BH Living Winter 2024

Winter 2023/24

News from the three towns of Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole

Wonderful Winter!

Families in crisis: BH Living joins Hamper Appeal to help local families.

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Later Years: What care choices are available to you or a loved one?

Cha-cha-cha: Your chance to win dance lessons!

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– page 25

Wrap up warm, there’s lots to do in BCP.

Find us online at bhliving.co.uk @bhlivingdorset

One magazine distributed to over 170,000 homes across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

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Welcome

Hello everyone,

Welcome to the Winter edition of BH Living which includes our usual fun-filled What’s On listings for Christmas and beyond on pages 16-17 and page 30. For the younger (and young at heart!) ones among us, there’s also some top tips about where the big jolly fellow might be hiding in and around BCP this Christmas season.

(You can even book in to have breakfast with him – I wonder if he’s a “Full-English” man or would a simple boiled egg suffice?)

For most of us, Christmas is a happy time full of fun and merriment but there will be some (probably more this year than ever) wondering how they will make ends meet this festive season. The cost-of-living crisis will put extra pressure on people’s household budgets at what can be an expensive time of year. That’s why this year BH Living will be teaming up with the Citygate Hamper Appeal which aims to distribute food hampers to local families in need this Christmas.

The food parcels will include all the food items that will enable local families who wouldn’t be able to celebrate Christmas in the way that many of us are used to, to have a happy Christmas with loved ones. As well as contributing to the appeal, our own team of drivers and staff will be rolling up their sleeves on December 22nd to help get the important Christmas parcels out to families in need. More about this on page 13.

If you’re one of those families that are finding things hard at the moment, there is a special article on page 14 that gives helpful money and energy saving tips as well as pointers to direct you to where you can find more help and support. Please don’t suffer in silence, there is help available and the earlier you access it, the better the outcome is likely to be.

And as the year draws to a close, many of us will be starting to think about new year resolutions. What will yours be? Fitness always tends to feature heavily in mine and as this year’s Strictly Come Dancing winner is announced, I’m wondering if dancing might be a better option than joining a gym? The health benefits of dancing can’t be underestimated as our article on page 25 highlights – and there’s even a chance to win a course of 12 dance lessons of your choice thanks to our friends at Pavilion Dance, so dust off your dancing shoes for 2024!

Have a great Christmas and I’ll speak to you next year!

Jason Harris

BH Living Magazine, both in print and electronically, is produced, published and distributed by IMS Group who are an independent magazine publisher with no affiliation to any council or political party. All views and comments expressed in editorial content or by advertisers do not necessarily reflect views of the IMS Group.

BH Living is distributed door-to-door in Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole to over 170,000 households. It can also be found at selected pick-up points across the three towns or downloaded at www.bhliving.co.uk All content is copyrighted by IMS Group and may not be used or reproduced wholly or in part without the written consent of IMS Ltd.

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Contents 4-9 Local News 10-12 Business News 14-15 Cost of Living Top Tips 16-18 Winter What’s On 20-22 Retirement Living Choices 25 Competition Win dance lessons

Could you support a young person?

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Book Reviews What’s on for grown-ups

Published & Produced by: IMS Group Distributed by: IMS Group Editor: Jason Harris Editorial Assistant: Lauren Keep Graphic Design: Dan Bartlett For editorial enquiries contact: editor@bhliving.co.uk For advertising enquiries contact: sales@ims-group.co.uk

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Almost £1,000,000 of funding for more CCTV in Dorset A wide range of initiatives all aimed at making our county safer will receive funding after a successful bid was made to the Home Office’s Safer Street Fund by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, BCP Council and Dorset Council.

The county has been awarded £964,055 to drive forward projects and initiatives which centre on the safety of women and girls within the night-time economy as well as tackling crime in Dorset’s more rural communities.

Safer Streets will see the introduction of a Women’s Night Safety Charter with local businesses nominating a champion within their organisation to actively promote women’s night safety. One thousand ‘Theft and Burglary’ prevention packs to mark rural farm property will be given out to members of Dorset’s rural communities.

Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I am delighted with this result – to have almost £1 million coming into Dorset in one go is unprecedented. The range of projects that will receive help is on a scale that we haven’t seen before.

“The benefit of this funding will be felt across the whole county – with more CCTV cameras being put up in Weymouth and Sherborne, and cameras being put into areas such as Horseshoe Common and West Hill in Bournemouth.”

Dorset Police Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan said: “This is a remarkable result, and our thanks go to all those involved in this successful bid. The money will give a tremendous boost to the efforts of both Dorset Police and its partners to keep women and girls safe in the

evening and night-time economy and provide reassurance to our rural communities.”

Councillor Vikki Slade, Leader of BCP Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places, said: “As Leader of the council, ensuring the safety and security of people in our communities remains one of my highest priorities. I am very grateful for this investment, which will support us in creating a safer night-time economy for all residents whilst also tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG), which I appreciate is an issue of great concern.

“Recently, we initiated our Town Team campaign with Dorset Police and other multi-agency partners; reassuring residents and communities that a year-round partnership is working collaboratively to prevent antisocial behaviour (ASB) and crime in Bournemouth town centre.

“That partnership is already seeing positive results, with the team having completed over 260 engagements with local businesses and members of the public.

“This funding will help us to develop this service further, alongside supporting the introduction of other crime prevention initiatives that will help to keep people safe on our streets, in night-time venues and in their homes.”

New year resolution sorted: Keep active over the festive period whilst helping raise funds for charity!

Organised by Olivia, an NHS Dietitian from Poole and her husband Dominic, the ‘Twelve Day Marathon’ is a fundraising event for the Multiple Sclerosis Trust. It is your chance to complete 26.2 miles over the 12 days of Christmas, however and wherever you like.

Participants can run, jog, walk or wheelchair race the miles, and break the distance up into digestible chunks over the twelve days – making it accessible to almost everyone.

Before the birth of her child, running ultramarathons was Olivia’s hobby and she was just getting back into running when her first relapse hit. Olivia thought that her running days were over, however she has since recovered from the relapse well and has started treatment to slow down disease progression, which has meant she has been able to put her trainers back on and hit her much beloved trails.

Olivia, 33, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) earlier this year after losing sensation in the left side of her body just 8 months after giving birth to her daughter.

The shock diagnosis has encouraged her to sign up to the London Marathon 2024 to help raise money for the MS Trust, a charity that has supported her through this challenging journey so far. To help fundraise, she has set up the ‘Twelve Day Marathon’ to encourage people to join her in staying active whilst our bodies allow us to.

“It’s a great way to keep motivated over the Christmas holidays, and carries you into the new year – so no new year’s resolutions needed!” said Olivia chirpily, however if you still need a little extra motivation, Olivia confirmed thatl upon completion, all participants who finish will receive their very own marathon finishers medal! The challenge

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will be taking place December 25th 2023 – January 5th 2024, and already has participants from all over the globe!

You can sign up via their website twelvedaymarathon.co.uk – Entry is £14 which covers registration, your medal and postage and a donation to the MS Trust (Olivia & Dominic take no profit or wages and ensure that all remaining funds are donated to the charity).

Olivia with her baby daughter

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Forest Holme Gardens Win Gold at Poole Awards Forest Holme Hospice in Poole has fought off fierce competition to win gold in the Loving Care Homes category in Poole in Bloom 2023.

The annual Poole in Bloom competition was founded to celebrate the efforts of local community groups, businesses, and households to make Poole a beautiful place to live. The hospice’s volunteer gardeners David Dawson, Viv Taylor and Petula Fishlock were awarded the commemorative plaque at the presentation evening on Wednesday October 25 at Compton Acres.

All the patient bedrooms at the hospice, which provides specialist end-of-life care to patients with life-limiting illnesses,

overlook a central courtyard garden which is maintained by the team of volunteers, along with the gardens at the front and the wildlife garden along the side of the hospice.

Sara Fripp, fundraising manager at Forest Holme Hospice Charity, said: “This award is great recognition for our wonderful volunteer gardeners, David, Viv and Petula, who come every week to make sure our patients have a beautiful view to look out on from their bedroom windows.

“We cannot thank our green fingered volunteers enough for their tireless work to help Forest Holme bloom.”

Forest Holme volunteer gardeners David Dawson, Viv Taylor and Petula Fishlock won Gold at Poole in Bloom

Council seeks residents views as it addresses £44m funding gap

Most of the money spent goes towards providing services for when people need support most - keeping children and vulnerable adults safe. But this demand is rising and is predicted to cost an extra £12.6 million over the next financial year, not including any potential pay rises.

Residents of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are being invited to have their say on the council’s plans for setting next year’s budget.

• Library opening hours • Street lighting • Public Protection • Community Safety Accreditation Scheme • CCTV • Christchurch Household Recycling Centre • Paddling Pools • Grounds Maintenance Service • Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre • School Crossing Patrol

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council’s budget consultation, which launched on 21 November, will enable residents to consider specific saving proposals before any decisions are formally made.

Feedback from council taxpayers, residents, council service users, community groups, Town and Parish Councils, businesses and partner organisations will contribute to the ongoing work to ‘prioritise proposals’ for next year’s budget setting, which is due to take place in February 2024.

UK councils currently face an unprecedented challenge. Soaring inflation has driven up costs and many councils are facing an increase in demand for their services, such as social care and children’s services.

BCP Council is currently working to close a £44million funding gap with £315.3 million being currently spent delivering public services to over 400,000 residents across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole.

The consultation is seeking views on potential changes in the following services:

Addressing local residents in a council statement, BCP Council Leader Cllr. Vikki Slade said: “We have promised you that we will be open and transparent throughout this difficult process, so that’s why we want to hear from you through the consultation process to help us prioritise our budget proposals.

“We are facing a challenging economic environment on a scale we’ve never experienced before. We are not alone in this – we are dealing with the same tough financial pressures as all other local authorities are.

“We [BCP Council] are the safety net for some of the most vulnerable in our society – so we must make sure we have the funds to support them when they need us most.

“We cannot afford to continue living beyond our means and that means we need to look at what services we can afford to continue to provide in the future.”

People have until 11:59pm on Wednesday 20 December 2023 to complete the survey and submit their ideas by visiting: haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/budget

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BCP Council launches new energy-efficient homes

Beryl boss becries lack of action on e-scooters in King’s Speech Beryl CEO and co-founder, Phil Ellis, described November’s King’s Speech as ‘a missed opportunity’.

The speech delivered on Tuesday 6 November at the Palace of Westminster, outlined plans to extend the existing e-scooter trials until May 2026, but offered no mention of new laws relating to the vehicles.

“We’ve shown over a period of time that the demand for e-scooters is there.” said Ellis, “People want to use them and do so because they offer so many benefits that are complementary to other forms of sustainable transport.

“When schemes are delivered properly and in an integrated fashion, cities know that they can rely on e-scooters as a fundamental part of their transport strategies.

11 affordable properties Cheshire Drive and Wilkinson Drive

“The failure to deliver clear and coherent legislation for e-scooters in this year’s speech is a real missed opportunity and could have made them even more accessible to a greater number of people.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council has recently completed the development of 11 brand new affordable propertieson land between Cheshire Drive and Wilkinson Drive in Bournemouth.

“This would have boosted their popularity further and normalised their presence on our roads which, in turn, would amplify calls for the better infrastructure that would improve safety and the perception of safety.

The development will provide homes for local families and consists of a block of nine two-bedroom flats and two threebedroom houses.

“The result of that would be even more people leaving their cars at home - so less traffic, a healthier population and cleaner air - surely things that we all want.”

Cllr Kieron Wilson, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services said: “I’m really looking forward to seeing these new properties start to fill up with families.

“I’ve said many times that a home is the foundation on which we all build our lives and that affordable, quality housing is the cornerstone of a happy and healthy community.

“So, I am very proud of what we have delivered, and the difference it will make to those who will live here. This development also shows how we’re putting sustainability at the heart of everything we do – to the benefit of our tenants and the environment.”

The properties are built to the highest eco-standards, claim the council, using fabric first principles which prioritise the energy efficiency of a property from its conception. This creates an airtight, insulated building that reduces the amount of energy required to heat the home.

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The buildings are all fitted with triple glazing and solar panels, and the energy for each property is provided from a renewable source by ground source heat pumps. This means greater energy efficiency and lower bills for the tenants.

The development also has ample parking on site and a communal garden for the flats.

Families in the houses will also enjoy their own private garden.

Tenants will begin to move in and make these new properties their homes early in November.

Meanwhile more council owned properties have been built in Newtown, Poole with a new development of 22 homes comprising of 10 three bedroom houses and 12 one and two bedroom flats.

New laws on e-scooters were announced in the Queen’s Speech in May 2022. At present e-scooters may only be ridden on the roads legally through rental trial schemes that have been set up in dozens of towns and cities. Beryl currently operates four trial schemes in Bournemouth and Poole, Norwich, the Isle of Wight and in the West Midlands.

Released in December 2022, the Department for Transport’s National Evaluation of e-scooter trials findings report showed Bournemouth to be the second and Norwich to be the fifth most utilised trials in the 32 across the country. To date, the Beryl trials have generated over 1,718,000 journeys across nearly 5.5m km, replacing nearly 485,000 private transport journeys (car, van, taxi or motorbike).

Residents have already started moving into the properties at the Alice Gardens Development. The energy efficient homes have air source heat pumps installed with underfloor heating and a mechanical ventilation heat recovery system which helps control air quality, comfort, and moisture levels.

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making better connections

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Generous donation to bring ‘communication, accessibility and inclusiveness’ to life-limited children Local charity Julia’s House which looks after the most seriously ill children in Dorset and Wiltshire needing 24 hour care for their complex and often rare medical conditions has received a generous donation of specialist IT equipment.

Lifelites, a charity which enables children with life-limiting conditions to play, create and communicate through assistive technology made the lifechanging donation of equipment which included an Eyegaze, which allows children to paint a picture, play games and communicate by tracking the child’s eye movements with a special sensor, and a PODS sensory tent, which takes children into the magical world of space, the North Pole or a forest, with remote controlled internal lighting, complementing sound effects and a matching audiobook.

Natalie Sheehy, Lead Nurse for Julia’s House said about the donation: “It’s so exciting to be able to offer this equipment to the children and young people in our care. It isn’t just about play but communication, accessibility and the feeling of inclusiveness it gives the children. The POD is portable, so can be used anywhere, and it provides a very useful distraction if children are having procedures completed which could be upsetting to them.

“We’re incredibly grateful for this generous donation, which is going to make a huge difference to the children we care for.”

Rob Lightfoot, CEO of Lifelites demonstrates some of the donated equipment to Julia's House Lead Nurse Natalie Sheehy and Julia's House CEO Martin Edwards

Dispose of your Christmas tree sustainably whilst helping raise funds for local charity Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity has launched its annual Christmas tree recycling service sponsored by Waste Management Facilities.

Bookings are now being taken to have your Christmas tree collected from Friday 5 January until Monday 8 January 2024 from Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Wimborne, East Dorset and Ringwood.

Francesca Potton, community fundraiser, commented: “We’re thrilled to see the return of our Treecycling service. It’s one of our biggest fundraisers of the year.

By booking to have your Christmas tree collected by Diverse Abilities you can help us raise vital funds to run our services that support children and adults with disabilities in Dorset.”

Collections can be booked online for a suggested £10 donation, and the charity’s team of volunteers will take to Dorset’s roads over the collection weekend in January to ensure the trees are disposed of sustainably and recycled into wood chippings.

Diverse Abilities is also recruiting volunteers to help the Treecycling team to collect and recycle Christmas trees. Families and businesses with access to vans, pickup trucks, or buses should contact Fran on 01202 718266 to discuss how to get involved and help make a difference for the charity.

Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/trees to book your collection for the first weekend of January.

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Latest NHS figures show marked drop in obesity amongst primary school children Primary school children living with obesity continued to fall in 2022/23, after childhood obesity figures reached their highest recorded levels during the Covid-19 pandemic, new NHS England figures show.

However despite the overall good news, obesity prevalence among year 6 children, aged 10 to 11, still remains above pre-pandemic levels.

Statistics published in October show obesity prevalence among four and five-year-olds in reception classes fell to 9.2% in 2022/23 from 10.1% in 2021/22, compared with the highest recorded figure in 2020/21 of 14.4%.

The decrease signals a return to prepandemic levels for this age group and is one of the lowest levels since 2006/07.

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Residents views sought on BCP Council vision for local trees and woodlands

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Poole BID Director resigns After 18 months of service, Georgina Bartlett, Director and Chair of the Poole BID board has announced her resignation.

During her time at the BID, Georgina had introduced the concept of subgroups to improve focus and delivery, as well as being influential in the tender for the new web page platform.

Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council has launched a public consultation on its draft Urban Forest Strategy, created to maximise and enhance all the benefits trees and woodlands provide to the local environment and communities.

On her departure Georgina commented, ‘I am proud of what has been achieved by the BID team in the last 18 months and it is in a stronger position to support the levy payers than when I joined in early 2022. I wish them ongoing success.’

The council’s innovative evidence-based strategy proposes an ‘exciting vision for the future of trees’ in the BCP area until 2050.

Meanwhile Poole BID are actively recruiting for new directors including a new Chair. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Jacqui Rock, Poole BID lead, at jacqui@ poolebid.com.

Councillor Andy Hadley, Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy, said: “I’m pleased to bring forward this draft strategy, which for the first time sets out a clear vision for the future of trees and woodlands across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

“Trees play a vital role in supporting biodiversity and this strategy recognises that our trees and woodland will also play their part in helping meet the council’s ambitious climate and ecological targets.

“The BCP region boasts a diverse treescape, with one of the highest levels of urban tree canopy covers found in a coastal area in England.

However, some areas have few trees, and tree cover in private residential gardens is declining, with most wards in the conurbation experiencing canopy loss over the past decade. This council wants to turn the tide on this decline and support tree growth across all wards in the BCP area.”

The council’s first Urban Forest Strategy was developed using the feedback and comments received in a tree and woodland public survey carried out in autumn 2022. Alongside this feedback, the council facilitated two stakeholder workshops, which included representatives from council departments, local businesses, charities and tree specialists.

Councillor Hadley added: “I urge everyone to give their view, as this strategy’s success will require us all to play our part. A healthy urban forest will contribute to improving local air quality and resilience to flooding, whilst also providing habitats for wildlife and help support the health and wellbeing of our communities.”

To take part in the survey visit https://haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/urban-forest-strategy The consultation closes at 11.59pm on Sunday 17 December 2023.

New CBeebies Panto coming to UK Cinemas from 1st December CBeebies has once again taken to the stage for Christmas 2023, with a brand new adaptation of the famous British legend. It was filmed live at the Venue Cymru in Llandudno Wales and will include original extra scenes and fun added in too just for cinema audiences.

This adaptation of the traditional story will see Robin Hood and his Merry Band protecting Sherwood Forest and its animal inhabitants from the Sheriff of Nottingham, who has a very naughty plan to destroy the wood of its riches for her own benefit.

The World Premiere will be in Leicester Square on Saturday 25th November and there will be special previews in Manchester and Belfast before opening widely across the UK and Ireland on 1st December.

The theatrical version includes an exclusive presentation by Andy Day that can only be seen on the BIG SCREEN at your local cinema!

Robin Hood stars Rhys Stephenson as Robin Hood, Maddie Moate as Marion, Jennie Dale as the Sheriff, Dodge as Tiny the Squirrel, Justin Fletcher as a very important Bee plus CBeebies’ own Ben Faulks as Grandfather Oak! The CBeebies Panto on the BIG SCREEN nationwide from 1st December More information and ticket booking at cbeebiespanto.com

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Bookings now open for Careers and Apprenticeship Show 2024

BCP Council visit circular economy start-up firm

Thursday 14 March 2024 Bournemouth International Centre

BCP Council’s Economic Development (ED) sector leads for Low Carbon and Engineering & Manufacturing paid a visit to Circular11, a plastic processing start-up based in Christchurch.

Circular11 takes plastic waste that would otherwise go to incineration and turns it into a composite material that is manufactured into outdoor products that have a net-negative carbon footprint.

Booking is now open for the Careers & Apprenticeship Show 2024.

The show was considered highly successful when last held in March 2022, with over 85 employers in attendance and over 3800 young people signed up to attend during the day; with an additional 2000 individuals, including parents and carers, in the evening.

The show returns to the Bournemouth International Centre, on Thursday 14 March 2024, with set up the day before.

Exhibitor costs start from £375 which includes all stand set up and catering.

Full details of timings and what is included including sponsorship opportunities can be found here: www.careersandapprenticeshipshow.co.uk

Local firm stops over 89,000 tonnes of CO2e from entering atmosphere Organic recycling and renewable energy company, Eco Sustainable Solutions prevented 89,435 tonnes (the equivalent of over 500 jumbo jets) of CO2e from entering the atmosphere by diverting waste from landfill and converting it into products or green energy according to its 2022 Sustainability Report Eco recycled an incredible 282,000 tonnes of organic waste last year, including over 50,000 tonnes of garden waste, which, alone, is the equivalent of offsetting 4,200 double decker buses! In 2022, Eco also produced enough green energy to power over 5,600 homes by converting Dorset’s waste to renewable energy through its Anaerobic Digestion and Biomass Combustion facilities.

Jamie Williams, Eco’s Environment, Health and Safety Manager, explains: “At Eco, we put a huge amount of effort and care into ensuring that we not only benefit the local community through recycling waste, but we do it in a beneficial way to our immediate surroundings, demonstrated through our ongoing heathland restoration project which has helped significantly increase the biodiversity of the of the local area.”

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The visit included a tour of the facility to see the manufacturing process and product range along with a chance to discuss their ambitious plans for growth in the circular economy.

Christine Davies-Eyre, ED Officer for Low Carbon, said: “It’s incredible to see what Circular11 has achieved since it began less than two years ago in December 2021. Businesses like Circular11 are playing an active role in our ED Strategy Pledge to deliver net zero carbon targets before 2050 and leading the ambition to make BCP one of the most sustainable coastal city regions in the world”.

Front: ED Officers Duncan Newman and Christine Davies-Eyre Back: Circular11 Founders Ben and Connor

The company’s 2022 Sustainability Report highlights include:

52,667

tonnes of green waste recycled

35,050

tonnes of food waste recycled

61,944

19,343

tonnes of street sweepings recycled

16,240

MWh of electricity produced

89,435

tonnes of excavated soils recycled

tonnes of co2e prevented from entering the atmosphere by diverting waste from landfill

42,971

5,600

tonnes of wood waste recycled with 33,500 tonnes of wood for Energy Recovery off site and 9,400 tonnes of wood for Energy Recovery on-site

Eco’s anaerobic digestion (AD) and combined heat and power (CHP) renewable energy plants produced enough energy to power the equivalent of over 5600 homes

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Military veterans to benefit from BU student wellbeing app University who turned her concept into a workable prototype. Local company Dorset Tech have since taken the prototype and developed the app into a commercial product that can now be used by members of the public.

Groups within the armed forces community are at a greater risk of suffering with their mental health and might be in need of targeted support, according to Savannah: “The concept for the app came from repeatedly hearing the same sorts of stories around people needing support but either not knowing where to go, not wanting to ask for help, or feeling rejected when they have approached charities who weren’t able to help them.”

A final year Bournemouth University (BU) student has developed a wellbeing app designed to help military personnel and veterans who struggle with isolation, anxiety and depression, and help them to connect with the right mental health support.

The app named ‘Urbackup’ was developed

by BU student Savannah Thompson who is currently in the final year of her BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences course at BU. Savannah, who was medically discharged from the Army in 2021 won a place on the ‘Virgin Money Foundation Young Change Maker Fellowship’ for the initial concept Savannah Thompson graduating of the app. Along with funding from ‘The Virgin Money Foundation’ and ‘The National Lottery’. Savannah was able to take the idea to students at Northumbria

Savannah’s own personal experiences including witnessing colleagues suffer with their own mental health has helped her to develop the app, saying: “I think a lot of people hear about military mental health and immediately assume we’re discussing combat related PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), and that does make up a

“The concept for the app came from repeatedly hearing the same sorts of stories around people needing support but either not knowing where to go, not wanting to ask for help, or feeling rejected when they have approached charities who weren’t able to help them.”

The app works like a traffic light system to help the user navigate to the right type of services. When ‘amber’ or ‘red’ is selected, a notification is sent to one of the charities linked with the app, who are then able to get in touch with the individual user. There is also a quiz feature for when the user is unsure about what services they might require, and alert messages display the phone numbers of 24/7 crisis lines.

Some of the charities already involved in the App include: Rock2Recovery, Healthier Heroes, Tough Enough to Care, Phoenix Heroes, Veterans at Ease, Tom Harrison House, Aggie Weston’s and Head Up charity to join soon. Savannah hopes to see more charities join the app in the future, as well as involving other countries to adopt similar Apps including the USA, saying: “As part of my fellowship, I was able to travel to America last year where I met with some inspiring organisations, charities and individuals working in the veteran mental health space. I’m currently working on having a US version integrated into the App for use there too.”

The app is available to all serving or former members of the British Armed Forces.

For further information, or to download the App visit the ‘Urbackup’ website at: www.urbackup.co.uk.

percentage of cases. However, in the same way that civilians can struggle with anxiety and depression, military personnel aren’t exempt from these either. It can be related to service, traumas from childhood, the stresses of everyday life, but when it comes to the military, people are expected to put the service first, largely at the expense of their personal lives.”

She continues: “In addition to this, it is a big change for personnel to transition out of the military and into the civilian world again. There will be some people who struggle immediately with the change and others who struggle years down the line.

Some will suffer from service attributed traumas from deployments, while others will leave the service and cope without any need for support.”

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BH Living becomes a partner in Christmas Hamper Appeal supporting local families this Christmas Whilst many of us are wondering what to buy the ‘person who has everything’ for Christmas, there will be some families across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole who will be wondering what food they can afford to put on the table, so that Christmas doesn’t feel just like any other day.

Families across BCP and the UK as a whole, are facing increasing financial hardship with new research from Family Action revealing that 1 in 7 parents/carers they surveyed saying they won’t be able to afford to buy presents for their children this Christmas due to financial constraints.

“We’re a family of 11. Three of my children have additional needs and we struggle to get by. Receiving a hamper definitely made our Christmas. Without it, we would not have had enough to celebrate together.” Said Tara, a local mum and carer who received a hamper last Christmas.

This is the 7th year the initiative has taken place. Last year the Hamper Appeal was able to brighten the Christmas holidays for hundreds of local families.

Churches, charities, agencies, businesses, schools and community groups from

721

85

people helped to partner organisations celebrate Christmas got involved

230 11,000 nominations received for families to receive hampers

items of food collected

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across BCP are joining together to deliver food hampers to families who would otherwise struggle to afford to celebrate Christmas together.

The hampers are packed full of three days of food and festive treats as well as a toy voucher thanks to generous donations from local businesses. Each family, volunteer and supporter also receives a Christmas card with a message of hope.

The initiative is led by Citygate Church’s Hamper Appeal. With the support of Bournemouth Foodbank, Citygate have been leading a growing network of partner groups who nominate families to receive hampers, collect food, recruit volunteers and raise funds.

Volunteers Needed This year’s delivery day is Friday 22 December 2023, when a mass operation gets underway at Citygate Church as volunteers pack and personally deliver each hamper - one delivery driver even uses a pedal bike and trailer! This year the team at BH Living will be rolling up our sleeves to help on our last day of work before the Christmas break.

“I just wanted to say thanks for the opportunity to be involved in the hamper delivery operation. It really was a privilege to bring something of Christmas to the local families and a great use of volunteering time.” John, volunteer driver

200

£13,400

volunteers involved to help put smiles on faces of children and their families

raised to support ongoing efforts to help local families

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You can help put smiles on the faces of local families this Christmas Many individuals who hear about the project through local news or social media choose to deliver or sponsor a hamper. Here’s how you can get involved and help BH make a difference in our local area this Christmas:

1. Sponsor a hamper www.hamperappeal.org/sponsor

2. Consider joining our fleet of volunteer hamper drivers www.hamperappeal.org/bournemouth

3. Register your organisation as a partner in support of the Hamper Appeal www.hamperappeal.org/partners

4. Donate to the hamper campaign. Every penny counts and can help buy one of the items that go inside the hamper. www.hamperappeal.org/donate

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CO S T

O F

L I V I NG each year. Again this benefit doesn’t need to be applied for, it will automatically be applied to benefit payments.

Cost of living payments

Cost of Living: Surviving Winter and beyond

by Lauren Keep

Winter is often an expensive time of year. And now as the temperature drops the heat increases on household budgets Although energy costs have reduced since their peak this time last year, inflation is still well above the bank of England targets. What this means for the average householder is that prices of food, energy, transport and all the other essentials we need to live, remain stubbornly high.

Although inflation is now heading towards the 2% target, and has almost halved since the 11.1% peak in October 2022, prices are not coming down in the supermarkets. In fact they are still rising.

Because the overall inflation rate is reducing it doesn’t necessarily follow that prices in the shops are reducing - they are just not going up as fast. Instead of going up at a rate of 11.1%, they are now going up at the rate of 5.9%, but they are still going up and they are still squeezing household incomes.

To heat or to eat?

Help for families The cost of food essentials and non-alcoholic drinks has still been rising markedly over the past year. In fact when food is looked at separately to other prices, it’s found that food prices are still going up at the rate of 12.9% as of September 2023 according to the ONS (Office for National Statistics).

Food is now rising at the fastest rate in four decades with households in the UK having experienced a significant fall in living standards compared to late 2021 with 92% of UK households recently reporting that their cost of living had increased noticeably compared to the same period last year.

Higher interest rates begin to bite The number of households struggling with debt has increased by two-thirds since 2017, according to new analysis with higher interest rates placing more pressure on families already grappling with higher food, energy and fuel costs. The number of UK households behind on mortgage payments is now 87,930, a 7% jump on the previous 3 months.

Choices between heating and eating will sadly still be the choices that some in BCP have to make this winter, as more and more families turn to local food banks to help put food on the table.

Due to the current ongoing cost of living crisis, energy debt is also a rising issue throughout the country, with a staggering £2.25 billion owed to energy companies by UK customers

Despite being out of the news over recent months, the cost-of-living crisis and energy crisis are still likely to be major challenges across the country as many struggle for a second winter.

As the cost of living crisis continues, there is support available through government and council schemes. These schemes can help those struggling with rising costs such as energy, rent, food and housing.

Help is available

Cold weather payments The Cold Weather Payment is another example of a payment scheme which you can apply for if you are struggling this winter.

If it is very cold where you live, (at or below 0 degrees), and you are receiving certain benefits, you may be eligible to receive £25 a week for every 7 days of cold weather.

This applies between November and March

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There are also other payment schemes in place such as the Cost-of-living payments which are one-off payments ranging from £299 to £301 for households on meanstested benefits, such as pension, disability or Universal Credit. You may be able to get up to five payments to help with the cost of living depending on which benefits or tax credits you receive. People or families entitled to these payments will not have to apply for these payments, they will be paid automatically through benefit and pensions payments.

For families with children who are struggling this winter, there are many schemes such as the ‘Healthy Start’ programme. If you are more than 10 weeks pregnant, or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to receive help to buy food and milk through the NHS Healthy Start scheme. Those who are eligible should be sent a card that will be valid to use in certain shops.

If you have school-age children, there are several ways to save on costs and seek support for your children. For example, free school meals and school transport for term times.

During the holidays, there is the Holiday Activities and Food programme which is government-funded and provides children from reception year to age 16 with free Easter, summer and Christmas holiday activities and a free meal whilst at the activity.

More help and advice can be found at: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/ Communities/Cost-of-living-help/ Cost-of-living-help.aspx including information on benefit payments, housing, health and access to food partnerships including food banks.

Help is available but it’s important for you and your family to seek help sooner rather than later and to act fast if you think you are going to experience hardship. As well as help from government and council sources, help and advice is also available from your bank/building society and many energy providers are able to offer assistance too. But you will need to speak to call their customer service numbers which can usually be found on a recent bill or statement.

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ENERG Y

S AVING

Keeping a lid on energy costs According to Citizens Advice, one in four people said in a recent survey that their energy bill is the essential cost of which they are most worried about and brings them the most stress and anxiety. As well as this, Citizens Advice have also predicted that by the end of this year, it will have seen 26% more of the public looking to their advice team in search of help and advice with energy debt, compared to the amount of people they saw in 2022.

Energy saving tips to help you keep warm and make your budget go further this winter (from Energy Saving Trust and GOV.UK)

1.

Bleed your radiators: Bleeding radiators reduce blockages of air bubbles and make your home warmer by allowing the heat to enter radiators a lot faster and avoid ‘cold spots’ allowing the hot water to fill the whole of the radiator and not just part of it and therefore you won’t need to turn the heating up as much.

2.

Fix draughts and cracks: Having cold air constantly flowing into your home through cracks and draughts will result in you having to turn the heating on or up even higher to stop feeling the cold. Finding and blocking these will keep the warm air in, and the cold out! You can buy draught excluder from as little as £1 in some bargain shops but this small investment could save you hundreds of pounds.

3.

Install a smart meter to help you see what you’re spending: Smart meters are an efficient way to track your usage and spending and stick to budgeting. You can contact your energy supplier, who can arrange to install a smart meter in your home. Most are free of charge!

4.

Turn down radiators in rooms you don’t use: Turning radiators off or down in unoccupied rooms will help you save up to £50 a year and will also allow your lived-in rooms to become warm a whole lot faster, as the boiler doesn’t have to heat up all rooms at the same time.

5.

Set your heating on a timer: Setting your heating on a timer or programmer to turn it on and off at selected times will save more money than simply turning the heating on at different times of the day. If you have central heating, you will be able to do this or call a plumber for help.

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6.

Ensure appliances are turned off at the socket: Everyone has the bad habit of leaving electrical items such as televisions on stand-by, forgetting to turn plugs off at the switch when not using it anymore. If you add this into your daily routine, you can save up to £50 a year from your bill. Items left on standby use more electricity than many people think.

7.

Switch to energy-saving light bulbs: Lightbulbs such as LEDs last longer than traditional bulbs and will save you money on your energy bills of up to £40 a year.

8.

Wash your clothes at a lower temperature: Simply changing the temperature on your wash from 40 degrees to 30, means that you could get 3 cycles instead of 2 using the same amount of energy.

11.

Try a free home energy check: head over to the Energy Savings Trust at: www. energysavingtrust.org.uk and give your home the free energy check that it deserves.

You will receive a report that outlines in detail any improvements you can make to make your home more energy efficient.

12.

Reducing the energy usage of your TV: Over 22.5 hours of TV was watched by the average British household per week in 2020, making the TV one of the biggest energy-using appliances in British households. At the very least, turn the TV off if nobody is watching it.

13.

Try using a microwave or an air fryer for cooking instead of ovens and hobs which can use a lot more energy.

9.

Take shorter showers: Reducing your shower length to 4 minutes will not only save water but money on your energy bill also or why not turn the shower off whilst you are lathering yourself and turn it back on to wash the soap off when you are ready?

10.

Find the lowest comfortable temperature for your heating: if you regularly have the heating on, turning it down by just one degree could potentially save you |up to £80 per year!

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Wo nd e rful Wi nter fami ly fun across Bournemouth Christchurch & Poole

It’s time to pull on the scarves, bobble hats and gloves as Jack Frost grips Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. Join in the fun with thousands of residents and visitors alike at the most wonderful time of the year! From Ice skating to steam trains, there’s something for the whole family.

Outdoor Christmas Ice Rink

A traditional Victorian Christmas

Grab those skates and get on the ice to all your favourite Christmas songs, at the well-known and loved SKATE rink in Bournemouth’s Lower gardens. Grab a festive drink from the Moguls Alpine Bar after your skate to warm up and continue the festivities. As one of Bournemouth’s most popular attractions this festive season, be sure to grab your tickets now so you don’t miss out on all the SKATE fun!

Date: 16/11/23- 3/1/24 Time: Slots each hour from 10:30am- 8:30pm Location: Bournemouth Lower Gardens Price: Adults £14.50, Kids under 12 £12.50 Find out more: www.iceskatebournemouth.co.uk/

Step back in time as you enter the Russell-Cotes Museum this festive season and experience a traditional Christmas with Victorian decorative halls filled with delights. Follow the Christmas trail and embrace the history of traditions and Victorian items, with a festively themed trial for families to also enjoy.

Date: 21/11/23- 01/01/24 Time: 10am-5pm Location: The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum Price: Adults £8.50, 5-17 years £4.50, Under 5’s go free Find out more: www.russellcotes.com/event/christmas/

Bournemouth Christmas Market Back for another year of festive fun, Bournemouth Christmas Market is the place to be this festive season for all. With its selection of chalet’s serving a range of Christmas treats and handmade gifts suitable for all ages, the market is great for a bit of Christmas shopping. Fill your stomach as you browse with multiple traditional delicacies such as hog roasts, Yorkshire pudding wraps and churros, and grab a drink at the Alpine Lodge Bar with plenty of seating.

Date: 17/11/23- 01/01/24 Time: 11am-11pm Location: Bournemouth Square Price: Free Find out more: www.christmasinbournemouth.co.uk/

Christmas Lights Cruise Watch the sights of the Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival on the water this Christmas on a magical lit up 30-minute boat trip. With hot chocolate stations to keep you warm and the best view of the Light Festival, what better way to get in the Christmas Spirit.

Date: Selected dates between 30/11/23- 30/12/23 Time: Every 30 minutes 5pm-7pm Location: City Cruises Poole, The Quay Price: Adults £6, under 14 £4, under 5s go free Find out more: www.cityexperiences.com/poole/citycruises/christmas-lights-cruise-city-cruises/

Christmas cookie making masterclasses This Christmas, treat your little elves to a cookie decorating extravaganza at the Bournemouth Christmas Market with Biscuits by Sarah B. The cookie classes take place in the Alpine Lodge where children will have the chance to turn 6 cookies into pieces of festive art and a keepsake from your visit to the market.

Date: 2/12/23- 16/12/23 Time: 11am-12pm Location: Alpine Lodge Bar, The Square Price: £10 Find out more: www.christmasinbournemouth.co.uk/crafts-and-classes

Christmas tree wonderland Get yourself in the Christmas spirit with Winter Gardens’ unforgettable Christmas Tree Wonderland. With its twinkling light displays and new editions this winter such as a 60ft 3D Walkthrough Tree and 20M-long animated tunnel to lead you along the path, Bournemouth’s Town centre is free, suits all ages and is an event you won’t want to miss out on!

Date: 17/11/23-1/1/24 Location: Bournemouth Winter Gardens Price: Free Find out more: www.christmastreewonderland.co.uk/

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Bournemouth’s Christmas Panto

Elf the Musical

This years must-see panto for you and the family is Bournemouth Pavilion’s Snow White & the seven Dwarfs, featuring the legendary Su Pollard playing the role of the Wicked Queen, alongside Noel Brodie and Jamie Steen.

Bursting with great songs and plenty of laughter, this panto is magical for all ages.

Date: 2/12/23-31/12/23 Location: Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre Price: From £17 Find out more: www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk/events/ snow-white-panto-2023

Supersized hollywood blockbuster movie, Elf, is bringing Santa’s flying sleigh, an audience snowball fight and indoor snowstorm to the BIC this winter and is guaranteed to have you feeling live you’ve entered one of the most loved Christmas films of all time. The story is hilariously recreated by a large cast of performers into one of the biggest live musical shows in the UK, with West End star Steven Serlin stepping into the pointed shoes of Buddy the Elf. Date:15/12/23- 16/12/23 Time: performances from 11am-7pm Location: Bournemouth International Centre Price: from £26.75-£56 Find out more: www.bic.co.uk/events/elf-the-musical2023#dates-and-times

Poole Christmas Panto Step into the world of Aladdin and take a magical carpet ride at Poole’s Christmas Panto this year with all the family. With a fairy-tale of true love, magical wishes and Alim Jadavji as the genie in the lamp, this production will leave you filled with magic just in time for Christmas.

Date: 7/12/23- 31/12/23 Time: showings from 10am-7pm Location: The Lighthouse, Poole Price: from £15 Find out more: https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/event/ aladdin/

Wimborne Christmas panto Made to measure productions return to the Tivoli Theatre this Christmas with a brand-new sparkling production of classic and well-loved fairy-tale Cinderella. Set in a magical winter wonderland, Cinderella is on a mission to make all her dreams come true as she invites you to follow her to the Royal Ball to meet her very own Prince Charming!

Date: 15/12/23- 01/01/24 Time: Performances vary from 2pm-6pm Location: Wimborne Tivoli Theatre Price: Adults £20.90, kids under 16 £16.50 Find out more: www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk/event/cinderella/

Christchurch Panto

Christmas Gnome Hunt When winter sets in, a village of Gnomes move into the museum, but where do they hide? Explore the museum and see how many magical Gnome homes you can find...you might even spot a Christmas Gnome or two!

Date: 9/12/23- 31/12/23 Time: 10am-4pm Location: Red House Museum, Christchurch Price: Free admission (donations welcomed) £2 activity sheet Find out more: www.hampshireculture.org.uk/red-housemuseum-and-gardens

Fairy-tale Christmas Trail

Didn’t get a chance to go the panto in Bournemouth or Poole? Never fear, It’s panto time in Christchurch this January. with The Highcliffe Charity Players performing Robin Hood Date: 26/01/24- 28/01/24 Time: Day and evening performances – see website Location: Regent Centre, Christchurch Price: Tickets from £15.50 (concessions available) Find out more: www.regentcentre.co.uk or call 01202 499199

Winter Warm Up Don’t let the January blues and Christmas ending stop you from your winter activities! At Swanage Railway’s January Winter Warm Up event, for all ages and families, there is a combination of Steam and Diesel locomotives hauling both passenger and freight trains.

Date: 06/01/23- 07/01/23 Time: 10am-4pm opening times Location: Swanage Railway Price:?

Find out more: www.swanagerailway.co.uk/events/view/winter-warm-up

For a family-friendly, Fairy-tale Christmas trail adventure, Upton Country Park has fairy-tale scenes and activities for you to explore amongst the formal pleasure grounds that surround Upton House. The trail starts at the Welcome Centre where you can pick up your map for £6, and find the spectacular Christmas Tree finale and claim your Christmas present prize to finish.

Date: 9/12/23- 01/01/24 Time: 10am-4pm Location: Upton Country Park Price: £6 Find out more: www.uptoncountrypark.com/events/

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Santa Claus is coming to town

If you’ve not already started thinking about where to meet the big man himself, it’s time to get booking! Many venues now only accept online bookings so now is the right time to be thinking about your little-one’s next encounter with Santa and to check they are still on his ‘Good List’

Visit the Polar Express

Winter wonderland at Stewarts Christmas at Moors Valley Railway

Go on a magical journey this Christmas with the Polar Express train ride round Swanage. Throughout this hour-long journey, you’ll receive a cookie and a hot chocolate and a special Christmas gift from Father Christmas.

Date: 17/11/23- 30/12/23 Time: multiple time slots Location: Swanage railway station Price: around £50 pp, depending on what carriage- under 3’s go free More info: www.thepolarexpress. seetickets.com/timeslot/the-polar-express

Tickets will only be available to book online; you will not be able to call or book in store. Places are now limited but there are still some spots available.

Search the link below and get booking.

Date: 25/11/23- 24/12/23 Location: Stewarts Garden Centre, Christchurch Price: Children 7 months-12 years old£17.50 (includes a present), adults- £2.50 More info: https://santa.stewarts.co.uk/ christchurch-garden-centre/

Sail the seas with Father Christmas Sail around this Christmas with Mr. Claus himself. Taking a cruise around Brownsea Island, Sandbanks Peninsula and Studland Bay, you will truly get that festive feeling. With children getting a free soft drink and biscuit, while adults get a glass of mulled wine and a delicious mince pie. Each child will also leave with a present!

Date: 2/12/23-24/12/23 Time: 11am, 1pm, 3pm Location: From Poole Harbour Price: adults- £15, children above 4£15, children below 4- £5 More info: www.cityexperiences.com/ poole/city-cruises/sail-with-santa/

Wonderland Christmas Grotto Go and visit the man in red this Christmas time in a snowy log cabin.

Meet Father Christmas and his elves and get a festive treat. You also get tickets to the family pantomime, with this year being The Wizard of Oz. With unlimited play in the indoor play area and access to the Christmas craft area, it will be great for all the family.

Date: ranging from 2/12/23- 23/12/23 Time: multiple times each day Location: Adventure Wonderland, Bournemouth Price: children over 1- £23 (includes gift), adult- £6 More info: www.adventurewonderland. digitickets.co.uk/tickets

Take a trip this December to see the beloved Father Christmas by train. They also offer relaxed sessions for those with additional needs and sensory issues, away from the business of the usual sessions.

There will be no flashing lights or overly loud music involved in them.

Date: multiple dates from 2/12/2320/12/23 Time: 10:30am-4:30pm Location: Moors Valley Railway Price: from £26.95 More info: www.moorsvalley.vticket.co.uk/

Meet Farmer Christmas Get festive in Farmer Palmer’s magical Christmas barn this winter, with the opportunity to meet some cheerful friends and get a special present from the elves!

Date: various dates from 9/12/23- 23/12/23 Time: arrive before 11:30am Location: Farmer Palmers, Poole Price: £17.50 on top of normal admission More info: www.farmerpalmers.co.uk/ uncategorized/christmas-at-farmerpalmers-2/

Festive breakfast with Father Christmas Have breakfast this Christmas time with the one and only Father Christmas. Here are a few spots spread across Bournemouth where you can enjoy a feast with a festive treat: Harvester locations in Bournemouth Date: ranging from 2/12/23- 24/12/23 Time: 9am-11:45am Price: from £9.99 More info: www.harvester.co.uk/restaurants/southwest/ thecooperdeanbournemouth/breakfast-with-santa-menu#/

Toby Carvery, Bournemouth Date: every Sat and Sun from 2/12/23- 24/12/23 Time: multiple times across days Price: from £9.99 More info: www.tobycarvery.co.uk/offers/breakfast-with-santa#/

The Cliffhanger Restaurant, Highcliffe Date: ranging from 9/12/23- 23/12/23 Time: 9am-11am Price: call 01425 278 058 to book More info: https://www.cliffhanger-restaurant.com/events/ breakfast-with-santa

Key West Bar and Grill, Bournemouth Pier Date: 9/12/23, 16/12/23, 17/12/23, 23/12/23 Time: 9am-12pm Price: under 3- £10, older children and adults- £27.50 More info: www.keywestbournemouth.co.uk/breakfast-withsanta-in-bournemouth/

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Choices: Living happy and well in later years It’s something we all have to face at some point in our lives when we or a family member are heading towards the ‘later years’ and thoughts turn to retirement living options or even care for yourself, or a loved one. But what are the options?

When thinking about next steps for later years living, there are a multitude of different choices available and which choices you make often depend on what level of independence you are looking for.

In this article we look at the various options available to those thinking about later years living.

Independent Living

Maybe you are coming up to your long-anticipated retirement and are wondering if you should continue living where you are or whether it’s worth considering moving to a new property that might be more appropriate for your retirement.

Assisted Living

The next step along from retirement living/villages is ‘Assisted Living’ which can still be within a complex, but unlike the more independent Retirement Villages, they offer more support.

Assisted Living could also be offered within your own home, (also known as domiciliary care).

For many in this position, the previous family home may now seem a little too big with higher demands on you for upkeep and general maintenance. Questions to consider are; 1. Will you have the time or inclination to still do the gardening, DIY and general upkeep demands that a more sizeable property requires?

2. If you suffer from health conditions, are these likely to get worse making it harder for you to keep your home clean and in a good state of repair?

3. With the rising cost of living and particularly energy, will you be able to heat a larger home or is much of what you are paying to heat going to remain unlived in? In which case, is a smaller home a better option?

4. Is the home you currently live in leaving you feeling isolated or vulnerable? Would you feel happier living closer to others?

Retirement living, or ‘Retirement Villages’ as they are also known, are a popular option for those who still enjoy general good health (minus the few aches and pains!) but are looking to move to a property that suits their needs better.

Retirement living is a community of residential properties which are typically a range of houses or flats in one complex. They are ideal for couples or individuals who are looking for a fresh start after retiring or simply want a low maintenance property with amenities close by.

The complexes also offer a range of opportunities for you to make new friends within a similar age range to you whilst enabling you to to retain your independent lifestyle and freedom. There’s also ‘low-level’ support from the onsite staff which can give an added sense of security, knowing that you are not completely on your own and there is always somebody nearby to turn to.

Retirement villages are becoming increasingly popular and are being constructed all over the UK, particularly in retirement hotspots close to the coast, but they are even springing up in desirable locations across Europe too.

The retirement villages can often be large schemes designed much like a typical village, with a range of facilities such as shops, restaurants, gyms, swimming pools picture of swimming and sometimes a clubhouse hosting a range of events throughout the day and evening to keep you entertained and give you more opportunities to create new friendships.

This option also gives you financial flexibility, including a variety of property finance options, meaning that you can plan your finances before making the big step. In most cases, you’ll purchase the property (mostly on a long leasehold basis), much like any other property purchase but the thing to bear in mind is the ongoing cost. Often there will be annual or monthly maintenance charges to cover the upkeep of the communal areas and facilities. These can sometimes be quite high so need to be considered carefully.

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Assisted Living means care workers or domiciliary workers are able to help you with everyday tasks such as washing, cleaning, dressing, gardening and taking timed medication. These are tailored to you and your specified need for care.

Assisted living offers more support whilst still leaving you with a good degree of independence.

Staff are usually available 24/7 within a home or complex to assist with your needs. If you remain in your own home, they will come to visit, either daily or weekly within the safety and comfort of your own home through scheduled visits.

It’s worth remembering that if electing for Assisted Living within your own home, a care worker won’t usually be ‘always on hand’. In this instance a 24-hour emergency help alarm, or a help button located in your home or worn somewhere on your body (depending on the needs of your care) can be arranged (additional charges apply) to make sure you can access emergency help if you need it.

Assisted living is centred around encouraging you to live independently but with a little extra help in the areas where you need it most. Depending on where you receive assisted living care from, or how many visits you require and the help needed, staff are typically district nurses or private health care professionals.

Some may find the aspect of a carer coming into your home to help with your everyday tasks unfamiliar and rather strange at first but remember that they are also there for a social visit and to keep you company, and therefore a bond will slowly form between you.

Many choose the option of assisted living, due to the scheme leaving them in control of the support they receive in terms of when, what and, for how long. As well as this, it also allows you to maintain your routines and hobbies and not fall out of these familiar routines, whilst also spending time with your loved ones when and where you please.

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Residential/Nursing Care

Live-in Care

Live-in-care is the next option after assisted living and is the scheme of having a fully trained carer living with you in your own home, giving you an alternative to residential care homes and allowing you to stay in your comfort zone. It may be that you or your loved one has been receiving domiciliary care but visits throughout the day are no longer sufficient and more care is required. Live-in carers will always be available to support you with any specific needs to keep you comfortable and as independent as possible at home.

One of the main attractions of live-in care is that it includes a wide range of care services, meaning that you and your family are safe in the knowledge that you are getting the support you need at all hours of the day and night. It is an alternative option to residential care for those with a variety of complex care needs, and who can no longer be alone.

The main areas in which you will receive support are personal care, health and well-being, companionship and housekeeping services.

Assistance will be there for personal routines such as washing, dressing and medical care as well as preparing meals, laundry, washing up, cleaning and other household tasks.

Live-in-care gives you valuable and friendly companionship and ensures you will never have a feeling of being isolated or alone. Similar to assisted living, live-in-care still gives you freedom to enjoy your own home and choosing when to see your loved ones.

Live-in care does means allowing someone to come in and live with you in your home. This will mean that you lose a degree of your own privacy but for many the benefits outweigh this. For some people, isolation is a significant challenge in later years and live-in care is a solution to help overcome this.

If eligible, you can find live-in-care through your local council by visiting www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/asc-and-health/Find-the-helpyou-need There are also multiple private companies throughout the BCP area that offer ‘Live-in’ care services. Find out more on the BCP website above.

The fourth and final option is residential care. Residential or nursing care offers 24-hour personal care provided within a care home setting.

Residential homes provide residents with a safe place where they are looked after according to their needs, with the word ‘residential’ meaning that people can treat the setting as their home with access to several services. Moving into a care home is a big decision and it can mean selling your own home to pay for the care received.

A care home may be the best option if you or a loved one are struggling to live at home, even with support, or you have a complex medical condition that needs attention throughout the day and night.

Care homes can reduce the stress of looking after your, or a loved one’s health and care, meaning you or your loved one can turn their focus to more positive things in life knowing that the important things are being taken care of.

It may be hard to think about residential care, and you might have conflicting feelings about it, however, caring for yourself or a loved one for lengthy periods can be physically and mentally exhausting and the need to arrange residential care may become more and more evident as time goes by. It’s important to make decisions sooner rather than later though, to give you time to put adequate plans in place.

Residents can stay at residential care homes not only to receive longterm care but also short-term, respite, emergency or palliative care.

Although residential care homes are typically used by people who struggle with daily life due to reduced mobility, mental capacity or general health conditions in later years, they can provide help and support for anyone over the age of 18.

The type of help offered within residential homes is more personal care, such as help with washing, dressing, going to the toilet and taking medication. Some residential homes also offer activities throughout the day to keep hobbies going and social lives in their routines.

The transition and move to the home can sometimes be seen as a positive one by the person moving in who previously didn’t have the opportunities that a residential setting offers.

Depending on circumstances, costs for the residential care are usually met by the recipient of the care and it’s usually paid for through the sale of assets. However local authorities are normally able to provide a loan which is repayable on the sale of any assets over a certain value.

If the recipient of care is not in a financial position to be able to pay for their care, the costs may be met by the local authority, but you will need to be prepared to complete full disclosure documents which mean proving an absence of funds before the local authority are able to step in and help.

For more information on care options and where to find help, visit BCP Council’s Adult Social care pages at: https://www. bcpcouncil.gov.uk/ASC-and-health/Adult-social-care-andhealth.aspx or call 01202 123654

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A day in the life of a Care Worker By Lauren Keep What’s the day in the life of a care worker like?

We spoke to two local people, Christine and Archie about what a typical day for them would be like and their experiences working within the care sector. Christine travels across the BCP area to help provide in-home care. Archie works within a local residential care home within the local area.

Christine’s day

Archie’s Day

A domiciliary care worker who works for a local Dorset-based company, Christine has been a domiciliary worker for over two years, recently having become a team leader.

We also spoke to a Residential Care worker who works in a local home, Archie works part-time within the care sector, alongside his studies at Bournemouth University.

Being a team leader means that as well as taking care of her own visits and clients, Christine oversees another seven carers and twelve patients, ensuring that all have been scheduled with appropriate care and timings.

Archie starts work at 7.45 am, which is when a typical day shift starts.

The morning begins with helping residents up and ready for the day with washing, dressing and general hygiene, such as pad changes, showers, teeth or denture cleaning and any medications or creams prescribed in the morning.

Typically, Christine will have 5/6 clients back-to-back within a day, depending on timings.

Her working day begins at 8 am and tends to finish at around 5 pm. As a domiciliary care worker, most of Christine’s visits are classed as ‘welfare checks’ and are social visits to ensure the client isn’t feeling isolated, whilst also checking specifics such as has the client eaten and taken their medication. Her visits also involve making meals for when the client will be alone, cleaning, and other jobs such as personal hygiene when needed.

A typical day for Christine starts with her first client at 8 am for an hour.

She described this appointment as “challenging” due to the client suffering from stage seven dementia.

This entails a full personal care morning routine. However, it can take up to 20 minutes to encourage her client into the shower with plenty of help. “You always need a lot of patience within this job” she said.

Her next two scheduled visits are welfare checks, where she prepares food for both clients, checking their medications and helping with personal care routines. Suggesting she can help where needed, Christine finds that many of her clients decline her help when it comes to personal care due to a sense of “embarrassment from needing help for something that many of us fine easy” After lunch, Christine has the final two ‘tea-time’ visits before making her way home.

For those who are bed-bound, Archie will deliver their meals to them throughout the day however, for those who are not, they attend the dining room, where Archie will supervise all meals.

Throughout the day, pad changes are continuously required, and bedbound residents require repositioning to reduce the risk of bed sores.

There is one activity in the morning and one in the afternoon throughout the home. These typically can be religious services, or activities such as bingo, other games or arts and crafts.

Archie enjoys his first half-hour break at around 1 pm before supervising lunch. After the second activity of the day and dinner, showers and baths are given to residents of his supervised floor before his second half-hour break.

At 8.45 pm, everyone who wants to go to bed is prepared and put into bed with medication and personal hygiene all done, before Archie hands over to the night staff and is finished for the day.

When describing what he loves about his work within the residential home, Archie said “My favourite part of my job is seeing the difference you make to people’s lives and becoming a regular person in their day-to-day life, that they get excited to see” he enthused, “You build unique and fun relationships with those throughout the home and have special bonds with some of them after spending so much time with them all.”

When asked what her favourite part of her working day is, she said, “I enjoy every part of my day. I know it sounds like a cliché, but if I’m having a bad day and I come to work, they all cheer me up in their own special ways.”

It always makes me feel like I’m worthy, and that I’m doing something that will make someone’s day.”

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FESTIVE TIMES, WITH FRIENDS AND WINE!

it’s free to go by bus Apply for your concessionary free pass online at morebus.co.uk/freepass or your Local Authority *must be of state pension age

What a waste of space!

Your business or organisation could have been featured here and seen by thousands of residents across Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole in BCP’s only conurbation-wide magazine delivered door-to-door by our own GPS tracked distributors.

Maybe next time?

Call us on 01202 611 100 today to book into our next edition

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HE ALTH

5 Steps to Wellbeing

“Good for the BRAIN. Good for the BODY!” Dance for Health and Wellbeing

Connect.

As both a form of exercise and a lifestyle choice, dancing has been proven to positively impact fitness, physical and mental health and overall wellbeing – for any age.

And that’s official! According to mental health charity, Dorset Mind there are 5 steps to wellbeing and dance covers it all.

Whether it’s in a group, on your own, or with a partner, dance helps connect with others – and feeling part of something makes us feel more connected and valued. Moving and getting physically active helps maintain a positive outlook and there are many different types of dance disciplines and classes available to suit different requirements from a gentle movement to high energy, fast-paced Beyonce style session!

“Learning dance moves and routines is a good workout for the brain and our dance class participants tell us how good it feels for brain and body, boosting self-esteem and confidence” enthused Caron Ward of Pavilion Dance South West.

“Taking part in social and community activity can have positive impacts on happiness and dance classes are a fun and social way of getting involved with local groups. Dancing very much takes you into the moment, whether you’re learning new steps, performing a new routine, or just taking part in a fun session. Mindfulness is all about being present and in the moment, helping you to deal with daily stresses and anxieties in a more positive way”.

Get Active.

Learn New Skills.

Give to Others.

To find out more about the 5 Steps to Wellbeing visit the Dorset Mind website at: https://www.mind.org.uk/workplace/mental-health-at-work/five-ways-towellbeing/ Dance classes are available across many places in BCP including Pavilion Dance South West’s venue near the Bournemouth seafront, which has 2 modern dance studios and a range of classes for all ages and abilities.

Be in the Moment (mindfulness).

For full details please visit: https://www.pdsw.org.uk/our-classes/

Competition: Win dance lessons Ballroom or Latin, Jive or Salsa?

The choice is yours Your chance to win a course of 6 or 12 dance lessons at Pavilion Dance South West Dust off those dancing shoes and get ready to strut your stuff on the dance floor with our exclusive competition in conjunction with Pavilion Dance South West.

@bhlivingdorset

HOW TO ENTER All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning is head to our Facebook page and like our page. Then find the competition and put in the comments section the classes you’d most like to win. (you can find a list of all the classes available here: www.pdsw.org.uk/our-classes/new-danceclass-bundles).

Alternatively pop your preferred class on a postcard and post to: Dance Competition, BH Lviing Magazine, C/o IMS Group. 538-542 Wimborne Road, Bournemouth, BH9 2EX One lucky winner will win a course of 12 lessons at Pavilion Dance South West, and the second person drawn out of the hat will win a course of 6 lessons. Good Luck!

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F O S T ER

C A R E

Supported Lodgings: Could you be the answer to a local young person in need?

How one local couple were able to provide a lifeline for young people in BCP There are many types of foster care, so what’s different about being a “Supported Lodgings” foster carer?

Supported Lodgings (SL) means sharing your home with a young person aged 16-21, providing a safe environment for them to develop life skills to live independently. And, if you’re an SL carer with BCP, even if you already lead a busy life, you can still make a huge difference to a young person’s life because of the enormous

Michael and June’s story Michael and June first looked at becoming SL carers during Lockdown, having previously provided accommodation to overseas students. They have no children of their own, but were well aware of fostering from their own family backgrounds as well as from their work in education.

As Michael explains: “We saw an ad on Facebook in 2020 and thought this would be a great way to carry on helping young people and fitting that in with our jobs. Since then we’ve had a number of young people staying with us, all needing different levels of support which we’ve really enjoyed.

“Our current placement is at college three days a week; the rest of the time he’s with friends during the day and comes back to us in the evenings – so pretty much living his life like any other teenager. He’s really independent, but he’s got that reassurance of someone being there if he needs support.

“BCP gave us all the tools we needed: there’s lots of training which gives you that confidence – and was also really interesting. After you’ve been through the checks you’re matched with a young person: no one’s asked to do more than they’re comfortable with. You meet with your social worker and the young person and agree on everyone’s expectations in terms of boundaries and so on.”

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flexibility the role offers… including being able to carry on working.

The young people come from different situations: some have been living in care; others are unaccompanied asylum-seeking children or young parents; some may need additional support and confidence building.

A key role for SL carers is helping young people gain the ability and confidence needed to live independently. “Some have had quite difficult lives and not had the chance to learn how to budget, buy their own food or cook,” says Michael. “Without this scheme, they could leave care and go into B&B without important skills we all take for granted.

“After they’ve left us, we’ve seen some of the young people out and about, and now they have their own flats or they’re doing apprenticeships. That makes it really rewarding. Yes, occasionally it can be challenging. But I see this scheme as vital in terms of providing a bridge for a young person to transition from care into adult life.

“What’s more, you’re never doing this on your own: we receive great ongoing support. Our supported lodgings worker Kat is tremendous: she keeps in touch and we know we can contact her if we have an issue. There’s out-of-hours help too, and a WhatsApp group so we can contact each other if we need some advice or support.

“I’d say to anyone interested: just make that call to find out more.

You could provide a really important step for a young person at a key time in their life.”

For more information on Fostering and Supported Lodgings Call 0800 009 3084 or visit the supported lodgings page at bcpfostering.co.uk

@bhlivingdorset

Do you have room for a young person?

Ever thought about supported lodgings?

Did you know over 60% of our Supported Lodgings carers work full-time? Do you have an empty bedroom? If so; we are currently looking to recruit supported lodgings carers for young people aged 16+ in Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole.

Supported lodgings carers offer opportunities for young people to develop the necessary skills and confidence they need to enable them to live independently. This can often make a huge difference at an important time in a young person’s life.

BCP’s Supported Lodgings wellestablished scheme is managed by an experienced, enthusiastic team who are with you all the way: providing initial bespoke training and ongoing one-to-one expert advice as and when you need it.

There is also a generous financial support package ranging from £238.74 to £428.74 per week, depending on the needs of the young person placed with you.

Interested? To find out more about supported lodgings visit www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/fostering, or call 0800 009 3084

Supported lodgings for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

Friday 1st December 8.00pm The Counterfeit Stones Tickets £28.50 Saturday 2nd December 8.00pm Talon: Best Of The Eagles Tickets £28 Sunday 3rd December 7.30pm David Graham & The Eskimo Brothers with Special Guest Ben Waters Tickets £28.50 Tuesday 5th December 7.30pm WELCOME TO THE DARKNESS (15) In 2003, British glam-rockers The Darkness took the world by storm with their hit single “I Believe In A Thing Called Love”.

Then at the height of their fame, the band split-up and fell into obscurity. Twenty years on, they tell their story… (90 mins) Tickets £15 Wednesday 6th December 7.30pm Marty Wilde & The Wildcats Tickets £28

Tickets Adults £19/under 16’s £15 1 in 10 tickets free available via Box Office Plus ADULTS ONLY performances (ages 16+) Friday 29th, Saturday 30th December & Tuesday 2nd January 7.30pm Tickets £19

songs and stunning performance celebrating Burt Bacharach. All of his greatest hits are featured including: Alfie – What The World Needs Now – The Look Of Love – Close To You – I Say A Little Prayer and many more!

Tickets £27.50

Saturday 6th January 7.30pm A Country Night In Nashville Tickets £30

Wednesday 24th January 7.30pm Jim Davidson – Swimming Against The Tide! Over 18’s only!

Tickets £27

Thursday 11th January 7.30pm Supreme Queen Tickets £29 Friday 12th January 7.30pm Rave On – The Ultimate 50s & 60s Experience Tickets £23 Saturday 13th January 7.30pm Los Pacaminos featuring Paul Young Tickets £30 Wednesday 17th January 7.30pm Miles Jupp: On I Bang Tickets £25

Thursday 7th December 7.30pm Platinum – The Live Abba Tribute Show Tickets £27.50 Thursday 18th January 7.30pm The Gary Fletcher Band Friday 8th December 7.30pm Tickets £20.50 Showaddywaddy Tickets £28.50/£26 Friday 19th January 7.30pm ELO Experience Saturday 9th December 7.30pm Tickets £28.50 Nine Below Zero UK Rhythm & Blues Legends!

Saturday 20th January 7.30pm Tickets £25 Whole Lotta Shakin’ – The Shakin’ Stevens Story Friday 15th December – Monday 1st Tickets £25 January Made To Measure Productions present Sunday 21st January 7.30pm Our record breaking pantomime Back To Bacharach Cinderella A perfect evening of nostalgia, great

Thursday 25th January 7.30pm Band Of Friends -A Celebration Of The Music Of Rory Gallagher.

Tickets £23 Friday 26th January 7.30pm Small Fakers – Tribute To The Small Faces Tickets £18.50 Saturday 27th January 7.30pm The Dazzling Diamonds – Drag Show This show contains adult themes and strong language. Please note that under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets £21 Wednesday 31st January 7.30pm Code Breakers: The Story of Enigma Dr Mark Baldwin presents one of the Second World War’s most fascinating stories. The Allied Codebreakers, who deciphered a vast number of German secret messages to hasten the Allied victory.

Tickets £22 Thursday 1st February 7.30pm Jo Caulfield: Here Comes Trouble Tickets £20 Saturday 3rd February 7.30pm The Story Of Guitar Heroes Tickets £27

01202 885566 www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk

B O O K

R EVI E W

Dead Man Singing History is littered with people who have faked their own deaths, John Stonehouse probably being one of the more famous ones most can remember. The difference with this book is unlike the famous names in history who tried and failed our key character here, Dave Masters, is purely fictional. Though in a strange way you wish he was real such was the delight of his story.

Dave is a failing rockstar, his best years are behind him. His audiences are shrinking as are his record sales, until his manager comes up with a brain scheme idea of faking his own death, after all once people are dead, they tend to me more famous, he suggests. After a particularly bad gig Dave goes along with the idea and what comes next is a tide of mixed emotions with him wondering what to do with his life as he tries to navigate the complexities of his new fake identity. He falls in love, and then comes up with the equally crazy idea of starting up his own tribute band, and its only then A rocking good story he realises just how difficult ‘dying’ can which hits all the right notes actually turn out to be.

“

This is a well-conceived story which has direction and raises some thought-provoking question on life itself. The majority of the characters in the book are convincing, and you get to know them in a way which helps to paint a picture of that era, from the smoky bars, and phone boxes with their unique aroma, to venues which in some cases are now regrettably long gone. Dave seems to be reliving his best years but inevitably things start to go ‘Pete Tong’ as one lie leads to another lie and his previous rock and roll life comes back to haunt him.

This is a debut novel by local Bournemouth author Steve Couch, and I have to say I was very impressed with it. My music era was the 70’s and 80’s so there is a lot in this book to which I can relate. I was a regular reader of NME (New Musical Express) which does get a mention in the book although I felt the author possibly could have added in the other major media influences of the time, like Radio Luxembourg and the rawness of early years of Radio 1, which I am sure would have added some extra authenticity. This said this does not take anything away from the enjoyment of the book.

My final comment is back to the book itself; I will not spoil the surprise but whoever came up with the idea of the tribute band name and the name of that final album, I offer my congratulations, genius!

Author: Steve Couch ISBN: 9781915853233 Number of pages: 332 Reviewed by Brian Case

The Great Gatsby Take a step into Gatsby’s lavish land as you read this novel, discovering the secrets that lay within, under the eyes of Doctor T.J Eckleburg and lit by the infamous Green Light on the dock.

The 1925 The Great Gatsby novel by author, F. Scott Fitzgerald, is set during the Roaring 20s in America and is filled with all the wealth, glitter, jazz and booze that was seen throughout the decade.

We are first introduced to our narrator Nick Carraway who meets the mysterious Jay Gatsby at a party he is invited to. Gatsby is a well-known celebrity throughout New York for his infamous parties which he throws to bring his long-lost love, Daisy Buchanan, home to him. Torn apart by time Gatsby and Daisy are brought together once again by his new neighbour Nick, but can Gatsby really repeat the past like he’s always dreamed of doing?

As we uncover the tales of the past through Nick’s eyes, Fitzgerald portrays The American Dream, allowing us to feel for ourselves, and take a trip back in time as if we are visiting one of Gatsby’s parties. The novel itself is rather short with only 200 pages, however, Fitzgerald keeps you interested and on the edge of your seat as you read, with secrets and the past being unveiled through the mind, eyes and imagination of Nick Carraway.

Author: F. Scott Fitzgerald ISBN: 9780333791035 Reviewed by Lauren Keep

@bhlivingdorset

Fitzgerald’s writing style will leave you speechless in every chapter, and that was what made me fall in love with The Great Gatsby. The descriptive language and format throughout have you feeling like you are enjoying a glass of champagne on Gatsby’s patio at one of his lavish parties, eagerly waiting to find out more.

This book kept me guessing with its barrel of secrets and multiple plot twists, all leading up to the finale, which left me not only wanting but needing to know more than what was packed into the 200 colourfully written pages.

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Winter for Grownups Christmas Karaoke Show off your Christmas song knowledge and singing skills at the Alpine Bar within the Bournemouth Christmas Market for a chance to win a £25 bar tab! The karaoke contest takes place every Wednesday upstairs within the bar from 7pm and makes great fun for a gettogether or celebration.

Date: Wednesdays from 22/11/23 – 20/12/23 Time: 7pm onwards Location: Alpine Lodge Bar, Bournemouth Christmas Market, The Square Price: free Find out more: www.christmasinbournemouth.co.uk

Leona Lewis: Christmas with Love Spend an evening with record-breaking global sensation, Leona Lewis, at the BIC this Christmas. The evening with be filled with Christmas classics and Greatest Hits following the release of her special repackaged album: Christmas, With Love Always which comes from her 2013 album, Christmas, With love.

Date: 08/12/23 Time: 6:30pm- 9pm Location: Bournemouth International Centre Price: starting at £35-£74.25 Find out more: https://www.bic.co.uk

Castle by Night Visit Highcliffe Castle on a crisp winter evening this Christmas and explore all of the brand new 2023 exhibition’s festive glory with a warm complimentary glass of mulled wine and a little browse in the extended gift shop!

Date: 08/12/2023 Time: 6pm – 9pm Location: Highcliffe Castle Price: Adults £8 Find out more: www.highcliffecastle.co.uk

Coastal Comedy Christmas Special

Museum Late: Candlelight night

An evening by candlelight at Russell Cotes Art Gallery. Enjoy the magical atmosphere of the museum at night with all the delight and decoration of a sumptuous Victorian Christmas. Get up close to Christmas past with music and activities and view the art in a different light.

Date: 14/12/23 & 21/12/23 Time: 5pm- 8pm Location: Russell Cotes Art Gallery Price: £8.50 Adults, £4.50 children (Concessions available) Find out more: www.russellcotes.com

Supreme Queen; A dazzling tribute Enjoy a night with one of the most recognisable Tribute bands in the world, Supreme Queen. Bound to have you standing, dancing, and singing your heart out to all of your favourite Queen songs, this night is fun for all.

Date: 11/01/23 Time: 7:30pm Location: The Tivoli Theatre Wimborne Price: from £29 Find out more: www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk

Carols on the Quay

Laugh out loud comedy club

Get into the Christmas spirit and join Mudeford RNLI as they host their inaugural ‘Carols on the Quay’ concert, featuring ‘The Choir Engine’ and the Mudeford RNLI crew.

Mulled Wine, mince pies, hot dogs and burgers available with proceeds to RNLI. Free admission but donations welcome.

With comedians from much-loved shows such as 8 Out of 10 Cats, Have I Got News For You and Mock The Week this evening is guaranteed to have you leaving with laughter for days. Each show brings a different line up of 4 top professional comedians, with no two nights being the same.

Date: 15/12/23 Time: 7pm – 8pm Location: The Haven Inn, Mudeford Quay

White Christmas Dip Why not add a morning dip in the sea to your Christmas traditions? To help raise money for Macmillan Caring Locally, the White Christmas Dip provides much-needed palliative care for patients with advanced, progressive or incurable illnesses whilst also support for families. The event is open to all ages and takes place to the right of Boscombe Pier.

Date: 25/12/23 Time: 9:45am Location: Boscombe Pier Price: £7.50 donation Find out more: www.whitechristmasdip.co.uk

Date: 12/01/24 Time: 8pm – 10:45pm Location: The Bournemouth Pavilion Find out more: www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

Valentine’s Evening of Dance Celebrate your love on Valentines at the Allendale Centre with 20 To 1 Big Band for an evening of live dance music, featuring Valentine’s themed tunes to mark the occasion. With musical styles such as Swing, Jive, Latin, Waltz and Rock & Pop, the night is catered to all tastes.

Date: 10/02/24 Time: 7:15pm Location: The Allendale Centre Price: £10.24 Find out more: www.ticketsource.co.uk

Get into the festive spirit and leave laughing for days at a night of live comedy with 3 fantastic acts including headliner, Paul Tonkinson and host, Adrienne Coles. Coastal Comedy offers a chance to see some of the very best stand-up comics with something to make even the grinch laugh!

Date: 09/12/23 Time: 8pm – 10:30pm Location: The Lighthouse Poole Price: from £17 Find out more: www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

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UPCOMING COMEDY

MARK WATSON: SEARCH FRI

19

JAN 2024

JONATHAN PIE: HEROES & VILLAINS TUE

06

WED

07

BOURNEMOUTH INTERNATIONAL CENTRE

BILL BAILEY: THOUGHTIFIER TUE THU 20 & 07 FEB MAR

FEB 2024

ROMESH RANGANATHAN: HUSTLE THU

09

2024

SAT

11

MAY 2024

BOURNEMOUTH PAVILION

ED BYRNE: TRAGEDY PLUS TIME FRI

07

JUN 2024

UPCOMING FAMILY

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS PANTOMIME SAT

02

SUN

31

DEC 2023

COOL COAST SAT 09 DEC

SUN

18

FEB 2024

ELF: THE MUSICAL FRI

15

SAT

16

PEPPA PIG’S FUN DAY OUT

DEC 2023

WED

10

THU

11

APR 2024

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG TUE 26 NOV

SUN

01

DEC 2024

FOR FULL LISTINGS, VISIT... bic.co.uk | bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

Take your visit to the next level eat, drink, and enjoy stunning sea views Open all day for drinks and dining Walk-ins welcome elevatebrasserie.co.uk

ELEVATE Brasserie and Bar Bournemouth International Centre, Exeter Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5BH Reservations: 01202 055800 Book online: elevatebrasserie.co.uk

Attended cremations available from £1,800

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Modern celebration?

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01202 630111 www.harbourview.co.uk Alternatively, please contact any office of Tapper Funeral Service