EssentialsMAG October 2022 Bangor on Dee/Overton/Garden Village/Borras

Welcome...

Welcome to our October issue!

The Queen passed away last month at the age of 96 after 70 years on the throne. The long reign of Queen Elizabeth II was marked by her strong sense of duty and her determination to dedicate her life to her throne and to her people.

She encouraged the country to look to the timeless values which underpinned her own life; to remain resolute in the face of adversity; to embrace the new without betraying the principles of the past; and to display humility whenever possible.

The Queen's death has been a genuinely traumatic event, leaving many in this stoic country feeling anxious and unmoored.

It is worth reflecting on her advice to the UK 50 years ago, perhaps, on how one should face up to moments of unease. "Goodwill is better than resentment, tolerance is better than revenge, compassion is better than anger, above all a lively concern for the interests of others as well as our own," she said.

I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and all those mourning her loss.

Cover Image: Crisp, autumn morning

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We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty The Queen.

For over 70 years she has dedicated her life to service for her country and the Commonwealth, and been a figurehead of national unity and stability at a time of enormous change.

We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and all those mourning her loss.

We join the nation at this sad time to remember her life of unwavering devotion, dignity and compassion.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Photograph ©Alessia Pierdomenico

Heartfelt Gratitude and Admiration

By CAT WILLIAMS

A collective hush has been spread over the Nation these past couple of weeks, as we have absorbed and adjusted to the loss of Queen Elizabeth II and welcomed King Charles III.

It’s like somehow everything has changed, and yet, all must go on the same.

I have had many conversations with clients, friends and family as we have tried to express, understand and explain how we are feeling.

Several clients have shared with me that personal losses they’ve had in their lives have resurfaced.

We’ve known The Queen all our lives. She’s felt like everyone’s mum, everyone’s grandmother, but perhaps we didn’t fully realise this until she was no longer with us.

Admiration, respect and love for Her Majesty spanned the globe - she was the World’s most famous, most travelled and most photographed person. I’ve been contacted by friends overseas, in Canada and Australia - they wanted me to know that they feel the loss of their Queen too.

Personally, I feel The Queen represented a sense of stability amidst what can frequently feel like a chaotic world.

As a therapist, I know that our most basic human need is for certainty and safety. For 70 years, our Queen has been like the figurehead on a ship, no matter what ‘storms’ or ‘heavy seas’ we have passed through. She has been steadfast and sure in her dedication, loyalty and duty, and we have looked to her to be a calm, loving and steady presence.

As we grieve for Her Majesty, I, personally, feel heartfelt gratitude and admiration for the example she has set in so many ways. There may be troubled times in the future, and we can look to The Queen’s legacy for some guidance through these challenges. The stories shared by people who met her, up and down the country, have all picked out consistent qualities - that she was humorous, kind and put people at ease. That she loved animals and nature, was respectful, dedicated, and gracious to everyone.

Thank you, Your Majesty, for your life of service, and for the example you have set. As we grieve your passing, I feel we can honour you by facing the future with hope, dedication and respect for all - as we welcome your son, King Charles III. God save The King.

Cat Williams - Rapid Transformational Therapist,

Coach & Speaker

catstaycalm@gmail.com Tel: 07799 641347

Do You Love to Sing?

Wrexham Community Choir's new term started last month and anyone who loves to sing is welcome to join the weekly choir practice at Tŷ Pawb in Wrexham. No experience is necessary and it's open to everyone, from experienced singers, to those who only sing in the shower, and even those who've been told they can’t sing! There's no auditions, no solos and no need to read music.

Wrexham Community Choir was formed ten years ago and is led by Musical Director and composer, Carol Donaldson, who has a career working for over 30 years in music for theatre, television and radio and is also a popular choir leader and music workshop leader.

Wrexham Community Choir meets every Tuesday evening during term time from 7:30-9:00pm in Tŷ Pawb, Market Street, Wrexham LL13 8BB.

Tip Top Production

Local community theatre company Tip Top Productions will bring their new production "Keeping Up Appearances" to Rossett and Burton Village Hall this November.

This Wrexham-based community theatre company, founded by Peter Swingler over 30 years ago, perform at various local venues across the region, including Theatr Clwyd and The Stiwt.

Keeping Up Appearances is, as you’ve guest it, about the character Hyacinth Bucket - everyone’s favourite social climber, causing continuous mayhem!

Tickets are £10 and can be booked via: tiptopproductions.co.uk or by phoning the box office on: 01352 344101

Wrexham’s New Wellbeing Hub

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB), Wrexham Council and AVOW have joined forces to create a new Wellbeing Hub in Wrexham city centre.

The Wellbeing Hub aims to make it quicker and easier for people to access information, providing a range of services under one roof, helping to prevent illness and encourage people to lead longer, happier lives.

The Wellbeing Hub will officially open on Wednesday, October 5th from 2pm – 5pm.

Members of the public are invited to come along to see what the hub can offer. There will be demonstrations, information stalls, tai chi taster sessions, story time, sensory room, outdoor play area and fun activities.

For more information about the Wellbeing Hub and the services it has to offer please search for Wellbeing Hub Wrexham on Facebook.

Carers Collection

Every library in Wrexham has a collection of books to help carers access information about their caring role. The Carers Collection has been established to help those who look after and support loved ones at home on an unpaid basis.

Titles in the collection cover topics ranging from autism and dementia to carers’ rights and the law and benefits, and the emotional aspects of being a full-time carer. There are also books containing advice on caring for children or adults with specific conditions, and looking after yourself as a carer. Plus some of the books have been written by carers themselves who share their own experiences.

For a full list of the titles please visit: www.wrexham.gov.uk/services/libraries

For further information on the Carers’ Collection, please contact Wrexham Library on: 01978 292090.

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Using Tech to Stay Organised

By EssentialsMAG tech contributor DAVID HUGHES

The world seems to be back to its preCOVID busy-ness. School is back for another year, many people are back to work as normal, and our family life seems as hectic as it was before the pandemic. My family and I rely on technology to keep us organised, so in this article I want to talk about three apps we use on a daily basis. Full disclosure here: we are ingrained in the Apple ecosystem, but I will note Android equivalents as I go.

Calendar: The most important app of the lot. Sharing calendars via iCloud is essential in making sure we are all in the right place at the right time. We have a calendar called ‘Family’, which we all subscribe to, so when anyone adds an event it shows up on all our devices. To share a calendar from an iPhone, open the Calendar app, tap ‘Calendars’ at the bottom of the screen, then add people under the ‘Share with’ section.

On Android, Google Calendar is very similar.

Notes: From recipes to Christmas gift ideas; from school routines to holiday plans, Notes is a fantastic app for collecting and sharing important information. You can even lock notes that contain important information. A note can be shared by tapping the share icon in the top-right corner. You can invite people via email or iMessage initially, and then it will show up in their own Notes app.

Edits and additions made by others will be highlighted the next time you open the note.

On Android, Google Keep is very similar.

Reminders: The Reminders app is a really simple ‘to-do list’ tool. You can create multiple lists - shopping or DIY, for example, and add items to them. The power comes in being able to share these lists, so you can have one weekly shopping list on the go, for example, and not end up with everyone buying the same thing! Reminders lists can be shared by opening a list, then following the same steps as Notes above. You can even decide if the list can be onwardly shared with other people, or kept to just those you invite.

On Android, Google Tasks is somewhat similar, but the assignment of tasks is slightly different.

All three of the apps above are built-in to Apple devices when you buy them. There are some excellent third-party (but not always free) apps available on the App Store with even greater functionality.

Check out Fantastical, Evernote and Things, respectively.

EssentialsMAG tech contributor is David Hughes a freelance web developer Tel: 07595 303418 www.davidhughes.co

National Awareness Days

By JULIE GREGORY

Every month there are special dates to hang your marketing campaign onto. October sees the celebration of Black History here in the UK and internationally, The Big Draw takes place – drawing attention (forgive the pun!) to visual literacy and art education around the world.

More sobering are the dates set aside for Awareness Campaigns for health issues including Breast Cancer, Back Care, Cholesterol, Lupus, Dyslexia, ADHD and World Mental Health. Every single one is designed to promote awareness of the condition and educate those of us who may not be familiar with their effects.

Of course, the more lighthearted International Coffee Day makes its appearance on the first of the month, coupled with more food-related dates such as World Vegetarian Day, National Cheese Toastie Day (yes really), National Baking Week from 14th – 20th, National Curry Week and, far more important than any other foodie event, it’s Chocolate Week from 17th – 23rd! Mmm!

October is the time of year when apple trees bear their fruit and Apple Day takes place on 21st October here in the UK.

As children will now be firmly ensconced in the new school year, we celebrate World Teachers Day on 5th and October is National Bullying Prevention Month. International Walk to School Month and International School Library Month also last the duration of October.

The International Day of Older Persons is on 1st and The Children’s Trust Week here in the UK, together with National Adoption Week (17th-23rd) and Boycott Your Bed (the UK’s largest corporate sleepout event) all shine a light on raising awareness of how we can help others not as fortunate as ourselves.

As a nation of animal lovers, World Habitat Day on 3rd is closely followed by World Animal Day on 4th and then National Badger Day on 6th October, with National Black Cat Day on 27th – just in time for Halloween on 31st!

Here’s hoping we can all celebrate World Smile Day on 7th!

EssentialsMAG marketing contributor is Julie Gregory of Time For Marketing julie@timeformarketing.org Tel: 07474 333004

National and international awareness days underpin the marketing calendar for businesses and marketing professionals alike.

Dates for your Diary

SUN 2 OCTOBER

Gresford Artisan Market

Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS

Gresford’s Artisan Market returns, featuring great food and craft producers from around the region.

10:30am - 2pm

Free

SUN 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 OCT

Wrexham Model Engineers Train Rides

Pant yr Orchain, Old Wrexham Road, Gresford LL12 8TY

Come and ride on model trains. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

12pm - 4pm

Free

SUN 2 OCTOBER

Chester Marathon

There will be road closures in Chester, Eccleston, Pulford, Lavister, Rossett, Commonwood, Holt, Farndon, Churton and Aldford. For the full map scan the QR code.

8am - 2pm

MON 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 OCT

Zumba Gold Chair

Kenyon Hall, Castle Street, Holt LL13 9YL

Zumba Gold Chair is a dance fitness programme for the older adults and people with mobility or balance problems.

11:30am - 12:15pm £5.00 per session Tel: 07501 373426 (Mari)

MON 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 OCT

DragonFly Kids Meditation Class

Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS

Meditation and mindfulness can help children relax, be present and achieve higher levels of self confidence.

4pm - 5pm

Tel: 07841 533666 (Sarah)

WED 5, 12, 19, 26 OCTOBER

Pilates, Supported and Seated

Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS

This class, seated on a chair, or using the chair for support, will enable you to build strength, stability, balance and confidence.

11am - 12pm

Tel: 01978 512401 (Helen)

WED 5, 12, 19, 26 OCTOBER

Gresford Luncheon Club

Gresford Luncheon Club meets every Wednesday visiting a local pub or eatery. The group is aimed at the over 50s but we welcome anybody who needs company and some fun and friendship.

12:30pm - 2pm blackbb1927@outlook.com

WED 5, 12, 19, 26 OCTOBER

Walking Football

Colliers Park, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8PW

Walking Football for the over 60s, with a Wrexham FC Foundation coach. Pre-bookings only.

4:30pm - 5:30pm Tel: 07747 431607 (Ruth)

WED 5, 12, 19, 26 OCTOBER THU 6, 13, 20, 27 OCTOBER

Learn to Dance!

Llay Miners Welfare Institute, Llay New Road, Llay, Wrexham LL12 0TH

Learn to dance with the champions, Adrian and Amanda Taylor. Ballroom and Latin American Dance. Weekly adult beginners classes. Tuesday classes also in Overton Village Hall.

11:30am (Wednesday)

7:30pm (Thursday) 8:00pm (Tuesday - Overton) £8.50 per person Tel: 07703 571304 (Adrian)

THU 6, 13, 20, 27 OCTOBER

Walking Netball

Rhosnesni High School, Rhosnesni Lane, Wrexham LL13 9ET

Walking Netball is a slower version of the game, designed so anyone can play regardless of age or fitness. Have some fun and make new friends! New members always welcome!

6pm £3.50 per session sheilageorge2@hotmail.com

FRI 7 OCTOBER

Wrexham Birdwatchers

Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS

Wrexham Birdwatchers’

October meeting, “Inspiring Aliens” talk by Jeff Clarke. All welcome. 7:30pm Tel: 01978 855266 (Trevor)

THU 7, 14, 21, 28 OCTOBER

Tallarn Green Methodist Church Youth Club

Tallarn Green Methodist Church, Tallarn Green, Malpas SY14 7JH

Youth Club at Tallarn Green Methodist Church every Friday evening. Come and have some fun and make new friends. All welcome. 6pm

While every effort has been made to ensure all the details are correct at the time of going to print, it is advisable to check details with the venue concerned.

For a comprehensive list of local events, shows, groups and classes please visit: essentialsmag.co.uk/whatson

8 & 9 / 15 & 16 / 21-30 OCT

Halloween Picking Patch

Bolesworth Castle, Bolesworth Road, Tattenhall CH3 9HQ

Get into the autumn festivities, with pick your own pumpkins and Halloween Maize Maze £8.50 pickingpatch.com

WED 19 OCTOBER

Pulford & Poulton Local History Group

Pulford Village Hall, St Mary's Church, Pulford CH4 9EU

“A History of Hydro Generation in Chester” talk by Niall MacFadyen

7:30pm £2.00 members / £3.00 non pplhg.org.uk

SAT 22 OCTOBER

Rhos Orpheus Male Choir

Christ Church, Station Road, Rossett LL12 0GD Concert in aid of Nightingale House Hospice

7:30pm £10.00 richardhuxley@hotmail.com

THU 27 OCTOBER

'Christmas is Coming' Craft and Makers Market

Overton Village Hall, Pen-Y-Llan Street, Overton LL13 0EE

An abundance of local makers, bakers and creators. Come and do some early Christmas shopping!

2:30pm - 7:30pm Free

SUN 30 OCTOBER

Church Anniversary

Christ Church Rossett, Station Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0GD

Christ Church will celebrate 130 years and 120 years of the clock with a special service, followed by open church and refreshments.

10:30am

Share your events with us - it’s FREE! Let us know your events taking place next month so we can feature them. essentialsmag.co.uk /whatson

Shooting Star Cancer Support

Shooting Star Cancer support - funding invaluable new equipment for clinicians treating cancer patients in North Wales.

The charity receives massive thanks from clinicians who realise the constant pressure across the entire NHS to fund equipment. Your valuable donations have funded several major items during and since Covid lockdown started.

The Maelor Hospital Emergency Department, the only avenue for cancer patients, or patients with related conditions, during lockdown, desperately needed a second Bladder Scanner. This was funded and the team from the Unit thank you for your generosity.

Clinicians sent Shooting Star Cancer Support requests for equipment which was not able to be funded by the NHS.

These were items of equipment which provided an improved patient experience and state of the art technology to help cancer patients across North Wales.

www.shootingstarcancersupport.co.uk

Email: info@shootingstarcancersupport.co.uk

Charity Number: 1079693

Gardening Tips and Advice

October - The Autumn Chill Sets in

Although we had some warmer days over September, the autumn is now definitely here for real, and it feels colder. It's a beautiful time of year with the trees changing colour. Sometimes it may seem pointless raking, when the wind blows even more leaves onto the lawn, but just think of all the lovely leaf-mould you can make! It's also time to start preparing for early frosts.

TOP 10 JOBS TO DO IN THE GARDEN THIS MONTH

1. Divide established rhubarb crowns to create new plants

2. Cut back perennials that have died down

3. Divide herbaceous perennials

4. Move tender plants, including aquatic ones, into a greenhouse or conservatory

5. Plant out spring cabbages

6. Harvest apples, pears, grapes and nuts

7. Prune climbing roses

8. Finish collecting seeds from the garden to sow next year

9. Last chance to mow lawns and trim hedges in mild areas

10. Renovate old lawns or create new grass areas by laying turf

Osteoporosis and Low Bone Mass

By HELEN CONWAY

The term Osteoporosis (OP) was coined in 1994 by the World Health Organisation (WHO). It is a debilitating condition caused by the loss of bone mass density (BMD), making bones more susceptible to fracture. It is suggested that 30% of women over 50 will develop OP, with some research suggesting that figure is as high as 50%.

Men can also develop OP, but their risk is lower.

The likelihood of a woman suffering a hip fracture is greater than that of breast cancer and ovarian cancer combined, and almost 25% of hip fracture patients have to give up their homes for long term care. OP can lead to pain, deformity, disability and a loss of independence.

There are many risk factors including, but not limited to, family history, menopause, eating disorders, smoking and alcohol consumption, depression and stress, and being a Caucasian or Asian woman. There are also certain medical conditions that increase the risk of developing OP, including, but not limited to, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disorder, lupus, Crohn's disease and gastrointestinal malabsorption disorders.

But I don’t want to be all doom and gloom. BMD can be improved with the appropriate medication, correct nutrition, improved lifestyle and the right exercise, and one of the best exercises you can do for OP is Pilates.

But not all Pilates is the same. Certain exercises are totally inappropriate for the condition as they place pressure on vulnerable areas such as the neck, the spine and the hip, the three main osteoporotic fracture sites.

A measured programme, such as we teach, of balance, bone loading, lengthening, stability and impact will help to improve BMD, all of which can be addressed in both matwork and specialist Reformer classes. According to the Surgeon General, the optimal goal is at least 30 minutes activity a day.

If you have any concerns, please contact your medical health professional.

Bodywork-Pilates was established in 2002. They offer the very best in pilates, yoga and holistic fitness, with over 20 classes a week to choose from in and around Wrexham and Chester.

EssentialsMAG fitness contributor is Helen Conway from Bodywork-Pilates Ltd www.bodywork-pilates.co.uk Tel: 01978 512401

I’m sure you know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but did you know that 20th October is World Osteoporosis Day?

EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Leek, Bacon and Potato Soup

Leeks are related to garlic and onions but have a much subtler, sweeter and more sophisticated flavour. They are nutrient-dense, meaning that they’re low in calories yet high in vitamins and minerals. Leeks can be used to enrich soups or stews and they partner brilliantly with potato and with cheese to form tasty side-dishes and suppers.

INGREDIENTS

25g butter

3 rashers streaky bacon, chopped

1 onion, chopped

400g pack trimmed leek, sliced and well washed

3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

1.4l hot vegetable stock

142ml pot single cream

4 rashers streaky bacon, to serve

4-6

METHOD

Melt the butter in a large pan, then fry the bacon and onion, stirring until they start to turn golden. Tip in the leeks and potatoes, stir well, then cover and turn down the heat. Cook gently for 5 minutes, shaking the pan every now and then to make sure that the mixture doesn’t catch.

Pour in the stock, season well and bring to the boil. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

Leave to cool for a few minutes, then blend in a food processor in batches until smooth.

Return to the pan, pour in the cream and stir well. Taste and season if necessary.

Serve scattered with tasty crisp bacon and eat with toasted or warm crusty bread on the side.

Eating Seasonally and Locally

BY SAMANTHA GRIFFITHS

To eat seasonally means to eat food that has been harvested when it is naturally ripe and ready to eat. This mainly refers to fruit and vegetables, but can also be extended to meat and fish. To eat seasonally and locally means to eat food that has naturally grown in your local area, or in the country you live in, rather than being flown or shipped in from overseas. Because fruits and vegetables are constantly available to us, it’s easy to forget about when and where they are grown.

Currently in the UK, seasonal foods include apples, blackberries, beetroot, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, pumpkins, squash, carrots, garlic, kale, leeks, onions, and parsnips. There are many benefits to eating seasonally:

The food is more nutritious (and tastier!)

When food has grown naturally (without artificial light or heat) it has a higher vitamin content than if it has been forced to ripen. When fruits and vegetables are freshly picked and eaten, their micronutrients and phytonutrients are preserved. Food that is picked overseas is often harvested too early, so that it’s ripe when it arrives in its intended country. When fruit and veg are travelling they lose flavour, freshness, and nutritional value.

It’s cheaper

Because seasonal fruits and vegetables are more abundantly available, they can be lower in price. If food is grown locally, there are less transport costs, and thus cheaper prices. It’s estimated that a basket of fruit and veg that is bought in season can be up to a third cheaper than the same basket bought out of season.

It’s better for the environment

Eating seasonal foods usually means there have been fewer artificial methods of growing, such as heating, lighting, and fertilisers. There is also the massive environmental cost of flying in foods that don’t naturally grow here, such as avocados, pineapples, mangos, bananas, (which can contribute to deforestation).

However, there are some exceptions. In winter, tomatoes grown in an artificially heated greenhouse in the UK are much more expensive to grow in comparison to tomatoes that have grown naturally in Spain and are then shipped over.

Although it is unrealistic to try and eat seasonally all of the time, small efforts to do so can increase your nutritional intake and even save you money.

PLEASE NOTE: If you have a long-term illness and want to make any dietary changes always discuss these with your GP or a Registered Dietitian first.

EssentialsMAG nutrition contributor is Samantha Griffiths of Samantha Kate Nutrition Tel: 07958 207711

samanthakatenutrition@outlook.com www.samanthakatenutrition.com

The Farndon

Soapbox Derby

A car in the shape of a giant cheese wedge, hay bales lining the road and a person running down the street dressed as the Child Catcher meant only one thing: the Soapbox Derby was in town! Last month, hundreds turned out to watch the wacky race in Farndon, which saw competitors navigate jumps and obstacles in homemade karts, with their support team running along behind them. Farndon High Street was transformed into a temporary race track, with 32 handmade unpowered vehicles racing down it - relying completely upon gravity to reach the finish line!

The crowds watched on as teams including Bouncy Bouncy Bits, Pandamonium and Last of the Summer Wine competed for the number one spot.

Besides the racing entertainment, families were also treated to off-track amusements. There were plenty of local eateries open and food and drink stalls on offer, too.

EssentialsMAG participated in the Junior division. Our 13 year old team mate/son was racing our little MAGnificents vancomplete with flashing lights and horn! We didn’t win, but it was a special moment being awarded our attendance medals by sporting hero, Eddie Edwards, also known

The event was a joint effort, organised by a team of local volunteers, residents and businesses who wanted to bring the local community together to share a family day full of fun, laughter and celebration. They certainly achieved that!

Over £20,000 was raised from the event through team sponsorship and donations. 90% of the money raised will go straight to fund the fantastic work done in the local community by the Hospice of the Good Shepherd. They support individuals and their families who have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness. The remaining 10% will be given into the communities of Farndon and Holt to be re-invested in local worthy initiatives.

organisers, sponsors, participating teams and, of course, the public who came along to cheer on the wonderful, wacky karts! Can we do it all again next year, please?

Photographs © Raymond Jones and May Lee

Inconvenient Truths

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF

The 2006 film “An Inconvenient Truth” played a key role in increasing global awareness of climate change. Its title encapsulated the problem in a way that remains as relevant now as it was then.

Tackling the climate crisis is all about facing up to inconvenient truths.

Back then, many people were still questioning whether climate change was the result of human activity. One reason for this was the fossil fuel industry’s active efforts to create doubt around the scientific evidence.

There’s now overwhelming evidence that the rapid increases in global temperatures we’re experiencing are primarily being driven by human activity. Denial that we’re causing climate change is no longer a credible position. Unfortunately, outright denial is increasingly being replaced by tactics intended to prevent action being taken at the required pace.

Tactics employed include:

• Downplaying the urgency and suggesting that action can and should be delayed - the scientific evidence is very clear about the catastrophic impacts of doing so (a prime example of an inconvenient truth).

• Creating complacency by overstating progress through manipulation of statistics.

• Blaming others and not acknowledging how much we’re contributing to the problem.

• Proposing ‘solutions’ reliant on technologies such as carbon capture which are currently nowhere near being able to deliver on the scale required.

• Claiming it’s already too late, so taking action now is pointless.

In recent years, I’ve had many conversations with environmental activists involved in high profile campaigns in the UK and other countries. Contrary to some media stereotypes, the majority of activists are thoughtful and better informed than most. Critics often attempt to ‘other’ these people and present them as somehow different to the rest of us and as posing a threat to ‘our way of life’. In my experience, the only real way in which they’re different from most other people is in their willingness to accept the inconvenient truths and to act on that knowledge.

One of the most important things we all can do is educate ourselves more about the causes of the climate and ecological emergency and the scale and pace of the actions required to tackle it.

We will never achieve a solution without being brave enough to face up to the inconvenient truths - doing so may prove uncomfortable, but the alternative is far worse.

EssentialsMAG environment contributor is Rob Renouf robsrenouf@gmail.com

with Hadlow Edwards

Understanding vulnerability

53% of consumers in the UK have some characteristic of vulnerability during their lifetime which can put them at a financial disadvantage, according to the current figures from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)1.

The FCA outlines four vulnerability characteristics:

1. Poor health

2. Experiencing a negative life event

3. Having low financial resilience

4. Having low capability.

These categories encompass a wide range of specific issues, and the financial-advice industry is increasingly aware that there are many more that can make a person vulnerable, some of which go unnoticed by clients.

Some are easily identifiable, such as old age, bereavement, or long-term illness.

Others are less so – mental-health conditions, a relationship breakdown or issues caused by the menopause.

Vulnerabilities can also be divided into permanent ones, such as physical disabilities or life-limiting illnesses, and temporary ones, such as a lack of financial resilience or a divorce.

What’s more, it’s not only ‘negative’ life events that can make a person vulnerable. Although a person may be wealthy, they can still be vulnerable. Someone who wins the National Lottery can be just as vulnerable as someone on a low income.

From a financial perspective, vulnerability is potentially a huge disadvantage that can lead to the individual making poor decisions, often through a lack of mental capacity or being emotionally unable to think clearly or act with confidence.

This could mean missing out on financial advice benefits which can help them plan

Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

The 'St. James's Place Partnership' and the titles 'Partner' and 'Partner Practice' are marketing terms used to describe St. James's Place representatives.

By Warren Hadlow of Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk Tel: 01978 311 611 www.hadlowedwards.co.uk

for their long-term future and can also make them more susceptible to fraud and scams.

Financial advisers have an important role to play - applying their expertise and knowledge to guide the vulnerable person in the right direction, whilst helping to keep them safe from fraudsters. Many are specially trained, and all good ones will be on the lookout for vulnerable characteristics.

They will adapt the way they communicate according to that person’s specific needs –for example, ensuring they’re accompanied by someone else at meetings and communicating as clearly as possible at a time and pace that suits the client.

Many people are reluctant to tell their financial adviser that they have a problem that could make them vulnerable. They might not realise the effect it could have on their decision-making or ability to manage their

finances, or they may be too ashamed to admit it. However, the more they know about your circumstances, the better they can support you with the best financial plan for you.

We can also offer help that goes beyond financial advice – such as referring you to a specialist to set up a power of attorney or helping to find the right long-term care.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help you plan for your future.

Advice relating to a power of attorney necessitates the referral to a service that is separate and distinct from those offered by St. James's Place and is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

1 Financial Lives, Financial Conduct Authority, October 2020 (based on a survey sample size of 16,190)

Lesley Griffiths MS Member of the Senedd for Wrexham

Health is a matter close to people’s hearts and constituents often contact me about their recent encounters.

I meet regularly with representatives of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, including the Chair and Chief Executive. These meetings enable me to raise any local issues and ensures the relevant authorities are aware of patients’ day-to-day experiences.

An important aspect of my job is to campaign to ensure Wrexham residents receive the best possible services and I was pleased to discover, at one of my latest meetings, the Wrexham Maelor Hospital is set to open a new dedicated outpatients building, following the purchase of Plas Gororau on the nearby Wrexham Technology Park.

The building has been bought with funding support from the Welsh Government. Moving outpatient services to the new location will enable the Health Board to expand the Emergency Department and clinical areas within the main hospital site. Plas Gororau has 212 car parking spaces and is expected to open early 2023.

I am also aware plans are also underway to address infrastructure issues at Wrexham Maelor Hospital. This is the first part of a commitment to redevelop the Hospital. Longer-term proposals are being drawn up and positive discussions have been held with Welsh Government. A full business case is expected to be submitted by the end of the year, with a view to start work in 2023.

I’m sure these latest updates will be welcomed and I will continue to work with the relevant bodies to ensure the proposals are implemented as efficiently as possible.

Since my last EssentialsMAG column, we experienced the sad passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

Throughout our lives, Her Majesty The Queen was an ever-present source of strength, stability and inspiration. Her peerless devotion to duty and unwavering selflessness during her historic 70 years of service is beyond compare and will never be replicated. The Senedd observed a period of national mourning and it was an honour to represent the people of Wrexham during this poignant and historic time.

An extraordinary session of the Senedd took place allowing members to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II. Prior to attending the session, I represented the constituency at the Reading of the Proclamation at Cardiff Castle, which formally announced King Charles III as the new monarch in Wales.

I also signed the Senedd’s Book of Condolence on behalf of the people of Wrexham recognising Her Majesty’s decades of commitment and service, as well as being present when The King and Queen Consort visited the Senedd.

Tel: 01978 355743

Lesley.Griffiths@senedd.wales

www.lesleygriffiths.co.uk

Facebook & Twitter: @lesley4wrexham

Legal Advice

Both employers and employees are presently facing difficult situations as they try to deal with the fall-out from the disruption to childcare caused by rail strikes and Covid. Nurseries, which were already facing an increasing demand for places, as more parents look to re-enter the job market in a bid to cope with the current financial crisis, are struggling to maintain the required staffing levels to open.

The knock-on effect of all this is that parents are finding themselves with a temporary lack of childcare, and employers are suffering staff shortages whilst employees seek emergency childcare.

So where do parents and employers stand legally when emergency care situations arise? All employees, whether permanent, temporary, part-time or full-time, are entitled to take time off to deal with an emergency involving a dependent, irrespective of their length of service. A dependent can be a spouse, partner, child, grandchild, parent, or someone else who depends on them for care.

The amount of time an employee can take off is not defined in terms of hours, but as ‘a reasonable amount of time to deal with an emergency’. There is no limit to the number of times an employee can take time off for dependents.

‘An emergency’ in relation to disruption of childcare arrangements could be if a childminder fails to turn up to work, or if a nursery closes unexpectedly. In other situations, it could apply to a carer not turning up or a care home closing without warning.

However, the key to ‘right to time off’ lies in the word ‘unexpectedly’, as what employees cannot do is take time off to deal with care situations that they were previously aware of, for example taking a child or other dependent to hospital for a pre-arranged appointment.

When an employee takes time off to deal with an emergency relating to a dependent, their employer does not have to pay them unless it is written into their contract, or is in the company handbook that they will do so.

If a longer time is required to deal with a dependent, employees may request annual leave or parental leave, but employers are not legally bound to agree to it. That said, many employers allow ‘compassionate leave’, which can be paid or unpaid leave for emergency situations.

Employment legislation is one of the fastest changing areas of law. For this reason, both employers and employees should seek advice if they are not sure of their rights and want to stay legal.

This article has been written by Robert Williams, Partner with GHP Legal Tel: 01978 291456

To get in touch please use the ‘Contact us’ form on the website: ghplegal.com

We are still extremely busy and, whilst our colleagues are well equipped to work remotely, due to current circumstances work may be interrupted – however cases are still ongoing and will be prioritised by urgency and need. Stay safe and thank you for your support.

Professional Interior & Exterior Plastering

Useful Numbers

In an EMERGENCY always dial 999

For your local POLICE STATION in a NON EMERGENCY dial 101

ANIMAL CARE

Blakemere Veterinary 01691 622 201

Borras Park Veterinary 01978 310 131

Daleside Veterinary 01978 311 881

Farndon Kennels & Cattery 01829 270 198

Gatehouse Veterinary 01244 570 364

Lightwood Boarding Kennels 01978 710 487 Park Lane Kennels 01978 852 914

Rhyd Broughton Veterinary 01978 720 362

RSPCA 0300 1234 999

Vets4Pets 01978 352 499

COUNCILS

Cheshire West & Chester 0300 123 8 123

Wrexham 01978 292 000

DOCTORS

Borras Park Surgery 01978 801 960

Hanmer Doctors Surgery 01948 830 223

Overton Surgery 01978 780 804

Overton Medical Practice 01978 710 666

Strathmore Medical Practice 01978 352 055 NHS Direct 111

DENTISTS

Bridge End Dental Practice 01978 762 030

Maelor Dental Care 01978 780 943 Wrexham Dental Centre 0300 085 9666

OPTICIANS

Gresford Eyecare 01978 855 828

HOSPITALS

Countess of Chester 01244 365 000

Wrexham Maelor 01978 291 100

LEISURE CENTRES

Gwyn Evans 01978 269 540

Northgate Arena 01244 380444

Plas Madoc 01978 821 600

LOCAL FACILITIES

3C Pest Control 01948 838 111

Adult Social Services 01978 292 066

Citizens Advice 0300 330 1178

Foodbank - Chester 0151 355 7730

Foodbank - Wrexham 07538 547971

Recycling Centre - Chester 01244 372 764

Recycling Centre - Tattenhall 01829 771 337

Recycling Centre - Whitchurch 0345 678 9007

Recycling Centre - Wrexham 01978 292 000

Samaritans 116 123

LOCAL SERVICES

Environment Agency 03708 506 506

Fire & Rescue - North Wales 01745 535 250

Natural Resources Wales 0300 065 3000

Severn Trent Water 0800 783 4444

Welsh Water 0800 052 0130

LIBRARIES

Chester Library at Storyhouse 01244 409 113

Gresford Library 01978 852 627

Overton Library 01978 710 557

Wrexham Library 01978 292 090

SCHOOLS & NURSERIES

Abbey Gate College 01244 332 077

Acorns Playgroup Rhosddu 07516 254623

Acton Park Primary School 01978 318 950

Alexandra School 01978 315 120

All Saints’ Primary School 01978 852 342

Bangor-on-Dee Childcare 01978 780 757

Barkers Lane Primary School 01978 357 754

Bishop Heber High School 01948 860 571

Borderbrook Primary School 01948 770 676

Borras Park CP School 01978 346 890

Bronington VA Primary School 01948 780 283

Darland High School 01244 570 588

Eyton Primary School 01978 823 392

Farndon Primary School 01244 981 280

Garden Village Playgroup 01978 363600

Holt Primary School 01829 270 021

Holt Under 5’s Playgroup 07496 231 275

Madras Primary School 01978 710 419

Overton Playgroup 01978 710 688

Rhosddu School 01978 318 830

Rhosnesni High School 01978 340 840

Shocklach Primary School 01829 250 285

St. Chad’s School 01948 830 238

St. Mary’s School Overton 01978 710 370

St. Paul's VA Primary School 01978 661 556

The King’s School 01244 689 500

The Maelor School 01948 830 291

The Queen’s School 01244 312 078

Wat’s Dyke School 01978 355 731

Ysgol Bryn Alyn 01978 720 700

Ysgol Deiniol Primary School 01978 353 760

Ysgol Plas Coch 01978 311 198

Ysgol Rhosymedre 01978 812 510

Ysgol Sant Dunawd 01978 780 757

TRAVEL

National Rail Enquiries 03457 48 49 50 Traveline 0871 200 22 33

Puzzle

For Fun

Crossword

ACROSS

1 Asserts (5)

4 Fatty tissue (7)

7 Benefactor (5)

8 Person who inspires others (8)

9 Flat-bottomed vessels (5)

11 Abstinent from alcohol (8)

15 Imaginary (8)

17 Swagger (5)

19 Artificial water channel (8)

20 Currently in progress (5)

21 Got away (7)

22 Tall and thin (5)

DOWN

1 Track and field events (9)

2 Foes (7)

3 Underwriter (7)

4 __ Bocelli: Italian operatic singer (6)

5 More needy (6)

6 School of fish (5)

10 Sitting; seated (of a position) (9)

12 Digit (7)

13 Tar-like hydrocarbon (7)

14 Moon of the planet Jupiter (6)

16 Neither gas nor solid (6)

18 Bunches (5)

If you want to find out the answers they will be published in next month’s edition.

Here are the answers from September:

Classic Sudoku