a Heathers the Musical lip sync performance. Off-stage there will be plenty going on in Orchard West, with stallholders, street performers, food and cake stalls, a licenced bar, catering from Time & Plaice, and an appearance from the rainbow truck “Proud Mary”. Attendees can ‘Follow the Rainbow’ into Dartford town, where there will be free events and workshops, such as a poetry workshop in Dartford Library, crafts in the Priory Shopping Centre, free balloon modelling in the Orchards Shopping Centre and a baby music concert at Acacia Sports Hall. Plus town performances from the Orchard Choir and Ukulele Club.
Event organiser, Terri McCann, says “We are so proud of Dartford Pride for many reasons. Not just because it started from a conversation over a sandwich in a Dartford Cafe. But because we listen to feedback and work with the local community to deliver the Pride that Dartford wants; Family and community focused with acts, activities and services to suit all. I have really enjoyed letting my creative rainbow flag fly this year. I will see you all there!”
A Dartford Borough Council spokesperson says, “We are so delighted to have Dartford Pride back for its fourth year, and this year, it’s bigger and better than before. With performances from Drag Race stars and musical sing-a-longs, along with poetry and craft workshops, street entertainers and even a baby concert, there really is something for everyone. Held in our award-winning Orchard West temporary theatre venue, this is an event for the whole family, and we can’t wait to see everyone there!”
Dartford Pride is sponsored by new home builders Taylor Wimpey, who say, “Dartford Pride is a fantastic event and we’re proud to be supporting the celebration this year. With a fantastic line-up planned, we’re looking forward to attending and I’m sure everyone will have a brilliant time.”
Tickets to Dartford Pride are free, and can be booked at orchardwest.co.uk. The event runs 1pm – 7pm, with a Silent Disco afterparty in the Orchard West main auditorium at 8pm (separate ticket required). Security will be in attendance to ensure the event is safe and fun for all. Dartford Pride is fully inclusive, for all ages.
Dartford Living Magazine are proud to support as the Dartford Pride Media Partner.
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ellenor charity in Kent deepens its partnership with garden designer Joshua Fenton to create a sanctuary for remembrance, nature, and healing.
A hospice in Kent is undergoing a transformative garden redesign - led by the designer behind one of this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show gardens - to create a peaceful, sustainable sanctuary for patients, families, and staff. The project is being supported through government funding as part of a nationwide initiative to improve hospice facilities across the UK.
ellenor, the Kent-based charity that supports adults and children living with life-limiting conditions, has once again partnered with garden designer Joshua Fenton to reimagine the outdoor space at its hospice in Northfleet. This latest collaboration builds on a successful project in 2024, when Fenton Gardens designed a smaller therapeutic garden that has come to hold real meaning for many patients and visitors.
The new project is a complete garden redesign, with a strong focus on sustainability and on creating a space that brings comfort and calm to patients and families.
The new space will feature a memorial wall for grieving families, accessible pathways, pollinator-friendly planting, and a quiet therapeutic space where patients engage with nature as part of their care.
“This isn’t just a garden design,” said Joshua Fenton, Garden Designer and Owner of Fenton Gardens. “It’s about creating a space that gives people comfort when they need it most. A garden can offer peace, connection, and time to reflect - and that’s what we’ve tried to create together.”
The project reflects ellenor’s broader environmental commitment through its Green Horizons initiative - a staff-led programme integrating sustainability into all as-
pects of hospice operations. While ellenor provides Inpatient care at its Gravesend hospice, over 90% of its support takes place in patients’ homes across North Kent and Bexley making its outdoor spaces especially valuable as places of reflection for visiting families.
Bob Shepherd, Maintenance Supervisor at ellenor said “I’m really looking forward to working on the garden project. It’s a new challenge for me as I usually oversee office moves and the upkeep of buildings and shops. I look forward to seeing the new garden finished and being enjoyed by patients and staff. We’re a small team and this project will help highlight some of the important work that often happens behind the scenes.”
Construction is expected to begin later this year. For more information about the project or explore ways to get involved, contact: greenhorizons@ellenor.org.
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We’re here to help make your search for a care home easier. In our home, you can expect a safe, welcoming environment, where we encourage independence while offering a helping hand. We get to know everyone, offer a range of sociable activities, and most of all, a place to call home. Nursing | Residential | Short stay
We’re transforming our Outpatient Services
The NHS is changing how we deliver outpatient services so that you can be seen more quickly and can access and interact with our services in a way that better suits your lifestyle The following initiatives will give you and your carers (if applicable) more control and greater choice over how and when you access care:
Patient Initiated Follow Up (PIFU)
Patients Know Best (PKB)
Virtual appointments
Patient self-check in
Self-cancellation or changing of appointments
Scan the QR code or ask a member of staff to learn more about the benefits of our new and improved services:
Italy is a country where history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty converge like nowhere else in the world. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, these five destinations should be at the top of your list. Each offers a uniquely Italian experience, promising memories that will last a lifetime.
1. Rome – The Eternal City
Italy’s capital is a living museum filled with ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and vibrant street life. The blend of classical architecture and modern energy makes it an unforgettable starting point for any Italian adventure.
• Top attractions: The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City.
• Why visit: Rome seamlessly blends ancient history with buzzing urban life. You can spend your morning stepping back in time among ancient ruins, and your evening dining alfresco in a lively piazza with the best pasta and wine. It’s the ideal place to explore Italy’s imperial past and religious heart.
2. Venice – City of Canals
Venice is a surreal, romantic city built on water, with winding canals and narrow alleyways that are best explored on foot or by gondola. There’s something magical in the way the city seems to float, its pastel buildings reflected in the water.
• Top attractions: St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, and the islands of Murano and Burano.
• Why visit: There’s no place like Venice in the world. Its dreamy atmosphere, breathtaking views at sunset, and rich artistic heritage make it a must-see. Don’t forget to sample cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and a glass of prosecco while you’re here.
3. Florence – Cradle of the Renaissance Florence, in the heart of Tuscany, is a haven for art lovers and foodies alike. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, it boasts more masterpieces per square metre than almost any other city on earth.
• Top attractions: Uffizi Gallery, Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Ponte Vecchio, and Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery.
• Why visit: The city’s museums, architecture, and wine/
food culture make it an essential stop. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Arno River or climb to Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic views of the city’s terracotta rooftops.
4. Amalfi Coast – Italy’s Most Scenic Drive
Stretching along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast offers jaw-dropping views, pastel-coloured villages, and Mediterranean charm at every turn.
• Top attractions: Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and nearby Capri.
• Why visit: With dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and some of the country’s most luxurious hotels and restaurants, it’s ideal for romance and relaxation. Whether you’re cruising along the coast or enjoying a lemon-scented breeze from a hilltop terrace, the Amalfi Coast is Italian elegance at its finest.
5. Cinque Terre – Coastal Colour and Hiking Bliss
Cinque Terre is a string of five colourful fishing villages perched on the cliffs of the Italian Riviera, known for their hiking trails, seafood, and charm. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a slower, more authentic slice of Italian coastal life.
• Top attractions: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
• Why visit: Ideal for outdoor lovers and photographers, the region offers scenic hiking routes with spectacular views of the Ligurian Sea. Sip local wine on a sundrenched terrace and watch fishing boats bob gently in the harbour—it’s la dolce vita at its best.
If you have extra time, consider visiting Milan for cutt ing-edge fashion and design, Naples for the world’s best pizza and its gateway to Pompeii, or Lake Como for upscale lakeside serenity among the foothills of the Alps. Each destination in Italy offers a distinct flavour of the country’s rich heritage—whether it’s art, food, history, or sheer beauty. No matter where you go, Italy promises to steal your heart.
Sir Geo rey Leigh
Formerly known as The Leigh Academy
Studying in Attenborough College, you are joining at an exciting time as we will be moving into a state of the art Post 16 building in the near future.
Apply now for Post 16 at Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy to join our thriving college of aspirational students.
At Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy students can combine their Post 16 qualifications with the flexibility to build the perfect course for their future ambitions, whilst developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours valued by universities, apprenticeships and employers. Green
Jim Dickson MP for Dartford
From the day I was elected in July, I have been working hard in Parliament and across the local area to support our communities and to carry my Dartford constituent’s voice and priorities to Westminster.
I am here to support you, and my office is always here to help – please get in touch on jim.dickson.mp@parliament.uk for any questions, support or to sign up to my next surgery. I look forward to meeting you soon.
If you’d like to keep updated with my regular activity and find out about new events and surgeries, follow me on social media (Jim Dickson MP on X, Facebook and Instagram) or sign-up to my newsletter on the QR code.
Please always feel welcome to get in touch with me via email for any questions or if you’d like to speak with me.
By Jane Stevenson
CHEERFUL CHAOS
I never should have done it! I should have listened to the warning bell in my head and walked past the magazine rack – but I didn’t and I’ve only myself to blame!
Home improvement magazines! Love them or hate them, they all promise amazing makeovers for your kitchen/bathroom/bedroom or whatever.
The ideas seem good, the magazines are reasonably affordable, and in the majority of cases, the final effect is a definite step up from the original. However, I think you have to be a certain type of person to fully appreciate such changes, and that would be what I term ‘house positive’. That is, someone who actively likes constant changes, and relishes decorating, someone who is on first names terms with the sales rep at Wickes or for example, someone who appreciates the aesthetics of toilet rolls stored in a neat wicker basket standing beside a large indoor palm in the bathroom.
I am not that person!
While I desperately want to make the best of my rather old Victorian semi, I have neither the skills, foresight nor bravery to do so.
I live in what I call cheerful chaos. For an example, Other Half and I share a downstairs room as a study. Papers and books are everywhere. My own work area is personalised with photos, DIY projects and enough shells and stones collected on my walks to build my own beach hideaway!
However, I do know where things are. I know what each pile of papers contains; I can find a bill from an overflowing box of receipts within a few seconds. My bureau drawers hold the necessary items ‘just in case’, such as a variety of leads for long discarded mobiles, old rock band badges, four fountain pens, six biros, a pair of water divining rods and an opened bag of dog treats (we haven’t got a dog).
The kitchen is a little better, although it currently resembles a plant nursery come craft room. OH has purloined one work surface for his growing herbs, a part glued Toby jug, and a constantly expanding collection of empty jam jars – purpose unclear! I have a pile of ironing on the kitchen table and absolutely no motivation to do it (the weather is too nice). The cats have their own corner where we don’t venture unless invited to wait on them at mealtimes - and woe betide if their biscuit dish is disturbed or left empty!
Throughout the house, no room is completely tidy, Books lay scattered around – the sofa book, the bath book, the bed book; you get the idea? The front bedroom is home to my Ancestry project, a yet to be completed painting and two jigsaw puzzle boards. It also houses some of Youngest Offspring’s three thousand books, as well as doubling up as the guest room! The second bedroom is Other Half’s man cave, and not even I venture in there nowadays.
However, I love this cheerful chaos and am unashamed of my less than pristine house. It’s our home. No-one stands on ceremony. Come in, kick your shoes off and flop down on the sofa. Have your coffee or tea and put it on the table without a coaster. Eat the biscuits, the crumbs will be hoovered up. Pore over the bookshelves, borrow one if you want – I’ll know which one you’ve got – I have a haphazard filing system for them.
One day I might get around to doing an inventory of what is in each room. That would be after I’ve pottered in the garden, taken a walk along the disused rail track or grabbed a book and headed for the beach. These things are far more important for me than a new shelf or matching cushions.
I hope people like coming to our house – all we ask is that you don’t eat all the custard creams and for goodness’ sake don’t move the cat biscuit bowl.
Take care people
final and no correspondence will be entered into. 3. Prizes are as stated and no cash Orchard, within 5 working days of the competition being drawn. 5. Employees and the competition is stated above. 6. We will only use your email address to contact you if
Help raise funds for We Are Beams!
Prepare to run through slime, colour, water and more. Fun for the whole family.
All proceeds go towards supporting disabled children and their families Go to www.wearebeams.org.uk or scan the QR code to enter!
All willparticipants receiveamedal!
WAVE 1 Event opens at 9.30am, the run starts at 10:00am WAVE 2 Event opens at 10:30am, run starts at 11:00am
All of our designs are available for you to view in the comfort of your own home at www.dartfordflorist.co.uk
82 St Albans Road, Dartford, Da1 1ty
Order online, by phone on 01322 224013 or call in and see us to discuss your flower options, we will be happy to help you.
Same day contactless deliveries are available (If ordered by 12 noon MondayFriday, before 11am Saturdays)
Thank you for your continued support
Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are revolutionising the way small businesses manage their finances. No longer just buzzwords, these technologies are now integral to accounting, delivering efficiency, accuracy, and strategic value that were once out of reach for smaller firms.
Automating the Mundane: More Time for Growth
Traditional accounting is filled with repetitive, manual tasks, data entry, invoice processing, and bank reconciliations, that consume valuable time and are prone to human error. AI-powered accounting tools now automate these processes. Modern software can extract data from receipts, categorise expenses, and match transactions automatically, freeing business owners and finance teams to focus on growing the business rather than wrestling with spreadsheets
Real-Time Financial Insights
AI-driven dashboards provide real-time access to cash flow, outstanding invoices, and expense trends. Instead of waiting for month-end reports, business owners can see their financial position as it happens, allowing for quicker, more informed decisions. AI also analyses historical data to forecast cash shortages, seasonal revenue fluctuations, and potential growth opportunities, enabling proactive rather than reactive management
From Bookkeeping to Business Strategy
AI is transforming accounting from a record-keeping
function into a strategic asset. Predictive analytics help anticipate challenges and spot opportunities before they arise. For example, AI can flag potential cash flow issues weeks in advance, giving owners time to secure financing or renegotiate payment terms. This shift empowers small businesses to compete with larger firms by democratising access to sophisticated financial insights
Strengthening Compliance and Fraud Detection
Regulatory compliance and fraud prevention are major concerns for small businesses. AI-powered tools continuously monitor transactions for anomalies, such as duplicate invoices or unauthorised spending, flagging potential problems instantly. Automated checks and audit trails help ensure compliance with financial regulations, reducing the risk of penalties and keeping records audit-ready
Cost Savings and Scalability
While AI accounting software requires an initial investment, the long-term savings are substantial. Automation reduces the need for manual labour, minimises costly errors, and streamlines operations. As businesses grow, these systems can handle increased transaction volumes without the need for additional staff, supporting scalability and higher profit margins
Popular AI Accounting Tools
Leading platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, Sage, and FreshBooks now incorporate AI features, from automated bank reconciliation to predictive analytics and anomaly detection, tailored for small businesses seeking efficiency and growth
In Summary
AI and automation are not just making accounting faster and more accurate, they’re turning it into a powerful tool for business strategy, compliance, and growth. For small businesses, embracing these technologies means more time, better insights, and a competitive edge in a rapidly changing marketplace. Simpson Wreford LLP are Elite QuickBooks Partners and part of the Xero Partner Programme, so are well placed to advise on what software suits your business, just give us a call on 020 8317 6460 for expert guidance.
16 June – 20 June is Learning Disability week. The theme this year is all about people with a learning disability being seen, heard and valued. It is about celebrating people with a learning disability and what they bring to society.
What is a learning disability?
There are 1.5 million people with a learning disability in the UK. People with a learning disability tend to take longer to learn and may need support to develop new skills, understand complex information or interact with other people.
Learning disabilities can be mild, moderate, severe or profound. Some people may need support with day to day tasks such as filling out forms, shopping, household tasks or socialising. Others with severe or profound learning disability may need to be fully supported. With the right support, many people with a learning disability can live an independent life.
Learning disabilities occur when the brain is still developing, before, during or after birth. Sometimes this can be due to our genes. Illness, infection during pregnancy or problems during birth can cause learning disabilities. Learning disabilities can also be caused if a young child has an illness, accident or seizure.
Learning disabilities are different from specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia. Neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD and autism are also not the same, although some people with these conditions may have a learning disability.
Living well
On average, males with a learning disability die 21 years younger than males without a learning disability. For females, there is a 23 year age gap. GP Practices have a Learning Disability register and should invite all people over 14 years with a learning disability for an annual health check. This is a chance for you to talk about any worries that you have and learn about how
you can be more healthy. If there is anything wrong, we can sort it out before it gets worse.
You can also ask for changes to make it easier for you when you need to go to your GP practice. The practice may be able offer you an appointment at the beginning or the end of the clinic, when the waiting room may be quieter. They can offer longer appointments. If you find waiting hard, you may be able to wait outside or the practice may arrange your appointment at a time when you won’t have to wait for long.
You can have a hospital passport if you need to go to hospital. This tells hospital staff about your healthcare, your learning disability, how you like to communicate and how to make things easier for you. Hospitals often have a learning disability nurse who will help to support you.
Celebrating life
People with a learning disability can make a number of achievements, both big and small.
Mencap have a list of some great achievements, from appearing on the cover of Vogue to competing in the Paralympics. Completing a week’s work experience could be something to celebrate, or taking on a job in the classroom such as handing out books or checking the lunchtime menu. Do you know someone with a learning disability? What can you celebrate with them?
Dr Julie Taylor is a GP Partner and Trainer at the Wellcome Practice and the Primary Care Medical Director for Dartford Gravesham and Swanley Health and Care Partnership.
We’ve all heard the saying ‘Prevention is better than cure’. As experts in elderly care we understand the importance of keeping loved ones safe and well in their own homes.
We are often called in when a family is at crisis point due to a family member’s health deteriorating. Sometimes a health issue is unavoidable, but in many cases prevention and/or early intervention can avoid a difficult situation.
It’s important not to view any deterioration in someone’s general health as simply ‘getting old’. Inactivity, missed GP appointments, signs of depression, problems with meal preparation, a poor appetite or weight loss as well as slips, trips and falls are all warning signs that require attention.
• Doctor’s orders
It’s important to go to the doctor regularly as well as keeping up with other check-ups such as hearing and eyesight. We advise maintaining a calendar, so they don’t miss regular and annual appointments. Planning ahead to ensure they are able to get to the appointments is also advisable.
Taking the right medication at the right time can be confusing – particularly if your family member is living with dementia. It’s important to have a system that ensures they are keeping up to date with medication.
• Keep physically and mentally active
Encourage activity! With warmer weather now upon us, encourage simple exercise such as short walks. An activity such as gardening, which is great for both body and soul, can help to maintain muscle and flexibility as well as releasing stress.
• Maintain a healthy diet
Encourage a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables – the latest advice is to ‘eat the colours of the rainbow’ which is a fun way of keeping on track. Choose wholegrain options when it comes to bread, include oily fish in your diet each week and cut down
on sugary snacks.
• Keep hydrated
This is possibly one of the easiest ways to maintain wellbeing. Did you know that water makes up 60-75% of our body weight? It’s really important to keep hydrated as it is involved in many important functions including regulating body temperature and helping our brains to function as well as helping to prevent constipation. Experts recommend around 1.2 litres daily which is 6-8 glasses.
• Companionship
Research shows that loneliness and social isolation are harmful to our health. We all know how good it is to talk and spend time with like-minded individuals. Encourage your loved one to take part in local activities such as craft clubs, having a cuppa with a neighbour or joining one of the many community-run social groups.
Knowing what to look out for can really help to avoid health issues. Our team is on hand to offer help and advice, including signposting to local organisations and groups.
We’d love to hear from you if you would like to make a suggestion for a future topic. Please write to me at c.uppenkamp@dartford.homeinstead.co.uk or by post to Home Instead, St Fidelis House, St Fidelis Road, Erith, DA8 1AT. Alternatively, you can also call me on 01322 923750.
Recently celebrating its third birthday, the Kindness and Wellbeing Group has received awards for its exceptional mental health support work and has recently been featured on live TV. In honour of Mental Health Awareness Week, the group came together wearing green to show solidarity and raise awareness. They enjoyed a vibrant green-themed buffet, complete with homemade cakes decorated with positive messages like “Mental Health Matters” and “You Are Loved.”
Founder of the Kindness Community, Laura Hope Cordell, continues to prove that small, heartfelt gestures can have a huge impact. The Kindness and Wellbeing group meets every Tuesday at St Edmunds Church to get support, be creative and natter over a cuppa. For Mental Health Awareness Week, members volunteered to assemble mental health packs to be sent worldwide. Over 500 of these have been sent in the past year alone. These are offered on their website, completely free, paid for by their fundraising. With costs and demand for support constantly rising, fundraising is more important than ever.
That fundraising includes events like the Online Market for Kindness Community which brings together small businesses, many of which are run by entrepreneurs
who struggle with their own physical or mental health. The current event runs throughout May and has nearly 200 talented stallholders and over 5700 customers in the pop-up group on Facebook.
In addition to work in the online and in-person groups, Laura has teamed up with author and mental health advocate Nikki Mattocks to produce a book called ‘Unmasking the Truth: The Lies we Tell Ourselves’. This book is powerful new collection of essays sharing honest, deeply personal stories of people navigating stigma, trauma, and self-doubt. In it, Kindness Community founder, Laura, shares her story of how she’s used her own traumatic experiences as fuel to create the Kindness Community and bring people together, so they are not alone in their struggles. The book encourages readers to challenge internalised shame and embrace themselves with compassion.
A key part of this collaboration is its support for Kindness Community CIC £1 from every book sold will go directly to the Kindness Community to ensure they can continue their award-winning support, not just in Dartford, but around the world.
Learn more about everything Kindness Community CIC does here: tinyurl.com/kindnesscommunity
Invisalign Open Days at Dartford Road Dental Centre
ENSURING EXCELLENCE FOR CHILDREN
AND PARENTS
Why nursery provision can benefit schools and support working parents
For many working parents, professional childcare is an essential part of the daily routine, enabling them to return to work, and supporting family life. Every parent wants to know that their child is cared for when they are spending time away from home, and quality provision that both nurtures and educates during these early years has profound positive impacts that stretch well into later life.
Great, well-funded nurseries across Kent are in high demand and make a vital contribution to society. Professionally-run, well-staffed nurseries reduce the pressure on schools by helping ensure children’s resilience and their readiness to learn and early identification of SEN.
Jim Dickson, MP for Dartford, recently met with children, parents and the team at KatieB Kids nursery in Stone, where they shared the passion, dedication and skill that the sector puts into providing year-round early years development and education. As part of the visit Jim got an insight into the funding needed by nurseries to be able to provide the assurance of quality and academic expertise that parents want for their children.
‘Learning is Child’s Play’
From active play, cookery and gardening to creative construction and children’s yoga, Jim had a peep into the day of a young child as well as hearing what parents value in a nursery setting.
Jim Dickson said: “It was fantastic to see the impact that the hard work that the team at KatieB Kids put in for the benefit of the children who attend the nursery.”
KatieB Kids Founder, Katie Ballard said: “Choosing a nursery is about both trust and creating a partnership with parents, and we welcomed the opportunity to show Jim the positive impact that investing in both staff and facilities has on the children we work with.”
She added: “Professional, high-quality, child-centred care equips children for the best start possible when they move on to primary school, ensuring age-appropriate learning along with physical and emotional development.”
Key Points to consider when looking for a great nursery
• Staffing numbers and nursery resources
• Investment in staff professional development that goes beyond mandatory training
• Daily all-weather outdoor play
• Activities which foster independence, emotional resilience, and physical well-being
• Expert support on child development
• Drop-off and pick-up times that match your working day
• Handovers with detailed insight into your child’s day, progress and learnings
• Indoor environment designed to enable active, physical play
• Visually creative environment designed to stimulate young minds
Activities that can be essential for developing children’s creativity and resilience.
• Forest school
• Local trips
• ‘Mindfulness’ for children
• Yoga sessions
• Baking
• Gardening and growing
• Project work
• Woodwork and risky play
The Dartford Safe Haven is open every day, 6pm-11pm.
We offer free mental health support to anyone over 18, in a safe and supportive environment. You can visit for a chat or access one-to-one emotional support from our trained staff. We offer face-to-face and virtual support.
Would you like to help make a difference for others within our local community?
Do you have a full driving licence and access to your own car? A new partnership project with Dartford Borough Council, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, delivered by Healthy Living Centre Dartford
Dartford Harriers:
Dartford Harriers members kindly donated 70 Easter eggs, Easter bunny ears, and some Easter egg headbands to Darent Valley Hospital.
The Easter treats were given to children in the Children’s Resource Centre, Pediatric ED and Willow Ward. Dartford Harriers will work with Darent Valley Hospital in the future for some initiatives that will raise awareness of health matters, and help DVH with fundraising during their 25 year anniversary.
Marathon training -
Training for a marathon is time consuming, challenging and demanding both mentally and physically! This did not stop Dartford Harriers fantastic 5 females! They are all part of their senior/vets training group who train together under the guidance of coach Chris and Steph. Sophie ran the London Marathon and Grace, Hannah, Amy and Gem ran the Milton Keynes Marathon.
Kent Youth Athletics League -
The 1st KYAL of the season was held at Julie Rose Stadium in Ashford. Dartford Harriers team of young athletes gave some fantastic performances with lots of PBs and SBs gained. Many of them tried new events and some competed for the first time. The team amongst them is outstanding! As always they were the loudest and most decorated supporters. Dartford Harriers would like to say a huge thanks as always to the officials, organisers and volunteers.
Youth Development League Upper Age -
Their first YDL Upper of the season for the U17 and U20s was held at Brighton and Hove. Alongside their experienced athletes they had athletes competing for the first time. The whole team was amazing and incredibly supportive of each other. The team spirit and cheers for their supporters were first class.
Many took on events outside their comfort zone to gain valuable points for the team which shows their dedication. Congrats to all the athletes and well done to those who gained PBs and SBs.
Dartford Harriers want to say thank you as always not only to their amazing athletes but also to family and supporters plus all the volunteers, organisers, officials and their fabulous coaches.
Youth Development League Lower Age -
Dartford Harriers first YDL of the season for our U13/
U15s was held at Hastings.
Many of their young athletes were competing for the first time but they were in safe hands with the more experienced athletes helping and encouraging them.It was a fantastic start to the league with them finishing in overall 2nd place! Many of their athletes gained new PBs, SBs and finished in top 3 positions.
As always their Hoops were cheering the loudest and had the best team spirit! We love how they not only congratulate each other but also their competition. Many thanks to the young superstars and to the parents/carers who bring them and all the volunteers, organisers, officials and coaches.
Central Park Athletics:
The marathon season arrived in style. Several CPA athletes conquered 26.2 miles at London and Manchester, with Ann even completing a virtual London by looping the Dartford Half twice! Dozens of club volunteers supported on start pens, baggage drops, water stations and post-race massage – the CPA spirit on full display.
Our juniors were stars at the Mini London Marathon, running for Bexley after months of hard work. Earlier in the month, Noah set a new U13 1500 m club record (4:46.67) at the Tonbridge Open, while Connor, Noah and Samuel all posted big PBs over 800 m and 3000 m at the Watford Open.
Whitstable 10k was huge: more than 70 CPA runners, team prizes for the men (three-in-a-row) and a V35 women’s win for Coralie Charles, plus a host of personal bests. Well done to the men’s quartet of Cameron Sharp, Mouctar Barry, Johnnie Arnould and Connor Lynch who retained the Whitstable team title yet again.
Track & field season began at the Kent County Championships in Ashford. Samuel claimed bronze in the U15 boys’ 1500 m (PB 4:27.17) and Neve knocked out a big 800 m PB of 2:40.07, supported by our ever-reliable team of officials. On the roads Ellie finished runner-up at the Greenwich Community Hospice 2.62-mile charity run, and CPA turned out in force for the picturesque but tough Darent Valley 10k.
Regular training has thrived: enjoyable Wednesday evening sessions, bank-holiday parkrun tourism as far afield as Austria and Japan, and juniors honing coordination and core strength on the track.
CPA would like to say thanks to every runner, volunteer and supporter. Roll on the summer fixtures!
DARTFORD CHORAL SOCIETY
The society’s Summer concert takes place at St Michael’s Church Wilmington on Saturday, 21 June at 7.30pm. The programme takes us through the changing year and showcases a newly commissioned work titled ‘A Season to Sing’. This choral reworking of Vivaldi’s ‘Four Seasons’ receives it’s first performance in Kent, a unique event. Choruses from Haydn’s ‘The Seasons’ also feature, together with a song cycle on the same theme, specially written for Richard Decker - our Music Director.
Tickets are £12 on the door (£5 for students) with interval refreshments and we look forward to welcoming you to a very enjoyable evening.
New singers are always welcome as we seek to expand our membership, so if you enjoy music don’t be shy! Just come along to The Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, Dartford at 7.30 on a Monday evening, or for further details contact Pat Everington at chairman@dartfordchoral.org.uk.
Dartford Borough Council Walk and Talk Groups
Healthy Living Walk - Mondays 10.00am (Contact the One You Team)
Dartford Heath Walk - Tuesdays 10.00am (Upper Heath Lane)
Darenth Country Park - Tuesdays 10.30am (Darenth Valley Hospital)
