Issue 174 - Belfast BT6 • BT7 • BT8
Translink keeping services moving during wintry weather Translink has a number of contingency measures in place to deal with wintry weather conditions, to keep services operating and minimise disruption. Every winter, a range of measures are undertaken to ensure services are maintained during adverse weather. Translink’s Director of Service Operations, Ian Campbell, said: “Safety is our top priority and each year our teams work hard 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, to keep our buses and trains operating in all weathers. “We order stockpiles of defrosting materials to tackle ice and snow on our platforms and in our bus stations. We have crews on standby to remove snow, debris and fallen trees from railway lines. “Our winter programme also includes getting vehicles ready for ice and Mayors and Council Representatives across NI helped launch the Digital Transformation Flexible Fund.
New £7.5m Digital Transformation Flexible Fund will stimulate digital innovation Small and micro businesses and social enterprises across Belfast and Northern Ireland are set to benefit from £7.5m funding to help accelerate their digital transformation ambitions through the Digital Transformation Flexible Fund (DTFF). Officially launched recently, at a special event in Riddel Hall at Queen’s University, Belfast, the scheme will uniquely operate across all City and Growth Deals in Northern Ireland. It’s set to stimulate digital innovation
through grant assistance between £5,000-£20,000, removing the financial obstacles that prevent small and microbusinesses from implementing cuttingedge digital technology to transform their operations.
Talking about how the DTFF programme will help to boost smaller businesses to compete, Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Áine Groogan said: “It’s vital that we help our smaller businesses adapt
to rapid changes in customer behaviours and business models and harness digital transformation to allow them to expand and thrive.
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snow conditions; regular treatment of platforms and passenger access (bus and rail stations) and utilising points/level crossing barrier heaters for railways. “Our bus and train drivers receive special training in how to deal with adverse weather conditions and we liaise with other agencies in the event of road closures or diversions.” Ian concluded: “We would like to assure our customers that we do all we can to keep services running on time and minimise delays keeping people better connected”. Passengers are advised to check Translink’s website: w w w. t r a n s l i n k . c o . u k ; Journey Planner App, and social media accounts for up to date travel information.
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Your Community News – Got a story? Call 02897 511002 or email editorial@edamedia.co.uk
Issue 174 - Support Local
Issue 174 - Support Local
‘International Day of Disabled People’ celebration event in City Hall ‘International Day of Disabled People’ was celebrated in Belfast recently. A special event to mark the day was held in City Hall organised by Belfast City Council in conjunction with Disability Action NI. Among the guest speakers were Sarah Griffiths ‘Wheelie Momma’; Michael Holden, disabled entrepreneur and founder of AccessoLoo; Anthony Sinclair, Deaf tutor, sports coach and founder of Sign Source; Dr Alicja JasinkaPiadlo, cardiologist with Belfast Trust and author Niamh Brownlee. Action Ability choir performed Christmas carols and there was a certificate presentation to council staff who had recently completed sign language training. Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy, welcomed everyone to the event and said it was a “privilege” to host it in City Hall – the theme being ‘Celebrating Deaf and Disabled People’. “We are delighted to host this special event to mark ‘International Day of Disabled People’ in partnership with Disability Action NI,” he said. “The United Nations proclaimed this day for the celebration of achievements of disabled people across the world. It is also a day we promote awareness of the challenges faced by
disabled people and the role we play in accelerating the eradication of barriers to social inclusion, equity, participation and citizenship. “Council has a Disability Action Plan which places our duty, as a public authority, to promote positive attitudes towards disabled people and encourage active participation in public life. Last year, we set up a Members Disability Working Group where our Elected Members take an active interest in promoting awareness of disability and develop policies to address disability-related issues. “We are committed to
improving the quality of living for disabled people here in Belfast and this includes making sure council premises and services are accessible for all.” Council’s ongoing work to support disabled people includes staff in City Hall, Belfast Castle and Malone House receiving current training to become ‘Autism NI Impact Awards Champions’. Autism NI’s Impact Award was developed to help organisations create a more ‘autism friendly environment’ for customers and employees – equipping staff to better understand customers/colleagues who
have autism and how to adapt environments to support them. A draft Changing Places Toilets Policy has also been developed (subject to ratification by full Council at its monthly meeting, this evening) - with plans to go out for public consultation in the New Year. Changing Places Toilets are specialised toilet facilities which make public places and spaces accessible and inclusive to children and adults with complex needs or mobility issues. For more information on council’s support for disabled people in the city, visit www.belfastcity.gov. uk/disability
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Issue 174 - Support Local
Issue 174 - Support Local
Creatives and independents breathing new life into Belfast city centre
Verona Bridal, Skull and Bones Tattoo Studio and Flax Art Studios are just three of the 15 successful Vacant to Vibrant applicants to date breathing new life into Belfast city centre, with many more progressing – ranging from retail, beauty and food and beverage offerings. Vacant to Vibrant is a key project in Belfast City Council’s Future City Centre Programme, aimed at creating a vibrant, unique and thriving place where people spend time, live, work, study, visit and invest. The £1 million pilot capital grant scheme opened in July 2022 in response to the high levels of city centre vacancy, aiming to incentivise both property owners and potential occupiers to bring vacant Belfast city centre spaces back into use, while supporting the city centre’s revitalisation and ensuring sustainable rates growth. Applicants on the scheme can also benefit from wrap around support offered by council’s Enterprise and Business Growth team, providing resources to support the start-up or expansion of the business or organisation, including access to one-to-one mentoring and workshops to help with growth and long-term sustainability. As part of the council’s wider programme to
tackle vacancy, and to support the Vacant to Vibrant scheme, council also provides a matchmaking service through a partnership approach with commercial agent Frazer Kidd, linking businesses with potential units, with the opportunity to access capital funding through the scheme. Grants of up to £2.5k are available for popup ground floor use (minimum four months), up to £15k for active floor
usage up to 150m², and up to £25k for active floor usage over 151m². The Institute of Place Management which provides strategic advice to government on supporting sustainable place making models and developing internationally recognised standards on place management performance has identified Vacant to Vibrant as an exemplary project in terms of its inception, design and
delivery. For more information, and to watch a video featuring Skull and Bones on North Street, Verona Bridal on Bruce Street and Flax Art Studios on Bedford Street, go to www.belfastcity.gov.uk/ vacanttovibrant Individuals and organisations wishing to find out more about the Vacant to Vibrant scheme can email the team at vacanttovibrant@ belfastcity.gov.uk
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Issue 174 - Support Local
South Side Advertiser
£7 Million Ravenhill Avenue Flood Alleviation Project Complete
NI Water is pleased to announce that a £7 million Flood Alleviation Project has been completed, which will benefit the Ravenhill Avenue Area of South Belfast.
The project was delivered as part of the Living With
Water in Belfast Plan which aims to help protect against
flooding, enhance the water environment and provide
the increased capacity needed for economic growth. Some sewers in this part of South Belfast date back to the early 1900’s and were in very poor condition, and this essential project will improve the sewers, whilst significantly reducing the risk of ‘out-of-sewer’ flooding and environmental pollution in the area. The project has also removed approximately 9 hectares of stormwater from the com-
bined sewerage network, the equivalent of 12 football pitches! allowing it to return directly to the River Lagan. David McClean, NI Water’s Senior Project Manager said: “We are delighted to announce the completion of this major flood alleviation project for the Ravenhill Avenue area, which will bring many improvements to our customers including reduced flood
risk and enhanced sewerage infrastructure. “This has been a very challenging project, working in a built-up busy residential area and dealing with existing infrastructure that is more than 100 years old. “Through this project we have constructed 1,500m of new sewers to protect properties from the risk of out-of-sewer flooding. “We have been on site
for more than two years, and we really do appreciate the continued patience and understanding of the local community. “The project team including contractor GEDA and AECOM has really enjoyed working with the local community including local schools, churches and community groups and we trust that the community will benefit from the new infrastructure for many years to
come.” Project highlights include the engineering challenges of tunnelling a section of large diameter sewer 6 metres beneath Ravenhill Road. Local schoolchildren named the tunnelling machine “Timmy the Tunneller”. The project team including GEDA, AECOM and various sub-contractors attained the Considerate Constructor Scheme’s highest score of ‘Excellent’.
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Mel Chittock, Interim CEO, Invest Northern Ireland said: “The Digital Transformation Flexible Fund will give businesses and social enterprises the opportunity to improve their resilience, develop new digital capability and to drive up levels of digital engagement and innovation. This in turn will help drive productivity and competitiveness, delivering tangible benefits for the business itself, and for Northern Ireland’s economy.” The DTFF is part funded
by the NI Executive, UK Government, Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and all local authorities in Northern Ireland. It will be delivered by all 11 councils under the Full Fibre Northern Ireland Consortium (FFNI), led by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and supported by Invest NI. This new delivery approach is an important step forward for councils positioning their intent to drive their local economies,
with an increasing focus on innovation support for businesses. Evidence demonstrates that smaller businesses do not have the capital resources available in terms of digital transformation and the adoption of digital technologies can lag relative to larger companies. Applicants with a 12-month minimum trading history can apply for grant assistance between £5,000 and £20,000 ex VAT to fund their digital transformation project. If eligible, the
grant can fund up to 70% of the cost, with 30% match funding from the applicant. The DTFF capital investments are committed to enabling business transformation rather than the ‘digitalisation’ of existing business models or operations and must be based on the following advanced digital technologies or tools: ▪ Smart technologies or smart environments, the Internet of Things (IoT) and simulation; ▪ Process automation via robotics/cobotics, additive manufacturing; ▪ Big data and analytics; ▪ Immersive technologies (Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality/Mixed Reality/ Haptics); ▪ Artificial intelligence and machine learning; and ▪ Horizontal and vertical system integration, distributed ledger systems or blockchain technologies. For more details on programme eligibility and guidance or to register for an information session, please visit: www.dtff.co.uk
“All partners share an ambition to boost productivity and competitiveness by driving up levels of digital transformation and innovation in small and micro businesses. So this investment is really welcome, because it clearly aligns with and contributes to our City and Growth Deal ambitions, particularly those around digital and innovation capability.”
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Issue 174 - Support Local
South Side Advertiser
The Barn Owl: Ireland’s Banshee?
Many folklorists agree that one of Ireland’s most iconic birds was the origin of the myth and legend of the Banshee, the terrifying female fairy believed to foretell death.
It’s easy to imagine how this might have happened centuries ago in rural areas, where nights would
be very dark, and when you heard a loud shriek emanate from woodland or a ruined building,
enough to make the hair on your head stand on end, followed by the image of a silent, white ghost-like creature fly past, perhaps near head-height, you just might think you’ve had an encounter with something other-worldly, something deadly. Of course, Barn Owls are not other-worldly, and only deadly to mice and shrews, their favoured prey, which they hunt at dusk and night. Their eyesight is no better than ours, but their hearing is extraordinarily acute. Their face ‘mask’ acts as a kind of ‘sound receiver’ and their ears
are located in different positions on either side of their head, all the better to pinpoint the source of a rustle or squeak in grass or undergrowth. And they fly silently because of the structure of their feathers and wings, so their prey can’t hear them. Sadly, this animal with almost magical natural adaptations has been in severe decline, particularly in Northern Ireland, where there are almost certainly less than 30 breeding pairs. As with so many other wild creatures, their decline can be put down mainly to loss of
habitat, particularly rough grassland and hedges, but with one important addition, the widespread agricultural use of rodenticides which kill off their staple diet. Ulster Wildlife and partners are working year-round with farmers to not just protect birds but create the conditions for expansion of suitable territory. If you spot an owl anywhere, including our two other natives the long-eared and short-eared owls, or a potential nest site, please report it by contacting
Ulster Wildlife’s Senior Conservation Officer, in confidence, on 07816 065736 or at katy.bell@
ulsterwildlife.org. That sort of information is so important to their efforts to locate and help this
endangered Irish bird, particularly one with such a mythical history. JVA
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Issue 174 - Support Local
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Hear ClearNI, a Belfast specialist in Hearing Tests, Hearing Aids, removal of Ear Wax using Microsuction.
Hear ClearNI are a local independent family run hearing care clinic, we are based on the Cregagh Road in Belfast & Bangor. We specialise in Hearing Tests, Hearing Aids, removal of Ear Wax using Microsuction. Stephen has been working in the Hearing Industry since 2018 for a large Hearing Aid manufacturer and then decided to open Hear ClearNI in 2021. Andrea, Stephen’s wife has recently joined the business. Andrea has spent the last 18 years working as a Senior Nurse within the NHS and is Trained in Microsuction, carrying out hearing tests and fitting of hearing aids, she recently completed a Hearing Care Assistant Course to increase her knowledge and understanding of the Ear and hearing related issues. What makes us different? As part of our hearing assessment, we not only carry out a hearing test, but we also give you the opportunity to trial the
latest hearing aids free of charge, this allows you to really hear the benefits and understand what you have been missing out on with no upfront purchase. It also gives us the opportunity to ensure the product we offer suits your hearing loss and lifestyle. This is what we like to call a real-world hearing assessment. We focus on our
customers and high level of service and that is evident in our 5 star rating on Google To find out more or book one of our services including Earwax Removal, Hearing Tests, Hearing Aids, Repairs, Hearing Protection, call 03301333291 or book online at www.hearclearni. co.uk
Mary Peters Trust funding initiative helps Castlereagh athlete.
City of Lisburn AC member Erin Fisher is one of 15 young sports people, who have each benefitted from a special bursary from the Mary Peters Trust’s newest funding programme, the ‘David Magill Coaching Awards’. Set up by the Trust and the family of David Magill, who passed away in November 2021 aged 86, the initiative aims to help young athletes take up coaching courses relevant to their chosen sport. David’s widow Joan, daughters Joanne and Denise and the wider family established the programme as a tribute to a much-loved husband, dad and grandfather. During his lifetime David had made a huge contribution and impact within the worlds of sport, business, local community, and volunteering. David was an all-round sports person, excelling in pole-vaulting and winning the Irish Youth Championship in 1954. Like David, Castlereagh girl Erin is a pole-vaulter and competes in other track and field events, in particular long jump. The 22-year-old Queen’s University medical student has been involved in athletics since she was eight and first
took up pole-vaulting at the age of 12. Erin has competed for Northern Ireland in both the long jump and pole-vaulting and is already supporting younger athletes having completed assistant coach programmes. Erin completed an assistant coach course in 2020 and her David Magill bursary will enable her to take up the ‘full’ athletics coaching course covering more in-depth technical aspects allowing her to coach several athletics disciplines and help young rising athletes to further develop their skills and technique. Joan Magill and her daughter Joanne joined Lady Mary Peters at a special presentation event at Newforge Sports Complex in Belfast to welcome and celebrate the David Magill Coaching Award winners. Paying tribute to Joan, Joanne and Denise Magill, Lady Mary Peters said: “At the Mary Peters Trust we are constantly seeking
new approaches and different initiatives to help local athletes strive to compete with the best in the world. David and Joan Magill have been superb supporters of the Trust and its ongoing work over the years. We are very much indebted to the Magill family and wholeheartedly thank them for their financial endowment and their work in establishing these new coaching awards. “It has been wonderful to meet our cohort of 15 athletes drawn from disability sport, badminton, athletics, gymnastics and netball and we wish them all well as they embark on their various coaching courses. We look forward to hearing how their new qualifications help them develop in their specific sports and how as new coaches they can support athletes of the future to fast-track towards success.”
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Issue 174 - Support Local
South Side Advertiser
REDUCE YOUR STRESS WITH A PET!
When thinking of ways to reduce stress in life, usually techniques like meditation and yoga come to mind. But getting a new best friend can also have many stress relieving and health benefits. While human friends provide great social support and come with some fabulous benefits, this article focuses on
the benefits of furry friends: cats and dogs! Here are some of the benefits of owning a pet: Pets can improve your mood: For those who love animals, it’s virtually impossible to stay in a bad mood when
a pair of loving puppy eyes meets yours, or when a super-soft cat rubs up against your hand. Research supports the mood-enhancing benefits of pets. Pets control blood pressure better than
drugs: Yes, it’s true. Groups of hypertensive New York stockbrokers who got dogs or cats were found to have lower blood pressure and heart rates than those who didn’t get pets. When they heard of the results, most of those in the non-pet group went out and got pets! Pets encourage you
to get out and exercise: Whether we walk our dogs because they need it, or are more likely to enjoy a walk when we have companionship, dog owners do spend more time walking than non-pet owners, at least if we live in an urban setting. Because exercise is good for stress management and overall health, owning
a dog can be credited with increasing these benefits. Pets stave off loneliness and provide unconditional love: Pets can be there for you in ways that people can’t. They can offer love and companionship, and can also enjoy comfortable silences and keep secrets. And they could be the best
antidote to loneliness. In fact, research shows that nursing home residents reported less loneliness when visited by dogs than when they spent time with other people! All these benefits can reduce the amount of stress people experience in response to feelings of social isolation and lack of social support from people.
It’s important to realize that owning a pet isn’t for everyone. Pets do come with additional work and responsibility, which can bring its own stress. However, for most people, the benefits of having a pet outweigh the drawbacks. Having a furry best friend can reduce stress in your life and bring you support when times get tough.
New Principal welcomed at Lisnasharragh Primary School
Lisnasharragh Primary School is excited to welcome new Principal, Mrs Lynsey Stewart! Mrs Stewart joins Lisnasharragh from Ligoniel Primary School, where she was Principal for 7 years. Mrs Stewart is passionate about education and the opportunity for children to reach their full potential. She is looking forward to
getting to know pupils, parents and staff as she begins her new role. Here’s what Mrs Stewart had to say about her own school days and her priorities as she begins this new Principal-ship. Can you describe yourself
in four words. Friendly, caring, creative and passionate. What was your favourite subject at school? I loved school. My favourite subjects were Maths, Geography and Music. Today I still love to sing and travel and Maths is still very important to my role as a Principal. Tell us about your home life. I am married to Chris and have two fabulous children, Nathan (13) and Jessica (9). I also have a pet rabbit called Robbie. What are your priorities starting this new post? I am looking forward to getting to know all the children and their families. I will be working with the
staff to continue to create a learning environment in which all children and staff feel valued and cared for. Lisnasharragh Primary 1 Open Morning is on Tuesday 9th January 2024.
Book a slot for a tour! You can also take a virtual tour at www.lisnasharraghps.com Lisnasharragh Primary School is at Tudor Dr, Castlereagh, Belfast BT6 9LS.
Issue 174 - Support Local
NEW YEAR NEW start
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Homes at Seahaven Residential Park
Pack your bags for a break to remember & stay at the Station House Hotel Letterkenny got incredible value Winter Seahaven Residential Park is an exclusive development, set between Groomsport Hotel deals. and Orlock.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure the Station House Hotel has everything you need for an enjoyable Winter break away. Family owned hotel built on the grounds of where the Old Station House once stood when the Railway System in Co. Donegal was in operation from 1901 to the 1940’s. It was bought by the Gallagher family in 1953, five years after the last train passed the old building. It became their home and was living in up until 2004 at which point it was demolished and developed into a wonderful hotel that boasts 81 spacious bedrooms, each decorated to a very high standard and the Depot Bar & Restaurant. They have a number of room types for you to choose from including family, interconnecting, twin, triple, double, accessible, and executive. The Depot Bar & Restaurant provides the perfect excuse for a pause
& to pamper your palate, offering a wide range of sumptuous dining options. Superbly located in the heart of the thriving town of Letterkenny so you only have to open their doors and you are right where all the action is! From the endless number of family-friendly activities to shopping centres, charming boutiques, the vibrant nightlife scene, the theatre, relaxing restaurants and more, and with easy access to all major routes and natural attractions, Letterkenny has so much to offer! Since opening this award-winning hotel has garnered a reputation as one of the most popular hotels in Letterkenny and indeed in the greater Donegal area for Donegal hospitality at its best, quality
accommodation, dining, and a true local’s local! A place where value and top-class customer service is always assured & reflected in countless reviews on various digital platforms such as TripAdvisor and Google.
The Winter is a wonderful time to visit Donegal, it’s so beautiful and there’s just so much to do and to discover! Book your well-deserved Getaway now. A warm welcome awaits you at the Station House Hotel!
Seahaven Residential Park is an exclusive development, set between Groomsport and Orlock in a beautiful front line coastal location with unrivalled sea views to the Copeland Islands and Carrickfergus. Seahaven Residential Park is minutes away from Bangor’s bustling town centre and marina with an abundance of bars and restaurants and Bloomfield and Springhill shopping centres are a short drive away. The grounds of the development are set in established coastal countryside where you can enjoy beautiful coastal walks, fresh air, peace and tranquillity. Accessed through it’s own private entrance, Seahaven Park has direct links to coastal footpaths leading to Groomsport Village in one direction and Orlock and Donagahadee in the other. The residents use the on-
site function room for a variety of group based activities and have an active social committee; these include bingo, coffee mornings, Tai Chi and quiz nights. Other on-park facilities include: On-site park warden Function Room Entertainment committee Helping you feel safe and secure is important to us, an on-site park warden who is always on hand to help and assist whenever you need them. Plots are currently avail-
able on Seahaven Residential Park for a stunning 2 bedroom bungalow. This exclusive Park Home Development is situated on the Groomsport coastline and is specifically for this over 45’s. It is one of only 2 Residential Park located in Northern Ireland Open plan lounge/dining and kitchen with vaulted ceiling and multiple windows to fill the room with light. Engineered wooden flooring, stunning kitchen with polished granite worktops, sink in an island &
integrated appliances Two double bedrooms – Master with massive walk in wardrobe and en-suite shower room. Main bathroom feature a bath/shower Open plan lounge/dining and kitchen with vaulted ceiling and multiple windows to fill the room with light Seahaven Residential Park is at Seahaven Road, Groomsport, Co. Down BT19 6PH ResiPhone: 07796 580580 Email: info@encoreparcs. com
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Issue 174 - Support Local
TOP MEN
Reduce Costs with your Home Technology
Work from home? Managing home expenses often emerges as a crucial yet challenging task.
And when you’re trying to juggle everything from utility bills to unforeseen repair costs, it can sometimes feel like your finances are spiralling out of control. If you are in a position to plan over the medium to long term, with a bit of strategic planning and the aid of modern technology, reigning in those expenses becomes not just plausible, but straightforward. Today we’ll take a closer look at a few inventive ways you can harness the power of home technology to cut down on your household expenses, without compromising on
comfort or convenience. From making the switch to energy-efficient gadgets to exploring repair options for your digital devices, there is a lot you can do when it comes to savvy, cost-effective home management. Repair Instead Of Replace These days, the immediate reaction to a malfunctioning device is often a replacement. However, a more cost-effective and environmentally conscious approach is to repair. With companies offering mobile phone and tablet repairs, it’s possible to breathe new
life into your gadgets without having to make a new purchase. Not only does this save money, but it also reduces electronic waste, making it a winwin for both your pocket and the planet. Before you discard, consider repairing, as it’s an innovative way to reduce costs and promote sustainability. Embrace Smart Lighting Systems Smart lighting systems are making waves in the realm of home technology. A clever investment, these systems allow you to control the lighting in your home using a mobile app or even voice com-
mands, adding a level of convenience to your daily routine. Moreover, they give you the flexibility to customise the lighting based on your needs, from dimming the lights to setting schedules that help in reducing energy consumption. By optimising the use of lights only when necessary, you can lower your energy bills, making your home not only smarter but also more cost-efficient and eco-friendly. Invest In Energy-Efficient Appliances Modern households are recognising the value of investing in energy-efficient appliances. These appliances, whether it’s a refrigerator or a washing machine, are designed to use less energy without compromising on performance. They are an excellent way to reduce your household’s carbon footprint and save on monthly utility bills. When shopping, look for the Energy Star label or ratings that indicate the appliance’s energy efficiency. Making a conscious decision to choose products that are kind to both your wallet and the environment will allow you to adopt a sustainable approach to home living. For more info see www. prowess.org.uk
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Olympic Lifts, passenger lifts or Stairlifts we have it all!
Olympic Lifts supply ,install, test and maintain Passenger Lifts, Access Lifts, Goods Lifts and Stairlifts along with escalators & Moving walkways. We have installed over 17,000 projects throughout the UK & Ireland over the last 35 years. Based in Lisburn, our premises offer a recently renovated showroom with two Home Elevators on display. The location offers ease of access to customers just off the M1 and, importantly, allows us to maintain and respond to calls quickly and efficiently throughout Ireland. In the event of an unforeseen fault; vehicle tracking gives us the ability to allocate the closest technician to your area. Our wide range of stairlifts have been designed to blend
seamlessly with your interior. Whether you live in a classic or contemporary home, or if you have a straight or curved staircase, we will help find the right stairlift for you. Our range includes curved, outdoor and straight stairlifts. The curved stairlift is designed specifically to cope with winding or c o m p l i c a t e d staircases. It even negotiates curved bends on either side of the staircase, intermediate landings and corridors with ease. This revolutionary outdoor stairlift is perfect if you live in a hilly or mountainous area,
desire to advance our product offering. These important measures benefit our existing and new customers
have a cliff-set seaside home or need to access a garden, garage or cellar. Our stunning new stairlifts for straight stairs reveal our refreshingly modern
approach to design. Our aspirations are driven by continual development of our people, continuous investment in systems and procedures along with an unremitting
by improving the purchasing experience, generating improved efficiencies and costs savings which we pass on
to our clients and allowing Olympic Lifts to offer the most up to date products and services available, all of the highest
quality. For more information contact: 02892 622331or visit our website at www. olympiclifts.co.uk
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TOP MEN
How to Ace A Job Interview!
Are you preparing for a job interview? Do you want to make a great impression and increase your chances of getting hired? If so, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll provide you with some useful tips and tricks to help you ace your next Before the Interview Research the company and interviewers: Understanding key information about the company you’re interviewing with can help you go into your interview with confidence. Using the company’s website, social media posts and recent press releases will provide a solid understanding of the company’s goals and how your background makes you a great fit. Practice your interview answers: Prepare your answer to the common question: “Tell me about yourself, and why are you interested in this role with our company?” The idea is to quickly communicate who you are and what value you’ll bring to the company and the role—this is your elevator pitch. Reread the job description: You may want to print it out and begin underlining specific skills the employer is looking for. Think about examples from your past and current work that align with these requirements. Use the STAR method:
Prepare to be asked about times in the past when you used a specific skill and use the STAR method to tell stories with a clear Situation, Task, Action and Result. Practice answering questions with someone: Practicing your answers out loud is an incredibly effective way to prepare. Say them to yourself or ask a friend to help run through common questions and your answers. You’ll find yourself gaining confidence as you get more
used to saying the words. During the Interview Dress appropriately: Dressing professionally shows that you take the interview seriously and respect the interviewer’s time. Be on time: Arrive at least 10-15 minutes early to give yourself time to relax and prepare. Make a great first impression: Smile, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake. Listen carefully: Pay attention to the interviewer’s questions and
answer them thoughtfully. Be confident: Project confidence by speaking clearly and maintaining good posture. After the Interview Follow up: Send a thankyou note or email to the interviewer within 24 hours of the interview. Evaluate your performance: Think about what went well and what you could improve on for your next interview. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to acing your next job interview. Good luck!
The South Side Advertiser is published by EDA Media, No 14 Windmill Business Park, 19A-31 Windmill Road, Saintfield. BT24 7DX - This Paper and its contents are copyright and no part may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher. 15000 copies with Royal Mail, TDNI and a network of shops. All Calls are recorded for training, quality and control purposes. Tel: 02897 511002 - Fax 02897 511008 - Email: info@edamedia.co.uk - Visit: www.edamedia.co.uk. Visit The South Side Advertiser Facebook page for our Digital Issue.
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Innovation is the power behind your business!
Writes Dr Vicky Kell, Director of Innovation, Research & Development, Invest NI. In the fast-changing landscape of business, investing in Research and Development (R&D) and innovation is not merely a choice; it is a strategic necessity to achieve sustained growth and competitiveness. As the Director of Innovation and R&D at Invest Northern Ireland, I am convinced of the transformative power that innovation holds for businesses, and the pivotal role innovation plays in the growth of our economy. Innovation is everything from refining products, to changing processes to make them more efficient, to investing in more complex R&D to develop a new product or drug. Whatever form it takes, innovation is crucial to securing your business’ future. It is the cornerstone of success, ensuring your business stays ahead of the pack and can adapt to the dynamic demands of your market. This message came across loud and clear at the ‘Innovate Local Northern Ireland’ event we hosted in Lisburn last month. Organised in partnership with Innovate UK, the event explored the importance of innovation to growth, competitiveness and resilience. So now we’ve convinced you how important it is, let me outline how we can help you innovate in your business. Knowing where to start
can sometimes be the biggest barrier to innovation and it’s important to ensure that the advice, level of funding or expertise you secure fits with your business plan and business model. If you haven’t already, visit innovateni.com and complete the Innovation Assessment to help you identify how innovative your business is, and get suggested help and next steps. We have a support programme or grant for whatever stage you are at: from £5k innovation vouchers all the way to financial support towards larger scale R&D projects. The advice and guidance we also provide is invaluable. A £5,000 Innovation Voucher is perfect for those new to innovating and will allow you to tap into specialist knowledge and work with a university or college to refine a product, service or process – like sports performance start up, Move TrU, which recently used an innovation voucher to work with Ulster University to design its first ever textile protype. The company is now using this protype to test new markets. To export globally requires you to develop products that can beat your competitors so maybe now is the time to invest in R&D to develop a new product, like Lurgan based TruCorp. It used our R&D support to bring
its latest product Airsim Difficult Airway to market and tap into new sales in the US market. Our Project Definition support offers up to £50K towards the cost of planning and defining your R&D project and apply for an Invest NI Grant for R&D. It helps you to reduce your
project’s risks and identify its costs and potential benefits. The importance of investing in innovation and R&D cannot be overstated. It is the difference between success and failure, the engine that propels global competitiveness. But it doesn’t just benefit your
sector, creating even greater impact across our economy. So, by encouraging more companies to embed innovation in their business and take up more innovative
company. Sharing what we learn through innovation, research and development can go on to benefit others. This is innovation diffusion, or knowledge transfer. Its where the learnings of one company can be applied in a different way in a different company, or
processes and technologies, we can ultimately increase our collective knowledge and deliver benefits for all of society. If you have an innovation
project you would like to take forward, why not call the Invest NI Business Support team on 0800 181 4422 to see how they can help you make it a reality.
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County Down author Kate launches her first pony book for children!
County Down horsewoman turned author Kate Russell has launched her first equestrian themed children’s book, just in time for the New Year! Kate, a well known figure in the NI world of equestrianism and equine therapy has published ‘Peanut gets his sparkle back’. Kate says: “I have always wanted to write a children’s book from an early age. I have stories whirling in my head and usually inspired by the ponies dogs and cat. My friend had two young boys who would listen to my stories – they encouraged me to write
a book and what’s more - asked if they could be in it! Working with children and the ponies through equine facilitated learning I could see the very real benefits of the interaction with the different pony personalities.” The book is based on the main characters Peanut an 8hh Falabella cross pony and Tobi a 27 yr old rescue pony. In real life this odd couple
have struck a very strong friendship and became pretty much inseparable! Peanut is young, curious and cute and everyone who meets him falls in love with him. Tobi is older, a little bit stiff but calm with the kindest nature. They are both very much loved for being themselves! In real life Tobi & Peanut are also fully qualified therapy ponies who like nothing better than helping others!
The story aims to help children with anxiety and worries and show that that it is ok to have worries but not to let them build up. ‘Peanut, gets his sparkle back’ is a heartwarming children’s book about overcoming fear and finding the courage within oneself. With charming colour illustrations by the talented Faye Hobson, and a relatable story, young readers will be inspired to face their own worries and become
brave little ponies themselves! ‘Peanut gets his Sparkle Back’ is ideal for children 3-9 with coloured text suitable for children with dyslexia, teaches valuable lessons about perseverance, selfconfidence and the power of friendship. It’s a must read for parents, teachers and children alike and is sure to become a beloved addition to any child’s bookshelf! Join Peanut and his friends on their journey
to bravery and show your little ones that they too can conquer their worries and be the courageous heroes they’ve always dreamed of being. You can find out more about Tobi, Peanut and friends and also purchase a copy of the book direct online at http:www.tobiandpeanuttherapyponies.com/ product-page/peanutfinds-his-sparklechildren-s-storybook priced £10, (postage fees apply).
Win at The Northern Ireland Women’s Awards 2023 is Ekstra special for Janet!
Janet Jensen, ACMA, CGMA, a Chartered Management Accountant in Practice (MiP) proudly announces her recent win at The Northern Ireland Women’s Awards 2023 for Accounting and Finance. As the founder and owner of Ekstra Accounting Solutions, based in Belfast, Janet is dedicated to empowering local small business owners by providing a range of accounting and business advisory services as well as virtual finance office solutions at affordable rates. She says “Our mission is to engage, enable and empower business owners
to achieve their business goals and dreams by supporting them every step of the way. We achieve this by transforming your business numbers into a story, allowing your business to speak for itself. We provide you with insights to not only survive but to thrive in today’s competitive world. Our goal is to offer every business owner a supportive and collaborative service becoming your dedicated and trusted finance business partner. Our core values revolve around forming enduring relationships with our clients, built upon trust, integrity, honesty and
mutual respect. To celebrate our recent award and four years in business, Ekstra Accounting Solutions extends an exclusive offer to our valued clients. The first four individuals to sign up with one of our three services will enjoy a complimentary four-month Xero subscription. This is our way of expressing gratitude for your continuous support and trust. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your business performance. Take the first step towards success – call us today, and
let’s write the next chapter of your business story together!
Contact Details: contactus@ekstraas.co.uk or telephone 07458 302 512
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Reasons to Start a Business when you’re Over 50 Women in their 50s are the fastest-growing group of new businesses in the UK.
There are good and some not-so-good reasons for that. But whatever your reason for taking the entrepreneurial leap in your 50s you have some fantastic advantages. Just a few of the following list – of 10 reasons to start a business when you’re over 50 – will help propel your business. 1. Freedom to be yourself Reaching 50 may be the first time in your life that you have the freedom, from other people’s expectations, to really be yourself. “I feel like there was a new freedom to pursue my dreams when I turned 50. No worry about balance, no worry about people liking me or not, in fact at 50 I seem to take on more risk than ever in my life. I love this phase of my life and business,” says Hazel Walker, who runs her own coaching and networking company ‘She Said’. 2. Experience to build on You have been there, done it, and probably have the t-shirt. From half a lifetime of work and learning to manage all types of people and situations – making mistakes and growing from them – and yes, lots and lots of great achievements – you are now in a position to make all that wisdom start to work for you. Sue Grogan of Joined-up Working says: “I’m now 54 and am running my own small consultancy. I think if I’d tried this when I was younger I would have given
up due to all the obstacles – wisdom does come with age and knowing what makes people tick.” 3. Energy and Zest Postmenopausal women often have a new surge of energy. Anthropologist Margaret Mead called it ‘postmenopausal zest.’ It inspired her to personally challenge the view of older women as being ‘over the hill’ as well. When David Frost asked her on TV how she managed to keep up a pace that would exhaust women half her age, she replied: “It might have killed me at that age. I attribute my energy to my postmenopausal zest.” Too right! 4. Time The nest is likely to be empty. The 30s and 40s are when women’s lives are usually busier than ever with career and family demands. For many women, it isn’t until they hit their 50s that they finally have some time to think. 5. Money You may well have cash on your hands for the first time as well. Maybe you’ve finally paid the mortgage off, got a redundancy payment, benefited from an inheritance, or even a pension. Be careful with your nest egg if you do have one to fall back on. Prove your business idea in a small way before you pile your cash behind it. It takes time to establish a new business and those with a buffer are more likely to last the course.
6. Contacts The older you are the more people you know! And there’s a lot of truth in the old adage: “It’s not what you know, but who you know that matters.” So make sure that you make the most of connections old and new. LinkedIn is a great way to keep your network fresh. 7. You understand the massive and growing ‘silver’ market The over 55s have on average twice the discretionary spending power of their younger counterparts. It is estimated that this group owns 70% of the net worth of all households. Most companies do a terrible job of appealing to this valuable market segment, either ignoring them completely or coming up with angles that are often patronising and sometimes offensive. Maybe it’s because their marketing departments are often so ‘youthful’. You, by contrast, are in tune with the needs
and wants of this most valuable market segment! 7. You know yourself Building relationships is essential in most businesses. And it is much easier to understand and empathise with others when you are comfortable with yourself. The more you’ve been through, the more likely you are to have got there. 8. You’ve dealt with failure Few people reach 50 without some experience of failure. You have to feel sorry for those who’ve led entirely gilded lives, as one wise friend said ‘you don’t know who you really are until you’ve had a comeuppance!’ A significant failure can be a blessing; giving you the push you need to follow a dream at last. 9. You are more likely to succeed in business Starting in business when you’re over 50 seems to increase your chances of success. Research from Aston
University finds that 48% of the over 50s succeeded after 5 years in business compared to only 29% of those aged 18–49 years old. They put this down to experience, contacts, and capital built up over long careers. 10. You’ve years of work still in you and lots to give June Zaft founded her business Country Walks 17 years ago aged 52. ” I continue to find the challenges uplifting and stimulating,” she says. “I feel very privileged to have a business which still remains a passion and which I fully intend to maintain until I drop. I firmly believe that ‘work’ keeps you young and providing you enjoy good health and fitness, age is no barrier.” So there you have it. Starting a business is a big step, but if you are over 50 there might just never be a better time. For more info see www. prowess.org.uk
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Self-employment: Why do it?
Self-employment is sometimes the only option if you wish to pursue a specific career path. Journalism, certain legal occupations, consultancy, the trades and the creative and performing arts are all sectors where selfemployment is a common form of work. For some people, it is a lifestyle choice achievable by: Setting up a business, either on a full-time basis or alongside a part-time job; Working as a freelancer or contractor; Buying into a franchise. Reasons why people choose self-employment may also include: The desire to sell their skills and/or expertise; The desire to prove an idea; Because they relish the challenge; Wanting to generate a second income stream; Reaction to an illinformed first career decision; Peer or family pressure; A feeling that there are no other options. Self-employment has its benefits and risks. The benefits Being your own boss Earning more money
(become rich?) Working fewer hours Independence Variety and choosing work you enjoy The risks The more glamorous aspirations attached to selfemployment take years of hard work and commitment to achieve. It is this realisation that provides the biggest shock to most people who decide to work for themselves. This may cast some light on why only one in three business start-ups in the UK succeed in the first three years of business. So, in the early days you may need to consider the following: You do everything yourself and are responsible for the day-to-day running of the business. You will rarely have the resources at your disposal that are available to an established business owner. This may mean doing tasks that you dislike. Large salaries or income are rare in the early days. Need for personal financial investment in the business, competition, economic fluctuations, and changes
in consumer markets may occur. It is not unusual for newly self-employed people to have a second job to help provide a guaranteed source of income for day-to-day living costs. You need to offer a product or service for which there is a demand. This may depend on projecting a certain image, perfecting a technique or making a product unique. You alone are
accountable! Taking an unwise decision could reduce your income. Expanding too rapidly or, conversely, not being quick to seize a chance might be detrimental to your business. Working from home is most effective when you have the space and facilities to do so. If you work out of other premises, you will have to pay rent and other overheads. It is impossible to escape some
pressures, especially those that come from clients and customers, who will often dictate your working hours. By not being employed, you risk losing a range of benefits and a support infrastructure. Setbacks may impact on your confidence and profits. Be realistic and learn from your mistakes. You will have to make your own tax, pension and health insurance arrangements.
Applying for a School Place Visiting a school is an important step in choosing a school, and this personal touch reflects Leadhill’s approach in supporting families. As a smaller, nurturing school in the Castlereagh area, working to support parents and children is central to what Leadhill has to offer. Leadhill parents recognise the value of a primary school setting where every adult knows every child. Our school welcomes and
supports children from all backgrounds and promotes inclusivity and child-centred approaches. This year, Leadhill are offering a range of flexible opportunities to visit. Arrange for a visit at a time that suits you, throughout December
and January. Mrs Millis, the Principal will take the time to tailor your visit to address the things that matter to your family. Visiting Leadhill during the school day gives a fantastic opportunity to experience the nurturing, family atmosphere and meet our fabulous staff
and pupils. For younger children, Toddle Time, Leadhill’s toddler and adult group, meets every Wednesday during termtime from 9 - 11am. This provides another great opportunity to get to know Leadhill and to see how the school can meet the needs of your family. The Leadhill Website provides a useful window into life in Leadhill. Visit us on www.leadhillps. com. Leadhill would love to welcome you for a visit. Contact the school office on 028 90401101 or email Mrs Millis on amillis370@c2kni.net to arrange for a suitable date and time.
Issue 174 - Support Local
TOP WOMEN
Continued Growth at County Down School Saintfield High School continues to thrive as a key educational provider in the mid-Down area. At the helm is Sarah-Lucy Hynds, Principal, who “takes pride in leading such a thriving and active school community; a school with a highly commended academic, pastoral, sporting and cultural history”. Level headed and determined, Hynds is keen to emphasise that the school is “one with strong core values, respecting the past, but also very much looking to the future as a dynamic, diverse and community-focused school” – a vision mirrored in equal measure of drive and enthusiasm behind the then Hunterhouse College schoolgirl with an interest in Drama and the Arts. Sarah-Lucy undertook an Undergraduate Degree at the University of Glasgow, graduated from the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, before completing a PGCE at the University of
Ulster and Masters in Education, Leadership and Management at Queen’s University. On arrival at Saintfield High School in 2007, there followed a successful stretch as Head of English and Drama, before Miss Hynds was promoted to Vice Principal, and later to the position of Principal, in 2017. The inevitable wave of challenges brought about by the recent pandemic has left Sarah-Lucy in no doubt about the importance of striving to ensure equitable education for all children. This desire is intrinsically woven into the very fabric of Saintfield High School, ultimately reflected in its pledge “Individual success for all pupils - learning and achieving together”. Established in 1958 Saintfield High has a reputation founded on a core belief of celebrating and nurturing the whole child, inside and outside of the classroom.
The school has a long tradition of excellence and of growing and transforming to meet the needs, aptitudes and ambitions of pupils. This has culminated in the securing of a significant number of additional Year 8 places for two
years in a row. Come and sample the vibrant culture at an Open Evening on Thursday 25th January 2024, with the Principal’s address at 7pm. You can also discover more at www. saintfieldhighschool.com
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South Side Advertiser
Why make a break for Ballina Manor Hotel, Mayo this winter? Great bedrooms, beautiful food and an instagrammable location are just three reasons to consider!
The bedrooms are just awesome! More than half of guestrooms are river view rooms overlooking the river Moy and the picturesque town of Ballina which is on the doorstep. There
are a great choice of standard, junior suites , family and superb rooms each offering a world of relaxation and guaranteeing a great night’s sleep. Take for example the family rooms.
Each of the family rooms includes all the facilities you would expect and more. There is a wide range of layout options to suit your clan. Choose from the family 2+1 room (3 single beds or 1 double and 1 single), family 2+2 room (1 double bed and 2 single beds), family 2+3 room (3 single beds & 1 double bed or 2 double beds and 1 single bed) and then there are the family suites! The family suites are extremely spacious and ideal for larger families who want extra space in their rooms to unwind in the evenings with separate bedrooms and living area and these can comfortably fit up to 2 adults and 4 children. The yummy Food!
Ballina Manor Hotel, Mayo offers a varied menu that has been compiled by the talented head chef and features a wide range of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The Ridgepool Restaurant boasts more stunning views of the River Moy. Ballina Manor Hotel is perfectly situated in the centre of town close to all amenities such as tourist attractions, shops, and pubs. Take in the stunning coastlines and fresh sea air on Lacken Strand or Ross Beach. Bingo takes place in Ballina and the surrounding local areas most nights of the week! A location to Love! Ballina Manor Hotel is the perfect location and
base for a fun-filled break in Mayo, situated in the heart of Ballina and only a 1-minute stroll to the town centre, this is the perfect base for exploring and enjoying all that North Mayo and the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way has to offer! Mayo is full to the brim with attractions, wonderful scenery, and activities to keep all ages entertained. Explore Belleek Woods, where you can wander around the Fairy Trail, discover Ceide Fields, go back in time with a visit to The Jackie Clarke Collection, burn off energy at the spectacular Tom Ruane Park or local playgrounds and even if the weather isn’t on your side the
kids will love a few hours at Waterpoint Aqua Park in Enniscrone. In addition to Lacken Strand, Enniscrone Beach or Ross Beach you can choose to enjoy a fun day out at Westport House, visit Achill
Island or set a family challenge to climb Croagh Patrick or Nephin. Ballina Manor Hotel is also an ideal location for a break from Northern Ireland. Belfast is just a few hours drive. Book direct on our
website - save up to 15% by booking direct with our stay and save offers! Book your break today at www. ballinamanorhotel.ie or contact the reservations team on T: +353 (0)96 80 900
Searching for roller garage doors that offer unmatched quality at unbeatable prices? Then look no further than Garolla, the UK’s first nationwide roller garage door installer. Transform the appearance of your exteriors and improve the security of your home all in one by updating to a Garolla garage door. Handmade by a team of skilled craftsmen, every Garolla garage door is made from only the very best materials and to your home’s exact specifications. From start to finish you will only work with your own local installer, guaranteeing no pushy salesmen in sight. As well as installing your garage door, your local installer will also conduct the initial survey of your property and will always be on hand to answer any questions you might have. Offering style as well as substance, Garolla electric garage doors are available in 21 colours and come
in two different slat sizes to perfectly fit any opening. Avoid any hidden charges with Garolla, where an instant quote comes inclusive of measuring, fitting and VAT. For more information visit their website www. Garolla.co.uk or, alternatively, give them a call on 028 9246 0024
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