#Stevenage November 2020

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November2020

Bid plan submitted

We t ak e an in -dept h look at t h e St even age Developm en t Boar d Tow n Fu n d bid - Page 4-7

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Thismost strange of yearsis working its way to a conclusion and once again we find ourselvesin a lockdown in England.

Not only will businessesbe struggling but also family, friendsand neighboursmust once again face the difficulties which these restrictionsimpose.

At #Stevenage we hope we can keep you informed of some key storiesheading into November and of course welcome any newsand updatesfrom businessesor

charity groups which operate in the area.

We would be more than happy to help spread the word and keep everyone in #Stevenage informed We are proud of our support during the coronavirusoutbreak to local groups and businessesand pledge that at #Stevenage we will continue with our policy of providing free editorial support to all our valued advertisersand local organisations.

So if you are a group or a businesswho would like to promote yourselves through #Stevenage magazine you can do so by simply calling 07539782979 or by emailing: hdmdigitalsales@gmail.com

#STEVENAGE - THE UNIQUE DIGITAL M AGAZINE GOT A STORY TO TELL US? St or ies an d f eat u r es: dar r en @spit f irText epr .com WANT TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS OR EVENT? Sales: h dm digit alsales@gm ail.com Text FIND OUT M ORE ABOUT HASHTAG DIGITAL M EDIA w w w.h ash t agdigit alm edia.co.u k Text Tw it t er w w w.t w it t er .com / h t agst even age/ Facebook w w w.f acebook .com / st even agem agazin e/

Development Board makes multi-million bid for town funding

A multi-million pound bid for investment in a number of key projects within Stevenage has been submitted to government.

As one of 100 places across the country that has been selected to bid for funding from the Government?s Towns Fund initiative, it is hoped that the Town Investment Plan which has been put forward will help to bring about major transformation.

Projects which have been submitted relate to a number of key areas including connectivity, arts and culture, regeneration and land use and skills and enterprise.

Among the key areas which Stevenage Development Board has placed a focus on are developing sustainable travel links between communities for both their jobs and their leisure activities. The bid, which is

Developm en t Boar d ch air m an Adr ian Haw k in s

for ÂŁ50m, will also aim to boost the growth of businesses in Stevenage which have a national and international base. The heritage of the first New Town is also a key focus and it is hoped that among the projects there will be the chance to reflect on and reinterpret this for future generations.

The Stevenage Development Board have defined a specific boundary for the Investment Plan, in line with the Towns Fund Guidance, to focus on the central parts of the town, including the main employment area of Gunnels Wood Road, to the GSK campus area, and the town centre.

The Stevenage Development Board, led by independent chairman Adrian Hawkins,was formed to bid for some of this money and is made up of key stakeholders from across the private, public and not-for-profit sectors in the town. This bid was informed by wide ranging feedback provided by local residents over the last year, helping identify project and investment ideas.

The Town Investment Plan was submitted last week and the Stevenage Development Board is hoping to hear back from Government by the end of the year.

You can find out more by visiting www.Stevenage-Even-Better.com and following @StevenageBetter on Instagram and Twitter. Further information about the Town Investment Plan, who sits on the Stevenage Development Board and how the programme works, is available

athttps://stevenage-even-better.com/my-town/

The challenges facing St evenage

Stevenage Development Board has made the bid for funding due to a number of challenges which are faced by the town.

Investment in the town?s infrastructure has not kept pace with the growth of the population and economy.

The town?s facilities and infrastructure are all aging at the same time; transport infrastructure, shopping centre, sports and cultural facilities ? they?re all more than 40 years old and many now require investment.The town centre is the most obvious example of this, with investment needed to improve the look and feel of the town.

Skills and education attainment are also a major issue for Stevenage.Current figures show 83% of the population are economically active, and as at March 2020, the percentage of working age residents claiming out of work benefits stood at 2.6%, below the national average of 3.1%, but above the Hertfordshire average of 1.9%. Average earnings are below the regional average, with higher earners commuting into the town for work. One of the aims of the bid has been to invest in developing the skills of residents and young people to access some of the innovative and growing businesses and opportunities in the local

area.

The town centre regeneration is now underway, with the aim to give residents and visitors more opportunities to find places to eat and spend leisure time.to improve the environment for shops, creating local jobs and homes in the town centre.The pace of change has been accelerated by Covid-19 and investment is needed to help capitalise on the regeneration opportunity within the town and the contribution the town can make to the nation?s recovery.

Lack of employment space is also a major issue, over

the last 10 years, 778,000 sqm of commercial floorspace has been lost across Hertfordshire, 50% of this lost to residential homes.A total of 67,000sqm has been lost in Stevenage, nearly 80% of this industrial, but unlike the county average, 75% of this has been lost to residential. This lack of supply threatens Stevenage?s potential to maintain its competitive edge, and particularly its ability to meet the demand that is coming from the life sciences sector.

St evenage Development Board independent chairman Adrian Hawkins said: ?At t his moment ous t ime for St evenage I am delight ed t o be appoint ed as t he Independent Chair of t he St evenage Development Board support ed by represent at ives of many of t he Towns world class businesses and support organisat ions.

These include:

?I am a child of a New Town, lit erally. Born in St evenage in t he 1950?s in my parent s?council house, I grew up, made friends and was educat ed wit hin my homet own. It provided t he safe haven for me, my siblings and many ot her families t o develop and progress t hroughout our lives, very similarly t o how t he t own was envisaged; St evenage as a place, gave back direct ly t o it s people.

- Opport unit ies t o make t he most of world-leading businesses in science and t echnology, provide jobs and skills opport unit ies wit hin t he t own;

"This concept of t he New Towns has served t his count ry well. As t he UK?s first New Town, as a beacon of innovat ion, St evenage was successful in at t ract ing world leading businesses and set t ing a blueprint for t he delivery of New Towns across Europe. Fast -forward t o t oday, St evenage faces challenges t hat if not addressed, hold back it s pot ent ial as driving force for t he UK?s economy.?

- Helping develop opport unit ies for local people in t he innovat ive businesses based in t he t own; - Drawing in invest ment int o ageing infrast ruct ure and facilit ies, t o realise t own?s pot ent ial as a vibrant dest inat ion;

?We face a profound fork in t he road ? t he opport unit y t o level-up a communit y t hat is being left behind, whilst simult aneously releasing t he handbrake on growt h for t he UK?s fast est -growing science and t echnology sect ors. That growt h cannot be allowed t o dissipat e from St evenage in a way which brings our local people wit h us rat her t han leaving t hem behind. Our ÂŁ50m Towns Fund proposal will achieve just t hat , t hrough a range of int ervent ions including delivery of an innovat ion & t echnology cent re, provision for innovat ive commercial space, invest ment in t he t own?s key facilit ies and unlocking large-scale regenerat ion.?

Stevenage FC in action Sat u r day Oct ober 31, EFL Leagu e Division Tw o St even age FC 0 Gr im sby 0

Tu esday Oct ober 27, EFL Leagu e Division Tw o Har r ogat e 0 St even age FC 0

Sat u r day Oct ober 24, EFL Leagu e Division Tw o St even age FC 0 Leyt on Or ien t 2

Time to book up the Striders Stevenage 10K for 2021 This year ?s Stevenage 10k event has been another

And the really good news in that entry to next

huge success and, despite having to be run as a

year ?s event being held on 19/9/2021 is now open

virtual 10k, there have been lots of great photos

and we have had a few entries already. What

and posts from entrants. Organisers believe each

better gift for Christmas. To enter click on the link

of the 4 nominated charities will get close to

below

ÂŁ1100 when the funds raised are divided. This will help them to continue their vital work.

For a full list of finishers click here: https://stevenagestridersrc.org.uk

https://stevenagestridersrc.org.uk

Noisy neighbour faces the music with fine A heavy fine has been handed out t o a St evenage resident aft er complaint s from neighbours about persist ent loud noise from his propert y.

St evenage Borough Council received a series of complaint s from neighbours of a flat in Macrae Close, about loud music, and on 20t h April 2020 t he occupier, Mr Niky Comas, was served wit h a noise abat ement not ice under Sect ion 80 of t he Environment al Prot ect ion Act 1990, prohibit ing him from causing furt her noise nuisance by playing loud music.

Comas ignored t he abat ement not ice and cont inued t o play loud music, result ing in repeat ed complaint s being made t o t he Council by his neighbours.

As a result , t he Council t ook enforcement act ion and on 2nd July officers ent ered Comas?flat

under a warrant obt ained from t he Magist rat e?s court and seized a number of it ems of music equipment , including a Hi-Fi syst em and several speakers.

In addit ion, he was prosecut ed in t he Magist rat e?s court and found guilt y of six offences of failing t o comply wit h a noise abat ement not ice.

He was fined £220 for each offence, plus a £132 surcharge and full legal cost s amount ing t o £1,317.49 - a t ot al of £2,769.49.

As well as t he fine and legal cost s t hat he now has t o pay, as a result of t he forfeit ure order made by t he court , t he equipment seized from his flat on 2nd July will not be ret urned t o him.

Council heating scheme Stevenage Borough Council has made funding available to provide residents with the opportunity to obtain free improved insulation and brand new A-rated boilers for their homes.

The funding will help qualifying residents in the area improve the energy efficiency of their homes and reduce their fuel bills. The scheme is focused on helping householders who have high energy bills in relation to their income.

Residents can qualify for funding through a range of criteria, which includes receiving means tested benefits or being on a low household income with high energy bills.

In addition, elderly residents, those with a young family, pregnant women or residents with a health condition made worse by the cold, could also qualify for funding.

The scheme is managed by award-winning Community Interest Company YES Energy Solutions on behalf of the council,accessing The Government?s Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme to provide

the funding.

Cllr Jeannette Thomas, Executive Member for Housing, Health and Older People, said: ?We are delighted to make this funding available for residents so that they can improve their homes by making them more energy efficient and overall healthy environments to live all year round.

Installations will be completed through YES Energy Solutions?network of accredited local contractors.Residents who think that they may qualify for the scheme are advised to call YES Energy Solutions on 01422 880100.

Stevenage ECO Scheme The Stevenage ECO Scheme is an energy efficiency programme delivered by Stevenage Borough Council.The scheme is managed by YES Energy Solutions who will undertake all installations via its accredited network of installers.

For more information visit: www.yesenergysolutions.co.uk

Mayor calls on town to back chosen charities Many fundraising activities have been cancelled to keep everyone safe right now but the Mayor of Stevenage, Councillor Jim Brown is still determined to raise money for three important local causes despite the difficulties presented by social distancing measures.

Each year three causes are nominated as the Mayor?schosen charities. This year they are the Stevenage Community Trust, Haven First and Sport Stevenage. ¡Stevenage Community Trust established Stevenage Helps which has given many in our town vital support during lockdown and beyond.It is an independent charity that provides funding and support to charitable organisations and people in need. Their work makes a significant difference to local people?s lives and is only possible thanks to many generous and loyal supporters. On 19th March the Trust launched their Stevenage Helps, COVID-19 Appeal in partnership with Stevenage Borough Council. As so many families in our community felt the impact of COVID-19 they set up an appeal to ensure that the generous donations reach those most in need in Stevenage and the surrounding villages. The Trust have 30 years of experience in the distribution of grants to individuals in hardship, and charities working with the people of Stevenage. The Stevenage Helps funding appeal had already raised£64,000 by 14th October.

Now they are raising money to provide school meals over the holiday. ¡Haven First (formerly Stevenage Haven and North Herts Sanctuary) does vital work with homeless people, providing support to those experiencing homelessness in North

Hertfordshire. With two sites in Stevenage and Hitchin, it is able to provide support and shelter for over 56 residents.

As well as accommodation, support services include: counselling, specialist substance abuse support, mental & physical wellbeing training, life skills & budgeting, and an outreach service supporting people experiencing street homelessness. The charity works with a number of key organisations and has 14 move-on properties to ensure that people are able to break the cycle of homelessness.

Sport Stevenage helps keeps people active. Many voluntary sport clubs are struggling with large cuts in income from events and membership fees during the pandemic. Having to exercise solo has been a problem for people, some concerned about being alone, some missing the company and motivation that goes with it. Few have the space or resources to get themselves a private gym. The clubs will be vital to getting Stevenage moving again and helping to bring the community back together.

With the help of the Community Trust, Jim has set up a fundraising page at https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JimBrown20 All donations will be shared between the three endeavours.

The mayor is coming up with some ideas and activities of his own but local individuals and groups, are very welcome to come up with suggestions to make a contribution.

So what?s Jim going to do?

A virtual Stevenage Half Marathon of 13.1 miles following (with a few adjustments due to the changed circumstances) the route used by the

2019 event. Scheduled for Sunday 1 November, the day the real event would have happened before the pandemic restrictions made that impossible, Jim would welcome some company but not more than six people as everyone?s health and well-being is paramount.

A virtual Emitremmus. For more than 25 years hundreds of local cyclists celebrated the end of summertime, the day the clocks change, by riding their bikes. It?s not practical to do the whole route but the mayor will be going round the ?Emit Lite?option which does not go into Essex. Put the two together and you get more than fifty miles.

If you wish to make a donation to the Mayor?s Fund you may do so by making a payment online visit the Mayor?s page at www.stevenage.gov.uk Forwarding cash or a cheque (payable to Stevenage Borough Council) to the Mayor?s Office, Stevenage Borough Council, Daneshill

House, Danestrete, Stevenage, Herts SG1 1HN. All donations will be acknowledged.Fundraising goes on until May 2021.

The Mayor says that what he can do at the moment is limited by the guidelines necessary for everyone?s health but he is very happy to support local organisations at small group or virtual events if that will help. Please ring 01438 242227 or email the.mayor@stevenage.gov.uk if you are interested.

Paul Fry on # St evenage

Rashford campaign on hunger highlights a bankrupt society By the time you read this, it may well be Marcus Rashford 2, Boris Johnson 0. With two own-goals conceded by the blue team.

The free school meals furore has raged since the Prime Minister?s Conservative Government initially voted down a Labour proposal to extend meals during the Christmas holidays to those most in need.

Johnson immediately went several places up the poverty league table of shame: Maggie Thatcher only snatched milk from junior schoolkids in 1971; Boris has emptied their plates.

Files released by the National Archives show that 19 years later, Thatcher ? by then Prime Minister and not Education Secretary ? was horrified when Health Secretary Ken Clarke proposed ending free milk for nursery schoolchildren as well. ?No ? this will cause a terrible row ? all to save ÂŁ4m. I know ? I went through it 19 years ago,?she scrawled in a handwritten note to

him.

I suspect Johnson, who bowed to pressure during the summer break from a campaign led by Manchester United striker Rashford and let free school meals children have vouchers, has been preparing to reverse the bus again.

His only concern has been how to avoid the embarrassment and dress it up as something other than yet another screeching u-turn.

The aftermath of the vote brought some terrible comments from MPs and in parts of the media, one notably encouraging foraging for food. This piece of ingenuity overlooks that fact that of the thousands of varieties of mushrooms, many are dangerous and some of them deadly. And that is just mushrooms. Don?t try this at home, kids. Truly.

One poll showed how out of touch the Tories were on the issue, with 71 per cent backing meals vouchers for 1.4m disadvantaged

children.

Out were trotted the usual lines, such as ?It?s parents?responsibility to feed their children, not Government.?That is indisputable.

But it is also a line rabbited by those who have been watching too much poverty porn on Channel 5 and in the tabloids after a decade of ?Scrounger?narratives propagated by David Cameron and George Osborne and carried on.

There are some people who never open the curtains and do a day?s work, relying instead on state handouts. But, by the same token, there are millions who are in dire straits and do not fall into that lazy stereotype. The pandemic and its economic fallout are introducing many former middle-income workers to the sheer nastiness that is the benefits system - and they are learning fast that Government promises today fall into the same category as ?the cat ate my homework?and ?the cheque

is in the post?.

Take, for instance, those promised flood support money earlier this year. Many fell foul of the small print, where the row of houses they live in is too small to qualify.

Others are still waiting for their cash. Or the fact that only a minuscule percentage of Windrush victims have had their due payouts; some have died while waiting for the money.

So it is that many people are finding out they don?t qualify for Universal Credit, let alone the Covid-enhanced version worth ÂŁ20 a week more which is in place on a temporary basis.

UC is a gateway benefit: no UC, no free school meals for instance.

And self-employed traders or those who ran small businesses are finding the minimum income floor on UC is being shifted. They will be assumed to earn in effect the minimum wage, even if their income has been slaughtered and thus nowhere near even that.

Households with two

wage-earners are being hit with the loss of one wage, totally upending their tight budgets, yet finding there is no state help for them. Worse, perhaps they are finding that perhaps after furlough they have both lost their jobs.

With no savings, they will be behind with bills while waiting five weeks - and more - for UC payments to start.

This is an unparalleled health crisis. We are not talking about welfare dependency here.

Unemployment could well breach four million and more by next winter, perhaps sooner.

And yet we have a Government whose sole focus when elected was Brexit. They have been exposed daily - often more than once in a news cycle - as being ill-suited to the onerous demands of steering the Good Ship Britain through raging torrents. And many have been exposed as having little if any compassion for those being lost in its wake.

But what people forget is the

shame many pupils feel when claiming free school meals. It can be stigmatising when you are in a separate queue. I remember from my time at Nobel how we all had the same colour dinner tickets, issued each week, which we exchanged for our lunch. That way nobody knew if your parents had paid or not.

The truly sad part of all this is that any children need free school meals at all. In the fifth or sixth richest country in the world. Yet the numbers are rising daily.

It is a question of priorities and choices. Our Government has chosen to do sweetheart tax deals with big corporations, where the corporations suggest how much tax they would like to pay. And big earners employ smart accountants skilled in finding loopholes to avoid their clients having to pay their fair share. Poorer folk do not have the luxury of such choices.

We have isolated over-75s now having to pay for a TV licence for the privilege of some company

when others are being told to stay away.

There has been so much spin and counter-spin on this school meals issue. Some appalling things said, too, by those who should really know better. Like so many ills in our society, they stem in part from the divisions in our political system which in turn thrive upon creating and exploiting divisions in wider society, leaving those in charge with opportunities to enrich themselves and their circle of chums.

One needs only to look at the NHS-branded Track and Waste, er Trace, system, run by outsourcing giants. ÂŁ12bn for something that is not nearly up to snuff or ÂŁ20m to extend free school meals for a fortnight? Choices.

Countless more billions are being committed to HS2 - a high-speed railway - just at the time workers are deserting their commute and instead working from home and holding business meetings via video links.

This in itself has already begun to create a shift in the housing market. Rural places well off the commuting track, much more desirable as places to live, are seeing growing property demands with people freed from the shackles of the daily trek. I did the dreaded train journey into Kings Cross and beyond each workday for 20 years. I saw more of my office colleagues than my own family.

I missed so many school functions, putting the kids to bed and just seeing them grow up - and many workers now are realising they never did learn French or Spanish on that daily commute after all. It was just an extra doze while

strap-hanging after paying a King?s ransom for the yearly ticket to ride; scrambling for the remaining seat in the carriage, getting back to King?s Cross later that day to find their intended train disappearing into the distance.

Work-life balance is taking on new and significant meaning for many more of those still in a job, our big city offices have been vacant for months because of the pandemic and companies are rethinking their staff strategies and property needs.

It used to be the case that middle managers loved to emerge from their cosseted space to survey their fiefdoms each day - a sea of heads half-hidden behind screens.

But their bosses are seeing the bottom line and finding savings to their taste. It should be said that many have no choice but to travel to their place of work.

It remains to be seen if a permanent and positive change in our working lives will have a transformative effect on Stevenage, which has long been something of a dormitory town.

And how all this feeds into the ÂŁ1billion redesign of the Town Centre.

I think the town?s social fabric would benefit hugely from more housing being available locally for local people. The children of friends and family are too often being forced to live further north because property in the town is too expensive - and too little genuinely affordable homes are available.

That has an adverse effect on families. Support networks are too distant, for the young families with small children forced to move away and for their aging parents

left in town. Some rebalancing would be a very good thing.

Above all, we need a rebalancing of priorities. The true measure of a society is how it looks after those least able to look after themselves.

The welfare state was designed as a safety net, to get people back on their feet when they have fallen on hard times. There are exceptionally hard times ahead.

We will only get through them by looking out for one another.

I would like to think we will. So many do. But I sense with growing despair that there is a mainstream of those who do not and who are only out for themselves. We can be so much better than that - and we need to be.

---------Many congratulations to Lewis Hamilton on surpassing Michael Schumacher?s record for all-time Grands Prix wins. He was always going to get there.

I have never been his greatest fan, but recognise that his exploits have put Stevenage - where he was born, educated and lived his early life on the sporting map.

I recently contacted his PR team to ask for an interview for a book I am writing to celebrate the town?s Sports Hall of Famers. So many others have stepped forward to support the project, which aims to inspire the next generation of sports stars.

Team Hamilton declined, which is their right. I just think it is a pity that while Lewis is way ahead of the competition on the track, his PR languishes at the back of the grid. We all have to come from somewhere. You should never be ashamed of that fact.

Pride and joy for our town awards winners Stevenage heroes were honoured virtually at this year?s Pride of Stevenage Awards, recognising the good work of individuals and businesses that have made a difference during the pandemic.

The winners of the Pride of Stevenage Awards 2020 are: Covid lockdown hero- Sophie Ellis, Holiday Inn Express manager who led a t eam of employees who helped t he homeless during lockdown.

Best company- St evenage Foot ball Club and Foundat ion for support ing t he communit y.

Best t eam Covid support - Barbara Howard, Haven First cont inuing t o offer import ant services for

t hose in need.

Best Covid communit y hero- Kianna Moloney, for being an example of young people t hinking of ot hers and her neighbours.

Best Covid communit y support - Sue McIndoe, Leyden House Day Cent re, for it s creat ive approach t o t aking care of t hose wit h disabilit ies and special needs.

Best Covid healt hcare hero/ heroes- St evenage Dist rict Nursing t eam.

Best Covid adapt able business- Oli Khan, Surma Takeaway who changed t he focus of his business so t he st aff worked t o feed key workers and t hose st ruggling t o eat during t he height of t he pandemic.

Judges?Special Award- List er Hospit al, who cont inue t o do an amazing job looking aft er t he healt h, wellbeing and lives of t he people of St evenage.

The winners were chosen by a panel of judges, chaired by Leader of the Council, Councillor Sharon Taylor. This year?s awards were held virtually for the first time on Saturday 24 October and live streamed from the council?s YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/SBCComms. The host for the evening was SG1 Sports Scene radio presenter and

Stevenage FC match day announcer, Jay Drackford.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Sharon Taylor, said: ?The Pride of Stevenage Awards allow us to celebrate and pay tribute to individuals and businesses in our town who have made a difference to the lives of others during what has been a difficult year for all of us. ?Picking the winners wasn?t easy as we had so many worthy nominations, which really showed the best of Stevenage and makes me proud of our amazing town and its people. I would like to thank each of our winners for the contributions they have all made that have made a difference to someone else during such a difficult time. ?I?d also like to thank this year?s sponsors, PSW Consulting, and the judges for giving up their time to choose our winners ? Matthew Ford, PSW Building Consultancy; Chief Inspector Simon Tabert, Stevenage Police;Caroline Haskins, Stevenage Community Trust; Jay Drackford, MC for Pride of Stevenage Awards 2020, and Alissa Crew, Youth Mayor.?

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The benefits of nature It?s a well known fact that spending time outdoors has major health benefits, both physically and mentally.

Getting back to nature can improve your mood, reduce stress, help you be more active and even increase your self-esteem.

During the early stages of lockdown, government guidelines restricted us to just one form of exercise outside a day. Thankfully, we can now spend unlimited time outdoors ? and the benefits are clear.

Get t ing back t o nat ure According to research by the National Trust, 79% of adults infrequently or never smelled wild flowers and 62% either infrequently or never listened to birdsong. We wonder how these figures have changed since lockdown?

Nature is restorative and one of the gifts lockdown has brought us is the time to notice it.

We?ve seen many more people walking, cycling, jogging, picnicking and meeting (socially-distanced) outdoors.

Perhaps ironically in a time of ?lockdown?, we are re-establishing our connection with nature and the wider world.

quote from Angie Weiland-Crosby says: ?Nature is the kind of friend that never leaves my side. Even in grief-stricken times, in her soul I can confide.?

Nature reminds us that death is a part of life and that life goes on; we watch the seasons change before us and without fail, from Spring through to Winter each year. Nature also gives us time to reflect because it doesn?t demand anything back from us. And nature encourages us to see outside of our ever-circling thoughts of grief and to reconnect with others. ?In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks,?the wise words of Naturalist, John Muir.

Harwood Park During lockdown, our own Harwood Park Memorial Gardens has remained open for families to reflect on their loved ones. With 25 acres, there is plenty of space for quiet contemplation. The memorial gardens serve both as a final resting place for loved ones and also a peaceful retreat for family and friends to visit. From the carefully pruned roses, to the pretty line of cherry trees and the immaculately planted topiary crescent, it?s a lovely place to enjoy the beauty of nature.

failing to get council backing to build on municipal land, John decided to source a plot of private land in the village of Datchworth and 10 years later, in February 1997, Harwood Park Crematorium and Memorial Gardens was finally opened. John thought of all the little touches when planning Harwood Park, including a large window in the chapel overlooking the countryside and raised areas to make it easier for wheelchair users to view the floral tributes..

Nat ural memorials Natural and ?living?memorials continue to grow in popularity. We have chestnut, birch and woodland trees, all planted as saplings, so you can watch them grow and mature.

There are memorial trees throughout our grounds and woodlands, all accompanied by a memorial tablet or plaque, and ashes can be scattered or buried by the tree.

Our memorials also include benches and seats, with an inscription dedicated to the person who has passed. Nature can help us through life?s toughest questions, so find time to take that walk or to just sit and watch the world go by. You won?t regret it.

Nat ure and grief Outside of lockdown and Covid, there are also many stories of nature helping in people?s grieving processes after losing a loved one. A beautiful

When John Austin (Claire?s father) took over the business in 1965, his vision was to provide a crematorium to serve the local community. After

Find out more about Harwood Park Crematorium and Memorial Gardens at www.cremat orium.co.uk

#Stayalertsavelives

Electric car charging points in town centre Two new elect ric vehicle charging point s are now available for drivers in St evenage t own cent re on Swingat e.

The chargers are managed for St evenage Borough Council by Elect ric Blue and are already live and available t o use on t he net work. You can find t he chargers, along wit h t he rest of t he Elect ric Blue charger net work, on ZapMap,wit h live charging dat a.

St evenage is act ively encouraging a t ransit ion away from ICE vehicles, by providing accessible charging infrast ruct ure t o increase EV upt ake. The t wo fast chargers offer four socket s for elect ric vehicle charging, and are ideally locat ed for shoppers and commut ers.

Furt her chargers will be inst alled before March of next year, once locat ions are agreed upon, as part of t his ongoing project . Full 24 hour support for using t he chargers and app is available by calling 0330 111

0078.

Lloyd Briscoe, Execut ive Member for t he Economy Ent erprise and Transport , said: "On behalf of t he St evenage Borough Council, I am very pleased t o be working wit h Elect ric Blue and Elect rAssure on t his init iat ive, bot h of whom are Hert fordshire-based ent erprises. We know t hat resident s are looking t o invest in quiet er, cleaner and lower carbon modes of t ransport , so t he inst allat ion of more Elect ric Vehicle (EV) charging point s combined wit h our flexible approach t o new infrast ruct ure has t o be seen as a posit ive. Enabling more people t o swit ch t o clean elect ric vehicles is one of our considerat ions in our ?Fut ure Town - Fut ure Transport ? st rat egy for addressing t he climat e emergency and delivering a carbon neut ral St evenage by 2030.?

Trevor Wat t , Senior EV Solut ion Specialist added: ?We, at Elect ric Blue, are delight ed t o be working wit h St evenage Borough Council as t hey work t owards t heir zero carbon goals following t heir climat e emergency announcement in mid-2019, bot h as a Council and in t he provision of accessible infrast ruct ure for t he communit y. As a Hert s-born company ourselves, Elect ric Blue is t hrilled t hat St evenage is yet anot her aut horit y t o be joining t he Hert fordshire net work in t he drive t owards a clean air fut ure.?.

Why it is crucial to keep full working time records Keeping records of working t ime ? why is t his import ant ? By Rebecca List Since the introduction of the Working Time Regulations in 1998, UK employers have been required to maintain records to enable them to show that working time limits are being complied with. More specific regulations govern working time for young workers, for those doing night shifts, and for work involving special hazards or heavy mental strain.

On the advice of the Health & Safety Executive, there was no need for specific records to be kept of actual daily working time and instead, existing records that were maintained for other purposes (such as pay) may be relied upon to ensure that limits on working time were being adhered to.

A recent case brought before the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has called that advice into question. Is it possible that the UK?s Working Time Regulations do not comply with EU law after all? The ECJ were asked to determine whether employers were required to record actual hoursworked each day, in order to ascertain compliance with working time limits, and the answer was a definitive yes. It considered that the only way to guarantee workers? fundamental rights to maximum working hours and rest breaks was for employers to have an ?objective, reliable and accessible?system of keeping adequate records of the actual hours worked by those workers who had not opted out of the 48-hour weekly working time. It is also the responsibility of Member States to ensure that this is implemented, and employers cannot cite expense in sidestepping their obligations.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are yet to update their guidance, but what can employers do in the meantime to mitigate the risk of claims?

Look at whether your system is capable to recording actual working hours, especially if you have staff who work regular and unpaid overtime or nightshift, or young workers, since they may

Rebecca List - Head of Empl oyment Law at Tol l ers

become subject to greater scrutiny by the tribunals and the HSE. Remind your workers to declare any second jobs, and where there is any doubt, ask them to opt out of the 48-hour limit. Keep adequate records of those who have opted out together and copies of their signed opt-out agreements. Remember also that those records must also be kept for two years. The Government has consistently maintained that ECJ decisions made before the UK?s departure from the EU will continue to bind domestic courts post-Brexit, although whether we will see a formal amendment to the Working Time Regulations to properly implement the EU?s Directive, remains to be seen.

To find out more regarding t his complex area ?Talk t o Tollers?Employment Team on 01438 901095.

Support for business during Coronavirus The latest advice support and guidance in these challenging times to support your business. This update includes: ·Self-Employment Income Support Scheme ·Self-Employment Income Support Scheme eligibility ·£20 million to improve small business leadership and problem-solving skills in the wake of coronavirus ·Claims service for Eat Out to Help Out Scheme ·Update on Face coverings ·Innovative new pilot launched to speed up access to key digital services ·Enjoy Summer Safely campaign update ·HOP Newsletter ·Extension to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme WEBINAR (6 - 14 August)

·Herts Chamber Events ? Virtual Networking Event and Chamber Customs - Trading across the World Self-Employment Income Support Scheme The Self Employment Income Support Scheme opens for claims from 17 August for eligible self-employed customers to claim their second and final taxable SEISS grant.If you were eligible for the first grant and can confirm to HMRC that your business has been adversely affected on or after 14 July 2020, you?ll be able to make a claim for a second and final grant from 17 August 2020.

You can make a claim for the second and final grant if you?re eligible, even if you did not make a claim for the first grant.

For further information visit

-access to new markets

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/claim-a-grant -through-the-self-employment-income-support -scheme?&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium =social&utm_campaign=covid19&utm _content=seiss#claim

-sustainable economic recovery projects

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme eligibility

-young innovators

HMRC has recently published guidance on how those who are self-employed, or a member of a partnership, can verify they had a new child which affected their eligibility for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme.

·Innovate Funding Streams Currently Available to support:

-designing sustainable plastic solutions -developing innovative healthcare products -technologies and processes -digital technologies to transform supply chains in UK manufacturing -recovery and growth of the UK?s foundation industries ·Support from Wenta for small businesses including: -free advice and support services -Skills Development Support, including Free Webinars to support Sales and Marketing, Finance and bookkeeping, Cash Flow, Website Development, Social Media training and much more.

For further information visithttps://www.gov.uk/guidance/ask-hmrc -to-verify-you-had-a-new-child-which-affected -your-eligibility-for-the-self-employment-income -support-scheme £20 million to improve small business leadership and problem-solving skills in the wake of coronavirus Two new leadership programmes to help small

business leaders grow their companies in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic have been launched.

tackle these challenges head-on while growing their business.

Interested small business leaders can sign up to the Small Business Leadership Programme which will focus on strengthening decision-makers?leadership skills, to address management challenges, such as remote working, have arisen from coronavirus. The programme will equip business leaders with the confidence and leadership skills to plan for the future of their business, and ensure that they are in a great position to recover from the impacts of coronavirus.

Claims service for Eat Out to Help Out Scheme

The Peer Networks Programme will focus on helping business owners improve their problem-solving skills, through a series of guided exercises. Participants will take part in sessions where common coronavirus related business challenges will be discussed, such as finding new customers and using technology such as customer record management and websites to adapt a business model. Members of the programme will be given skills in areas such as leadership and management, sales and marketing that they need to

The claims service for the Eat Out to Help Out Scheme is now live.

Registered establishments can make a claim after 7 days from the date of their registration. They can only claim for scheme discounts they offered on or after the date they registered.

Claims can be made weekly and when signed into the service, businesses must select the periods that they are claiming for.

For further information ant to claim visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/claim-money -back-through-the-eat-out-to-help-out-scheme A video is also available which guides users through making a claim https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MB7OTL4SNaY Business can still register for scheme by visiting

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/register-your -establishment-for-the-eat-out-to-help -out-scheme#register Update on Face coverings The guidance on face coverings has been recently to reflect changes on when face coverings should be worn.

From 08 August, the list of places where members of the public will have to wear a face covering will be expanded to include: ·funeral directors ·premises providing professional, legal or financial services ·cinemas ·theatres ·bingo halls ·concert halls ·museums, galleries, aquariums, indoor zoos or visitor farms, or other indoor tourist, heritage or cultural sites. ·nail, beauty, hair salons and barbers ? other than where necessary to remove for treatments ·massage parlours ·public areas in hotels and hostels

digital services which require identity checks, such as online mortgage applications, financial services and recruitment on-boarding.

The new service will also help organisations tackle fraud and test if there is a market for this type of digital identity checking service.

The pilot will run for approximately a year aims to deliver significant time savings for people who previously went through in-person processes to verify their identities. It will also provide financial savings for organisations who can move their identity proofing processes online.

The Document Checking Service, run by the Government Digital Service, allows a small number of approved organisations to digitally check a person?s passport data to speed up application processes. Up until now, the Document Checking Service had only been available to GOV.UK Verify identity providers.

The pilot will give no organisation access to government-held data and an individual must consent to having their data verified. The organisation checking the ID will simply receive a ?yes or no?answer confirming whether the document provided is valid.

Enjoy Summer Safely campaign update

·places of worship ·libraries and public reading rooms ·community centres ·social clubs ·tattoo and piercing parlours ·indoor entertainment venues (amusement arcades, funfairs, adventure activities e.g. laser quest, go-karting, escape rooms, heritage sites etc) ·storage and distribution facilities ·veterinary services ·auction houses Innovative new pilot launched to speed up access to key digital services

As part of the government?s Enjoy Summer Safely campaign,Shop Local Week (10-17 August)has been launched to encourage shoppers to return to their local high street and shop safely.

Businesses are encouraged to use their social media accounts to join the conversation, informing the local community why they should shop local, using #ShopLocal, to help encourage customers back to the shops. Businesses are asked to post photos, gifs, videos and Boomerangs demonstrating local produce and items, demonstrating how they have made their shop safe for customers. Businesses are also encouraged to use the tag @BEISgovuk so that posts can be reposted.

HOP Newsletter

An innovative new scheme has recently been launched to give people easier and safer access to

Please find attached the latest newsletter from the Herts Opportunities Portal for the latest support from

the Employment Recovery Hub including, job and career related support available to Hertfordshire residents, employers and students.

connections on offer. The financial support and tailored coaching and mentoring will be provided directly to the successful applicants.

Extension to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme WEBINAR (6 - 14 August)

The Award includes a £5,000 grant, tailored business support and a living allowance.

The webinar provides an overview of the changes to the scheme, how employers will be affected, flexible furloughing, key dates and support available.

For further information visit

The webinars are running 6 - 14 August 2020 with a number of daily sessions.

For further information visithttps://register.gotowebinar.com/ rt/8528021499696163331?source= August-HMRC-DCS-Supp-Emp-1 Innovate Funding Streams Currently Available The Sustainable Innovation Fund UK registered businesses can apply for a share of up to £26 million for new projects focusing on sustainable economic recovery from COVID-19.

The aim of this competition is to help all sectors of the UK rebuild after the effects of COVID-19.

Eligibility This competition is open to single applicants only To lead a project your organisation must: be a UK registered business of any size Project?s total eligible costs must be between £50,000 and £100,000.

The competition is now open and closes on2 September 2020 For further information visit https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service.gov.uk/ competition/678/overview Young Innovators Awards 2020/21 Innovate UK in partnership with The Prince?s Trust is supporting young innovators to turn their great ideas into successful businesses.

The Project is looking for young people who would benefit most from the Young Innovators Awards, including the financial support and tailored package of expert advice and access to innovation tools and

https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service.gov.uk/competiti EUREKA GlobalStars Singapore CRD ? Round 2 UK registered businesses can apply for a share of up to £1 million to develop innovative proposals with Singapore and other EUREKA participating members.

This competition has an open scope, with projects funded to result in a new product, industrial process or service. Projects must be innovative, involve a technological risk, and have high market potential in the participating countries.

Projects funded by Innovate UK must include at least one partner from the UK and one partner from Singapore. Projects can include additional partners from other participating EUREKA participating members listed below: Austria, Belgium (Flanders), Canada, Estonia, Hungary, Netherlands, Poland, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine.

The competition is now open and closes on 15 October 2020 at 11:00 For further information visit https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service .gov.uk/competition/636/overview Designing sustainable plastic solutions As part of UK Research and Innovation, Innovate UK will invest up to £800,000 to fund early-stage, human-centred design projects to reduce the harm that plastics have on our environment and to therefore increase productivity and growth of the UK economy. This funding is from the Plastic Research and Innovation Fund.

This aim of this competition is to help businesses to create designs for innovative goods, services or business models that will result in less persistent plastic waste entering our environment. This should be achieved by them obtaining a better understanding of relevant customer and user behaviours.

The competition is now open and closes Wednesday

16 September 2020 12:00.

Late stage experimental development.

For further information visit

The competition is open and closes Monday 20 July 2020 at 11:00.

https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service.gov .uk/competition/631/overview Biomedical Catalyst 2020: round 1, early and late stage awards UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to ÂŁ30 million to develop innovative healthcare products, technologies and processes.

These can include, for example: disease prevention and proactive management of health and chronic conditions

For further information visit https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service .gov.uk/competition/659/overview Manufacturing made smarter: digital supply chain, industrial research UK registered businesses can apply for funding towards an industrial research project in digital technologies to transform supply chains in UK manufacturing.

tailored treatments that either change the underlying disease or offer potential cures

Projects must help UK manufacturing supply chains to develop digital technologies to become more efficient, productive, flexible, resilient. These must encourage the use of digital approaches to better integrate and optimise the performance of supply chains.

The competition is open and closes Wednesday 7 October 2020 at 11:00.

This competition comprises of 2 strands running at the same time. The strands are:

For further information visit https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service .gov.uk/competition/623/overview

feasibility studies

earlier and better detection and diagnosis of disease, leading to better patient outcomes

TAgri-tech catalyst round 10: agriculture and food systems, early stage UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to ÂŁ2.5 million to work on agri-tech and food chain innovations in Africa.

Up to ÂŁ2.5 million of funding is available from the Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF) across the 3 strands. This is for projects working on agri-tech and food chain innovations with partners in eligible African countries.

The aim of this competition is to increase the pace of innovation in the development of agricultural and food systems in Africa.

Projects must result in more use of innovations by farmers and food systems organisations, such as manufacturers, processors, retailers, distributors and wholesalers.

Innovate UK are running 3 strands to this competition at the same time: Early stage feasibility studies (this competition).

Mid stage industrial research.

industrial research (this strand) The competition is open and closes Wednesday 7 October 2020 at 11:00.

Manufacturing made smarter: digital supply chain, feasibility studies UK registered businesses can apply for funding towards feasibility studies into digital technologies to transform supply chains in UK manufacturing.

Projects must help UK manufacturing supply chains to develop digital technologies to become more efficient, productive, flexible, resilient. These must encourage the use of digital approaches to better integrate and optimise the performance of supply chains.

This competition comprises of 2 strands running at the same time. The strands are: feasibility studies (this strand) industrial research The competition is open and closes on Wednesday 7 October 2020 11:00am For further information visit https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service .gov.uk/competition/649/overview

ISCF Transforming foundation industries: Building a resilient recovery UK registered businesses can apply for a share of £8 million in grant funding for projects supporting recovery and growth of the UK?s foundation industries.

·Emotional needs and motivation ·Overcoming barriers ·Time management To be held 27 August and 23 September between 15:00 and 17:00.

Eligibility

For further information and to book visit

This competition is open to both single applicants and cross-sector collaborations.

https://wenta.co.uk/training-events/is-starting -a-business-right-for-me-online-bootcamp/

To lead a project your UK registered organisation must:

How to set up your small business (The practical elements): Online Bootcamp

be a business of any size or a research and technology organisation (RTO)

What will it cover:

carry out its project work in the UK

·Registering your business as a sole trader or limited company

intend to exploit the results from or in the UK

·Insurance and legalities

The competition is open and closes 4 November 2020.

·Registering a business name

For further information visit https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service .gov.uk/competition/684/overview

·Bank accounts

Support from Wenta Support for those considering self-employment or improving skills

·Invoices ·Tax, NI and VA To be held 20 August, 2 September and 14 September between 15:00 and 17:00.

For further information and to book visit

FREE skills training webinars for Stevenage residents and business owners available

https://wenta.co.uk/training-events/ how-to-set-up-your-small-business-online-bootcamp/

Wenta and The Business & Technology Centre (btc)are continuing to run a wide variety of FREE skills training webinars on subjects from?starting a business? to ?social media?, ?websites?and ?finance?.

Business planning for your small business: Online Bootcamp

These free webinars are ideal if you are looking to learn new skills or improve on existing ones and are particularly useful for the self-employed. Wenta?s online bootcamp webinars now also include networking opportunities.

*Ideal for anyone exploring the idea of starting their own business

What will it cover:

·Research and preparation ·The purpose of a business plan ·Completing the sections of a business plan

See below for a selection of these but more can be found on their website: https://bit.ly/35QxJn0 Is starting a business right for me? Online Bootcamp

·Financial projections To be held 17 and 28 August, 9, 16 and 24 September between 9 and 13:00.

For further information and to book visit

What will it cover? ·Pros and cons of self-employment

https://wenta.co.uk/training-events/business -planning-for-your-small-business-online-bootcamp/

·Personal values

Social media for your small business: Online

Bootcamp

Online Bootcamp

What will it cover:

What will it cover:

·Social media channels, networking and streaming

·Financial assessment and review

·Generating attention with Twitter and Facebook

·Financial Management

·Social Media influence and monetisation

·Financial support

To be held 19 August, 1 and 17 September between 09:00 and 13:00.

To be held 20 August, 15 and 28 September between 09:00 and 13:00.

For further information and to book visit https://wenta.co.uk/training-events/ social-media-for-your-small-business -online-bootcamp/ Finance and Bookkeeping For your small Business: Online Bootcamp What will it cover: ·Basic bookkeeping and legal status ·Cashflow, profit and loss ·VAT, NIC, Personal and Business Tax To be held 27 August, 10 and 25 September between 09:00 and 13:00.

For further information and to book visit https://wenta.co.uk/training-events/finance -and-bookkeeping-for-your-small-business -online-bootcamp/ Cashflow Management for your small Business:

For further information and to book visit https://wenta.co.uk/training-events/ cashflow-management-for-your-small -business-online-bootcamp/ Content marketing for your small business: Online Bootcamp What will it cover: ·Advantages of content marketing ·Target markets and your brand ·Content marketing platforms To be held 21st August, 4, 5 and 22 September between 09:00 and 13:00.

For further information and to book visit https://wenta.co.uk/training-events/ content-marketing-for-your-small-business -online-bootcamp/

Marketing for your small business: Online Bootcamp What will it cover: ·Marketing and market research ·Understanding your customers and competition ·Marketing planning, pricing and branding To be held 18 and 24 August, 3,14 and 21 September between 09:00 and 13:00.

finance to sales and marketing. This service is available via live chat, in-person, telephone and email.

For business advice, visit www.btcstevenage.co.uk to live chat to an advisor (Mon-Fri, 9am ? 5pm)or book your one-to-one, advice appointmenthere.

Herts Chambers of Commerce Virtual Networking Opportunity

For further information and to book visit https://wenta.co.uk/training-events/ marketing-for-your-small-business-online-bootcamp/

Herts Chambers have just announced their latest virtual network opportunity to support members and non-members.

Website development for your small business: Online Bootcamp

The networking event on Wednesday 26th August at 11am will provide networking with the opportunity to meet up to 50 different business peers, providing the chance to meet with up to 50 different business people in an informal atmosphere. All participants will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves and their business.

What will it cover: ·Audience demographics and website domains ·Website structure, keywords, GDPR and analytics ·Website building, Google Ads and Traffic

To book please email bookings@hertschamber.com To be held 26 August, 2, 7,18 and 30 September between 09:00 and 13:00.

For further information and to book visit https://wenta.co.uk/training-events/ website-development-for-your-small -business-online-bootcamp/ Online Presence for your small Business: Online Bootcamp What will it cover: ·Online assessment, review and strategy ·SEO, websites and Google ·Social media To be held 25th August, 8 and 23 September between 09:00 and 13:00.

For further information and to book visit https://wenta.co.uk/training-events/online -presence-for-growing-your-small-business -online-bootcamp/ To browse more FREE Wenta webinars visit: https://bit.ly/35QxJn0 Free business advice The Business & Technology Centre on Bessemer Drive provide FREE business advice services for all types of small businesses on a wide range of subjects from

Chamber Customs - Trading across the World UK Border Customs Controls from 1/1/21- What it means for your business If your company trades goods anywhere in the world, new border controls that start when the EU Transition period ends will mean that you MUST prepare for change NOW. Whether you have previously prepared for no deal or not, the environment for importers and exporters has changed and recent announcements from Government mean change is more certain than ever.

So, if you import or export, there are just 23 weeks to get ready for new systems and processes critical to your business.

JoinL iam Smyth, Director of Trade Facilitation at the British Chambers of Commerce, customs and trade expert, member of HMRC Joint Customs Consultative Committee, participant of a number of Government Expert trade Advisory Groups for an insight on the new UK Border Operating Model, as well as advice on the actions you need to engage in now and for funding support for trader readiness.

Chamber Customs - Trading across the World takes place on18 August between 10:00 and 11:00.

To book contact the Export Team by telephone 01707 502193 or email export@hertschamber.com

#Stayathomesavelives

Is your business eligible for a support grant?

Dear colleague In response t o t he Covid-19 pandemic, t he government recent ly set out a package of measures t o support businesses t hrough t his period of disrupt ion. Around 750 businesses in t he dist rict are eligible t o apply for a grant of up ÂŁ10,000 t o help t hem t hrough current financial difficult ies and a furt her 180 are eligible t o apply for a grant of up t o ÂŁ25,000.

St evenage Borough Council has allocat ed over ÂŁ8m in grant s so far and would like t o administ er t he remainder of t he funding t o all t hose who are eligible under t he scheme. We st ill have around 160 businesses in St evenage who receive Small Business Rat e Relief and have not applied for t his funding. We are very keen for businesses in St evenage t o claim t his funding.

If you operat e a business in St evenage and t hink you are eligible could you kindly complet e our online form ht t ps://services.st evenage.gov.uk/ brcovid-19grant The online applicat ion form is quick t o complet e and help is available. Please not e t his is a grant not a loan and money is wait ing t o be claimed right now.

We look forward t o hearing from you Mena Caldbeck Business Relat ionship Manager

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Brilliant businesses in High Street need you After our amazingly successful piece in our last edition on Middle Row and the independent shops in that area, we have turned our focus on other shops in Stevenage High Street.

The shares and likes we have gained by putting these businesses in the spotlight has been amazing, so don't forget make sure if you need a product or a service which they offer head down to them and keep them in business in #Stevenage

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#Stevenage magazine spotlight on support

Survivors Against Domestic abuse offering support SADA cont inues t o offer advice and support t hroughout pandemic Stevenage Borough Council is reassuring any victims of domestic abuse that Survivors Against Domestic Abuse (SADA) will continue to offer advice and support throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

Although the government advice is to stay home, anyone who is at risk of, or is experiencing, domestic abuse is still able to leave and seek refuge, and SADA will continue to provide support to victims.

SADA is available to residents in Stevenage, North Herts, and East Herts, and expanded to include Welwyn Hatfield in January.

Councillor Sharon Taylor, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council and Chair of SADA, said: ?Unfortunately increasing financial pressures, school closures and more people working from home all mean that there could be an increase in domestic abuse. ?We know that this is a worrying time for all of us, but this may be heightened for those who have suffered or are suffering any form of domestic abuse and are now isolated with their abuser. ?We want to reassure residents that we will continue to support anyone who needs our help.

Please contact SADA and do not suffer in silence.?

Cllr Gary Grindal, North Hertfordshire District Council?s (NHDC) Executive Member for Housing said: ?NHDC will continue to work closely with

SADA during the coronavirus pandemic to make sure that those who are victims of domestic abuse still get the help they need. If you need advice or help because you are in a difficult situation, please pick up the phone and talk to SADA, or access their services online?.

Please call 01438 242666 to speak to a dedicated domestic abuse worker.

For more information, visit: www.stevenage.gov.uk/ about-stevenage/so-safe/187555/

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h t t ps:/ / w w w.f acebook .com / gr ou ps/ m em or iesof st even age/

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For r esult s t oday speak t o t he com m unicat ion exper t s at Spit f ir ePR Media rel at ions

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Proud publ i sh er of #Herts @h ash tagh erts For al l your mark eti ng and soci al medi a needs: 07539 782979 w w w .spi tf i repr.com darren@spi tf i repr.com @DarrenI sted1 @h ash tagh erts

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# St evenage

PROPERTY The unique guide to property news in #Stevenage

#STEVENAGE PROPERTY: THE INTERACTIVE WAY TO VIEW YOUR AGENT

DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK OUR AGENTS ARE OFTEN WORKING REM OTELY SO PLEASE M ESSAGE THEM AT THIS TIM E

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101 High St r eet , St even age

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Ow n Hom es, 2 M iddle Row , St even age

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St ephen Harris and Michael Not schild est ablished Own Homes in 2008, operat ing as a successful, independent local St evenage est at e agent .

Here at Own Homes, we understand that each property and sale is individual and therefore tailor our service to suit your specific requirements.

We have prominent offices ideally situated in the heart of Stevenage Old Town. One in Middle Row covering lettings and mortgages and one on the High Street to deal with sales.

Our recent expansion and our double fronted office allows us the scope and ability to serve Stevenage and the surrounding residential areas.

Passionate in all we do, we pride ourselves on delivering the highest level of service.

Selling and letting a property can be a stressful time, which is why we go the extra mile to make your involvement with us as enjoyable and professional as possible.

Working in Hertfordshire for the past 10 years has enabled Own Homes to develop a comprehensive understanding of residential property in the local areas of Stevenage, Hitchin and surrounds.

We have an established an experienced team, on hand to work with you throughout the selling and buying process, ensuring personal contact is maintained from start to finish.

We use a number of marketing styles to ensure your property, whether you are selling or letting, gains maximum exposure and a smooth efficient sale. This includes advertising in local newspapers and glossy magazines, as well as Internet marketing. Our double fronted office also allows people to see

our properties in both windows.

To arrange a free valuation, or to find out more about Own Homes and the services we provide, simply call 01438 367753 or email sales@own-homes.com. You can also visit our office.

Awards In recognition of our outstanding service, we've been awarded two gold winner awards by the British Property Awards, one for being the top Estate Agent in Stevenage and another for the top Estate Agent in the South East. We're very proud of these awards as the Own Homes team has worked tirelessly to provide industry leading property services in and around the area.

Placing the focus our customers Text

Hom e an d M or t gages St even age, 86 High St r eet , St even age Tel 01438 728444

em ail st even age@h om esan dm or t gages.co.u k

Homes and Mortgages Estate Agents are ready and waiting to help the Stevenage community with all its property needs, be it buying, selling or renting, Homes and Mortgages are committed to providing great value customer service for all our clients.

Situated in the heart of the historic Old Town and set over three floors, each department provides a professional, welcoming and comfortable environment for all of our customers. We have a team of 9 full time, experienced Sales and Lettings staff on hand to deal with any property enquiry.

W hat 's new? The rebranded branch and heavy investment in IT has set Homes and Mortgages up to stand out in 2017 and for the future. Our experienced and dedicated staff all share the same view in providing a fantastic customer experience and are heavily focused on the importance of transparency between ourselves and our customers.

The IT software is excellent at allowing vendors and Landlords 24/7 access to information regarding their property. At the click of a button, vendors can see feedback, current interest from web portals and can track the progress of a sale online. Likewise, Landlords have the option to view property maintenance schedules and access statements. mailt o:st evenage@homesand mort gages.co.uk

Click on t h e im ages an d lin k dir ect ly t o t h eir det ails on lin e

Agent Hybrid falls bet ween t radit ional and online est at e agency. Our aim is t o deliver a personal, one-t o-one est at e agency experience, whilst delivering a service of excellence.

ht t ps://my.mat t erport .com/show/ ?m=GCbcjmCyYn

Click on t he image of our Monument Court propert y (above) and t ake a walk t hrough using t he lat est Agent Hybrid Technology

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Putterills Stevenage - talk to the professionals Text

61-63 High St r eet , St even age Tel 01438 316846

Founded by Tony Putterill in 1992, with our first office in Welwyn Garden City, Putterills are now celebrating 26 years of serving the Hertfordshire community.

We have grown from our original branch in Welwyn Garden City to having offices in Knebworth, Hitchin, Stevenage Old Town and St Albans, as well as a partner office in London?s Mayfair. Each of our sales offices are overseen by a Director who is actively involved in the day to day running; this helps to ensure that we are providing the highest possible levels of advice and service. All of these offices are prominently located to ensure all properties receive the best possible exposure.

In addition to our network of sales offices, we have an award winning Land and New Homes department.

Our specialists help landowners maximise the development opportunities for usually previously

w w w.pu t t er ills.co.u k

used land known as Brownfield, as the country struggles for space for new homes. We have always believed that our task is to provide our clients with the best, up to the minute, expert advice when dealing with what is usually their greatest asset.

Our clients have a wide range of emotions and circumstances and we help guide less experienced first time buyers, provide yield information and advice to investment buyers, schooling information to families, hold the hands of those who have not moved for many years and deal sensitively and professionally with those. Over the last few years, we are proud to have won a number of national awards which we believe underline our philosophy of being Trusted Property Experts.

2017 saw Tony Putterill retire and hand the reins of the company over to Mark Shearing. Mark has been in agency in Hertfordshire since 1982

and joined Putterills in 1993. As the company moves into a new era with changing markets, advances in property marketing and the use of technology, our aim is simple - to keep at the absolute forefront of full service Estate Agency and to continue the exceptional levels of service and advice that our clients have been able to rely on over the last 26 years.

Our primary purpose has always been to provide an outstanding customer experience and our core values continue to represent this: EXCEPTIONAL ? we are passionate about delivering excellence.

RESPECT ? we respect and value those we work with, both our colleagues and our customers.

EXPERTISE ? we deliver outstanding skills and knowledge in all we do.

TRUST ? we act with honesty and integrity at all times.

For a top service Text

rely on A-TOP A-Top Pr oper t y Let t in gs, 1 Dr aper s Way, St even age Tel 01438 369173

em ail con t act @a-t oplet t in g.co.u k

If you are looking for a t eam t hat you can t rust t o deliver t ime aft er t ime t hen A-Top Propert y Let t ings in Drapers Way, St evenage is t he one for you.

A-Top, which is owned by founder Mervyn Terret t , has gained an impressive reput at ion as t he go-t o agent for all your propert y needs whet her you are looking t o rent or are a landlord seeking t enant s. W it h a combined market experience of more t han 60 years, t he st aff at A-Top are t he most knowledgeable in t he business and along wit h advice on t he rent al market , t hey can also provide informat ion which allows cust omers t o make t he most informed choice possible. Over t he past 33 years t he t eam lead by Mervyn has seen t he local market undergo a wide number of changes, but t hrough t hem all A-Top and it s experienced st aff have always given t he very best and most informed service.

There have been plent y of changes which have alt ered t he let t ings landscape in St evenage. Through t hem all however t he reliabilit y of A-Top Propert y Let t ings has remained a const ant and t heir port folio of excellent landlords has increased dramat ically.

Comment ing on t he t eam Mervyn said: ?W hat once was a rarit y in t he UK i.e. rent ing, is now so common as a source of income/ invest ment for landlords and of mobilit y for professional working t enant s.

We are delight ed t o be able t o use our expert ise t o help bot h t enant s and landlords.?

For furt her det ails cont act 01438 369173 or email cont act @a-t oplet t ing.co.uk

Portfolio - for serviced apartments in #Herts Text

Tel 0800 0248 914

Booking a holiday is possibly one of the greatest feelings and counting down the days when you?re having an awful day at work or are just desperate to get away from home can seem like a joy, but there can be a downside. Hotels. While some people may see staying in a hotel like a dream, it can actually be a nightmare if you?ll be staying there for a long time, especially if on a business trip or secondment. With that said, here are the top reasons to stop staying in hotels for your business travel trips.

Limit ed Wardrobe Space Packing for a holiday or for a business trip puts you on one of two teams, you?re either naturally gifted and find it a breeze or it?s the worst part of the trip for you, but one thing unites these two camps ? limited hotel space.

If you love to pack an outfit for every possible occasion you will know how difficult it can be to cram your clothes into tiny hotel wardrobes, or even worse live out of a case. Staying in a serviced apartment fixes this and means you have a home away from home and all the storage you could need.

You feel like you?re t rapped Walking into a hotel room can at first glance feel wonderful, everything is conveniently within arm?s reach and for the first day you love it. Then the second day comes and the third day and by the fourth you feel like you almost can?t breathe.

Hotels just aren?t feasible for long periods of time or for anyone who likes a sense of space, after all, who wants to feel trapped by the same four walls for the entire of their trip?

Privacy? W hat privacy?

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Hotels may seem like a good idea for a romantic night away, but if you?re travelling with family or small children or even colleagues, then all sense of privacy goes straight out of the window when you?re all sharing a room just feet away from each other.

Forget staring dreamily into each other?s eyes when you wake up, you?ll probably be staring at a toddler who immediately wants to play or be woken by another family member?s snoring and that?s not even mentioning the housekeeper who always turns up at the most inconvenient times!

Serviced apartments let you have time to yourself no matter how many you have brought along for the trip, so you can sleep well and feel like you have privacy if you are all loved up.

Money money money!

Straight to the point hotels aren?t cheap.

Even for the savviest of spenders and the keenest bargin hunters, you may think booking your hotel means it?s all done, dusted and paid for but you will undoubtedly end up incurring extra fees.

Whether you give in to the lure of room-service with its extortionate service charges, or buy a film to keep energetic youngsters occupied, your bill when you check out can hit you like a smack in the face and leave you wanting a more affordable option.

Meals on wheels Speaking of room-service, while this may seem like a decadent treat on the first night, by the time you come back from a long day of exploring and are tired, it is so easy to have a burger brought straight to door along with its crazily hiked-up price and extra delivery charges. This can not only wreak havoc on your bank account,

but also on your waist-line and by the time you leave, the only thing that will be thinner is your wallet.

Serviced apartments absolutely win here, as having a fully equipped kitchen at your fingertips means it?s easy to rustle up something quick and delicious that will probably be healthier for you and will also save you money! If you want some tips on how to eat well when working away from home check out next weeks blog post, or check out our apartments to find out why it?s time to say goodbye to hotel hell and wake up to apartment heaven!

Though staying in a hotel may seem like the obvious option at first, there?s no denying that a serviced apartment brings with it a number of benefits that a hotel just can?t offer.

At Portfolio Serviced Apartments we specialise in providing luxury serviced apartments and temporary homes for corporate and business travellers. We offer a secure spacious base which can become a home from home for longer staying guests. Portfolio Apartments are located throughout all of Hertfordshire including Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City, St. Albans and Hatfield, whilst through our partners we have access to over 90,000 luxury apartments across the globe.

So whether it?s a placement in St Albans or a secondment in San Francisco, Portfolio is consistently the favoured choice for travelling professionals.

For more information,get in touch. Our team at Portfolio looks forward to helping you soon.

Give our friendly team a call on 0800 024 8914 (Mon ? Fri 9-6pm) or visit our website to view our modern serviced apartments.

101 High St r eet , St even age Tel 01438 231200 w w w.m ar k sim on est at es.co.u k pr oper t y@m ar k sim on est at es.co.u k

Partners with vast knowledge of the local area Text

Mark Simon Estates is an established Estate Agency situated at: 101 High Street, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 3HR. Here at MarkSimon Estates, we have over 40 years combined experience of Estate Agency within Stevenage and its surrounds.

Our Partners Mark Sollis & Simon Jacob both grew up in Stevenage and therefore have a vast knowledge of the area and its surrounds.

This in itself, is proving an invaluable asset to prospective Vendors and Purchasers seeking a property which meets both their needs and expectations in a home.

?To Mark, Many t hanks for all your hard work selling my house for us in Jessop Road. You went t he ext ra mile in so many ways. You always kept me well informed and I knew I could t rust you t o carry out everyt hing you promised.?

From H.

?To MarkSimon Est at es & your t eam, Thank you for being t here t o help us. ?

Mr K & Miss T

Click here for MarkSimon Twitter

?To Mike and everyone at MarkSimon Est at es, A Big t hank you for all your help selling our house, Best wishes.?

The W ?s

Click here for MarkSimon Facebook

The agent with more than 18 years experience Text

TLC est at es, 4 Bak er St r eet , St even age Tel 01438 219282

em ail let t in gs@t lcest at es.co.u k

TLC est at es is sit uat ed in t he delight ful set t ing of St evenage Old Town.

We pride ourselves on t he personal and professional services we offer t o all landlords and t enant s alike We offer very compet it ive rat es we are one of t he very few let t ing agent s only left in t he t own . W it h over 19 years of experience in t he St evenage market we are sure t o offer you t he best of services from under one roof.

Renowned for our open and honest approach ,TLC will give you t he full informat ion on t he market .

Many of our landlords and t enant s have been wit h us since we opened in 2000 and we are known for our close work wit h bot h.

Pop int o our Baker St reet off ice or give us a call and find out how TLC can help wit h your let t ings needs.

The Connells team that you can trust Text

8 M ar k et Place, St even age Tel 01438 318080

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Connells Estate Agents in Stevenage are located in the Town Centre along Market Place, and within walking distance of the Train Station.

We would love to help you sell or rent your home or find a property to rent or buy in and around the Stevenage area, as well as the villiages Walkern, Knebworth, Little & Great Wymondley, Gravely & Aston.

Connells Estate Agents in Stevenage are managed by Gary Young. Gary has had a successful estate agency career over the last 20 years. Gary is supported by Callum Souter who is the Sales Executive with four years experience behind him, Oz Ansari who is the branch valuer, and Melanie Retberg the Branch Administrator.

Our in-house Mortgage Consultant Juliet Twining, is fully trained and qualified to advise you on the right mortgage product to suit your needs.

Connells Lettings would love to help you rent your property.

Lettings Manager Patricia Bowden has 10 year's experience within the Lettings industry and is assisted by Trainee Lettings Negotiator Ben Brooks. With their combined experience and extensive knowledge of the area and rental market, are always happy to offer their assistance to new and experienced buy to let investors and first time landlords

alike.

Whether you are looking to sell or rent your property, we offer FREE market appraisals. Please feel free to pop into the branch or call 01438 318080 (Sales) or 01438 318258 (Lettings).

We offer a range of property related services all under one roof.

In house Mortgage Consultant.

Premium Marketing Packages available including Floorplans, Professional Photography, audio tours, and premium listings on Rightmove & Zoopla We have pioneered a dedicated service called The Property Finder

- You tell us what you are looking for and we will find it We know how the Stevenage market moves - our staff are local and extremely knowledgeable.

Their in-depth and up to date local experience.

Over 10 years?worth of experience and knowledge within the local market.

A professional team providing services to suit all your needs including property management, accounts and high quality administration.

We accompany all viewings, we believe it is really important, we?ve been trained to do it so you get really good feedback.

Geoffrey Matthew property innovators Text

24 M ar k et Place, St even age Tel 01438 720100

w w w.geof f r eym at t h ew.co.u k

Geoffrey Mat t hew Est at es are a propert y business wit h offices in Harlow, St evenage and Great Ashby t hat specialise in t he sales and let t ing of resident ial propert y.

Over 25 years of experience in propert y and finance give us an unparalleled insight t o t he needs and desires of sellers, purchasers, landlords and t enant s alike.

W it h a dedicat ed, hardworking, innovat ive forward-t hinking t eam t hat use modern met hods and good old-fashioned cust omer service, we offer a unique bespoke service t ailored t o you.

Tel 01438 720100 w w w.geof f r eym at t h ew.co.u k