#Stevenage April 2020

# STEVENAGE Text

The unique digital magazine for Stevenage promoted by social media

April 2020

The unique digital magazine for Stevenage promoted by social media

Community pride

Clair e Au st in (lef t ) w it h Lou ise Yexley

(through) (plans) The unique digit al m agazine f or #St evenage

Text

Text

# St ayat homest aysaf e t hrough t he coronavirus crisis Advert ising and not publ ic charit y support s t his publ icat ion

What's on in

#Stevenage

There aren't many timeswhen you can write an editorial column knowing that thismay never have been written before and that all your readers are living through truly historic and frightening times.

Thisof course is just such an occasion, and what we have already seen some two weeksinto the real impact of Covid-19 is that the true community spirit of Stevenage iscoming to the fore.

There isfear, hunger and poverty out there at the moment asthe viruseffectspeople, not just through their health but through itsfinancial impact and damage to mental wellbeing as well, aswe enter our first few weeks of lockdown.

Stevenage Football Club have stepped forward magnificently along with Stevenage Borough Council and Stevenage Community Trust and along with other groups such asPeople For People and Feed Up Warm Up, along with our foodbanks and other groups, there really isthe feeling that all members of our society are getting the basics.

While health isthe number one priority, the well-being of our businessesis a key focusasthe weeks go on. All will need our support in the months ahead and at #Stevenage we have decided to pause all cost to our advertisersfor the next three months and will increase thisif need be. These shops, bars, restaurants, hotels etc will need our trade when this isover but they will also need to survive in the short term. So if you can, share them on social media, give them a like and if you can make a remote purchase do so - we're all in thistogether.

#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/

#Stayathomesavelives

Can you donate to the Stevenage Helps appeal In mid-March Stevenage Community Trust launched their #StevenageHelps appeal in partnership with Stevenage Borough Council (see previous story) for those most in need as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

By the start of April they have raised over £21,000 so far, but in just three days of the fund being open for applications, they received an unprecedented number of requests for help and have already allocated £5,140 to help struggling families.

The original target was £15,000 but they now

recognise this won't be enough to support those in need in our community, so they're doubling the target to £30,000 because SCT want to support every family either directly or through Stevenage charities, groups and organisations, that theycan.

There are people in our community without food or access to money for their gas and electricity meters.

After 30 years SCT have a strong network of contacts with a wide range of organisations across the town to ensure your donations reach those people most in

#Stayathomesavelives need quickly and efficiently.

SCT are able to react to requests for help within hours. They know it?s a difficult time full of uncertainty for many people and businesses of all sizes but any amount you are able to donate will be greatly appreciated.

They want to send a huge 'Thank You' to everyone who has already donated. Here are a few examples of those we've been able to help thanks to your generosity: -

-

-

-

£500 hasallowed the Food Shed to buy food and essential itemsto meet the significant increase in demand they are facing every day.

A supermarket gift card has helped a single mum studying under an apprenticeship scheme to buy food and essentialsfor her family. Asa lone parent she can barely scrape enough money together to pay rent and bills £1,500 hasenabled Stevenage Football Club to increase the number of people over 70 that they are able to support through their Community Kitchen Sandwich Service. Just £1 per sandwich per day meansthisgrant will provide 1,500 sandwichesover the next 3 monthsfor elderly people who are lonely and isolated and have no immediate family memberslocally.

A grant hashelped thislow-income family of five in their time of need. Mum isundergoing

-

-

-

-

-

aggressive treatment for cancer and worrying about how she will feed her children.

Age Concern Stevenage are able to provide food and essential itemsfor isolated elderly people acrossthe town thanksto our grant for £500. £100 hasrelieved some of the stressfor this family of three who were reliant on Dad?sincome from self-employment. Dad isnow unable to work and Mum hasseriouslong-term mental health concerns. With no income whatsoever, they have relied on food from the local food bank but have no money for gasand electricity, leaving the family unable to cook, with no accessto hot water and no lighting.

They've allocated £400 for local familiesliving in temporary accommodation where there have no cooking facilities and therefore an increased cost to accesshot food.

Being employed on a low wage, 0 hours contract meant this man had no reservesto fall back on when his employment ceased recently. With his bank statement showing only £10 in his account, we were able to help this single father and his young child to buy food and essentials.

Basic mobile phoneshave been provided to local homelesspeople so they can contact and be contacted by their support workersto ensure their wellbeing.

St evenage Borough Council has launched a new appeal called St evenage Helps.

The appeal was creat ed t o capt ure volunt eering and donat ion cont ribut ions from local resident s who want t o help ot hers facing hardship due t o t he Coronavirus

pandemic.

The council is working in part nership wit h a range of local charit ies t o help people t o donat e goods or volunt eer t ime. The council has also worked wit h St evenage Communit y Trust t o launch an online giving

Stevenage Helps appeal launched to back charities plat form t o support vulnerable people and groups impact ed by COVID-19.

Cllr Sharon Taylor, Leader of St evenage Borough Council said: ?This is a very worrying and concerning t ime for many people and t his appeal will provide addit ional help for our communit y. This is an opport unit y t o pull t oget her and support communit y services from Food Banks t o volunt eeringforSt evenage Cit izens Advice Bureau and t here is so much more t hat can be done t o help t he people of St evenage. ?To kick st art St evenage Helps, I am pleased t o announce t he St evenage Borough Council has made t he first donat ion of £500. We are keen t o support t he communit y and t hose who need ext ra help during t hese unknown t imes.?

The chair of St evenage Communit y Trust , Robert St ewart added, ?We aligned wit h t he inspirat ional idea t hat St evenage Borough Council had t o ut ilise t he St evenage Communit y Trust t o launch t his COVID-19 appeal. This enables us t o use our fant ast ic net work wit hin t he business communit y t o immediat ely raise funds for t hose local families and groups who find t hemselves in difficult ies. We have set ourselves a t arget of raising £15,000 (now £30,000) and our founding donors have gift ed £4,600 and include St evenage Borough Council, St evenage Packaging Lt d, The Follet t Trust , The W ine Societ y, MDBA, Aust in?s Funeral Direct ors, One Facilit y Lt d, TDI Solut ions Lt d, Formula One Aut ocent res and Lloyd?s Bank.If you are a local business and have t he financial resource t o support t his appeal please, please cont act t he Trust t oday.?

The Virgin Money Giving Page is live and accept ing donat ions from t he public. The St evenage Communit y Trust are running t his scheme at zero cost , meaning all money received will go t o vulnerable people, charit ies and groups.

To make your donat ions, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/st evenage-helps To learn more about t he init iat ive visit ht t p:// www.st evenage.gov.uk/

Text

Text

Text

Paul Fry on # St evenage

A community comes together in crisis

So, the clocks have gone forward ? sadly not far enough in the current circumstances.

We are in a lockdown that isn't quite a lockdown and are warned by our prime minister that things will get worse before they will improve.

I am not sure we needed to spend ÂŁ6m on stamps to get that message out. Personally I would like to have seen the Queen on TV telling us that; an elderly lady in a sparkly hat yet again being reluctant to talk to a nation in pain.

Where is Tony Blair when you

want to drag her out for the common good?

But I am not knocking her. There have been undoubted failings among those who work for us on her behalf.

So often we have relied on the fact that we are an island nation to

Text

Text

Text

Paul Fry on # St evenage repel threats from abroad. As anyone who went to school and paid attention, 1066 was the last time we were invaded successfully.

While we are confined to our homes, it seems absurd that every day as many as 20 flights arrive here at seven UK airports from New York alone, and others from Italy and Spain. We close our windows but leave our country's front doors open. None of those arriving are tested.

We had a head start on the rest of the West, failed to prepare adequately or, indeed, at all, and No 10 is already looking to blame foreigners ? the EU's Michel Barnier and China, judging by this week's press release, er, Sunday papers.

I will never fathom why we didn't immediately freeze movement even if it meant UK nationals being stuck abroad. We should have told them to stay locked down and fully supported them financially. That way we might not have had to use so much financial firepower on these shores.

The World Health Organisation was explicit in saying we should test and trace those with symptoms. It is how Ebola was defeated. We did not.

But there will be plenty of time for blame and recrimination once we are through the other side of this.

Just when that might be is most uncertain.

We are sure to face a new normal in any case. My biggest fear for so

many is that this virus will not be beaten until we have a vaccination and that is some time away.

I worry it will return later in the year and that any businesses that stagger through to a resumption of trade this summer will be so weakened as to have no chance of surviving another wave of lockdowns.

It is very disturbing to hear those high up in Government say that if we have only 20,000 deaths, we will have gotten off lightly. It sounds cavalier if nothing else.

And certainly not reassuring. A bit like playing Russian roulette with a very big gun that has 20,000 bullets in it.

Trouble is, the victims are human.

They might be a friend or a close loved one.

Such times reveal the depth of people's feelings and thought processes. Boris Johnson's popularity has seemingly risen, but that surely is 'any port in a storm' mentality; people clinging to a central focus point. It is harder to fathom why people swallow fake news, and goodness knows there is enough of that about, such as with animal shelters being busier because people have read that you can get the disease from stroking your cat. You can't.

Not could I fathom the gullibility of folk in that a visit to my local supermarket revealed empty beer shelves ? barring two dozen cases of Corona lager. There is clearly no herd immunity to stupidity.

Then there is the daily walk. I have found mine to be essential to my physical and mental wellbeing.

Working at home, confined to a small spare room you can barely fit a bed in, can make you edgy.

But then I was uplifted by a Shawshank Redemption meme where Ellis Boyd (Morgan Freeman) asks Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) what he is in for and Andy replies: Two walks in one day.

I did, though, find it somewhat incongruous that Derbyshire Police put out an appeal for people not to dob in multi-walk offenders because they were being inundated, while also deploying drones to catch walkers in the Peak District.

You had to despair though at reports of a driver being stopped at the Leisure Park, telling officers he was only playing Pokemon go! I mean, really.

Amid all these drastic changes to our everyday life, though I read of tremendous work done by local organisations, such as Stevenage FC with its initiative to use its resources to help the elderly and vulnerable with food deliveries and phone befriending. Bottom of League Two, perhaps, but they have a community spirit that puts them top of the Premier League.

Some ÂŁ6,000 was raised by the club in short order to maintain a sandwich service.

But Boro are not alone, with Co-ops giving ÂŁ4.5m to local

Text

Text

Text

Paul Fry on # St evenage causes and charities in the next fortnight and many charities are doing their level best to provide support to folk.

A largely unseen community spirit is evident in things like front gate coffee mornings, where people stand outside their own gate with a cuppa and chat to a neighbour.

I suspect that video chats are bringing families and friends together to share home experiences to help them get

through the lockdown, too. We had an online pub night, with shared quizzes and games.

We can be resourceful, inventive and united in a crisis. It will be just those qualities that see us through the lockdown. And we will need them like never before in most of our lifetimes to rebuild our communities and nation afterwards.

Stay home. Stay safe.

#Stayathomesavelives

Can you provide support for #Stevenage Haven Hello #St evenage readers, here's our donat ion wish list ! If you can pick one or t wo of t hese it ems up wit h your shopping please t ry t o! We'd appreciat e it you could drop it off at our sit e on Dit chmore Lane but are happy t o discuss collect ion where appropriat e! Thank You

#Stayathomesavelives

Support for business during Coronavirus An updat e from t he measures brought by t he Chancellor on t he package of t emporary measures t o support public services, people and businesses t hrough disrupt ion caused by COVID-19.

This includes a package of measures to support businesses including: -

A statutory sick pay relief package for SMEs A 12-month businessratesholiday for all retail, hospitality and leisure businessesin England Small businessgrant funding of £10,000 for all businessin receipt of small business rate relief or rural rate relief Grant funding of £25,000 for retail, hospitality and leisure businesseswith property with a rateable value between £15,000 and £51,000 The CoronavirusBusinessInterruption Loan Scheme to support long-term viable businesseswho may need to respond to cash-flow pressuresby seeking additional finance The HMRC Time To Pay Scheme Support for businesseswho are paying sick pay to employees

-

-

-

-

The government will bring forward legislation to allow small- and medium-sized businesses and employers to reclaim Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) paid for sickness absence due to COVID-19. The eligibility criteria for the scheme will be as follows: -

-

Thisrefund will cover up to 2 weeks?SSP per eligible employee who hasbeen off work because of COVID-19 Employerswith fewer than 250 employees will be eligible - the size of an employer will be determined by the number of people they employed asof 28 February 2020

-

-

-

Employers will be able to reclaim expenditure for any employee who has claimed SSP (according to the new eligibility criteria) asa result of COVID-19 Employers should maintain recordsof staff absencesand paymentsof SSP, but employees will not need to provide a GP fit note Eligible period for the scheme will commence the day after the regulationson the extension of Statutory Sick Pay to those staying at home comes into force

The government will work with employers over the coming months to set up the repayment mechanism for employers as soon as possible.

The government will also introduce a business rates retail holiday for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in England for the 2020 to 2021 tax year.

Businesses that received the retail discount in the 2019 to 2020 tax year will be rebilled by their local authority as soon as possible.

A £25,000 grant will be provided to retail, hospitality and leisure businesses operating from smaller premises, with a rateable value between £15,000 and £51,000.

Any enquiries on eligibility for, or provision of, the reliefs should be directed to the relevant local authority.

The government will provide additional funding for local authorities to support small businesses that already pay little or no business rates because of small business rate relief (SBBR). This will provide a one-off grant of £10,000 to businesses currently eligible for SBRR or rural rate relief, to help meet their ongoing business costs.

If your business is eligible for SBRR or rural rate relief,

#Stayathomesavelives

you will be contacted by your local authority ? you do not need to apply.

Funding for the scheme will be provided to local authorities by government in early April.S tevenage Borough Council does not have this as yet.

A new temporary Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme, delivered by the British Business Bank, has launched to support businesses to access bank lending and overdrafts. The government will provide lenders with a guarantee of 80% on each loan (subject to a per-lender cap on claims) to give lenders further confidence in continuing to provide finance to SMEs. The government will not charge businesses or banks for this guarantee, and the Scheme will support loans of up to ÂŁ5 million in value. Businesses can access the first 6 months of that finance interest free, as government will cover the first 6 months of interest payments.

All businesses and self-employed people in financial distress, and with outstanding tax liabilities, may be

eligible to receive support with their tax affairs through HMRC?s Time To Pay service. These arrangements are agreed on a case-by-case basis and are tailored to individual circumstances and liabilities.

If you are concerned about being able to pay your tax due to COVID-19, call HMRC?s dedicated helpline on 0800 0159 559.

Businesses that have cover for both pandemics and government-ordered closure should be covered, as the government and insurance industry confirmed on 17 March 2020 that advice to avoid pubs, theatres etc is sufficient to make a claim.

Insurance policies differ significantly, so businesses are encouraged to check the terms and conditions of their specific policy and contact their providers. Most businesses are unlikely to be covered, as standard business interruption insurance policies are dependent on damage to property and will exclude pandemics.

#Stayathomesavelives

Domestic abuse scheme set for service renewal

#Stayathomesavelives

Stevenage Against Domestic Abuse (SADA) is renaming outside of Stevenage, following the renewal of the service in North Herts and launch in East Herts.

SADA ? an initiative headed by Stevenage Borough Council ? will now be known as Survivors Against Domestic Abuse when operating outside of Stevenage.

The service offers one to one support for victims, survivors and their families by working co-operatively with partners, including Stevenage Borough Council, North Herts District Council, East Herts District Council, police, various housing associations and children?s services. The contract has been renewed for another year in North Herts, meaning the service will continue until April 2021.

The renewal of the contract brought together Leader of Stevenage Borough Council, Councillor Sharon Taylor; Leader of North Herts District Council, Councillor Martin Stears-Handscomb; and Gavin Cansfield, CEO of settle housing association.

SADA has won numerous local and national awards, and has supported 243 victims in the last twelve months.

Councillor Sharon Taylor, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council and Chair of SADA, said: ?It is fantastic news that the service has been renewed for another year in North Herts and launched in East Herts last month. ?I am extremely proud of the work of SADA, and its expansion means even more victims and survivors of domestic abuse can get the right

help and support. ?SADA will still be known as Stevenage Against Domestic Abuse when operating in Stevenage, but given the service has expanded it will be known as Survivors Against Domestic Abuse when operating in other areas of Hertfordshire.?

Cllr Martin Stears-Handscomb, Leader of North Hertfordshire District Council said: ?Since SADA?s launch in North Herts during the summer of 2018, we have nurtured and developed a close working relationship with them to help victims and survivors of domestic abuse in our district.

SADA?s work provides a vital lifeline to those living with the awful reality of domestic abuse and we are pleased to continue this essential work with them, helping more individuals and families to break free from very distressing situations. We look forward to referring to SADA with their new name - Survivors Against Domestic Abuse, when working with them in the North Herts area.?

Gavin Cansfield, chief executive of housing association settle said ?As a housing association, our role at settle goes beyond being a landlord.

Our social purpose drives everything we do, and for some residents that means providing extra support to help them live comfortably in their homes. We are really proud to work with SADA and make sure our residents can come to us if they are experiencing domestic abuse and access the support and services they need.?

For more information on SADA in North Herts: www.north-herts.gov.uk/ home/community/community-safety/ domestic-abuse-support

#Stayathomesavelives

Video: Women's Day Stevenage CLP Women?s Forum celebrated International Women?s day with diversity and unity.

They presented their member?s handmade wreath to Lady Constance Bulwer-Lytton?s mausoleum in Knebworth and thanks went to Martha Cobbold for being so accommodating .

Thanks also went to members who came along to support the group.

The presentation was followed with refreshments, a film about local suffrage experiences and music.

A huge thanks went to Ellie Bullen-Ryner who played and sang several songs and read a poem. What a talented women! The group also welcomed several new members and some who may become members.

Thanks also to token men reps John G and Cris C and to both Lorraine and Cris for helping to bring the celebration to fruition.

The group collected donations amounting to ÂŁ17 for SADA which were due to be passed on.

The group had an enjoyable time and a good opportunity to talk. #InternationalWomensDay #EachforEqual #stevenagelabourwomensforum

#Stayathomesavelives

Council back IWD event International Women?s Day this year was a global day which celebrated the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

The day also marked a call to action for accelerating gender equality.

The campaign theme for International Women?s Day 2020 is #EachforEqual, an equal world is an enabled world, where we can actively choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women?s achievements.

Gender equality is not a women?s issue but a business issue.

Therefore, Gender equality is essential for economies and communities to thrive.

A gender equal world can be healthier, wealthier and more harmonious. #EachforEqualis about 'Collective Individualism.' The IWD 2020 campaign theme is drawn from a notion of 'Collective Individualism', where we can each help to create a gender equal world.

Strike the#EachforEqualpose this IWD 2020 Therefore, this International Women?s Day, you were asked to put your arms out front and STRIKE THE #EachforEqual POSE to motivate each other to make International Women's Day YOUR day and make a positive difference for women everywhere.

This International Women?s Day you were asked to showcase news of successes and your achievements, share information that will inspire and inform other women to take action, so that they in turn will increase their confidence, so we canachieve an equal worldsupporting economies and ensuring communities thrive.

The 2020 #EachforEqualcampaign will run all year long and didn't end on International Women's Day. Stevenage Borough Council in partnership with Women in Business Network (WIBN) were once again

delighted to support International Women?s Day. They would like to encourage women across Stevenage and Herts, who lead in the area of social, arts and culture, politics and in business, many of whom are in senior positions, in global businesses and make a huge contribution to the local, national and international economy to share news of successes and achievements to inspire other women and support an equal world. This International Women?s Day, Stevenage Borough Council supported the #EachforEqual campaign to accelerate gender equality to support a morehealthier, wealthier and more harmonious world.

International Women?s Day 2019 saw groups around the world celebrating the#BalanceforBetter International Women's Day campaign theme in highly successful and effective ways to support a strong call-to-action to support a better world to guide and galvanise continuous collective action, forging women's equality.

As part of the Celebrations in 2019, Stevenage Borough Council in partnership with the Women in Business Network, Federation of Small Businesses and the Business Technology Centre held an event to showcase women in business and leadership, with a number of inspirational speakers across Hertfordshire to inform delegates on the challenges they faced, how they were inspired to start-up their own business and how to inspire others to identify their uniqueness and increase their confidence, by promoting success and achievements.

International Women?s Day has been in active for well over a century, with the first International Women?s Day gathering in 1911, supported by over a million people. Today International Women?s Day belongs to all groups collectively and is not country, group or organisation specific.

Strike the#EachforEqualpose

#Stayathomesavelives

Video: Stevenage FC mark EFL day of action

St evenage Foot ball Club celebrat ed t he EFL Day of Act ion by last mont h by invit ing it s Foundat ion and a group of part icipant s t o t he First Team t raining ground t o speak wit h t he squad about t he wider impact t he Club has on it s communit y. For full det ails wat ch t he video above.

Like on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ St evenageFCOfficial/ Follow on Twit t er: t wit t er.com/ St evenageFC/ Follow on Inst agram: www.inst agram.com/st evenagefcofficial/ Subscribe on YouTube: www.yout ube.com/c/st evenagefcofficial/ Websit e: www.st evenagefc.com

#Stayathomesavelives

The MED 30 is back! After the success of our virtual event in January we're bringing back The MED 30 Challenge for April 2020!

We are all having to reconsider how we grab our daily exercise at the moment, as our lives have been turned upside down due to the restrictions of COVID-19. But, the fundraising team at Garden House Hospice Care are remaining positive and want to help you keep on top of your physical and mental health. For the month of April we are bringing back MED 30 - Move Every Day for 30 minutes, for 30 days.

During the 30 days of April we want to get you moving for 30 minutes, every day, so you can stay healthy; physically and emotionally, as well as keeping active.

Whether you are in isolation, looking for ways to exercise inside and outside, or keep the kids fit, healthy and entertained, moving every day for 30 minutes can be really easy to achieve.

You can complete any type of activity you like, whether it be walking, jogging, cycling, playing games and sports, or online dancing and fitness classes.

We will provide you with all the support you need through weekly emails which will share suggestions of activities you can do.

All we ask from you is to sign up and make a donation of ÂŁ30 per household or ÂŁ10 per person, which will go towards supporting local patients receiving end of life care.

It?s easy to get started too. All you need to do is register online. Then, from the 1st April simply do something active for 30 minutes every day for the next 30 days.

So, do something amazing and take up the MED 30 challenge.

Sign up today and email Jake from Fundraising on jake.amos@ghhospicecare.org.uk for more information.

#Stayathomesavelives The advisors at ARK Last ing W ills and Powers are qualified t o act as W ill, Last ing Power of At t orney and Funeral Plan consult ant s. They are also regulat ed by t heSociet y of W ill W rit ers. You can have peace of mind knowing t hat your needs will be looked aft er by professional company wit h all t he processes, syst ems and insurances in place t hat are necessary in order t o ensure t hat you and your family will be prot ect ed from t he worst .

Here Karen Greenall gives advice.

#Stayathomesavelives

Putt your golf ideas forward COMPETITION TIME Hey, we really miss you guys at Mr Mulligans but we have some fun for t he kids! We are looking for t he next golf hole designer! So whet her you want t o draw it , make it out of lego or go 3D, we would love t o see it ! The winner will win a FREE FAMILY PASS and we may even build it !

Upload your pic and t ag us via Facebook! Compet it ion closes 30/ 04/ 20. T's&C's apply. W inner announced 15/ 05/ 20.

#Stayathomesavelives

A message from the team at 360 Play 360 Play COVID-19 Updat e 360 is closed for t he t ime being We are sorry t o announce t hat following t he government advice t o us all on reducing social int eract ion and t o avoid smaller public spaces, we have t aken t he difficult decision t o close all our 360 Play cent res

unt il furt her not ice.

As a family business we are devast at ed t o announce t his decision but everyone?s healt h and safet y must come first .

We?d like t o t hank you for your loyalt y and underst anding during t his uncert ain t ime. We look forward t o welcoming you

again, hopefully very soon. If you have a play pass or an exist ing booking wit h us please visit our websit e ht t ps:// 360play.co.uk W it h our very best wishes, Duncan Phillips & t he 360 Play Team

#Stayathomesavelives

Woman convicted on six counts of benefit fraud A woman from Stevenage has been successfully prosecuted and ordered to pay a fine after pleading guilty of failing to Inform Stevenage Borough Council of a change of income.

On the 04 March 2020 at Stevenage Magistrates Court, Kim Newman from the St Nicholas area of Stevenage pleaded guilty to six counts under section 111A of the Social Security Administration Act 1992 and Regulation 8 of the Council Tax Reduction Schemes Regulations 2013.

The Court heard how Ms Newman had applied in 2014 for Housing Benefit and a reduction of her Council Tax. In 2018 it was discovered that Ms Newman had failed to declare changes of income in respect of her salary and had also failed to declare any income for her adult children. Both Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction are means tested and Ms Newman was under a duty to inform the council of the changes in household income. As a result Ms Newman received an overpayment of over £7,500.

Ms Newman pleaded guilty at the first opportunity for which she received credit from the bench and was sentenced to a Community Order of 12 months to complete 90 hours unpaid work and to pay prosecution costs of £85.00 and the Victim Surcharge of £85.00.

The Hertfordshire Shared Anti-Fraud Service and Stevenage Borough Council worked jointly with the Department of Work and Pensions to investigate the allegations and bring this successful prosecution.

You can report suspected fraud against Stevenage Borough Council in the strictest confidence. For more information, and to report your concerns, visit: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/spotfraud email: fraud.team@hertfordshire.gov.ukor call 0300 123 4033.

#Stevenage magazine spotlight on business

Awards success for Anglia Country Inns Anglian Country Inns (ACI), a family run hospitality group, with 9 establishments throughout East Anglia, including Redcoats Farmhouse and the Lytton Arms have won the coveted Best Premium Food Offer at The Publican Awards.

The Publican Awards, the most prestigious awards in the hospitality industry, are considered to be the ?Oscars?of the pub world. ACI won out against some impressive competition from the very best operators in the country including Seafood Pub Company, Brassiere Blanc and Bel & The Dragon.

ACI?s success is in recognition of their inspiring menus, award winning sustainability credentials and excellent training of their people. Judges commended them on their ?Eat Better Ethos?which runs through the whole company. This includes sourcing of the best local produce with long standing producer partnerships and educating customers in healthy eating with nutritionist collaborations.

Said James Nye, Managing Director ACI, ?Wow, this is a huge achievement. It wouldn?t be possible without the amazing people we have in our family, our wonderful suppliers and their dedication to creating fantastic food. From sourcing to service, everything we do at ACI is about making people happy through great experiences and it is so rewarding for everyone to be acknowledged at this highest level.?

The ACI estate includes 9 independent establishments

across Norfolk and Hertfordshire including The White Horse at Brancaster Staithe (Top 50 Gastro Pub), The Fox at Willian (noted by The Times as one of the best pubs with rooms) and The Farmhouse at Redcoats (which recently secured AA 4 Star Hotel& 2 AA Rosettes and won the 4 Counties Wedding Award 2020).

The Publican Awards are helping to raise money forPedalling for Pubs 2020, where a bunch of the industry leaders are taking on an epic cycle challenge across Jordan to raise money forOnly a Pavement Away. James Nye, ACI MD, has taken up this challenge as part of the company?s commitment to doing good things through work.

Pict ured ? The jubilant ACI management t eam wit h host Rob Becket t , Comedian - Kumour Uddin, ACI Head of Food, proudly holding t he winner?s t rophy

Get your Stevenage 10K entry in now The St evenage 10K is back and St evenage Magazine publisher Hasht ag Digit al Media is proud once again t he sponsor t he event .

ÂŁ18 for all ot her runners. Finishers receive a t shirt , medal and can enjoy t he free cake! Ent ries are available at :

The St evenage 10K for 2020 will be held on 20/ 9/ 2020. The race will st art at 10:30am wit h t he st art and finish in Hampson Park.

ht t ps:// www.racesonline.uk/race-ent ry/ st evenage10k/ index.php?id=1

Ent ries for t he St evenage 10K are now open! The ent ry fee is st ill ÂŁ16 for affiliat ed running club members and

ht t ps:// www.racesonline.uk/race-ent ry/ st evenage10k ht t ps:// www.racesonline.uk/race-ent ry/st evenage10k/

#Stayathomesavelives

Council due to invest in new waste technology Stevenage Borough Council has introduced new technology to improve waste collections in the borough.

The new technology ? which is used by over 60 local authorities in the country ? was introduced in March, enabling waste and recycling operatives to work electronically to record key service information, such as missed and contaminated bins.

The system allows information to be shared with the council?s contact centre in real time, which will ensure information is accurate and improve customer service for residents. The new system will generate efficiencies from better routes, reduced administration and improved productivity.

From April, residents will be able to access more services online, including reporting missed bins and booking bulky waste collections.

Councillor John Gardner, Executive Member for

Environment and Regeneration, said: ?The new technology will enable us to deliver a better, more efficient service to our residents. ?Currently, crews are unable to record and share which bins were not put out on the boundary in time for collection. The new technology means that crews will be able to pass information to our contact centre in real time, meaning they will only return to bins that were genuinely missed, ensuring the service is efficient and cost effective.?

Bins must be placed on the boundary by 7am on the day of collection. All reports of genuine missed bins must be made to the council within 48 hours of the missed collection, if the report is made before 12 noon on the day of collection, crews will then return on the same day. If the report is made after 12 noon on the day of collection, crews will return to collect by 4pm the following working day.

Time for Todd tickets now!

The superb Todd In The Hole Fest ival will be back on July 17-19 2020.

Tier 1 t icket s are now on sale, wit h individual day t icket s available as well as weekend t icket s.

And t he road t o #Todd2020 just got t hat bit easier. The new payment plan means you can secure your weekend t icket s t oday and spread t he cost over a 3 mont h period.

Find out more about t he payment plan prices here: ht t ps://t oddint hehole.t icket line.co.uk Don't forget for all t he lat est news of act s performing and ot her offers you can get updat es online and sign up for updat es.

Save t he dat e for next year and st ay in t ouch at ht t ps://t oddint hehole.t icket line.co.uk

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.

Text

On the final journey Funeral t ransport : Making your last journey personal There are many sayings in life about journeys and travel. A journey is a common metaphor for life itself and they form the basis of numerous inspirational quotes.

But we?re also a generation of physical globetrotters. We plot where we want to go, what we want to do; we have scratch maps to complete, bucket lists to fulfil.

So the final journey we make after we?ve passed away is, surely, just as significant. By choosing a mode of transport and a route to take to the final resting place, which are personal to the deceased, a funeral can feel more about their life than their death. It?s not about going into the dark and unknown, but celebrating life and creating more memories.

Our blog on personalising funerals [link to personalising funerals blog] touched on transport, but here we?ll look at it in more depth.

Why is funeral transport so significant?

There are two aspects to personalising funeral transport.

Firstly, it allows the deceased to travel in a way that is very personal to them, whether this is

by their own planning before they pass away, or down to friends and family fulfilling their wishes on their behalf. This might be in a vehicle they owned themselves, something they loved going in, or perhaps even always wanted to experience!

There was a story in the news recently of a man who?s dying wish it was to have his coffin transported in the bucket of the JCB he drove for 30 years. There are some beautiful pictures online of the JCB taking him on the short journey from his home to the funeral, followed by his family and friends on foot. (https://metro.co.uk/2019/04/24/ granddad-taken-funeralbucket-jcb-9294632/) The second aspect is about those left behind. Depending on the transport chosen, they can walk alongside, drive, or, in the case of a hand pulled bier, even carry their loved one themselves and be beside them right until the end. In some cases, following a traditional black hearse in a funeral car may feel quite distant and unfamiliar for the bereaved, perhaps even a bit stressful. It?s important to see how something as seemingly insignificant as the transport can

help our stress and mental attitude at such a difficult time. [link to funeral stress blog] A study by the Co-op revealed that more and more people want their funerals to be personal and celebratory affairs with Land Rovers and rainbow-hued vehicles to take them to their final resting places ? and companies are responding to these wishes up and down the country!

W hat t ypes of t ransport are available?

At Austin?s, we can arrange various modes of transport and always do our best to make your wishes happen. Aside from our traditional black hearses and limousines, we can offer?

A motorbike hearse with a sidecar for the coffin A VW campervan, A variety of different model Land Rovers A 1950 vintage lorry A hand pulled coffin bier, which has been in the Austin?s family for generations A horse-drawn carriage with black or white horses

Text

Text

Read, en joy an d sh ar e

Text

Wedding and party package Can you af f ord t o miss t he Forum's wedding package?

As l ong as booking is made by t he end of t his year wit h deposit paid it can be used f or t he ent ire 2020.

For a remarkabl e ÂŁ3,000 you can have excl usive use of t he f ul l suit e upst airs incl uding Fairview suit e. Incl udes: -

Room f rom 10am-midnight Cat ers up t o 500 Ful l use of t he kit chen and abil it y t o bring in booze and f ood.

Incl ude securit y 1 hot el room Col our t heme upl ight ers and use of screens f or phot os

For part ies, weddings recept ions, birt hdays and charit y event s we are t he venue f or you.

Book by Sept ember 30 2019 and use t his t o t he end of 2019.

Part y package incl udes: -

Noon - Midnight Ext ended bar l icence on appl icat ion ÂŁ500 per room, accommodat e 200 peopl e.

Can increase capacit y by booking a second room f or a 50% discount .

Incl udes dance f l oor, securit y, t abl e l inen and bar st af f , upl ight er and screens.

Cal l us now on 01438 779955

And how about our amazing part y package?

Read, en joy an d sh ar e

Text

Text

Read, en joy an d sh ar e

Text

Text

Text

Read, en joy an d sh ar e

Text

Book the best conference facilities for your business Text

Do you want t he very best f or your business?

The Forum Conf erence and Banquet ing Suit es in St evenage of f er t he f inest f acil it ies and t he best rat es - and we now have a special booking of f er which wil l al l ow you t o book f rom now unt il April 30 2020.

-

-

Dail y Del egat e rat e - f rom just ÂŁ25 f or a minimum of 10 peopl e Every 10t h person is f ree and a bot t l e of f izz f or t he booker.

Ideal meet ing space f or 20 peopl e, af t ernoon t ea cof f ee and cakes and l unch

Arrival t ea cof f ee and f resh baked past ries avail abl e Take a break wit h mid-morning t ea, cof f ee and biscuit s Af t ernoon hot and col d working buf f et l unch avail abl e Af t ernoon t ea, cof f ee and a sweet t reat f or al l del egat es Al l bookings incl ude f ul l use of st at ionery, room hire and equipment hire

Quot e Code: Forumbiz19 Cal l 01438 779955 and book now

Read, en joy an d sh ar e

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

Text

Read, en joy an d sh ar e

Text

Text

Text

Read, en joy an d sh ar e

Text

2

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

Copy writ ing

Social media market ing

Media t raining

Market ing

Crisis management

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

Text

Ashr idge Est at e

# St evenage April 2020

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

# PROPERTY STEVENAGE Let 's f ace it - w e live in a digit al w or ld - w h en

t h e agen t s w h o ar e act in g on beh alf of bu yer s,

w as t h e last t im e you u sed pr in t t o t r y an d bu y

seller s, lan dlor ds an d t h ose look in g t o r en t .

or sell a h ou se or t o look f or a pr oper t y t o r en t .

In t h ese pages you w ill f in d live lin k s st r aigh t

Th e on lin e w or ld allow s f or qu ick an d easy

t o t h e agen t s - so h it t h eir w ebsit es n ow , em ail

con n ect ion t o all h ou ses f or sale or r en t , w it h

t h em or ar r an ge a visit - all f r om t h e com f or t

f u ll f act s at you r f in ger t ips an d in st an t lin k s t o

of you r ow n ph on e.

101 High St r eet , St even age

Text

Tel 01438 231200 m ar k sim on est at es.co.u k

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

Text

Tel 01438 219282 let t in gs@t lcest at es.co.u k

61-63 High St r eet ,

Text

St even age Tel 01438 316846 w w w.pu t t er ills.co.u k

86 High St r eet ,

Text

St even age Tel 01438 728444 h om esan dm or t gages.co.u k

A-Top Pr oper t y Let t in gs, 1 Dr aper s Way, St even age

Text

Tel 01438 369173 con t act @a-t oplet t in g.co.u k

# PROPERTY STEVENAGE 24 M ar k et Place St even age

Text

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

19 M ar k et Place,

Text

St even age Tel 01438 312312 st even age@w r igh t sof .com

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

Text

Tel 01438 367753 sales@ow n -h om es.com

Text

Call 0800 0248 914

8 M ar k et Place, St even age

Text

Tel 01438 728444 st even age@con n ells.co.u k

74 High St r eet , St even age

Text

Tel 01438 870673 en qu ir ies@agen t h ybr id .co.u k

The independent local estate agent Text

2 M iddle Row , St even age Tel 01438 367753

w w w.ow n -h om es.com

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

w w w.agen t h ybr id.co.u k

Text

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?

w w w.por t f olio-apar t m en t s.co.u k

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

w w w.con n ells.co.u k

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