Local Women Magazine North Coast May Edition 2020

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Proceeds from this download of Local Women go directly to the Northern Health & Social Care Trust

PORTSTEWART FC SUPPORTS THE ELDERLY

Carnlough’s JACQUI MCALLISTER leads the way

Cover Girl Competition Winner:

CAITLIN DIXON

from Dunloy

“WE LOVE THE MIGHTY MRS MIEKLE!’ say Harryville Primary pupils

A Castlerock artist’s tribute to her NHS worker mum

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Supporting the NHS in Northern Ireland

his month I am welcoming you to a Like everyone we have been humbled by the work done so well to difficult trading conditions. We are all here to very special edition of Local Women by NHS workers during this pandemic and we wanted to support one another and we can’t wait until things get back to normal.

Magazine. This is the first time we do whatever we could to support them.

have gone completely online and, as you are My team at Local Women have volunteered their time reading this right now, you must have been to produce these five magazines for the five areas of the country. I cannot thank the writers and designers enough able to download it – it’s worked! for giving up their time and skills to bring Local Women I have to say a huge thank you for downloading this online this month. magazine. The proceeds will go directly to the Health Trusts in Northern Ireland – so, by reading this magazine I would also like to thank our advertisers who have fully you are supporting the NHS workers on the frontline supported our fundraising efforts. Although we are living who are risking their lives day and daily during the in uncertain times, I have been amazed by the fighting spirit displayed by local businesses who have adapted Covid-19 crisis.

I have to say a big thank you to our web designer Kenny Campbell for stepping in and getting Local Women online. Many of you contacted us because you are unable to leave your homes and couldn’t get out to buy Local Women - now you can have it delivered digitally direct to your device.

I hope you enjoy this first digital edition of Local Women.

Tell your friends to download it too - and let’s raise as much money as possible for the NHS.

Dear North Coast and Ballymena readers, Do you have any idea how much I am missing the North Coast during Lockdown?

As I am originally from Portrush and lived in Portstewart until recently, I am used to visiting regularly - but it seems like years since I have seen the sea. I know quarantine is tough for you all, but I love seeing your pictures of beach walks and gorgeous scenery on social media. I can assure you that your walks are much more scenic than mine!

I hope you enjoy this month’s magazine – as you will see there are still a lot of businesses trading online, so get ready for a little shopping. There may be nowhere to go but at least you’ll look gorgeous in your Instagram pictures.

And it’s great to see that so many people are out there volunteering and doing good work in the community. Although we are living in strange times, these are good times in many ways. There is such a great sense of community spirit and a feeling that we are all in this together. I don’t think any of us will ever forget the spring of 2020.

Until next month,

Managing Editor: Kim Kelly, editor@localwomensnews.com Business Editor: Gillian Anderson, editorcol@localwomensnews.com Design: design@localwomensnews.com Sales: salesmid@localwomensnews.com Accounts: accounts@localwomensnews.com

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Local Women Magazine | 5

BYE BYE BUGS!

Shop online or instore to keep your pet tick and flea free as the weather gets warmer

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When we are lucky enough to get some sunshine and heat, insects such as midges, fleas, and ticks can be a real pain, not only for us but also for our pets. Fleas and ticks can be particularly problematic for our pets and can cause itching, allergies and can even carry more serious diseases such as Lyme disease. It is important to make sure your pet is well protected while out and about and at Pet and Country we have a range of products to help safeguard your pet including shampoos, pet clothing, bedding and travel accessories.

an infected tick can cause many potentially more harmful diseases including Lyme Disease. You should check your pet regularly, especially when you return from a walk. Ticks should be removed immediately, but as they embed into the skin you should always use a tick remover. As well as treating your pet for a flea infestation you’ll also need to treat any affected areas of your home. Flea and Tick Laundry Treatment by Groom Firstly, let’s get an idea of what we’re dealing Professional is designed to with. Fleas and ticks are similar in that they wash away fleas, ticks and use their sharp mouth parts to cut into the skin mites – perfect for sanitising to feed on your pet’s blood. They leave behind pet bedding, towels, and linen. redness and irritation and can also transmit There are many spot-on treatments available diseases to both humans and pets. for insect bites, but they say prevention is

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This luscious shampoo will deter insects but also contains coconut oil for added coat and skin conditioning.

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MEET THE MIGHTY MRS MIEKLE

The award-winning principal of Harryville Primary School in Ballymena tells Local Women’s MAUREEN COLEMAN about her passion for teaching holistically.

A

s a child growing up in Larne, Lesley Miekle harboured dreams of being a schoolteacher or a firefighter.

Surrounded by brothers, she was something of a tom boy and loved the idea of working in an environment where she could really make a difference to other people’s lives.

Her mum pointed out to her that she was a born leader and would make a great teacher, so Lesley re-evaluated her career ambitions and decided that working in the fire service wasn’t for her after all. But its loss was education’s gain as she went on to study teaching at University College of North Wales in Bangor.

For nine years the mum of two sons and two grandchildren, Eva (5) and two-year-old Flynn, worked in Antrim High School but in 1987, she moved to Harryville Primary School in Ballymena. In 2004 Lesley was promoted to school principal and set about making the school a place of not just education but safety and holistic nurturing.

Under her leadership, the primary school has seen its pupil numbers rise over the past five years from 60 to 193 and in recognition of her devotion and passion for her role, she was recently awarded Mighty Woman of Primary Education.

“I’ve been in teaching now for 40 years and I absolutely love it,” she says. “I definitely made

8 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ Having fun with the primary seven pupils on their ‘graduation’ day.

the right career choice.

ƒ The Mighty Woman award.

“My school is 60 per cent made up of children with special needs; autism, ADHD, literacy, behavioural or emotional difficulties.

“It’s the tiny steps I love to see. It’s so rewarding when a child comes running to tell me they’ve written their name for the first time or finally got to grips with something they’ve been struggling with. It’s absolutely brilliant.

“We are a mainstream school which so happens to have many children with special needs. We also have a lot of children for whom English is their second language; kids from Romania, Bulgaria, Poland, Slovakia, China, Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Malaysia. Some had no English at all when they started here but picked it up really quickly. My teachers are second to none.”

In recognition of the great work going on at Harryville Primary School, teaching staff decided to enter their principal for a Mighty Woman award, unbeknown to Lesley herself. It was only when she got a phone call to tell her she’d been nominated, that she found out what staff, parents and children had written about her in their nominations.

“I’m always being pranked so when I got a call from someone about the award, I genuinely though they were joking,” Lesley says.

“It was one of the classroom assistants who put me forward and when I read what everyone had said about me, it really reduced me to tears.

“It’s the tiny steps I love to see. It’s so rewarding when a child comes running to tell me they’ve written their name for the first time or finally got to grips with something they’ve been struggling with.”

“One little boy who had lost his mother and was very angry as a result described how he’d wanted to take his own life but that I’d got him a punch bag to help him get his anger out.

And she’s adamant that it’s a team effort.

“I have the best staff,” she says. “I couldn’t do this job without their support. They really care for these kids, no matter how difficult or challenging they can be.

“Our school is in a deprived area. There are high levels of drugs and alcohol abuse.

Sometimes a child might come into school and something has happened the night before, like their home being raided. These things do happen.

“If that’s the case, the child may be in no fit state to learn so we work with them socially instead.

“For them the school is a place of safety and it’s been like that for many years, right through the protests, bombs and bomb scares.

“One of the biggest changes I’ve seen in my years at the school is that we have more freedom. Beforehand it was all so prescriptive.

Nowadays children learn in many different ways. We teach them holistically; we teach them to care for and respect each other.

Putting nurturing principles in place has been a huge change.”

“He’s still quite angry but he is being so well looked after by two teachers in our special nurturing unit. It’s a classroom for kids with social and behavioural problems because we believe education should be a holistic approach. These two teachers have done such a great job with him.”

The Mighty Woman Awards are organised

by Families First NI and there are up to 18 categories across the board. Lesley won hers for primary education, but the school was also nominated in several other categories including Best Principal and Best Primary School.

It’s testament to Lesley and her loyal staff that not that long ago Harryville Primary was facing closure due to a downturn in pupil

numbers but is now providing an education to almost 200 children.

This year Harryville Primary School is celebrating its 150th anniversary, while Lesley is marking her own teaching anniversary too.

And looking back over those 40 years, she’s glad now she followed her heart.

ƒ Lesley Meikle with her Mighty Woman award.

“Our school motto is CARE – caring approach to reaching excellence,” she says. “But that excellence isn’t just academic. That’s what we pride ourselves on here.”

Local Women Magazine | 9

Super Cute And Super Comfy There’s no need to compromise on style just because we’re in Lockdown.

Marianne from Daisy Mae Boutique picks some stunning summer looks you can buy from the comfort of your own home.

DITCH THE JAMMIES

SHE’S ELECTRIC

V NICE DRESSES

You don’t need to wear your pjs all day long to be comfortable at home. Casual tees are the key for comfort during lockdown, teamed with some easy worn jeans. We have some great t-shirts you can wear loose or tucked into some fab high waisted jeans. These are great to pull you in at the tummy and give you that bit of shape at the waist. Jeans and tees go up to a size 22.

Why not brighten up your footwear with our beautiful Eclectic Electric Rainbow Trainers from Irregular Choice?

These are guaranteed to cheer up any outfit and are so comfortable - it’s like walking on air. And don’t forget we have some cosy Powder Socks - comfy on their own and super-cute teamed with any of our shoes..

For those summer lazy days relaxing in the garden, we have a lovely V dress from Amber Dresses that can be worn with the V at the front or the back. I personally prefer with the V at the back as it gives it a super elegant look.

There’s also a similar style with a batwing type sleeve if you prefer your arms covered.

These come in some beautiful rainbow pastel colours.

SMARTY PANTS! If jeans are too casual for your Zoom meetings, these lightweight cigarette trousers are just that little bit smarter teamed with a tee. These stylish pants are a style classic and are both smart and comfortable.

PURR-FECT TEES You’ll be feline fine in this cute kitty cat t-shirt. Slip on the ‘meow or never’ tee with your jeans for a purse friendly summer look at just £19.99, other tees from £14.99.

SANDALS THAT SPARKLE If you like a bit of sparkle, we have some beautiful diamanté flip flops, and some gorgeous sandals and wedges from Ruby Shoo. If you’re anything like me, and like a bit of matchy-matchy, you can team it with a matching bag to complete the look. If you like block colour footwear, we have Ragtime Ruffle from Irregular Choice that come in black and pink. There are also summer flats from Irregular Choice. Savannah comes in zebra and giraffe print!

GET SHADY Team your outfits with some beautiful on trend powder sunglasses.

The Aubrey ones are my absolute favourites and suit pretty much every face shape.

BOOTIFUL BRUSHES

JUMP INTO SUMMER As the weather hots up, it will soon be too warm for cosy loungewear. Why not try something simple and cooler like a lightweight jumpsuit? I love this fab navy, button up jumpsuit. It’s so easy to wear and also comes in blush pink.

10 | Local Women Magazine

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Local Women Magazine | 11

Meet The Local Women

COVER GIRLS

These are the five beautiful ladies who won our competition to be on the cover of our first Local Women digital editions.

North West

Mid Ulster/Armagh/Enniskillen

South Down/South Armagh

MELISSA CAMPBELL

LEIGHA COADE

MARGARET HAUGHIAN

12 | Local Women Magazine

North Coast/Ballymena

Belfast

CAITLIN DIXON

URSULA VALENTINE

“LOCKDOWN IS TOUGH ON TEENS”

Our North Coast/Ballymena cover girl is Caitlin Dixon from Dunloy.

Caitlin is a 13-year-old student at Loreto College in Coleraine. ƒ Caitlin Dixon

WHY DID YOU ENTER THE LOCAL WOMEN COVER GIRL COMPETITION? I enjoy modelling and the competition was a great opportunity to get my photo into a professional publication.

I have done several photo shoots with a local photographer Angela Cunning and they are good fun. Angela has managed to win a few competitions with her photos that include me.

HOW HAVE YOU BEEN SPENDING LOCKDOWN? I still have schoolwork to do, so I log in every day to complete the tasks my teachers have set for me. I keep in touch with my friends via social media platforms and I try and get some exercise every day. Most of the time I play with my dogs, Bella and Sam. I like to take Bella on walks as often as I can.

I sometimes go for a run on the treadmill or do some exercise on the trampoline. I’ve also started to learn some cooking and I’ve baked some cakes, buns and wheaten loaves.

ƒ Caitlin

school produces shows and we have performed at the Riverside Theatre in Coleraine, Braid Arts in Ballymena and the MAC Theatre in Belfast.

DO YOU MISS SCHOOL? I miss the social side of attending school as it has been tough being separated from my friends. It is quite hectic at school, whilst life has been quite relaxed recently.

DO YOU THINK LOCKDOWN HAS BEEN TOUGHER ON TEENS? Yes, it is tough. We cannot meet up as social gatherings are not permitted. It can sometimes get very boring just sitting around the house. We also have a holiday planned in Spain, but that may be in doubt. Thankfully, we have social media and Netflix to pass the time.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO DO WHEN YOU LEAVE SCHOOL?

I hope to attend university. I do not have a definite plan for what I would like to do, but WHAT WAS YOUR LIFE LIKE I’d be interested in pursuing a career in law.

BEFORE LOCKDOWN? If possible, I’d also like to pursue modelling. I I am involved in quite a lot of activities. also really love travelling so hopefully I’ll get the I dance for Loughgiel Irish Dancing opportunity to visit a few more countries once School, so I practice a few times the lockdown is relaxed. a week. When we have dancing competitions, the number of practice WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT sessions increases. Through my dancing, I NORMAL LIFE? get to travel quite a lot. I have been to the I miss being able to just jump in the car and go on World Dancing Championships in Wales. holidays or visit places. I also miss being able to We have won it a few times at various go out to restaurants with my parents. levels, and we are the current holders. I have WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT also recently started to play camogie again LIVING IN DUNLOY? for the local GAA club. I used to do gymnastics It’s a very friendly, community focussed village for the Sika club in Coleraine, but unfortunately, and there are always loads of things to do.

I had to give it up as it conflicted with my dancing practice. Apart from school, I like to spend my ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO TELL US? free time hanging out with my friends. I also get I heard recently two of the satellites that Elon Musk involved with drama groups and I have been launched got married. Apparently, the wedding part of a number of shows. Our dancing was a bit boring, but the reception was great!

Local Women Magazine | 13

“I WANT TO INSPIRE WOMEN IN THEIR 50S” Our South Down/South Armagh cover girl is Margaret Haughian, a 56-year-old retired Biology teacher from Warrenpoint.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO ENTER THE LOCAL WOMEN COVER GIRL COMPETITION? Women my age are often overlooked, and generally aren’t very good at self-promotion. I will hopefully inspire other women to continue to do their best to look and feel amazing, no matter what age.

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF? I love sport and exercise. I work out every day, doing a variety of training from weights to yoga and my current favourite is boxing! I recently qualified as a fitness instructor, and have been known to take the odd boxercise class. During Lockdown I have discovered Piloxing, and I’m hoping to complete my instructor training soon.

IS BEING HEALTHY IMPORTANT TO YOU? I love cooking, and I’m a firm believer that you are what you eat. Also, because of coeliac disease in the family every meal must be cooked from scratch. We never eat processed food, and the only packet in the cupboard is porridge.

DO YOU FOLLOW FASHION? I love hair, make-up and dressing up. I love clothes and fashion. I might be a bit of a hoarder, but clothes do have cycles. For example, I wore my going-away outfit from our 1987 wedding, to a recent wedding, and it still looks amazing!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY? I’ve been married to my best friend and soul mate for 33 years. We still have a date night every week, which is important, and a good tip for younger married couples.

We have two wonderful daughters. Olivia the eldest has Asperger’s syndrome and lives with us. She works as a teaching assistant and is the kindest, most generous person I know. I just wish people had more tolerance for the social difficulties ƒ Margaret Haughian 14 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ Margaret Haughian

associated with her condition, sometimes the world can be cruel to her, and this makes me sad. Our second daughter Katie-Rose is a junior doctor, currently working on a Covid-19 respiratory ward in a hospital in Nottingham. I miss her and worry about her safety but I’m very proud of her.

YOU RECENTLY GOT SIGNED TO A MODEL AGENCY – HOW DID THAT COME ABOUT? I bumped into Cathy Martin from CMPR Models who was a former student of mine. She planted a seed in my head that maybe I should pursue modelling in my twilight years.

I got in touch with 1st Options Agency in Dublin, and they invited me for an interview. A few days later I got a lovely email telling

me they’d be delighted to represent me.

WHAT ARE YOUR BEAUTY TIPS? I have three - the first one is sunscreen in the morning, the second is retinol at bedtime, and the third is water. Drink lots of it, at least two litres daily.

HOW HAS LIFE IN LOCKDOWN BEEN FOR YOU? Lockdown is giving us all a chance to re-set and refocus. I do believe that nature is taking its course. I’m very accepting of that, and although it’s very difficult not seeing family and friends, we must continue to be positive. Routine is important in our family with Olivia’s autism, so we generally stick to the same times as before and remain grateful for everything we have.

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU WILL DO WHEN LOCKDOWN ENDS FOR GOOD? I’ll visit my daddy in Ashgrove Care Home in Newry. He suffers from vascular dementia, a horrible disease. Last time I saw him was a few weeks ago through the window on his birthday. He blew me a kiss and sang with me...it was so sad.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT LIVING IN WARRENPOINT? It is a beautiful town and the scenery is breathtaking. There’s nothing like a walk along the front shore to lift your spirits.

“I WANT TO RAISE AWARENESS OF CYSTIC FIBROSIS”

Our Mid Ulster/Armagh cover girl is Leigha Coade, a 24-year-old sales assistant from Armagh.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO ENTER THE LOCAL kept busy with studying my online marketing course and daily workouts. I’ve even taken WOMEN COVER GIRL COMPETITION?

ƒ Me and my boyfriend Aron

I love the magazine and how it gives women up some baking, not great, but I’ve tried! I from Northern Ireland an opportunity to recently moved into my first home, so I have taken this time to decorate, add showcase themselves. I believe little touches and make it mine. everyone has a purpose and Pinterest is great and gave me being able to share that on such so many ideas. an amazing platform is brilliant.

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF?

WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT LIFE BEFORE LOCKDOWN?

I spend each day doing a Definitely eating out. Me and my minimum of three hours treatment boyfriend always took a Friday for my Cystic Fibrosis. This is night as date night and treated key to keeping well and making ourselves to a nice meal together. sure my lungs are getting the It gave us both something to look clearance they need. I love to forward to throughout the week. travel - I have seen a lot of the world in my 24 years; and I WHAT’S THE FIRST THING have a lot more places on my list. My favourite YOU ARE GOING TO DO WHEN place is San Francisco, my boyfriend and LOCKDOWN ENDS FOR GOOD? I spent a full summer there. Such a cool and Host a garden party for all my family and vibrant city, so much to do and see. friends. I can’t wait to be together with everyone I love. Good weather, good people DO YOU FOLLOW FASHION? I love fashion and putting outfits together, which and good vibes. Lockdown has given me the is exactly why I love my job at New Look. I’ve time to reflect on what’s important in my life always had an interest in clothes, and I get a and I plan to make more time for the things that give me a sense of purpose. great sense of satisfaction when customers are happy with the purchases I suggest. My WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT favourite online website to shop is Zara.

LIVING IN ARMAGH? I’ve also recently discovered Shein, it’s I love St Patrick’s Cathedral. I feel like an online Primark, I love it! so lucky to have such a beautiful building on my doorstep, as DO YOU COME FROM people come from all over the A CLOSE FAMILY? world to visit it.

I have one brother who is 13 years old. I have quite a large WHAT IS YOUR NUMBER family, and a close bond with my ONE AMBITION? goddaughter. I plan to make more time I want to work in Marketing. After for family when this is over. studying at Liverpool Hope University for three years, I was forced to leave HOW HAS YOUR HEALTH BEEN due to health reasons. I’m currently DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS? studying online to create my own I was born with Cystic Fibrosis, a personal marketing portfolio. Also, I disease that mainly affects the lungs. have been using my Instagram platform I recently took unwell after my chest to raise awareness of Cystic Fibrosis. I became a little too full and required would love to merge my marketing goals, stronger IV antibiotics. A terrifying and my Cystic Fibrosis blog, with fashion experience in the current climate! and all things wellness to make my page a HOW HAS LIFE IN safe, supportive, and inspirational space LOCKDOWN BEEN FOR YOU? where sharing experiences and tips is Lockdown has been fine. I’ve beneficial to all who follow me.

ƒ Me and my brother

ƒ Me and my goddaughter ƒ Leigha and her friends

Local Women Magazine | 15

“I’M MORE THAN JUST A MUM” Our North West cover girl is mum-of-four Melissa Campbell from Derry. Melissa, 31 is a health and wellness consultant.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO ENTER THE LOCAL WOMEN COVER GIRL COMPETITION?

imaginations to play games and having loads of BBQs together.

The downside to lockdown is the routines have gone and my girls miss their friends. I also miss visiting family and friends.

While I have been locked down in quarantine, I have been so busy as a mum and fiancée that I feel I have forgotten about myself. I wanted to do something for me.

HOW HAVE YOUR CHILDREN COPED?

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A LOCAL WOMEN COVER GIRL? Being a cover girl means that I’m more than just a mum. It means I have something memorable to show my girls - something for them to keep and be proud of. Something to show them that I still have an identity even though I’m mum.

ƒ Kayla

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY? I have four beautiful girls, Kayla who is 12, Leah who is eight, Mila who is two and Aria who is one. Mila and Aria were both born on the same day, March 4, one year apart, which I think is extremely rare and amazing.

I’m happily engaged to my fiance Vaidas, he’s an amazing daddy to our girls and we support each other so much in everything we do. As a family we love doing things together, usually going out for walks or to the beach and making memories.

HOW HAS LIFE IN LOCKDOWN FOR YOU? Honestly? it’s been great, we have been spending extra time together as a family, learning to bake and cook and using our

My girls have coped really well. The wee ones don’t understand yet, so this is normal for them. My older girls understand and are taking it in their stride and making us proud.

ƒ Vaidas, Melissa, Leah, Mila and Aria.

WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT LIFE BEFORE LOCKDOWN? Meeting up with family and friends, visiting beautiful places without restrictions and going for meals or the cinema.

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU ARE GOING TO DO WHEN LOCKDOWN ENDS FOR GOOD? We are going to visit our family and friends and we were planning on booking a family holiday - so hopefully after lockdown that will be done.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT LIVING IN DERRY?

ƒ Melissa and fiance Vaidas

I love my wee hometown because we all come together in crisis. We all support each other, especially people in need and we all are able to have joyous moments even in hardships.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR THE FUTURE? To be an inspiration to my children and be the best mum I can be. I want to help them to see how amazing and unique they are and that whatever dreams they have for themselves, they can be achieved.

16 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ Mila and Aria

“I AM HAPPY AND HEALTHY” Our Belfast cover girl is Ursula Valentine, a 23-year-old make up artist at the Make Up Pro Store.

TELL US A ABOUT YOURSELF?

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU’LL DO WHEN WE ARE ALLOWED OUT PROPERLY?

I’m from a small town in Fermanagh called Irvinestown. I moved to Belfast four years ago when I got my dream job as the lead make up artist working for Paddy McGurgan.

Oh, I have thought about this one! I will do a gym routine in the morning , take a shower, then go to the cinema , go for dinner, then I want to go out and party. This girl has been locked up for too long!

YOU LOOK AMAZING AND YOU HAVE LOST QUITE A LOT OF WEIGHT RECENTLY WHAT MOTIVATED THIS CHANGE TO YOUR LIFESTYLE?

ƒ Ursula after

I once went to try on a pair of jeans and my friend said to me, “If they don’t fit, don’t get in a bad mood!” That’s when I knew my insecurities about being overweight were affecting others. I wasn’t going out to social events or even going out with my friends. Things NEEDED to change. I was the only person who could do it.

HOW DID YOU ACHIEVE IT? I started Bootcamp classes with Dedicated Fitness Gym in Belfast. I began to see some movement in my weight. I then started to rethink my diet, eating healthier and consuming more nutritious foods to give me the energy and nutrients I needed. I completely removed all processed foods from my diet, and where possible stuck to fresh food, and prepared my own food. Then I began PT sessions with the owner of Dedicated Fitness, John Neill.

The PT sessions were amazing for pinpointing and focusing on weaker areas and strengthening them. I then began a shred class, which leaned and trimmed my physique.

ƒ Ursula before

One Day, or Day One, you decide. In the past, I had dieted off and on for years, to no effect. Joining Dedicated Fitness, made me see that baby steps are perfect. Start off with small improvements to your lifestyle and ease yourself in.

YOU HAVE A BIG INSTAGRAM FOLLOWING - DO YOU FEEL UNDER PRESSURE TO LOOK GOOD ALL THE TIME?

Honestly, yes! After my weight loss photoshoot, I had put on a few pounds, and I felt like I had let TELL US ABOUT YOUR FITNESS REGIME? everyone down. Now I try to focus on my own When I was losing weight, my regime was three journey and ensure that I am healthy and happy. shred classes a week plus two sessions of weight training. Now I am happier with my weight, I WHAT IS YOUR NUMBER ONE BEAUTY TIP? think consistency is key, so I weight train three I absolutely adore Flick Eyeliner, it accentuates your eyes, and allows your times a week and do two cardio sessions. eyes to look more feline.

DO YOU FIND YOU HAVE MORE SELFCONFIDENCE NOW?

Yes, definitely. I am able to put clothes on that I like, not that are convenient for my size. I am happier in my appearance and I am able to be myself, and not feel so self-conscious and insecure.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO ANYONE READING THIS WHO WANTS TO LOSE WEIGHT BUT FEELS LIKE IT IS IMPOSSIBLE?

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT LIVING IN BELFAST? There are so many things on your doorstep, and it is so easy to travel around - and the people are so lovely and friendly.

WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST IN LOCKDOWN?

I miss my family down in Fermanagh and I miss the It is only impossible if you make it impossible. gym and my work friends - we are like a family.

Local Women Magazine | 17

Helping The Portstewart Community

Portstewart FC deliver support packages to the elderly and the vulnerable.

D

uring the global pandemic it has been heartening to see so many groups helping out their communities.

One such group is Portstewart Football Club who have been delivering food packages to those in need.

While there has been no action on the pitch, the team and its supporters have been busy helping others.

Within days of Lockdown the club launched a Community Support Programme in conjunction with The Community Foundation.

Phase one of the programme was designed to deliver 70 support packages to the elderly and vulnerable in the local community, ensuring each household received a package containing essential food stuff and household products.

ƒ They have already delivered care packages

Alan Steele from Portstewart FC explained: “We successfully delivered phase one of our programme at the start of May, while adhering to strict Covid19 guidelines on the handling and delivery of the packages, ensuring this programme will effectively support the local Portstewart community during these trying times and also post Covid-19.

“Without the community spirit and the generosity of our donors and volunteers we

ƒ The club members have been helping the community

18 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ A social distance was

maintained at all times

would not have succeeded in supporting our community in this way and for this we are extremely grateful.”

Portstewart FC would like to thank the following companies and organisations for their support to this programme: The Community Foundation, Kerry Foods Coleraine, Local Women, Lakeland Diaries Ballyrashane, UUCAFC Graduates & Friends, SuperValu Portstewart Post Covid-19 the group will be holding a series of FREE activities for the elderly residents of Portstewart on a Tuesday in the clubhouse including bingo and arts & crafts, and they are encouraging residents to come along and try these activities or to simply meet up and relax with a good cup of tea and a chat. Further details of this will be announced post-Lockdown.

The club will also be holding a number of youth initiatives post Covid-19 for the young people within the community. These events will be advertised on their social media platforms.

Brighter days are coming, so it’s the perfect time to introduce a little pink into our colour schemes, with accents of blush and splashes of fuschia.

Hi everyone, It’s been another month in lockdown which is tough for us all – but on the upside at least we have plenty of time to have a look at our homes and contemplate how we would like to change them.

There’s nothing quite like spending 24 hours a day in your house to make you decide that you need new colour palettes.

This month to cheer us all up I am introducing pink into my schemes – it is such an uplifting colour and one I know lots of people adore.

So many people ask me for pink in their colour schemes – it never seems to go out of fashion and retains its popularity.

been designed for my clients, they love pink and

But a note of caution, there is a fine line between stylish accents of rose, salmon and coral and a Barbie palace!

Pink is such a nice colour to team up with grey and white. I love mixing different textures and fabrics in my design projects to create depth and tone.

For the perfect backdrop, wallpapers by Designers Guild, Casamance and Tim Wiman are gorgeous.

Paint colour is important, as there are 50 plus shades of grey to choose from - it’s important to get a grey that suits the pink you love and has the right tone.

Colour consultations are so important at the initial stages and will save time and money. It’s good to invest and get it planned out and perfect for you as a base.

as you can see,

it doesn’t have to be confined to a bedroom and

can

be

used

throughout your home.

Pink gives any room a boost and reminds us that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Looking to the future, my new studio in Lisburn is opening as soon as it’s safe to go back out and I can’t wait to get started on this new project.

Currently I am working from home and can provide you with a full interior home consultation to give your home a new look when lockdown ends.

Looking forward to welcoming you all back soon.

Everything you see in the pictures has

NEW STUDIO OPENING SOON Carryduff Road, Temple, Lisburn| W: www.monteithinteriors.co.uk CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE: Contact me on 07545 243500 or via social media for more information

Local Women Magazine | 19

Pregnant In A Pandemic

Preparing for the birth of your first baby can be daunting under normal circumstances. But with restrictions and social distancing in place in hospitals, due to the current Covid-19 health crisis, many women are preparing to give birth alone.

T

By Jordan Doherty

expecting a baby girl at the start of July.

She says: “This isn’t at all how I expected here are many new to have my first baby - but I’m just trying to experiences that come with remember that this situation is out of my your first pregnancy, most control and to not to worry too much.” of which can be navigated with Pregnancy is an exciting but stressful advice from family members and friends who have previously gone time and the virus has added an extra layer of stress to it - which Bernadette has through them. keenly felt.

However, your first pregnancy being “I find myself getting panicked when during a worldwide Pandemic, doesn’t exactly fall under the type of experience I have to go to the hospital due to the threat of the virus, but the staff have people close to you have gone through. been amazing.”

This is the case for many women during In respect of social distancing, to this strange and unprecedented time.

Bernadette Miller, 24, from Antrim is protect staff and other hospital patients, currently 32 weeks pregnant and is pregnant women such as Bernadette have had to attend baby scans and checkups on their own

ƒ Bernadette Miller is 32 weeks pregnant 20 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ Expectant mum Bernadette is trying to keep positive

“I’m having to go to my appointments alone, and as you can get a lot of have recently given birth, a lot of after care information at one time with these it is now over the phone.” can be quite daunting without a partner Even making sure she has all the essentials there to support you and help with the for the baby has been a worry, with being information given. able to simply pop out to the shops for bits “I’m also thinking about what to pack for and pieces not being as easy to do as before. the hospital bag at the minute just in case “Trying to buy bits for the baby is hard my partner is only allowed in for the birth, at this time due to delayed deliveries and so it is very stressful trying to remember limited stock. I’ve tried to use this time at everything that the baby and I will need.” home productively and have taken up arts The NHS have published their guidance and crafts, I recently made a cot mobile for and advice for pregnant women during the baby!”

Lockdown. They have also advised Whilst this is a certainly unique time to be expecting parents to stay up to date on pregnant, it is important to try and remain how their hospital is handling regulations positive and optimistic, just as Bernadette at this time. has been.

Bernadette is awaiting further information “I don’t really know what the ‘proper’ about postpartum care amidst lockdown: “I pregnancy experience is like. I’m just trying haven’t really been told anything just yet to enjoy this one as much as I can.” but through talking to other women who

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Women’s Institutes Arts Competition The Women’s Institutes of Northern Ireland held their Annual Arts Competition and Coffee Morning recently at Federation House.

ƒ WI prizewinners including Dorren Patton and Eileen White (both Mosside WI) and Evelyn Robinson (Ballymoney WI).

T

here was a wonderful display of paintings, calligraphy, good handwriting and decoupage from many talented competitors from the many Institutes throughout the Province who entered the Annual Women’s Institute Arts Competition.

presented the trophies and congratulated everyone who had taken part in the competitions and also to the Arts Chairman and her committee for providing the refreshments.

Finally, there was a ballot with lots of prizes, to conclude an enjoyable morning.

PRIZE WINNERS:

Doreen Patton, Mosside

A week before the event, two adjudicators came to Federation House to judge the various classes and choose the winners.

They said they had a difficult job, because the standard of style, detail and meticulous presentation was amazing.

Mabel Johnston Salver: Helen Galway, Ballysallagh

Pringle Cup:

The morning started off with tea and coffee, scones, pancakes, fruit loaf and traybakes, provided by the Arts Sub-Committee members. After lots of chat, banter and renewing friendships, everyone gathered in the boardroom for the prize-giving.

Federation Chairman, Collette Craig MBE

22 | Local Women Magazine

Jean Blair Trophy: Jean Gregg, Dollingstown Moorcroft Salver: Deborah Smyth, Crossgar Phyllis Ennis Cup: Iris Causey, Desertcreat

Joy Swann Salver: Renee McCormick, Hillsborough Harbinson Trophy: Evelyn McQuillan, Moneymore Gosford Trophy:

Mary O’Hara, Aghanloo Jacqui Brachi Shield: Eileen Evans, Donaghadee Stedfast Salver: Eileen White, Mosside Newtownbreda Trophy:

Lorna Walker Salver: Jill Jackson, Tartaraghan

Evelyne Robinson, Ballymoney

Logan Salver: Deborah Smyth, Crossgar

Competition and Jean Hughes Trophy:

Best Entry In The Painting Iris Causey, Desertcre

Jade’s Jade’s rainbow rainbow tribute tribute to to her her mum mum

Castlerock Castlerock artist artist Jade Jade Lyttle’s Lyttle’s painting, painting, inspired inspired by by her her mum mum Hilary, Hilary,raises raises much much needed needed funds funds for for front front line line workers. workers.

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ocal ocal artist artist Jade Jade Lyttle Lyttle has has raised raised £1,300 £1,300 for for NHS NHS workers workers byby raffl raffl ing ing off off a a unique unique ‘Somewhere ‘Somewhere Over Over The The Rainbow’ Rainbow’ painting paintingofof Mussenden Mussenden Temple.

Temple.

Jade, Jade,21,21,from fromCastlerock, Castlerock,said saidshe shehad had her herNHS NHSworker workermum mumHilary Hilaryononher hermind mind when when she she painted painted thethe beautiful beautiful creation creation that that depicts depicts thethe well-known well-known north north coast coast landmark landmark with with a colourful a colourful rainbow rainbow in in thethe background. background.

The Therainbow rainbowhas hasbecome becomethe thesymbol symbolofof the theNHS NHSduring duringthe theCovid-19 Covid-19crisis crisisand and like likemany manyofofus,us,Jade Jadehas hasbeen beenhumbled humbled byby their their work. work.

Covid-19 crisis. crisis.

Her Hermum mumHilary Hilaryhas hasbeen beenworking workingCovid-19 throughout throughoutthe thepandemic pandemicasasa aClinical Clinical Specialist Specialist Radiographer.

Radiographer.

“This “Thismoney moneywill willsupport supportstaff staffworking working

with withCovid Covidpatients patientsand andthose thosewho whohave have Jade Jadepainted paintedthe thepicture pictureand andposted postedanantoto self-isolate self-isolate from from their their families families because because

appeal appealtotoFacebook Facebookinviting invitingpeople peopletotoofof this. this. make make donations donations toto bebe inin with with a chance a chance ofof winning winning the the one-off one-off creation. creation.

“More “Morespecifically, specifically,this thismoney moneywould would

bebe used used toto provide provide staff staff with with the the likes likes ofof

She Shesaid: said:“As“Asyou youknow knowI’ve I’vedone donethis thiscomfort comfort packs packs and and food food during during periods periods ofof painting paintingasasa atribute tributetotomy mymum mumHilary, Hilary,work workand andcover coverpayments paymentsforforalternative alternative a afrontline frontlineworker, worker,and andallallher herNHS NHS accommodation accommodation during during self-isolation.” self-isolation.” colleagues. colleagues.Alongside Alongside everyone everyone else, else, I am I am Peoplewere wereasked askedtotocontribute contribute£5£5toto soso grateful grateful that that they they are are willingly willingly putting putting People

enterthe theraffle rafflewhich whichJade Jadedescribed describedasas their their lives lives at at risk risk toto save save others. others.

It It got got memeenter a a small small gesture gesture -and -and within within days days she she had had thinking thinking - what - what could could I do I do asas a gesture a gesture ofof giving giving back? back?

raised raised £1300. £1300.

“Never did did I think I think when when I posted I posted the the status status “I “Idecided decidedtotoraffle rafflethis thispainting, painting,which which “Never that wewe would would raise raise this this much. much.

Thank Thank you you will willbebeframed, framed,and anddonate donateallallproceeds proceedsthat whodonated. donated.I am I amoverwhelmed overwhelmed totothe theNorthern NorthernHealth Healthand andSocial SocialCare Caretotoallallwho ƒ Jade ƒ Jade Lyttle Lyttle

with your your generosity generosity and and support.” support.”

Trust TrustFund Fundforforstaff staffcomforts comfortsduring duringthe thewith

Local Women Magazine | 23

TM

AESTHETIC TREATMENT CLINIC

Lockdown Breakouts!

Is lockdown playing havoc with your skin? Fear not – Emma Heaney from Elite Aesthetic Clinic is here with all the skincare expertise you need to make it through lockdown.

Stress During such uncertain and stressful times, we have increased levels of Cortisol, sugar levels and sebum production that might be a cause of breakouts. In order to prevent breakouts that stem from high levels of stress, you’ll need to calm yourself down, easier said than done, I know. It’s a good time to introduce that daily governmentapproved activity. If you hate exercising, don’t worry, the antidote to high cortisol levels doesn’t have to be physical. Laughing, a solid night of sleep, or practising your favourite hobby are all effective options.

Sleep Beauty sleep isn’t a myth - when we sleep our skin rejuvenates and repairs itself. This seems simple, but inadequate sleep can cause your body to release more cortisol (the stress hormone) Over the last month I have received so many that can cause inflammation in your skin, which messages asking: “Why has my skin become can manifest as acne or psoriasis. So, try and maintain a good daily routine, night skin regime Most people have stocked up on sugary treats, worse during the Covid-19 pandemic?” and aim for eight hours sleep. salty snacks and we are all baking cakes and buns No make-up for weeks, more opportunity for in order to cheer ourselves up. During isolation sleep, less exposure to pollution – surely, we Emma Recommends: food has become one of the few focal points of A double cleanse with either Reveal or Prepare should all be glowing and dewy by now. the day, with more consumption of comfort food.

So why hasn’t it worked out like that? Lots of you Illuminate Serum and either Recover or R+.

Just like any other organ in your body, a poor diet are actually finding that your skin is breaking out, affects your skin negatively. It makes sense that or is oily, dull, or dry during lockdown. Which is an inflammatory foods, such as sweets, some dairy, added stress that we really do not need right now. processed meat, and refined carbohydrates, will cause a flare-up in your complexion. Avoiding The Covid-19 crisis is affecting every aspect of eating too much refined sugar and chocolate our lives, including the condition of our skin. because they will dehydrate the skin and can Your skin is a reflection of your overall health. I feel cause breakouts. Drink at least eight glasses of focusing on just your skin is too linear and microscopic water, eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, they - you need to take care of your whole self. will nourish your skin, also eating plenty of dried fruits will help because of their high fibre content and antioxidants. This will help your digestive There are several reasons for your system get rid of toxins, great if you want to unexpected breakouts and dullness. prevent spots and acne too.

• Stress Emma Recommends: • Poor sleep regime A well balanced diet and drink Skinade • Poor diet daily.

• Too much or too little exercise

By Emma Heaney, RN RM PHNS INP Elite Aesthetic Clinic

Diet

• Lack of Vitamin D • Face masks • Disruption in your daily skin routine

24 | Local Women Magazine

Lack of Vitamin D When your skin is exposed to natural light, the

routine once or twice a week . Embrace the concept of beauty from within, introduce Skinade to your skin regime. To maintain normal skin function and hold onto a youthful appearance during these uncertain times we must look beyond traditional methods . Enjoy this extra time you have at home, spend some time perfecting your skincare routine, and there’s more chance you’ll be able to stick to it. On the flip side of this, don’t over stimulate your skin, avoid the temptation to do DIY home peels and needling treatments as you do run the risk of burning and scaring your skin. There is a reason why these are conducted in a controlled environment.

Emma Recommends: Elite Clinical Glow Exfoliator, Skinade

Elite skin guide Elite has devised a general guide to help you select the correct products for your skin SKIN TYPE

RECOMMENDED PRODUCT

SENSITIVE

PREPARE - HYDRATE - PROTECT -RECOVER

OILY ACNE PRONE

REVEAL - REJUVENATE -HYDRATE - C10/20

AGE PREVENT

REVEAL - C20-PROTECT - RECOVER

DRY

REVEAL- C20-PROTECT -H2OO

MATURE SKIN

REVEAL- C20-PROTECT- R+

IRRITATED SKIN

PREPARE -C10-PROTECT- HYDRATE production of Vitamin D is increased. Endorphins are also produced, and MALE SKIN REVEAL- C20-PROTECT- R+ this boosts your immune system and well-being. So, ensure you get some REVEAL -REFINE-PROTECT-RECOVER fresh air every day in order to reap these benefits of the sun. The sun is DARK CIRCLES & FINE LINES a great natural resource to improve your skin. Please make sure you are UNEVEN SKIN TONE REVEAL -C20 PROTECT-ILLUMINATE protecting your skin with a combination of Vitamin C and SPF to bounce back the UV rays. Despite the very limited time allowed outside, make sure Make the most of this period of isolation It’s a fabulous opportunity to work you apply SPF on your skin as the UV rays coming via the windows, phones, on your overall wellbeing, be compliant with your skincare regime - which computers, and iPads are enough to age your skin and create pigmentation. it turns will help your skin.

Emma Recommends:

Elite Clinical Protect SPF 50, Elite Clinical C20 serum (vitamin c), a Vitamin D supplement.

Exercise

Relax and make time for you - your skin will thank you for it.

Elite clinical skincare products and Skinade are available to purchase on

www.eliteaestheticclinic.co.uk

You’ve probably heard that exercise causes your body to release endorphins, those wonderful little morphine-like hormone molecules that elevate your mood. Exercise also burns Cortisone, so it’s a great way to reduce stress and anxiety and help keep your skin clear. Just be mindful, exercise also elevates testosterone levels, which can wake up acne. If you find yourself working out more than once a day because you have the time, just remember to cleanse your skin before and after exercising.

Surgical masks While surgical masks are thought to protect us against spreading coronavirus - one thing is for sure, they’re not good for our skin. The mask offers the perfect environment for bacteria and germs to harbour. If you are wearing a mask for prolonged periods double cleanse the lower half of your face .

Disruption of skincare routine

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If you are like me and have ditched the makeup and are embracing a natural look, please don’t be tempted to skip your cleansing routine especially at night. If you normally get facials and now can’t, this may also be why you are breaking out or seeing changes. Carry on with your normal skin regime, if you are missing your facial, introduce an exfoliating product to your

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Local Women Magazine | 25

Carnlough’s Jacqui leads by example Northern Regional College lecturer Jacqui McAllister is working on the Covid-19 ward and donating her payment to charity.

A

Health and Social Care lecturer at Northern Regional College who is doing weekend shifts as a healthcare assistant in the Covid-19 wards at Antrim Area Hospital plans to donate her payment for this work to Ulster University’s Covid-19 testing fundraising appeal.

in touch with a recruitment agency.

“I signed up with the agency on a Tuesday and before I was allowed to work, I had to complete 23 online modules, get references checked and Access NI clearance. It all happened very quickly, and I did my first shift that weekend.”

Jacqui is continuing to do her ‘day job’ at the College and works Monday to Friday, Jacqui McAllister from Carnlough, delivering classes and online support to who teaches full time in the College’s her students.

Newtownabbey campus, admitted her Her 13-hour shifts in the hospital on her family were “horrified” when she told them weekend off comes at a cost, since this that she’d be working on the frontline, but means that she has to completely selffelt it was something she had to do. isolate from her family and live in separate She joins dozens of students from the accommodation.

College and Newtownabbey campus in Earlier this year, Jacqui was shortlisted for particular, working as healthcare assistants ‘Further Education (FE) Leader of the Year’ in hospitals, nursing homes and in the at the UK Tes FE Awards in recognition of local community during the pandemic. her work to spearhead the expansion of “How could I teach my students about Health and Social Care courses available compassion and courage if I wasn’t at Northern Regional College. prepared to do it myself?” the mother-ofJacqui’s efforts have resulted in a steady one said: “We’re all in this together and, by increase in student numbers over recent stepping up myself, I hope I’m modelling years culminating in over 220 students best practice to my students. With so studying Health and Social care courses many of them working on the frontline, it’s in the current academic year. only right that I should do the same.

“Healthcare staff really are “It’s a frightening situation to be in,” she at the frontline, providing continued. “I’m frightened, but the patients care and support to the most are also frightened. Some of them are vulnerable people in our extremely ill and their families cannot visit society. By equipping our them, so we sit with them, hold their hand, students with the necessary and talk to them. It’s not for everyone and skills to provide the best it can be very emotionally draining, but possible care, they really can there is great support from the nurses and transform lives.” all the other staff.”

With an aging population Once the seriousness of the situation and a reduction in public became apparent in March, Jacqui, who resources, the healthcare studied Public Health at Masters level, got

26 | Local Women Magazine

sector faces growing problems with increasing demand for home care packages.

Jacqui predicts that this demand will only grow, creating more opportunities for those interesting in pursuing a caring role.

“The Health and Social Care courses offered by the College can provide a pathway to success,” she said. “Our students can progress from Level 2 all the way up to Level 5 knowing that working for accredited qualifications can greatly improve their employability and career prospects.”

ƒ Jacqui

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Local Women Magazine | 27

PROLOVERS STAY CONNECTED ONLINE

Make up tutorials, new trends and guest appearances – there’s so much happening online at the Make Up Pro Store.

What a strange time for all our PROLovers and we hope you are all doing well and keeping safe!

However, we are not going to dwell on the negative and will continue to keep our PROlovers updated with all things, beauty, make up and of course a little bit of gossip as well!

Just because the shops are closed doesn’t mean there’s no shopping! You can still shop 24/7 on our website and our telephone line is still available, so call us on 02890 434007.

Don’t forget to check out our social media for makeovers, make up lessons from our superstar make up artists and some great workshops you won’t want to miss.

WE’VE BEEN LOVING…

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FEATURED FOLLOWERS NEW BRAND ALERT!

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Check out this month’s handpicked PROlovers. If you have created a look inspired by Make Up Pro Store or using any Make Up Pro Store products, make sure to tag us on Instagram using the hashtag #makeupproinspo in your caption to be in with a chance to be featured next month.

PADDY LIVE!

Over the course of May, keep an eye on Paddy’s Instagram (paddymcgurganmakeupartist) as he will be inviting some well known faces to discuss a range of topics. He has some amazing guests lined up! Stay tuned on our social media for more information.

28 | Local Women Magazine

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Support, Love and Flower Power!

Shannon and the team at Blossom & Birch are sharing the love with floral deliveries.

Hiya everyone, I hope you are all keeping safe - we have missed you all so much.

asthma, plants are a great way to keep the air at home clean and crisp. Nothing brightens up the house better than a fresh bouquet of flowers.

Let’s start off with a topic that is not about flowers - our topic is support!

FLOWER OF THE MONTH - PEONY

These beauties are back. They are always a fave in the shop and have to be one of my top three flowers. They are filled with fluffy petals and bloom into the most stunning and scented flowers. They come in every colour but blue and are gorgeous flowers to work with. Watch the peony dance as it opens each petal of pure fluffiness.

I’m sure times like this have shown you to be grateful for all the support you get from your friends and family. I am so grateful to my partner, who has kept me sane during this trying time and helped me deal with the shop closing for the first time in three years. My mum and dad have also supported me throughout the years and have really helped me through these times.

So, if you are thankful for someone’s support, let them know.

WEDDINGS

THANK YOU NHS - WE LOVE YA

We seriously have the NHS to thank for their incredible support to this country, so as a little thank you, we will be offering 10 per cent off their flowers from Blossom & Birch. It isn’t much, but it’s how we can say thank you for your years of unappreciated work.

WE’RE BACK!

We are finally back - well kind of! Our shops are still currently closed but we have now started taking orders for delivery around the Ballymena area and Ballymoney area. The support from

all our customers has blown us away and we are so thankful! What has made an impression on us even more is your messages of love and support to each other. Bouquets are being sent with messages like, “Just to brighten your day” or “Sending love.” It is so heart-warming and really makes our job amazing. Bringing smiles to people’s faces during such hard times is honestly an absolute pleasure and I’m so thankful for being back at what I do best.

THE HEALING POWER OF FLOWERS

Not only do flowers and plants have healing properties but it can be shown they improve mood and mental health benefits. The arrival of a bouquet to your doorstep can do wonders in times like this – and to know someone is thinking of you enough to send a stunning bouquet could makes someone’s week, never mind day. Flowers and plants can be shown to also help you sleep at night and, for anyone struggling at all with

Blossom & Birch Flowers by Shannon Ormandy 4 Church Street, Ballymoney, BT53 6DL

Blossom & Birch The Flower Shack 36a Broughshane Street, Ballymena BT43 6EB

To all the amazing couples planning their weddings this year, hold onto hope and please don’t panic if you have to change your wedding date. I myself may be in the same boat as my wedding comes up in October of this year. I’m holding onto every bit of hope I can. If you have had to move your date or are planning to, just enjoy every bit of it. As long as you have each other, that’s all you need. We are here to help any couple that may need it. I have years of wedding experience behind me so if anyone needs any tips or would like to hear about our packages, we would love to hear from you. Your wedding will still be as perfect as it was going to be this year, but our hearts go out to all the brides and grooms who have had to change their date after all the hard work.

To order flowers for delivery (no contact doorstep delivery) please call us on 07548429274. We are currently taking orders via this number for both the Ballymoney and Ballymena area.

Thank you and until next month stay safe,

Shannon xox BLOSSOM & BIRCH

NEWLY OPENED Wedding Boutique Blossom&Birch Wedding Centre Randalstown

Local Women Magazine | 29

“As a mum you have to stay strong…”

A Limavady mum who lost her son to suicide is using her heartbreak to help raise suicide awareness and break the stigma around mental health.

W

By Mandi Millar

hen I do actually realise that Ashley is truly gone I’m scared where it will take me... admits Limavady mum Jackie Barnes.

ƒ The late Ashley Barnes

And so, in the five years since her son’s death, she has lived to keep Ashley’s memory alive in a community where, she says, kids as young as 11 are contemplating suicide.

“Ashley was 24 when he took his life. He had two wee boys, everything to live for you’d think. But he had his demons too,” says Jackie, who discovered her son’s body.

“I don’t think people would do it if they realised what they were leaving behind, the ripple effect, the aftermath. That’s something we struggle with daily.”

In fact, Jackie still doesn’t think she’s processed it, even though she’s now working to promote suicide awareness.

“If someone starts talking about Ashley I can feel the lump in my throat but then as quickly as it starts something kicks in and I go back to ‘being Jackie’.

It’s like a survival instinct.

“I’m on anti-depressants and I’d be afraid to stop them in case I end up in the black hole where I was after I lost Ashley, not eating, washing, sleeping,” says Jackie who used to sit by her son’s graveside in the wee hours just to feel closer to him.

“We had a really special connection. If I asked Ashley something he’d never have told me a lie and he struggled with drugs.

ƒ Jackie is trying to raise awareness of mental health issues 30 | Local Women Magazine

“He’d managed to get back onto an even keel though and had even posted about it on Facebook but he’d lost a friend a few months before and that hit him hard so when he died there were rumours it was drugs-related.”

Not believing it, though, Jackie requested a copy of her son’s autopsy report, something no mother should ever have to read.

“It revealed a tiny amount of cannabis which the doctor said wouldn’t have played any part, and a small amount of an anti-depressant the GP had prescribed, so drugs weren’t a factor,” she says, though Jackie accepts she’ll never really know what was going through her son’s head that night.

“Ashley was to have stayed with me because he had an important appointment the following day,” recalls Jackie who’d started to worry when he didn’t show or get in touch.

“When our lift rang that morning rang to make sure we were ready I told him I was wild worried. I rang Ashley’s neighbour to see if she could get a response at his house.

“She said there was no-one about but that Ashley’s mobile was lying in the living room.

Ashley’s phone was always superglued to him and I’d a feeling in the pit of my stomach right then that something terrible had happened.

“I got a lift to his house and kicked the door in shouting for Ashley all the time. He wasn’t in the kitchen or the living room so I started up the stairs - and that’s when I saw it...

Ashley’s feet, just dangling there.

“After that I don’t really remember much but I do know his left eye was half open and his hand was caught beneath the scarf he’d used so I’ll always wonder had he changed his mind and was trying to save himself – or maybe that’s just an instinctive thing...”

In another cruel unknown, when police checked Ashley’s phone, they discovered his credit had run out the previous night so Jackie’s wonders had he tried to contact her but couldn’t.

The torture of those what-ifs threatened to overwhelm her in the dark days that followed.

“I didn’t care much about anything else. I just had to be with him and there were mornings I’d be up at 5am sitting by his grave with only the torch on my phone for light,” says Jackie who’s relied heavily on her mum Jean in the five years since.

“I would be lost without my mum. She’s my rock, my everything. I know she stays strong for me and I try not to cry in front of her but when she heard about a sponsored walk I did recently to mark what would’ve been Ashley’s 30th birthday she was in floods of tears.”

Jackie ended up raising over £1800, money she’s donated to LIPS (Limavady Initiative for the Prevention of Suicide).

“This money will hopefully help train someone in counselling,” says Jackie who’s been shocked by the scale of mental health and suicide issues in the area.

“I know a family where a wee 11-year-old is telling his mum he wants to kill himself.

“It’s so important for people talk for once you’ve started to think about suicide there’s such a fine line to taking that final step.

“And once it’s happened in your family,

ƒ Jackie has been supported through her grief by mum Jean

it makes you afraid for your other children. You’re afraid to turn your back for five minutes. You hear a bang and you just think, oh my God what’s that!” says Jackie who knows she’s yet to deal fully with Ashley’s loss.

“The doctor has told me it could take five, 10 even 15 tears but that the longer it goes the harder it will probably be.

“When other people cry over Ashley I know that should be me too and I ask myself, what’s wrong with you? But you cope the best way you can, don’t you?

“As a mum you have to stay strong. I have to be strong for Ashley’s brother and sister and my grandchildren. As a mum it’s just what you do, isn’t it?”

ƒ Jackie with Ashley

* If you need help and advice, follow LIPS on Facebook or call LIFELINE on 0808 808 8000

ƒ Jackie visits Ashley’s grave daily

Local Women Magazine | 31

Loving Me Loving Life Learning to love yourself is the most important thing you can do in the quest to create the life you truly want.

W

ho remembers being taught how to actually love yourself?

It is often commonly mistaken as arrogance or conceit. We often hear it as a criticism of others, “Look at her, she loves herself!” You can see some people physically squirm at the very mention of it, as for many it can feel so at odds with what they were taught as children.

However, it is one of the most important things to learn in life, if not the most important. We are the only voice in our head, we are the one constant person in our life, regardless of what happens, so surely the relationship we have with ourself, is something we should at least think about. One of the problems I see is that in general most people’s understanding of ‘loving yourself’ means that they should tell everyone how great they are and act like they are better than others. Ironically those who do this usually far from truly love themselves.

Learning to love yourself is about firstly getting to know yourself, moving towards acceptance of all parts of you, liking and learning how to love yourself, not just by how you feel about you, but in how you care for you. It is by taking these actions of self-love that we begin to permit ourselves to live more fully, by ensuring that all our needs are met, rather than using all our energy to meet the needs of others.

The mindset shift I work on with clients is the reverse of this. By teaching clients how to respond to their own needs and to embrace their true self and permit it to shine through, regardless of what others think, this positively impacts on their relationships and the way in which people respond to them. It begins to look like real confidence without the need to make others feel less. Instead it inspires those around them to make similar changes in their own life.

A lot of mothers are so overloaded with the pressures of modern living, to have and be it ‘all’, that they simply have long forgotten that they matter too. Ironically, the more they put their own needs further and further down the list, the more it affects them and their family.

Quite often I tell clients to do the illogical. For example, when you have a long list of tasks to do

32 | Local Women Magazine

and unleash your inner potential. It is a 12 week programme consisting of weekly 1-1 Facetime or face to face sessions (once Covid-19 restrictions are lifted these will resume), weekly journaling activities, course materials and an initial mindset transformation, where we focus on exploring who you are and what you want from the course.

I’m also an energy therapist, and can integrate this into the package, based on client needs and requests.

In addition, I have a set up a ‘Mindset for Mums’ group providing weekly wellbeing ‘get togethers’ on zoom. These are free of charge thanks to funding from Garvagh Development Trust.

The purpose of this group is to offer wellbeing and mindset tips for mums during COVID 19 lockdown. It is also to provide a network of support and non-judgemental space for mums to and feel overwhelmed, I advise them to take a support one another. I have decided to target this break, preferably by taking time to go outdoors, meditate or even take a nap; something which will group, as there are a lot of mums under immense pressure at the moment; juggling home schooling, relax the body and mind and recharge it.

When setting goals and working out what we want working from home, and parenting, as well as trying to meet their own needs. from life, how can we begin to do this if we don’t know who we are. Most people define themselves I am also currently offering counselling and personal development mentoring via Facetime, by their job title or role in the family but have WhatsApp and telephone, which can be booked never even considered who or what is behind on a weekly basis. these titles.

Make yourself a priority, nurture any feelings that When we begin to look more closely at this, we may begin to gain more clarity about what we truly surface, and seek professional support when you need it. want from life, not what we think we should do Ask yourself what would my life look like if I loved based on what we think will please others or the ‘rules’ and restrictions we have been placing in our myself more? What would I permit myself to be, do and have? own lives based on limiting beliefs.

I believe we all have a duty to love ourselves, Stay well, so that in turn we have more to give to others. I Louiseanne can see that for a long time we have been taught to give and give to others to our own detriment, where as when we can meet our needs first, the For more information on the work help we can give others is much more sustainable.

Louiseanne does, visit her Facebook The other thing I find is the happier I am, the more page: I want to spread it to others, as well as being more https://www.facebook.com/ capable to do so. lookwithin16 This has led me to put together the selfor email: louiseanneq@gmail.com development course ‘Loving me-Loving Life’. I offer a unique, tailor made programme supporting you in learning who you are and how to love yourself so that you can create the life you truly want

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Local Women Magazine | 33

KEEPING SUSTAINABLE FASHION ALIVE ONLINE Online shopping has never been so popular and, according to one Portrush vintage store owner, the sustainable fashion industry is holding its own during the global pandemic and finding new ways of trading

T

By Eimear McWilliams

imes are tough for everyone at the minute, especially for small business owners. However, the world, and certainly the world of fashion, doesn’t stop for anyone – not even the Covid-19 pandemic.

Local retailers have adapted well to the current climate and many have invested in new websites and turned to selling on social media to keep their businesses afloat.

Pre-Lockdown, the sustainable fashion industry was gaining more momentum, with vintage and second hand stores moving into the mainstream. But, how is this particular sector coping with the unusual trading conditions?

Local Women’s Eimear McWilliams looks at how one Portrush-based sustainable fashion business owner is coping during the Lockdown.

UNA CONLAN Una Conlan started her business, Terra Vintage in December of last year. She is delighted that her initially gloomy forecast of how her business would cope was wrong.

She explains: “At first, I thought Covid-19 would have a negative effect on sales, but the opposite soon turned out to be true as virtual markets and lots of opportunities online began to spring up. It also became clear that customers wanted to support local and small business during this time.”

Having always conducted her business online, she has seen the positive impact that

34 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ Una showing off her collection of prints and patterns

social media has had, particularly, with a recent venture led by two English based vintage sellers.

ƒ The first virtual market from @avirtualvintagemarket

A Virtual Vintage Market, which features on Instagram, is the brainchild of Georgie Roberton, of Peony Vintage and Emily Sturgess, of Medley Bazaar. They joined forces to create a platform for sellers and buyers of vintage clothing. Georgie said she saw social media as a way to carry on with business whilst in lockdown, and it has certainly proved itself.

“Since the current pandemic means that small business with premises are unable to open, and physical markets are unable to take place, I thought it would be ideal to find a way to pool all traders of vintage together under one umbrella.” says Georgie.

“Covid-19 has pushed me to be more collaborative and connected than ever and it’s driven us to do something free for the vintage community trying to survive.”

By reaching out on Instagram, A Virtual Vintage Market managed to accumulate 37 sellers from far and wide to take part in their first event, including some well-known Northern Irish girls. The success of their debut has spurred them to hold a second event.

Una said that events like this are an amazing way to grow business and build a larger following, all from the comfort of your own home. And what’s more important for business cash flow, is that it’s completely free.

“I would definitely encourage people to try A Virtual Vintage Market,” says Una. “I first fell in love with vintage simply due to the variety of pieces with unique colours, patterns and styles. There is of course the added bonus that you aren’t going to see the item on anyone else. You can be confident you will be the only one at the wedding in your vintage dress. You just don’t know the treasures you are going to find in a vintage shop.”

Una also tells us about her favourite vintage item. “I would have to say my ultimate vintage must-have is a shirt”, she says. “I absolutely love colourful shirts, and there are so many unique shirts with bright prints to be found in vintage stores. A shirt is such a versatile item, which can be dressed up with a skirt, worn under a pinafore dress or with jeans for a more casual look during the day. You can also wear them so many ways, with the bottom tied into a bow, tucked in or even with the collar tucked in to make a v neck for a nighttime look.

Vintage shirts are a staple in my wardrobe.”

ƒ Some beautiful vintage dresses for sale at the virtual market image from @avirtualvintagemarket

Local Women Magazine | 35

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Established since 2000

TO BRUSH YOUR TEETH IS TO BELIEVE IN TOMORROW Portstewart Family Dental’s Michele King advises on how to access dental treatment during the pandemic.

We are all very aware of the unprecedented times we are experiencing at the moment.

Covid-19 has completely changed all of our lives in so many different ways. However, I want to reassure you that as dentists we are still here, working away in the background to look after and care for our patients.

We have been advised to cancel all routine and non-urgent appointments during this time, to help prevent the spread of the virus and to protect our patients, staff and the wider population.

Therefore, the preventive measures that you are taking at home are never more important.

Please maintain or spend a little extra time in cleaning your teeth, use interproximal brushes to clean in between your teeth to remove debris and add in a mouthwash. This could help prevent you having toothache during this time and get you into good habits going forward. Please change your toothbrush a little more frequently and especially if you have Corona Virus.

treatments for dental emergencies can be treated. These units are specifically designed to be a safe environment for the patients and staff to perform emergency treatments. Local dentists (including myself) are volunteering to work in these units to help treat dental emergencies. So, it may not be your usual dentist that you will see but it will still be a friendly face. These units require a referral from a dentist. It is not possible to access these units any other way. So, if you have a dental emergency it is important that you contact your dentist on the telephone.

The surgery door at present will be locked so, in most practices the best way to contact the dental team is by telephone. Walk-ins are not allowed. Even if you are not registered with a dentist yet, most dentists will still help you during this time. All patients are triaged according to their symptoms and appropriate treatment given. This could be advice, a dressing, a prescription or a referral to one of the urgent dental centres.

missing teeth, and associated swelling and bleeding.

SEVERE TOOTHACHE: requiring repeated use of painkillers, preventing sleep or eating.

I am sure that this is a watershed moment.

We will adapt pretty quickly, and things will The Health Board has setup Urgent Dental be different. We will get through this together Units across Northern Ireland where certain and hopefully be stronger for it. We just have to do all that we can to protect our patients and staff during this time. I miss you all very So, let us look at what is classified as a much at this time….but remember we are still dental emergency: here if you should need us.

SWELLING: this could be a sign of infection

Take care, brush your teeth and wash your hands.

BLEEDING: if you have recently had an extraction and the bleeding does not stop after applying pressure with a piece of clean gauze for 20mins then you should to seek advice. If, however your gums are bleeding slightly whilst brushing this could be a sign of early gum disease which is not classed as an emergency but just needs more meticulous and thorough brushing for a couple of weeks.

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TRAUMA: leading to loose, fractured or

44 | Local Women Magazine

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Lara Lavine brings

luxury fashion to life Meet the Newry designer who has combined her passion for fine art with her love of high-end fashion to create stunning one-off designs.

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which are totally unique and very beautiful.

s an artist Laura Rafferty has long been fascinated

by Northern Ireland’s rich

As a reviewer at her first catwalk show at London Fashion Week earlier this year said: “Lara Lavine pushes the boundaries of wearable

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heritage.

From the shipyards of Belfast

art to fashion dramatic, chic, limited edition and one-of-a-kind silk scarves and apparel

to the steam trains that used to carry goods across the country,

based on her references to the railways of Northern Ireland; using the steam train wheel as a symbolic graphic in her bold designs.”

Laura has carefully studied our past industry and brought it to life in her fashion.

Each one of Laura’s designs is a little piece of luxury, and a unique one-off. Every piece is something to be treasured for years to come – because, as Laura explains, she is creating

For many her inspiration may seem far from the glamourous idea of what a fashion designer should be creating.

exactly the opposite of fast fashion.

But working under the name Lara Lavine, Laura creates truly beautiful pieces that reflect the zest for life, hard work and creativity that makes Northern Ireland unique.

Laura explains: “I love to reflect our heritage in my designs.

I create the wearable art experience, exclusive limitededition ladies, ready-to-wear dresses and silk scarves, where art, culture, heritage and fashion meet. My designs are inspired by the untold heritage of Northern Ireland’s industry and railways, the forgotten stories of its working people. I have been inspired by the grimy, greasy, mundane, industrial imagery,

For instance, her silk scarves can be worn a number of ways and folded to show completely different colours. One piece looks difference and the stories of these heritage sites.”

In creating her designs Laura enjoyed visiting places like Whitehead in Co Antrim where she saw the railway station where the old steam trains once ran, as well as the Transport Museum in Cultra which is a treasure trove of Northern Ireland’s industrial past.

She uses motifs such a steam train wheel as a feature in her designs

depending on how you want to wear it and breathe new life into it.

“I love creating something that can be kept and worn many times. In a world that seems to be about fast fashion, it is lovely to create a product that is sustainable and that you can love for a long time.”

Laura’s skills as a fashion designer and seamstress mean that her designs are made for you. She is creating a work of art for you to wear – a piece of fashion that is both beautiful and meaningful.

Laura says: “It’s a pleasure to be able to create beautiful clothes. I just love seeing my designs brought to life and being enjoyed for years to come.”

Shop the collection online www.laralavine.com Local Women Magazine | 45

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46 | Local Women Magazine

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What Women Want

HELLO FROM THE OTHER SIDE… Lori Gatsi-Barnett from the JoinHer Network speaks to Louise Warde Hunter, Principal and Chief Executive of leading Further and Higher Education College, Belfast Met, about why women have what it takes to deal with a crisis.

Continents, and time zones are grounded and facing a new normal. This new reality has opened our lives in so many different ways. For the first time the whole world is in the same place and our experiences are exposing just how similar we all are. Everything has changed and for a while we have become aware of our limitations as we are not out and present everywhere, but living indoors for a moment, in this time.

At the same time, looking from the window of the house, on either side we see how resilient people, families, friends and communities are.

We have had to consider the value of life and the danger and uncertainty no one could have ever imagined. Looking out neighbours have taken on consideration for each other, vulnerabilities have been so evident and the appreciation for everyone on the frontline battling it out to save us all.

The weather has been bright and sunny as if to tempt us to go beyond our back yard. Gardens and outdoor living spaces in our homes have provided a safe haven as with our children we plant and practice science projects that we certainly don’t want to ruin our floors. The sound of laughter, games outdoors, the aroma of barbecue days and the best staycations worthy of a travel agent family deal, is another aspect of this new normal that we presently face.

consistent and courageous response, whilst not losing focus and having decisive action plans. It has been beautiful to watch and applaud female leaders at work.

Louise continues: “At this challenging time for so many, communication has never been more important to us in all the communities we are part of, whether they are our communities of family and friends, our local neighbourhoods or our communities at work. How we connect and engage on-line has changed and accelerated.

From video meetings at work to the advent of the social media family quiz or the latest Tik Tok challenge, there’s a sense that whatever the world looks like, as we emerge from isolation, we have reinforced new lines of communication years ago when she was studying the qualities in our daily lives.” of successful leaders of change in the public Globally we are changing because in every sector, there was a clear correlation between the community, whatever its make-up, family, characteristics of good change leaders and the friends, our local neighbourhoods, or our attributes often associated with women leaders. colleagues at work, we all recognise that we The common denominators were an empathetic matter. In whatever we choose to stay connected, approach and sustained, good communication. we should reflect on what matters. Additionally,

Back indoors on a rainy day, home school and home office complete, those board games, puzzles, trivia and consoles! The competition between generations rages on to see who wins the challenges and who cheats! Winning at its best! For a brief moment we are all caught up living, creating memories and embracing belonging, unity and cherishing wellness and safety hidden within the house. By now we have all become so particular about cleaning standards, making sure everywhere is disinfected as we fight a The true test of leadership has been put on war with detergents. display with how different governments have “I have always been interested in how people responded to this pandemic. The evidence has cope with and manage change” says Louise been overwhelming that women have what Warde Hunter, the new Principal and Chief it takes to deliver in times of crisis. There Executive of leading Further and Higher is obvious confidence, calm processing of Education College, Belfast Met. She said, many information, swift delegation of duties and a

appreciate the finer things and make time to be present in the moment. Rekindle hobbies, rewrite songs and remake movie scenes, redesign our living spaces, hold dear our loved ones and plan for the future. Whichever side of the window we stand on, I’m confident there will always be hello from the other side.

For more information find us at joinher.co.uk Local Women Magazine | 49

50 | Local Women Magazine

WIN

THE BUELLA LIFE RANGE!

ver been looking after yourself has ne s, isi cr h alt he l ba glo e th g Durin llness m Buella Life is of fering a we fro tt rre Ga ma m Ge . nt rta so impo ds of pounds. prize package worth hundre

N

ever has wellness been so important.

Gemma Garrett from Buella Life knows that taking care of your health is vital and wants to share her range of health care products with Local Women readers.

This month Gemma is offering one lucky Local Women reader the chance to win a range of Buella Life products including:

Buella Life is an online third-party distribution platform sourcing best-in-class luxury and wellness brands which adhere to a common set of ethical and humane values.

• Lumity Skin Nutrients Facial Oil

From vitamins, to skincare and candles, Gemma has sourced the products from across the world, that she truly believes in.

• One Month’s Supply Of Lumity Supplements • A Bitter Orange & Yiang Yiang Double Wick Candle

• Lumity 4 in 1 Cleanse

All you have to do to win this fantastic prize is to answer the following question: Who owns Buella Life?

All the products at Buella Life are personally recommended

by Gemma and she ensures that not only does the consumer get access to often hard to source products but does so at a considerable saving to normal retail prices.

A.

Gemma Garrett

B.

Lesley Garrett

C.

Jenny Garrett

Send your answer A, B or C to editor@localwomensnews.com by May 31.

Prize is as listed above – no cash alternative is offered.

Terms and conditions apply. Winner will be picked at random. Editor’s decision is final.

Local Women Magazine | 51

52 | Local Women Magazine

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Local Women Magazine | 55

PHARMACY HEROES We at Gordons Chemists have always put the patient first. Covid-19 has not changed this.

Like many other healthcare and frontline workers across the UK, our #PharmacyHeroes - both our team at Gordons Chemists and right across Community Pharmacy - are making us incredibly proud right now with staff having to make their own personal sacrifices in recent months in order to support the community and ensure you continue to have access to the medication you need.

We are facing incredible demands on the services we offer, and we are facing an invisible enemy.

Community Pharmacies across Northern Ireland experienced a huge surge in demand because of the coronavirus pandemic, and this has resulted in some pharmacies dispensing almost four times the amount of medication they normally would in a week.

So how have our pharmacy teams managed throughout this crisis to continue to provide the medication you need, and give the care and advice you trust? Below is some insight into what your local pharmacies have been facing, so that you can understand what life has been like for them while they have been supporting those most in need during these difficult times.

Many team members have chosen to isolate away from their families so that they can continue to work while also keeping their families safe. To cope with the dramatic increase in prescription requests the majority of our staff came in early, worked late, worked weekends and even cancelled holidays – all in a bid to catch up with the workload so that patients were able to receive their medication.

for prescriptions needing to be delivered.

With many patients having to self-isolate or Numerous team members took it upon shield due to underlying health conditions, themselves to facilitate these deliveries this resulted in an unprecedented demand in their own time with many delivering

56 | Local Women Magazine

medication to patients during their breaks, on their way home in the evenings and even at the weekends. A large number of Gordons Chemists team members, including head office staff, have all had to adapt by taking on different roles and joining forces all in a bid to ensure that we continued to support our patients.

Right throughout our network, team members have went over and beyond the call of duty to ensure that their patients received the care and support they needed during the Covid-19 crisis. Many of these acts have become part of the ‘new normal’ way of working. We therefore, wanted to take this opportunity to highlight just a few examples of how some of our teams interventions have directly benefited our patients and why we class ALL our staff as #PharmacyHeroes.

BUSHMILLS Hannah Donnelly, Pharmacy Manager from Gordons Chemists in Bushmills has noticed how well her team has come together during the pandemic to serve their local community.

“We have had members of staff coming in early to clean and to get caught up in the dispensary from the day before with other members from other stores coming to help on their day off. There have been also occasions where - for patients who prefer not to come into the shop we have taken their prescriptions and shopping out to their car. It has all been about teamwork and pulling together, At certain times, our delivery driver has not been able to deliver prescriptions, so rather than let our customers down our staff members have willingly delivered over their lunch breaks or on their way home. On days when it was

ƒ L-R Emma-Jane Cross, Hazel McGugan, Hannah Donnelly, Kay Rodgers and Ciara McHugh.

especially busy, staff members swapped their have received a variety of sweet treats and day off at short notice. people have expressed their gratitude in We continue to be very overwhelmed by cards and kind words, which we are forever the support of the local community. We grateful for.”

BALLYMONEY Rebekah Holgate, Pharmacy Manager for Gordons Chemists Ballymoney, has noticed that it’s the little things that make all the hard days’ worth while.

With the increase in demand for medication to be delivered, our pharmacy delivery driver has been working extra hours to get deliveries out to patients – with other staff members helping out without being asked.

Our shop floor staff have also acquired additional roles through the taking of phone orders from patients for essential items ƒ L-R Sandra Thomspn, Nicole Watt, Emma Crawford, Ann Hewitt, Stephanie Gault and Norma Grissam and assembling them for delivery when patients can’t get into the pharmacy. It has help from Age Concern, we were able Gordons Chemists employee who is now a really shown how well the team has come to ensure his medication was delivered to practice pharmacist but in our time of need, together during the pandemic him every week without the patient having she was willing to help her old colleagues.

We’ve also been working alongside local to organise this.

Although some days are very long and tough, charities such as Age Concern as part of Due to the increase in prescription numbers, most patients have been very understanding the CDHN Volunteer Partnership to deliver pressure was put on the processing, assembly medication to patients that are unable to and checking of weekly MDS trays. In one and have shown their appreciation through get to the pharmacy. A particular elderly particular instance, a number of staff came sending us sweets and biscuits – which we patient who lives 10 miles from the in to work on a Sunday (Mother’s Day to be are very grateful for! One customer who pharmacy is deaf so struggled to organise exact) to ensure that MDS trays were ready owns a local food business even paid for a

collection of his weekly medication himself for patients for the next week. One of the staff member’s dinner, as a thank you for all due to communication issues. With the pharmacists that helped that day is a past their efforts!”

Phrases like ‘above and beyond’ or ‘going the extra mile’ don’t quite cut it when we think of the effort and commitment that our staff and all those through community pharmacy have displayed throughout this crisis. We’re incredibly proud of them, and immensely grateful to them for how they’ve stood up and

responded during this pandemic.

generosity shown to us through the many kind

We understand that it has not been easy on you - our loyal patients. For the appreciation and understanding, that, you’ve displayed to our teams - we thank you.

gestures and small gifts that our Pharmacy Teams have received over the past weeks again we thank you!

These small tokens of your appreciation for our

We have also been humbled by the #PharmacyHeroes mean the world to us.

www.gordonsdirect.com Local Women Magazine | 57

WE ARE ONLY A CLICK AWAY! Full range of products available

We’ve made shopping easy for those who are unable to visit our high street stores.

Quick & Secure Checkout Free standard UK & Ireland delivery on orders over £40

Visit our Online Store Today

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40 Years Together #InThisTogether Trust Gordons 58 | Local Women Magazine

Local Women Magazine | 59

THE MOOD OF DRESSING WHILE YOU WORK FROM HOME DURING COVID19.

Hello, to all my readers this month I thought I would write about the mood of dressing for work during covid19 while you move from the office to the comforts of your home as your typical workday.

Once again, we challenge huge changes in our lifestyle and in our work environments. The coronavirus pandemic has forced most of us to work from home which has led to the tricky dress code when there is nowhere to go, so what do you actually wear to make your day

productive and help you feel motivated while you type up that memo, or take that business call .

Just remember ladies that when you are feeling low, clothes always have the power to give us warmth and security especially at a time like this so firstly don’t opt for a pair of tracksuit bottoms and a hoodie, keep this wear for your afternoon walk plus you don’t want to get caught out with that all important conference call on Zoom, unless you opt for dressing from the top up otherwise known as “conference 60 | Local Women Magazine

of a lift in your day try choosing bright colours to boost your mood, I find this really works for me and I have noticed that when my customers come to visit me instore at Gasp they immediately feel lifted when they try on colourful pieces especially during the spring summer season, so try bring this mood into your home office environment it will make such a difference to your day!

If you are really feeling brave and you have always wanted to practice power dressing for work well now is the time to do this from the confines of your kitchen table, your colleagues call dressing” keeping won’t recognise you in that business on top and zoom call while you dress to pyjamas on the bottom impress with that powerful then you can easily cover pinstripe blouse, tight up and your colleagues won’t knee length skirt with notice any difference ! a slit up the side and As we all face daily bad news and red soled high heeled restrictions it is tough enough trying pointed shoes , YES you to work let alone start pulling out that are in control of any difficult situation office skirt from the wardrobe and that may arise at work , you are ready delving into your closet for your most bring it on !! stylish shirt , but in times of crisis it is so Just on another note you may not important to feel good and getting all realise that I have revamped my dressed can act as a form of self care , online store www.gaspboutiques. so what I suggest is when you get up in com , we are taking all orders online the morning , after your breakfast and before you settle down to opening with shipping direct to your door, up your laptop browse through your I have had a little extra time to work on this while the boutique wardrobe and opt for a piece has been closed during this of clothing that makes pandemic so please feel you feel comfortable but free to browse away productive , maybe this will and send me any consist of a nice blouse with queries you may a collar, a shirt , or just simply have , I am more a smart colourful top that than happy to would look well on that help you in any way that I can. zoom call !

Comfort is important too, and it is very easy to just throw something on in the mornings but you don’t want it to feel like its yesterday’s clothes so take out a nice pair of stretch jeans or classy comfortable elasticated waisted pants along with good footwear , trainers or soft ankle boots, try to avoid staying in your slippers unless you have kept those pjs on ! Just remember our clothes can motivate us and establish a purpose to our working day environment.

If you are looking for a little bit

I do hope you, your families, and loved ones are all keeping safe and I look forward to seeing you all again in store very shortly, it is trying times for each and everyone one of us , but I do believe we will all get through this as a nation and hopefully a successful covid19 vaccine will be approved shortly so we can all bring a little bit of normality back into our daily lives.

In the meantime, Safe Safe everybody.

Until Next Month Regards

Ann Doyle

Proprietor of Gasp Boutique Armagh Local Women Magazine | 61

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SUPPORTING YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM THROUGH COVID-19 Dietitian and nutrition blogger Kathryn Stewart gives you practical advice on how to keep yourself healthy during the health crisis.

3.

Confused by what diet you should be following? It was no carb last week, low fat this Aim for 5 or more fruit and vegetables week, eat more fruit, no wait, fruit contains too much sugar…the list goes on! Every daily: fresh, frozen, canned and dried Tom, Dick and Harry seems to be dishing out nutrition advice these days, but the truth is all count registered dietitians are the only health professionals qualified to give nutrition advice. If Choose wholegrain carbohydrates, e.g. you needed your car fixed you wouldn’t go to a hairdresser and vice versa so why take wholegrain cereals/ oats, wholemeal diet advice from those no qualified to do so? I know only too well how confusing it can bread/ pasta be to find reliable diet and nutrition information and advice which is why each month I’ll Stay hydrated: aim for 8 glasses a day be helping you make sense of a popular nutrition trends and providing practical tips to and remember soups, jellies and hot improve your diet. drinks count too A BIT ABOUT ME First things first, I’ll introduce myself, I’m Kathryn Limit alcohol to no more than 14 units Stewart a dietitian and sports nutritionist from a week the North Coast and as stereotypical as it Take a folic acid supplement if you’re sounds, my love of food initially led me to a pregnant or planning on it career in dietetics. I studied in Glasgow, got If you don’t manage to get adequate my first job in Nottingham and then moved Vitamin D from the sun (10-15mins back home to complete an MSc in Sport and between 12-4pm), consider taking a Exercise Nutrition. I’ve worked in hospitals, 10µg (400IU) supplement of Vitamin D as community clinics, with cycling and GAA it’s difficult to get sufficient amounts from teams and just recently returned from Dubai food alone. where I was working as a dietitian sports nutritionist within a gym, which was a little You can however support your immune Why not start with making one improvement different and a lot warmer! I’m currently living this week and add on another each week till system by following these simple tips: on my parent’s farm on the North Coast and in they become changes that turn into habits that Eat enough: if your weight is stable and my spare time enjoy writing my nutrition blog require little thought. you don’t feel constantly hungry, it’s @edible_evidence and making the most of living in the middle of nowhere to enjoy all the likely you’re eating enough

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

1.

socially isolating walks!

CAN MY DIET PROTECT ME FROM COVID-19?

I think this is the question on everyone’s lips of late! I’ve heard of garlic, elderberry, Vitamin C and D supplements all being touted as immune-boosting and protective against COVID-19 but the truth is there is no food, diet or supplement proven to prevent us from getting COVID-19. If you think about it logically, you technically don’t want to “boost” your immune system as an overactive immune system isn’t a good thing, this is what happens in allergic reactions or arthritis!

2.

Include protein at each meal, e.g. eggs, chicken, fish, meat, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils

Contact Kathyrn on kathrynstewart1@hotmail.co.uk edible_evidence 64 | Local Women Magazine

edible.evidence.kstew

edible_evidence

COVID-19 FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS Roisin McAvoy from McAvoy Molloy Chartered Accountants explains the financial packages available to employers, employees and the self-employed during the Covid-19 crisis. to be more than half of your total income. You will need to confirm to HMRC that your business has been adversely affected. The claim service will be open from 13th May 2020 and is being delivered ahead of timetable.

Hi Everyone, I hope you are all enjoying the lovely weather we are having, in this unprecedented time in which we find ourselves. As businesses close to help prevent transmission of COVID-19, financial concerns and job losses are one of the first human impacts of the virus.

Not knowing how this pandemic will play out affects our economic, physical and mental well-being. Despite this fear, businesses and communities have access to support packages introduced by the government and I am going to highlight these key initiatives, addressing some of the concerns or queries you may have.

Small Business Support Grant Scheme This is a one-off grant of £10,000. If you pay business rates with a rateable value of £15000 or below and receive small business rate relief you should be eligible. In order to determine this check your rates bill. If you cannot retrieve your bill don’t panic you can order a new one by logging onto www.nidirect.gov.uk Once confirmed that you are in receipt of the small business rate relief and that the rateable value is below £15,000, it is time to claim. You must register for this grant by logging onto www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk and follow the link for the grant listed above. Please note the deadline to register for this scheme is Wednesday 20th May 2020

Hospitality, Retail& Tourism and Leisure Grant Scheme This is a one-off grant and it has value of £25,000. The NI Executive is offering this grant to business in the retail, hospitality, tourism and leisure sectors with a rateable value between £15,001 and £51000. If you ‘re rateable value lies within this bracket log onto www.nibusinessinfo. co.uk and follow the link for the above grant.

The closing date for scheme registration is Wednesday 20th May 2020.

Job Retention Scheme This has proved to be a particularly welcomed

Coronavirus Business interruption loan scheme Put simply it is access to loans, overdrafts and invoice financing for up to six years. It is a loan product and is fully repayable by the business.

I recently participated in a remote meeting/ conference with Robert Mc Cullough, Head of Business Sector Engagement of Danske Bank. He emphasised that the principal factor INVOLVED IN APPLYING FOR THIS SCHEME is that business must have been viable pre the covid19 period. If you feel you would like to avail of this scheme you will need to furnish the bank with specific financial information including cashflows, recovery plans scheme. It has been suggested that eight out of ten and any other information the bank may require. employers are likely to benefit from this scheme.

It is used to preserve jobs by placing employees Business Bounce Back Loans on furlough rather than laying them off. I had Chancellor Rishi Sunak has introduced a new never heard of the word “furlough “before and loan scheme to help small business who are is now a word that is used daily on the news. It struggling to access credit and they can borrow is the responsibility of the employer to notify the between £2000 and £ 50000. This is selfemployee that they will be put on furlough and certification process . the employee then needs to sign their agreement I hope the information noted will assist your that they understand that they are being put on businesses in these most challenging times. furlough The employee will then stop work but will receive their furlough pay. The employer can More importantly, look after yourselves, friends apply for a grant that covers 80% of the employee’s and families. Take some time to relax and let usual monthly wage up to £2,500 per month your accountants deal with the financial aspects plus the associated employer NI and pension to Covid 19! contribution. The claim is made online HMRC has If you have any questions in relation to the communicated that it will later check claims, and above or any aspect involving financial advice clawbacks will be made if found to be fraudulent. please contact me or a member of our team at McAvoy Molloy on 07842654263 or email info@ Self-employed Income mcavoy-molloy.com And I would be more than Support Scheme happy to assist in a professional, confidential This scheme allows self-employed people to claim and proficient manner.

80% of their trading profits (based on 3 years tax returns submitted to HMRC up to 18/19) Stay Safe, for 3 months. It will be limited to a maximum of £2,500 per month. Your trading profits need to be less than £50,000 per year for you to be McAvoy Molloy Chartered eligible for the grant Your trading profits need Accountants & Registered Auditors

Roisin

28 Castle Meadows, Gilford, 4 Millvale Road, Annaclone, Craigavon, Co. Armagh Banbridge, Co. Down Tel: 078 4265 4263

NETWORK MEMBER OF

Info@mcavoy-molloy.com Local Women Magazine | 65

LOOKING GOOD IN LOCKDOWN Kular Fashion is online and ready to help you with some stylish lockdown looks for work and leisure.

D

ue to the ongoing COVID19 health crisis, we’re all being forced to stay indoors in a bid to reduce the spread and keep our loved ones safe. But just because we’re on lockdown doesn’t mean we have to compromise on style. Whether you’re working from home, or enjoying some downtime, staying in is officially the new going out. And we have lots of outfit options for you to get you through the next few weeks.

Working From Home For those who are still working but from the comfort of your own home, it can be easy to get stuck in a rut and send emails in your PJs from under your duvet. But is that really productive? You don’t have to get suited and booted, but getting up and getting dressed first thing will really give your day a kick start. We all need some kind of structure to our day.

Nothing says smart casual more than a GANT blouse and we have lots of colour ways to choose from. You can add some print into your wardrobe with this pale blue option, or keep it classic with a plain shirt that will never date. Also, you’ll look super professional when you show up to your Zoom team meeting - even if you are wearing it with leggings and trainers.

We’ve never wore so much and our feet are thankful for it – what even are high heels? Let’s face it, they’re much more comfortable and look cool. These Ted Baker trainers are an online favourite, and come in a few different styles.

66 | Local Women Magazine

Lounge Wear How we dress impacts our daily thinking, and while staying in your pyjamas all day is tempting, it’s always a better idea to get up and change into something just as comfortable. We have loads of cool and casual items at the minute including a huge range from Barbour International. These sweatshirt and t-shirt combos are perfect for this time of year. The grey and pale blue colour way is versatile and will take you right into Autumn, however they also come in oatmeal, khaki and white.

While we might be dressed, we can still stay comfy in our house slippers no matter what time of day it is. These suede UGG slippers are the perfect addition to your wardrobe right now.

Treating Himself

Staying Active Thankfully the weather man has been on our side and we’ve been treated to a few glorious weeks of sunshine. This allows us to enjoy our one hour of daily exercise and get outside into the fresh air. We carry a huge line from The North Face for both men and women. It’s a fantastic brand that stands the test of time and will last in your wardrobe for years and years.

This funky orange and purple rain coat (PIC7) is lightweight and versatile which features DryVent technology to wick away sweat and repel outside moisture. The orange t-shirt (PIC8) compliments it perfectly and would look beautiful with plain black leggings and trainers.

If the man in your life needs an update to his wardrobe, we have got him covered at Kular Fashion. We’ve found a lot of our customers are buying gifts for others and getting them shipped to their address, which is lovely to see in these testing times.

From casual tees to comfortable sweatshirts and tracksuits, you can pick up some of the best premium brands at Kular Fashion while staying cool and comfortable at the same time. Check out our website for loungewear from Calvin Klein, The North Face, Carhartt WIP, Fred Perry plus much more.

We hope you are all keeping safe and well, and hopefully we will see you all in-store sooner rather than later.

www.kularfashion.com Get 10% off your first order online plus free delivery when your order is over £25.

Ferryquay Street | Derry~Londonderry | 028 7126 1326 @kularfashion

kularfashion

@kularfashion

kularfashion Local Women Magazine | 67

FORGET HAIR LOSS NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!

SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION...

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW DOT MICRO IS A MULTI AWARD WINNING COMPANY THAT PROVIDES A FANTASTIC HAIR LOSS SOLUTION CALLED SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION. The clinic based in Holywood, County Down provides a non-medical hair loss solution. Scalp micropigmentation can be used to treat hereditary hair loss, and other forms of Alopecia and can even camouflage scars on the scalp.

My only regret is that I didn’t have it done sooner.”

Don Allen

One of our valued clients

SO HOW DOES SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION WORK? Tiny flecks of ink are applied to the top layer of skin. These super tiny dots resemble shaved hair follicles or can look like the base of hair follicles under thinning hair.

Mark Smith, the global multi award winning scalp micropigmentation artist can basically make thin hair look more

dense or can a give a bald guy back what actually looks like a full head of hair but shaved.

It’s amazing.

The great thing about scalp micropigmentation is that the results are almost immediate and can last many years before requiring a top up treatment.

WHAT CAN SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION BE USED TO TREAT? Scalp micropigmentation is also known as SMP or a hair tattoo. The treatment’s popularity is huge in the US and other parts of the world and now becoming a popular choice as a hair loss solution in Northern Ireland.

SMP has many uses. It’s most common use is for men who have severe hair loss. However, It’s equally effective for giving the appearance of more density in thinning hair and so a

great option to men and women alike suffering from various forms of alopecia.

BEFORE

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In addition, it’s commonly used to camouflage scars on the scalp. These could be either small scars from minor injuries to large medical scars.

The clinic offer free consultations with various treatment special offers on through winter and spring.

Give us a call today on +44 (0) 2895 570 001 68 | Local Women Magazine

SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION IS AN EFFECTIVE AND IMMEDIATE HAIR LOSS SOLUTION FOR BOTH MEN AND WOMEN THIS TREATMENT IS AN EXCELLENT WAY OF TREATING VARIOUS FORMS OF HAIR LOSS OR CONCEALING SCARS ON THE SCALP

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See their latest results on Facebook and Instagram Local Women Magazine | 69

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Local Women Magazine | 71

THE LOFT

TEMPLEPATRICK

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TEMPLETON HOTEL, 882 ANTRIM ROAD TEMPLEPATRICK, BALLYCLARE, BT39 0AH TEMPLETONHOTEL.COM

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Local Women Magazine | 75

For many children home isn’t a safe place…

The amazing counsellors at Childline are hard at work during the pandemic. Belfast’s Denise Quinn explains that with children in crisis across the country, donating to the charity is more important than ever.

A

By Maureen Coleman

Co Antrim woman, who is a counsellor with Childline, has spoken about how she and her colleagues are continuing to support children and young people during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Denise Quinn, from Belfast, has been a supervisor with the NSPCC-run service for around six months and is part of a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who are answering calls and email contacts at Childline’s Belfast base.

Denise, who was a social worker for 11 years before joining Childline, has been granted key worker status with her colleagues at the Belfast base. Childline has 12 bases across the UK including two in Northern Ireland – Belfast and Foyle.

The 38-year-old said: “Now, more so than ever, our children and young people need the service. We as adults are anxious and worried about the future and struggling to understand what is happening, imagine what that is like for a child. Their world has changed practically overnight.

“The routine of going to school, seeing their teachers, playing with their friends, studying for exams that are no longer happening, and doing things that they enjoy, to instead being at home 24/7 perhaps with brothers and sisters they don’t get along with, and with parents who are themselves stressed, mean children are very vulnerable. We are very aware that already children are struggling with their mental health and don’t have the resilience and coping skills needed right now.”

in. We will be there to listen to them, to let them know they are important, to support them and keep them safe. Whether they are upset about not seeing their best friend, how anxious they are about not doing their exams, that they are frightened about their mum who is a nurse, or worried about when they will see their CAMHS worker again,

She added: “That’s where Childline comes Childline will be there.

76 | Local Women Magazine

“I am so very aware of the children and young people for whom home isn’t a safe place, either physically or emotionally, and for all sorts of reasons. These children are now more vulnerable than ever. There is no teacher to look out for them. No visits to the school counsellor. And no friends to spend time with. It is these children that I am especially worried about and who need to Childline to be there.”

“We will be there to listen to them, to let them know they are important, to support them and keep them safe.”

Denise and her colleagues at Childline are now urging the public to continue to support children during this challenging time. To adapt to the ever-changing situation, the NSPCC has launched its appeal ‘We’re still here for children’.

Despite Childline having to close the night service for the first time and having a 30% drop in volunteer hours, due to counsellors having to self-isolate, it’s battling to still be there for children across the UK. The NSPCC is urging the public to visit its website and donate £10 to help fund vital services like Childline so the charity can continue to answer calls and be here for the young people who desperately need someone to talk to, especially when home isn’t a safe place.

Between January 21, 2020 and April 8, 2020, Childline delivered over 2,200 counselling sessions across the UK to children and young people who were concerned about Coronavirus.

Denise added: “Yes, it is hard to keeping going to work, when almost everyone else is staying at home. It’s hard when everyone is so anxious, but trying not to be. And it’s hard to leave my children knowing that many of their friends are being brilliantly homeschooled by parents and having lots of fun each day. But then I have that chat with a child who is anxious, or lonely, or frightened, and I am able to listen to them, and even if just for a short time, to help them feel safe. Then that guilt about my own children disappears.

“No matter what lies ahead in the coming weeks and months, I know that Childline will be there. I feel very grateful to be part of a team of staff and volunteers who are continuing to come to work so that our children continue to have someone who will listen, someone who cares, and someone who will support them to keep safe.”

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www.spoiltbelle.co.uk

In the past few weeks Childline has heard from children whose parents have lost their jobs and are under growing financial pressure, as well as from young carers struggling to look after their siblings whilst their parents fall sick with Coronavirus symptoms. Childline is also hearing from children who have had suicidal thoughts and talk about feeling trapped and isolated.

To support the appeal, the NSPCC has launched a new television ad which features a Childline counsellor talking after a shift about the vital importance of the service.

Young people can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or via 1-2-1 chat on www.childline.org.uk Childline also has a huge online community where children can get support from their peers on message-boards and use expert resources to help them through any issue they are concerned about.

If adults are worried about children they can get advice from NSPCC practitioners on 0808 800 5000 or help@nspcc.org.uk The NSPCC is urging the public to visit its website and donate £10 to help fund vital services like Childline so the charity can continue to answer calls and be here for the young people who desperately need someone to talk to, especially when home isn’t a safe place.

21 Broad Street, Magherafelt. Telephone: 028 7930 0775 spoiltbelleboutique

@spoiltbelle

Local Women Magazine | 77

COMPETITION:

WIN A CASE OF WINE FROM GREATVINE (www.wineswithstories.com)

Meet the couple who are bringing gorgeous Artisan quality, single vineyard wines from small family producers, direct to your door across Northern Ireland – and there’s a special Local Women Magazine discount.

After living for many years in the heart of the Veneto wine region near Venice, Belfast husband and wife team Sherril and Thomas Soliman started GreatVine Ltd in 2016, to import beautiful artisan wines from small, single vineyard producers.

Thomas was Food and Beverage Manager in luxury hotels on the Grand Canal in Venice for over 20 years and at Middle Eastern resort hotels before that.

Win a case of wine

A joint passion for good food and great wines, drove them to want to share the previously unheard-of, incredible producers that they had discovered, back home in Northern Ireland.

They began to import and wholesale to the finest hotels and restaurants in Northern Ireland including the Merchant Hotel which partners with GreatVine to host the annual month-long Festival of Prosecco. This popular festival features Prosecco parties on the roof terrace with speakers from guest wineries and masterclasses in Prosecco where participants get to experience five different styles and quality levels of Prosecco.

Then the Coronavirus pandemic happened, and plans changed dramatically.

Improvising almost overnight, a more simplified version of www.wineswithstories.com was launched to showcase all of the beautiful, authentic wines in stock and the response has been overwhelming.

Amazon sales went crazy and from a standing start and a little bit of Facebook advertising, the new website orders also started to get really They launched on Amazon UK with their busy, especially with local people in lockdown new retail brand Wines With Stories, selling a ordering wines for home delivery. range of artisan wines direct to consumers across the UK. Artisan wines always have Wines With Stories deliver all over NI and the UK stories, whereas industrial commercial wines for a flat fee of £5 or free delivery if the order is never do. If a wine has a story, that’s proof of over £150 in value. authenticity and provenance.

And Local Women Readers can now receive an exclusive 10 PER CENT DISCOUNT The plan was already underway to launch a on wines. All you have to do is check out European wide e-commerce website called www.wineswithstories.com, enter the code www.wineswithstories.com backed by investors, LW2020 at the ‘basket’ stage and the deal is with a specialist wine e-commerce distribution valid until September 2020. hub located in Spain.

This month GreatVine has teamed up with Local Women Magazine to give away a case of six bottles of Anselmi San Vincenzo which can be purchased on their website www.wineswithstories.com.

Anselmi San Vincenzo wine is from an iconic white winemaker in the soave region of Italy. His wines are listed by nearly all Michelin Star restaurants in Italy including the 3 Star Gods. This wine will appeal to lovers of a high-quality Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. There are tropical notes of mango, passionfruit, pineapple and ripe guava.

The wine is so very fresh and juicy.

To win this fantastic prize, simply answer the following question:

Where is Anselmi San Vincenzo produced?

A. France B. Italy C. Spain Simply email your answer A, B or C to editor@localwomensmagazine.com.

Please include your name, DOB and a phone number.

Terms and conditions apply. This competition is strictly for over 18s only.

Your age will be verified before the prize is dispatched. Prize is a case of six bottles of Anselmi San Vincenzo. No cash alternative is offered. One winner will be selected at random.

Closing date is May 31, 2020.

Editor’s decision is final.

78 | Local Women Magazine

Using our architectural skills, the team at Gravity Architects are re-creating workplace layouts to maximise space and safety – and get you back to work With the Covid-19 crisis an ongoing battle, social distancing is of paramount importance. Never has ‘keeping apart to stay together’ been more important. But, as businesses gradually get the green light to reopen, the problem of how to keep employees and customers safe within your workplace is proving problematic.

Going forward businesses need to ensure that safety is the number one priority and a significant change in how we operate as a society is underway.

That’s why you need to ‘future proof’ your business to keep the spread of Covid-19 to a minimum so you can keep trading. But the new social distancing guidance is throwing up a myriad of problems for businesses who operate in confined spaces, or with many staff, or who are customer facing.

That’s where UK and Ireland based Gravity Architects can help you. The team at Gravity Architects are using their specialist design skills to make sure your business is compliant and your staff and customers are safe. Architects work every day to maximise space in small buildings and are perfectly placed to show you space saving ideas. Years of design experience means that Gravity Architects have the ability to find solutions to your problems. They can help with office or shop layouts and show you the space saving tricks of the trade

that will make your business operate more means that we can help you find solutions efficiently while staying safe. to your problems right now.

Liam Nelis said: “Architects test their skills every day working on floor plans of buildings to maximise function and utilise every inch of space. “We are well versed in working to strict guidelines and have the ability to cut through the red tape and get projects moving.

“Many businesses have said they feel their layout means they will never be able to open their doors again – but we believe there is a solution to every problem.

SHORT-TERM SOLUTIONS

MEDIUM-TERM SOLUTIONS

LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS

Our short-term solutions will ensure your business can start to operate at the earliest opportunity whilst maintaining safety for colleagues and customer.

Medium-term solutions will provide an opportunity to start operating with a higher level of staffing whilst maintaining safety and social distancing protocol.

Long-term solutions will maximise your operational opportunities whilst minimising the risk and disruption in the future.

“We will work with you to make your business work. We will ensure that your business is fully compliant with government guidance “There is nothing we love more than a so that we can all get back to work as soon challenge and our years of design skills as possible.”

For more information call on 028 7126 3206 or email Liam at lnelis@gravityarchitects.co.uk

www.gravityarchitects.co.uk Local Women Magazine | 79

LOOK YOUNGER IN LOCKDOWN AND CODDLE AS YOU COCOON

Skincare direct to your door from Elave Skincare from the Gardiner Family Apothecary.

Anxious, stressed and out of your usual routine? Cheer yourself up and get back on track with a bit of dermal TLC. There has never been a better time to safeguard your skin with a little help from Elave Skincare from the Gardiner Family Apothecary.

Central heating can dry your lips, so moisturise and protect with Daily Lip Defence SPF20 (£7.99) a multi-action formula with coconut oil, shea butter, naturally-derived collagen and vitamin E. Repair and protect your face from environmental damage incurred during daily exercise sessions with Daily Skin Defence SPF45 (£20.75) an anti-oxidant oil-free formula with invisible zinc and vitamins B5 and E. Offers high UVA and UVB protection.

Spoil yourself on a cosy night in with Rejuvenating Cleansing Treatment (£24.30), a 12% glycolic acid arginine complex gently which exfoliates and rejuvenates the skin to promote cellular regeneration and stimulate collagen synthesis, revealing younger, brighter skin.

If overdoing harsh ‘beauty’ treatments has sent your skin into overdrive, you could try Elave Skin Balancing Cleansing Gel 200ml (£13.50) with manuka honey, amino acid, vitamin E and camomile to calm, balance and protect.

Finish off with Intense Moisture Surge 50ml (£18), a unique combination of ultra-pure fractionated coconut oil with shea butter which is naturally rich in vitamin E and natural glycerin to leave even dry, sensitive skin feeling soft and rejuvenated.

Because of so much washing, hands are having a hard time at the moment – and they can be a dead giveaway of age! Elave’s Hand Treatment (£7.99) is a unique combination of shea butter, coconut oil and emollients which repairs and For daily use, Elave’s Skin Balancing Moisturiser hydrates damaged dermis. (£18). This unique formulation contains naturally- All these products and more, including 70% derived prebiotics, antimicrobial Manuka hand sanitiser combined with gentle aloe honey, vitamins B5 and E, natural glycerin and vera, are available on Elave’s online shop hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and minimise - delivered right to your doorstep. Check out gardinerfamilyapothecary.com. the appearance of fine lines and blemishes.

FRIENDS & FAMILY DISCOUNT OFFER Get 10% off all Elave Skincare’s fabulous products by clicking on gardinerfamilyapothecary.com

and entering the code LocalWomen10 at the online checkout!

80 | Local Women Magazine

Local Women Magazine | 81

with Anna Nelis

H

ey everyone, my name is Anna Nelis!

I am 10 years old and I am currently living the worst part of my life EVER during Lockdown! I wish that Coronavirus would go away so that I could go outside and play with my friends. Instead I am stuck in the house with my two little brothers and my crazy parents. When is this going to be over?

I have decided to write to all the fed-up children out there to give them ideas of what to do during Lockdown when you are bored. Hers is a list of my favourite activities that I have done so far:

A Little Bit More About Me

W

hen I was in P5, I found out that I am Dyslexic.

I was sad because I felt like I was dumb and couldn’t even say the word! I was embarrassed to tell people. I still am, a wee bit.

I know now that it’s okay to be dyslexic, because if everyone in the world was the same, life would be very boring. Plus, being dyslexic gives you superpowers! My brain works differently, so I can solve problems in ways that other people can’t.

Did you know that Roald Dahl was Dyslexic, and he wrote books for a living? It’s amazing that he could write books that have been read millions of times even when he struggled to spell.

Maybe next month, I will write a page in my Dyslexic language and see who can work it out

LOCKDOWN TASKS FOR YOU • Funny Face Art

• Making Fruit Salad • Planting Seeds • Making Plasticine • Baking my own Birthday Cake

MY FAVOURITE APPS FOR KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH FRIENDS 82 | Local Women Magazine

If you are Dyslexic like me, I would love to hear about your superpower! Don’t be embarrassed, be proud!

Giota Beag Eile You can write to me in Irish or English as I go to an Irish Medium School.

You can email me at reception@localwomensnews.com

Friends over the Fence

L

ife during Lockdown isn’t that bad, because I have made a friend over the fence. Her name is Hailie, she is nine and she is tall like me! In fact, we could be twins- our friendship was meant to be. We like all the same things, like, Harry Potter, Ferrero Rocher, Billie Eilish and our favourite colours are green and purple.

Every day after our schoolwork is finished, we go outside and talk over the fence. I don’t even know what we talk about, but we have a good laugh and Hailie makes me happy. It is amazing the games that you can play over the fence if you have a good imagination. We play ‘Hide ‘n’ Seek’, ‘Heads or Tails’, ‘Four Corners’ and ‘Five Second Rule’.

I love having a friend to keep me company during Lockdown, and when this all over, I am going to go straight next door and give Hailie a great, big hug!

My Mum told me about a poem called, ‘Mending Wall’, by a famous American

Poet called Robert Frost that she had read in school. In the poem, Robert and his neighbour are fixing the wall between their two farms, and the neighbour explains to Robert that, “good fences make good neighbours”. If it wasn’t for my fence, Hailie and I wouldn’t be friends as we wouldn’t be able to keep a safe distance from each other. Our fence splits us up, but it has made our friendship grow.

My Favourite Things

Hailie’s Favourite Things

FAVOURITE SINGER: Billie Eilish

FAVOURITE SINGER: Billie Eilish

FAVOURITE COLOUR: Purple

FAVOURITE COLOUR: Purple

FAVOURITE AUTHOR: Tom Fletcher

FAVOURITE AUTHOR: Tom Fletcher

FAVOURITE HARRY POTTER CHARACTER: Dobby

FAVOURITE HARRY POTTER CHARACTER: Lund Lovegod

FAVOUITE TIC TOC DANCE: Renegade

FAVOUITE TIC TOC DANCE: Unicorn

FAVOURITE TIC TOC INFLUENCER: Kouvr

FAVOURITE TIC TOC INFLUENCER: Avvanni

FAVOURITE FOOD: Kebab

FAVOURITE FOOD: Chinese Beef and Mushrooms with no Mushrooms

FAVOURITE DISNEY CHARACTER: Dumbo

FAVOURITE DISNEY CHARACTER: Dumbo

FAVOURITE ANIMAL: Puppy

FAVOURITE ANIMAL: Elephant

FAVOURITE SCHOOL SUBJECT: Maths

FAVOURITE SCHOOL SUBJECT: Lunch Local Women Magazine | 83

TOP TIP WHY NO T USE PASTA F OR HAIR OR FOR A CURLY B EARD?

Funny Face Art

Making Art from rubbish This project was lots of fun because it was easy and creative to make and only uses materials that you have around the house. Any age can create a funny face, or any kind of face that you want, because they don’t have to be perfect. You can make a cross face, a happy face, a sad face, or even a surprised face. All that you need is:

• Cardboard • Paint • Tape or glue • Any extras that you want to add to it yourself.

Making Fruit Salad

We were asked to make a Fruit Salad as part of our homework from school, but I didn’t mind because I love fruit and it was nice and healthy. You can use whatever fruit you want and you can change what fruit juice you use. My Mum made it with us as we had to use a knife.

Ingredients: • Blueberries • Grapes • Kiwis • Strawberries • Pineapple • Apples • Pure Orange Juice •

Wash your fruit

•

Get an adult to help you cut the fruit

•

Add to the bowl and pour juice over the fruit

EAT!!!!!!

84 | Local Women Magazine

TOP TIP POUR YOGHURT OVER YOUR PORTION. YUMMY IN MY TUMMY!

•

Cut out a shape for the face from a cardboard box.

(I got an adult to do this for me as the cardboard was hard to cut and you need to use sharp scissors)

•

Cut out shapes for the eyes, nose, mouth and ears, or any extra shapes that you want to add.

•

Draw a design or pattern on your face and then paint it.

•

Paint your shapes and leave them to dry.

•

Once all the paint is dry, stick your shapes to your face and DONE!

Planting Seeds

B

efore this dumb Lockdown started, my Grandad gave us seeds and pots to grow our own plants in our new house. I was happy because we sometimes plant in school and I love doing it. My Grandad gave us tomato seeds, sunflower seeds and Sweet Pea seeds. After a couple of weeks, they started to grow shoots out of the soil, so we replanted them in bigger pots and now they are flourishing. I can’t wait for the tomatoes to grow so that I can eat them.

We have hanging pots on the fence filled with strawberry plants. One strawberry is already big, but it is green, sadly!

I am keeping an eye on it every day so I can eat it before my brothers get it! It has been very sunny in our garden since quarantine started, so the plants are growing quickly without a greenhouse.

We have an herb box and I am learning all the names of the herbs like Thyme, Rosemary, Coriander, Basil and Mint. I love gardening because you can get dirty and messy without getting in trouble.

If you have been planting flowers or fruit and vegetables during Lockdown, then please send me your pics.

TOP TIP PUT SOME STONES AT THE BOTTOM OF THE BIG FLOWERPOTS TO HELP THEM DRAIN PROPERLY.

Making my own Birthday cake...

This cake recipe is the best because it is really easy to make!

Before you start, preheat the fan oven to 180 degrees.

•

Ingredients For the cake

• 225g/8oz plain flour • 350g/12½oz caster sugar • 85g/3oz cocoa powder • 1½ tsp baking powder • 1½ tsp bicarbonate of soda • 2 free-range eggs • 250ml/9fl oz milk • 125ml/4½fl oz vegetable oil • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 250ml/9fl oz boiling water

For the chocolate icing

• 200g/7oz plain chocolate • 200ml/7fl oz double cream

Now, all that you need to do is put all the ingredients, apart from the boiling water, into one bowl. Once you have done that, mix with an electric mixer and pour a small bit of the boiling water in at a time. Put the mixture in the lined cake tins and put it into the oven at 180 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes. When you think the cake is ready put a knife or skewer into the middle of the cake and if the knife comes out clean then the cake is ready. You have to let the cake cool down in the tin before you decorate it

How to make the icing •

For my birthday cake I used the ganache icing that I have included in my ingredients list. It is just as easy to make as the cake and tastes so good! Heat the chocolate and cream in a saucepan at a low heat. Once it has all melted, put it in a bowl and whisk it until it is all shiny and thickened. You must leave it for 1-2 hours until it is thicker and ready to spread.

RECIPE TIP THE CAKE MIXTURE IS QUITE THIN, SO YOU NEED TO USE SANDWICH CAKE TINS AS THE SPRINGFORM TINS WILL LEAK.

Assemble the cake •

Remove the cakes carefully from the cake tins.

Spread a little bit of the icing on one of the cakes and then place the other cake on top.

Spread the rest of the icing around all the cake and then decorate it whatever way you want!

Instructions 1. In a large bowl, combine all of your dry ingredients (flour, salt, cream of tartar) and mix well.

2. Mix food coloring with

• 2 cups plain flour • 1 cup salt • 1 tbs oil • 1 cup cold wayer • 2 drops liquid food colouring (not compulsory)

your water first. Then add the vegetable oil and water

with food coloring

to a large pot Mix together.

3. Add the dry

ingredients to your

pot and mix well.

4. Cook over low to medium

heat until the dough starts to form and becomes dry.

5. Once it starts to form a ball together and looks fully cooked, take off the heat. Let the dough cool first before touching.

6. Once cool, knead the dough for 5 minutes to make the dough soft.

Local Women Magazine | 85

Poetry During Lockdown During these difficult times Local Women reader Rosalind M Patton has taken comfort from writing poetry. Here the Derry poet shares some of her work and explains how she overcame a lack of self-confidence to have an anthology of her poetry published.

“

Poetry to me is an experience. The words carefully placed in a particular order to provoke the mind to think, feel and visualise that experience.

A poem can encourage the mind to create a story. Short stories and books have the same desired outcome as reading a poem for me. The difference is a poem will stick with you. It will keep provoking thought each time you read it or recite it.

I get lost in some of nature’s experiences. I have walked through my local park many times and each time my mind is filled with hundreds of possibilities for detailing what I see around me and how I feel.

I love watching words come alive on a piece of paper. Every time I write or read one of my own poems, I have to remind myself that I did that.

At first, I struggled with confidence during the creative process. I would write, read and then throw my poems away. Then, I started sharing them with people close to me and that’s when I started keeping them and collecting them and writing more of them.

Now I’m doing the most terrifying thing of all - putting them out to the world.

Regardless of my book doing well or not, I feel accomplished in some ways because I did something my head said I couldn’t. My heart said I shouldn’t, and despite my legs shaking with fear, I flew.”

A little faith, hope and love: A Poetry Collection by Rosalind M Patton is available on Amazon to buy or download.

86 | Local Women Magazine

Losing weight is easy they said Losing weight is easy they said.

As they said it from bed, eating chocolate spread.

I looked at their heads. Lollipop in size and to my surprise they didn’t even exercise.

We’ve good genes they said as they stepped out of bed and grabbed a loaf of bread. There I was thinking I’d love some gingerbread. Then I looked at my jeans size 12 it would seem, not all that extreme.

What could it mean to exercise to the extreme?

Would it give me some pride? Would it give me a better stride? Would it make me a better bride should I ever wed?

I don’t think I’ll bother doing the shred I too love chocolate spread. A lollipop head I do not suit, so I think I will avoid the fruit.

Losing weight is easy they said words coming from their lollipop sized head.

Little did I know they didn’t need to do the shred, they were allergic to bread, they had a side effect instead.

Terrible I know but when they had to go they had to go!

Maybe avoiding the bread and doing the shred will make me become a thoroughbred without the lollipop head? OK. Let’s get back on the trend and work for that bread. Losing weight is easy they said.

Never again will I trust a lollipop head eating chocolate spread on bread from a bed.

Welcoming Fire The light and heat from an open fire an all too welcoming beautiful sight. Warming a room and those within that room. From admiring the glow to the being emerged in the hot lava like coal. Flames burned the flesh, the heat fusing and shrinking the skin. A feeling like the bones had become too large for the skin cover, a feeling like you had put on a glove which was too small for wearing.

Screams I can’t remember. Pain I don’t believe I felt.

Anguished loved ones, guilt, anxiety but no one at fault. A child’s hand disfigured by something so welcoming and warming but never meant for flesh to touch. A mother’s faith, prayer, love and a belief that the child could be healed was thought not to be enough, until one day it was enough.

The child’s hand healed, a healing so unbelievable that no one would believe her story as an adult that she had fallen into a welcoming fire, landing on hot lava like coal.

A mother’s faith, prayer, love and belief not to be questioned when power of faith is stronger than the flames of a fire.

The faith is still there Friends unite on a different sight. Streets quiet, some empty, almost apocalyptic, shops closed, schools dormant, churches without their faith goers. Faith is still there you can feel it in the air. Love is in abundance, the streets go quiet and still, the world retreating to their place of home.

Love expressed through a thought and a prayer, the faith is still there. Schools and scholars alike turning to other frequencies to help moral and social instruction in a social distant happening.

Faith is still there it’s in the air, people still care. Our churches empty, no place of worship so they worship everywhere. The good is in us, the faith is still there we move forward and continue to care.

Local Women | Feature | 87 Local Women Magazine | 87

CHECK-IN & CHAT As Age NI launches a vital new lifeline for elderly people, a Covid-19 Appeal has been set up to raise additional funds to support their services.

A

ge NI has launched a ‘Check-in & Chat’ telephone service, for anyone who is over 60 in Northern Ireland, who may feel isolated or lonely during this time.

Age NI Chief Executive, Linda Robinson, said the new service will provide older people with support during these worrying times.

“These are particularly difficult times for many older people and the service can provide a reassuring call about what matters or even about what they saw on television the night before. Our aim is to reassure older people that they have someone to turn to at this time.”

Eddie Lynch, Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland said many older benefits and / or emotional support to provide “One caller got in touch saying: “I haven’t people, especially those that are shielding the reassurance that that they have someone to been able to visit my wife in the Nursing are feeling vulnerable. turn to at this time. They them match a trained Home for the past three weeks. I have been He said: “We need to be providing as much volunteer to provide on-going check-in and so distraught worrying about how she is support as possible to help them get through the days ahead. The enhancement of Age NI’s helpline is providing an invaluable service for some of our older people.

chat support. We adapt our approach to meet feeling. Thank you so much for listening. It’s the needs of the older person. For example, so reassuring to know that you will be here if I

one older lady, at the grand old age of 93 has need anything else.” difficulty hearing and therefore cannot benefit These are the sort of calls that Age NI are “The ‘check-in & chat’ service aims to help from a daily phone call instead one of our dealing with day in day out. The service is those older people who are self-isolating dedicated volunteers are writing to her by snail providing so much comfort to so many. during the current pandemic and who may be mail every week. Sometimes the old way is still With demand on the service expected to lonely or anxious. My team are delighted to be the best way and she looks forward to the Age grow, Age NI has launched a COVID-19 involved with this service. It will, I’m sure, act NI letter dropping through the door”.

Appeal to raise additional funds at this time. as a lifeline for some people reaching out for Telephone Volunteer, Flo McKeever outlined the social contact we all need and keep us all the rewards from volunteering with the Check- By supporting Age NI, you will be making a vital contribution to supporting Northern connected through these difficult times.” in & Chat Service; Ireland’s older population through these times.

Upon registering for the service, Age NI “It is very rewarding speaking to people You can find out more about the work of will set about matching volunteers, as Check- who you know are so thankful to hear from in & Chat Service Manager, Samantha you each day. I check-in with a number Age NI at www.AgeNi.org or follow them on Facebook; Twitter and Instagram.

Murphy, explains: of people throughout Northern Ireland To receive a regular telephone call, contact “Expert Age NI staff will determine the support and conversations cover everything from that callers need, be it practical support around practical issues like getting food delivered to Age NI Advice on 0808 808 7575 (Mondayservices, financial support through enhanced mindfulness and gardening.

Friday, 9am-5pm) or email info@ageni.org.

88 | Local Women Magazine

THE MISS NORTHERN IRELAND 2020 FINALISTS Here are the eight girls who have made it through to the Miss NI grand final.

Pictures by Sean Donegan

D

ue to the current Covid-19 crisis, the Miss Northern Ireland 2020 final at the Europa Hotel had to be postponed.

However, it is hoped that as soon as the situation improves and it is safe to return, the event will be rescheduled.

When the time in right, further heats will be organised to find contestants in venues across the country.

Miss Antrim Megan Walker.

Miss Enniskillen Jessica Eastwood.

Miss Ginger Janes Emily Ward.

Miss Granny Annie’s Jessica McIntyre.

Miss Newry Sarah Maguire.

Miss Spice Kathryn Knox.

The Newly Crowned Miss Belfast Jane McArdle.

The Newly Crowned Miss Broken Shaker Erin Reilly.

Local Women Magazine | 89

U TURN FITNESS ACADEMY

FAKEAWAY RECIPES Dieting can be tough, in order to ease the transition we have developed a selection of healthier alteratives to our takeaway favourites.

Salt and Chilli Chicken INGREDIENTS

Calories: 371

•

2 x chicken breasts, sliced

•

1 x eggs

•

20g Ground Almonds

•

1 x pepper, sliced

•

1 x onion, sliced

•

1 x chilli, sliced (or 1/ 2 Tsp of Lazy chilli’s

•

depending on preference)

•

1 x tsp coarse sea salt

Carbs: 1.6g Fat: 19.8g Add cals for side ie Rice 154 cal per 100g

DIRECTIONS 1.

Pour some ground almonds onto a plate and add the teaspoon of sea salt to it – mix it through!

2.

Take your strips of chicken and dip it in a bowl of beaten eggs, before rolling it in the Ground Almonds mixture – repeat until all the chicken is coated.

3.

Cook the chicken at 200° for about 20 minutes or until you think it has cooked through.

4.

While the chicken is cooking, stir fry (using fry light) the green peppers, onion and chillies.

5.

When the chicken is ready, add it to the pan to combine it with the vegetables.

6.

Serve with rice or noodles and devour.

CHICKEN BOX INGREDIENTS •

180g chicken breast cooked and

Calories: 379

•

shredded/cut into pieces

Carbs: 29g

•

200g homemade chips

Fat: 9g

•

Sea Salt

Protein: 43g

•

¼ tsp Paprika

•

¼ tsp Onion granules

•

Pinch of Sea Salt

•

Onions and peppers

•

Sauces - Skinny Co Sweet Chilli Mayo, Chilli

•

& Garlic Mayo

DIRECTIONS 1. Cook up chicken whether than be thinly sliced and fried or boiled then shredded 2. Cut up potatoes toss in tbsp of olive oil/coconut oil & Seasonings 3. Put in the air fryer and cook for 18mins at 170°(can be done in a normal oven also) 4. Once Chips, Chicken and veg are all ready plate up and cover in sauces and enjoy :)

Full range of sauces and protein available at Sport Health Nutrition Follow us on Facebook/sportshealthandnutrition45 90 | Local Women Magazine

OUR GIFT TO NHS STAFF

As a thank you to all our wonderful NHS staff we are offering full access to all editons of our cookbooks. E-mail seanakelly16@hotmail.com or dannyglenn1990@gmail.com and we will forward.

PROTEIN PANCAKES INGREDIENTS MAKES 2 PANCAKES •

30g Oats - blended into flour

•

Half scoop of protein (Vanilla, chocolate etc),

•

1 egg

•

Water 50g to 75g (depending on how thick of

consistency you like) ADDED TOPPINGS

spicy beef nachos INGREDIENTS SERVES 3

Calories: 338

•

180g 5% Mince

Carbs: 32g

•

2 x Wholemeal wraps

Fat: 8g

•

100g Passata

Protein: 33g

•

1 x tsp Lazy Garlic

•

1 x tbsp of Worcestershire sauce

•

1 x chilli, sliced (or 1/ 2 Tsp of Lazy chilli’s

•

Greek yogurt

•

Skinny Co Chocolate Sauce

•

Strawberries (mashed up to jam consistency)

DIRECTIONS 1. Blend oats into flour 2. In a bowl whisk together blended oats, protein and egg then add water 3. Melt a tsp of coconut oil in a pan and pour in half the mixture, cook for 2 to 3 mins until browning the flip and repeat 4. Add preferred toppings and enjoy Calories: 270 Carbs: 19g Fat: 9g Protein: 25g Add cals for toppings

depending on preference) •

1 x tsp coarse sea salt

•

1 x tsp Coconut oil

•

Skinny sauces Sweet Chilli Mayo & Garlic Mayo

• Can add onion & peppers SALSA •

1 red pepper

•

1 red/white onion

•

1 tsp Lazy Garlic

•

1 tsp Lazy chilli (add mo

•

re if prefered spicy)

•

2 tbsp passata

•

1 tsp of tomato puree

DIRECTIONS 1. Fry your mince in coconut oil with the garlic, Chilli and onions and peppers 2. Add in the rest of the seasonings with Passata & Worcestershire sauce 3. Make Salsa - Sweat off chopped peppers & onions add Garlic and Chilli stir well, Add in passata & tomato puree combine until reduced and serve 4. Serve with Skinny sauces Sweet Chilli Mayo & Garlic Mayo To make carb free swap out wraps for baby gem lettuce

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92 | Local Women Magazine

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Local Women Magazine | 93

94 | Local Women Magazine

SHOP ONLINE AT

www.shannonsboutique.com T: 078 7799 1350 | E: shannonsboutique19@gmail.com shannons_boutique1

@shansaccessoriesx

Local Women Magazine | 95

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Bicalla Lace Front Top White £29.99

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Olsen Zebra Print dress £109.00

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LW WEDDINGS

Natasha Andrew BRIDE: Natasha Cairns ; Daughter of Gilda Cairns, Lurgan and Emeile Morrow, Killyleagh GROOM: Andrew Hagan, from Lurgan ; Son of Wendy McConkey Bleary & Laurence Hagan, Lurgan DATE: 21/10/19 CEREMONY & RECEPTION: Orange Tree House BRIDESMAIDS: Kelly Penny, Gina Lyons, Kathy Anderson, Nicola Cairns BEST MAN: Christopher Boggs GROOMSMEN: Ian Penny, Joel McKinley & Adam Carson PHOTOGRAPHER: Eamonn’s Photography HAIR: Natasha Cairns Hairdressing (myself) and AMF Hair MAKEUP: Alana Manderson DRESS: Lesley by Enzoani, Elody Bride, Newry FLOWERS: Daisy Diamond

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Local Women Magazine | 103

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LW WEDDINGS

Danielle Eoghan BRIDE: Danielle Fisher, from Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan; Daughter of Martin Fisher (Dundalk) and Carmel McCaughey (Castleblayney) GROOM: Eoghan Ó Colla, from Gaoth Dobhair; Son of Peadar Ó Colla Bernie Uí Colla, Gaoth Dobhair WEDDING: 07/02/2020 CEREMONY: An Chúirt, Gaoth Dobhair RECEPTION: An Chúirt, Gaoth Dobhair BRIDESMAIDS: Kelly Fisher, Nicola Fisher BEST MAN: Michael Ó Colla GROOMSMEN: Ronan Ó Colla PHOTOGRAPHER: Marty Crawford HAIR: Serenity Beauty MAKE-UP: Serenity Beauty DRESS: Something New, Letterkenny FLOWERS: Aanees Flower Shop, Letterkenny

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New Wedding List Service

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www.weddinglistni.co.uk

Local Women Magazine | 105

Get an extra guest room, dressing room or walk in shower simply by installing natural gas

I

f you’re like the many others who are currently working from home at the moment you might be dreaming about how to get a bit more space at your place.

Social media is awash with images of people having set up personal workstations in the most interesting of places, from the corner of kid’s bedrooms, to garages, to kitchen counters. Throw in the chaos of looking after kids, two parents working from the same house, a few dogs and cats, and suddenly home isn’t the sanctuary it used to be - in fact most houses are bulging at the seams.

Of course, we are all doing the right thing to reduce the risks of spreading coronavirus, but sometimes, when juggling kids, deadlines, zoom calls and space issues, it’s understandable that things can get a bit fraught and tight!

Well, did you know that natural gas might offer a solution? If you haven’t already got natural gas you can get more space at your place by installing it. That’s because when you switch to natural gas from oil you can get rid of the tanks in your roofspace, the hotwater cylinder in the hot press and the oil tank in the garden too – allowing you to reclaim a whopping c. 75sq feet of space from your home which opens up lots more space for new rooms and areas.

C

M

when the time comes to sell.

Y

The opportunities don’t end there. With natural gas the hot water cylinder in the hot press is taken away which suddenly opens up possibilities for a brand new dressing room, laundry room or even a walk in shower.

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K Lastly by installing natural gas you can remove the oil tank in your garden. Hello garden reDoes the idea of having an extra room appeal? design. Ever wanted outdoor space to sit, Removing the hot water tank and pipework relax, entertain or a place for the children to the peace of mind of never running out. You’ll from your attic could mean a loft conversion play? Now you can. also being doing your bit for the environment is possible. Converting loft space not only Simply, firmus energy natural gas is the by reducing carbon emissions by up to 50%*. provides extra space, whether for an extra ultimate home improvement. Not only do you So what are you waiting for? Find out if you living room, home office or bedroom and get more space at your place but you’ll get can get natural gas today by calling our bathroom, but even better, when done well, all the normal benefits too including instant customer servives phoneline on 0330 024 can add pounds to the value to your home heat, smart controls, endless hot water and 9000 or heading to firmusenergy.co.uk/gas.

We also have a team of energy advisors who are ready and waiting to answer any questions you might have. Just head to firmus energy. co.uk, choose the energy advisor dependent on the area that you live, and give them a call. Want more space at your place? Choose firmus energy natural gas.

To date, over 100,000 customers have connected to natural gas with firmus energy and are enjoying the benefits that natural gas brings - from constant hot water, to more space in the garden, more efficient boilers to simply being a better choice for the environment.

Homes and businesses interested in making the switch to firmus energy natural gas can find out more by calling 0330 024 9000 or visiting www.firmusenergy.co.uk • When compared to oil 106 | Local Women Magazine

More Space

% 0

E

C AN

FIN

EN

D S 3 1s t m

20 *

e now d a

20

Upg r

at your place with natural gas

ay

goodbye oil tank, ergy Our en rs adviso to dy are rea r call u take yo

hello kids play area Register your interest today at

firmusenergy.co.uk/gas

Local Women Magazine | 107

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Local Women Magazine | 109