Area 1
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net
DESIGN EDITOR
Dylan Thain editor@oracle.uk.net
07365610463
SALES MANAGERS
Tyler Cussen sales@oracle.uk.net
07535417264
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Dylan Thain
PHOTOGRAPHY
Front Cover -Pixabay | Pexels | Freepik
SISTER MAGAZINE
OM Plymouth www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk
December has arrived, wrapping Plymouth in the sparkle and spirit of the festive season. The days may be short and the air crisp, but there’s a special kind of warmth that comes with this time of year—twinkling lights along familiar streets, bustling markets, and the shared anticipation of celebrations ahead. It’s a
for cosy moments, joyful gatherings, and taking stock of all that the year has brought us.
In this issue, we’re embracing everything that makes December so magical. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed creating this edition, and I hope it adds a little cheer, comfort, and inspiration to your winter days.
As always, I’d love to hear from you. Your thoughts, stories, and suggestions help keep this magazine rooted in the people and places that make Plymouth unique. You can reach me at editor@oracle.uk.net, and I’ll always do my best to respond.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADVERTISE FOR AS LITTLE AS £60.00 A MONTH IN THE PLYMPTON COMMUNITY MAGAZINE please call sales on 01752 691007 plympton@oracle.uk.net
© 2025 The Plympton Community
All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publisher. We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that Oracle Publications accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions in this publication. All opinions expressed in The Plympton Magazine are that of the individual contributor and are not always shared by the publication.
For the past 17 years, KF Kitchens has been crafting exceptional kitchen spaces across Plymouth and the surrounding areas. As an independent, family-run business based at our showroom in Faraday Mill, we bring over 75 years of combined experience to every project we undertake.
We recognise that today’s kitchen is the heart of your home. It must be practical, beautiful, and uniquely yours. That’s why we’ve built our reputation by taking the time to understand how you use your space, rather than just selling products.
Our process begins with a showroom viewing and advice session. We prefer to do this first meeting by pre-arranged appointment. These half-hour to hour long consultations allow us to dedicate
focused time to you, clearly explain our offerings, and provide transparent project pricing early on. This approach has proven invaluable in helping clients make well-informed decisions without feeling pressured. We will usually accommodate any customers turning up without an appointment as long as we are not prebooked.
As independent kitchen specialists, we carefully source products we know and trust. Our showroom features over 20 kitchen displays showcasing our German brand Nolte and British brand Kitchenmakers by Burbidge, alongside working Neff, Siemens, and Miele appliances, as well as functioning Quooker boiling water taps.
We’re proud to be Plymouth’s only Neff 5-star MasterPartner, which gives our clients access to the entire Neff catalogue, including products and promotions exclusively available through this partnership.
We believe that once you have purchased a kitchen from us we want to support you in using your new Neff appliances so we invite our clients after the kitchen has been installed to an afternoon of cooking so they can see first-hand on how the appliances work from flex cooking on the induction hob to cooking with added steam in their new ovens.
One of the most valued aspects of working with KF Kitchens is our collaborative team. From initial design to final installation, every part of the transformation can be dealt with. This includes structural work, plastering, plumbing, electrical fittings, decorating, flooring, and routine waste removal. This trusted team of skilled tradesmen have worked together since 2008, bringing continuity and expertise to every project. They communicate seamlessly with each other and with you throughout the process, ensuring projects flow smoothly from one stage to the next. Whether it’s structural work, kitchen fitting, or the finishing touches, you’ll find the same attention to detail and professional standards at every step.
We’re members of the KBSA (the industry’s only national trade body), Trustmark and Trading Standards Buy With Confidence, reflecting our commitment to verified quality and customer protection. Our dedication to quality and customer service has
also gained recognition within the industry. Over the years we have received the Best Showroom Experience Award at the Hafele Awards and most recently Customer service awards in 2025 from both BKU Magazine and the KBSA. These awards highlight not only our showroom environment but also the entire experience we deliver to every client.
We believe in giving you the time and space to make the right decisions. We work closely with clients throughout the design process, offering expert guidance on layouts, colours, materials, and appliances.We will challenge ideas when necessary to help you avoid mistakes, but we will never pressure you into choices that don’t suit your needs or budget.
Our reputation is built on recommendations from homeowners across Plymouth and beyond who’ve trusted us with their kitchen transformations. Ready to start yours? Book a showroom appointment to discuss your project, explore our displays, and discover how we can bring your vision to life.
Winner of the Customer
a deeper look at our awardwinning projects and design philosophy, visit the KF Kitchens studio, email enquiries@ kfkitchensco.uk, or call 01752 255022. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @kfkitchens.
Q: Lulu, for readers who haven’t met you yet who are you and what do you do?
A: Hello! I’m Lulu Kuliabko, the proud Franchise Owner of Extra Help Plymouth, Plymstock, Plympton, and Saltash.
I joined Extra Help ten years ago , I was one of the first franchisee. My franchisor, the amazing Claire Robinson, took a chance on me. She guided me, supported me, and showed me a path I am so grateful for. Watching Extra Help grow across the country over the last decade has made me incredibly proud knowing I was part of that beginning.
Q: Why did you join Extra Help instead of starting your own business from scratch?
A: Because I wanted to be part of something bigger something built on kindness, reliability, and real community connection.
Extra Help already had a beautiful soul when I found it. Claire created a service based on genuine care, not corporate coldness. When I joined, I felt like I had come home.
Q: Let’s talk about some of the clients who shaped your journey. Can you tell us about Daniel?
A: Daniel… oh, he is one of my favourite humans.
Daniel and I have been together professionally! for over ten years. He has Down syndrome and is one of the sweetest souls I’ve ever met. When we met, I was 28, he was 30. Last year he turned 40, and on his big Birthday party I told him, “Daniel, we are getting old together!”
He laughed… I laughed… and then we both agreed that neither of us looks a day over 21. He is pure sunshine.
The photo that goes with this story is one of my favourites. It reminds me that this job isn’t about tasks; it’s about relationships. Daniel has taught me more about patience, joy, and kindness than any training course ever could.
Q: You also mentioned including a photo with one of your elderly clients, Tony. What is his story?
A: Tony is a gentleman whose wife sadly passed away. After such a heartbreaking loss, he suddenly faced all the housework alone laundry, cleaning, keeping the home going.
We stepped in not just to help with tasks, but to give him steady support, a bit of routine, and a friendly face at a difficult time.
Our picture together represents the work we do supporting elderly clients especially those who find themselves struggling after big life changes. It’s tender, emotional, and very real.
Q: You’ll also be sharing a photo with a family you’ve supported for five years. What’s their story?
A: This family has been part of my life for five years.This family is incredibly dear to me. It’s a mum with disabilities and her two boys are autistic . For five years, we have helped with: cooking meals, cleaning and laundry, keeping the home calm and organised, helping her get to school and back.
We lived through the pandemic together -masks, hand gel, the whole dramatic era.
We moved house together. We changed schools. We survived growing boys (and their energy levels).
Five years ago, we took a picture together. Just recently, we recreated it. The boys have grown so much - and it touched me deeply. I don’t have my own children, so watching them grow feels like witnessing little miracles
Those two photos side by side say everything without words .
Q: Your team has stayed with you for an unusually long time. What’s your secret?
A: I’ll be honest: I care deeply about my team.
They’re not employees they’re family. The photo in this article shows Stacey and Zoe from Saltash - two incredible women who have been helping me for eight years. Eight years! In this industry, that is rare. But when people join Extra Help, they tend to stay. I like to believe it’s because I’m a kind manager… well, I try!
I choose my staff very carefully, I choose people who give more than they take, peopele with big hearts.
Every member of my team is one of the best you can find.
We laugh together. We support each other. We share biscuits and stress sometimes. We’re like a big, slightly chaotic but very loving family.
The photo with us three shows something powerful: people trust me, enjoy working with me, and feel valued.
And that is the greatest compliment a manager can ever receive.
Q: And the motorbike… what’s the story there?
A: Ah yes, my legendary motorbike. Let me make it clear: I do drive a normal car!
Most of the time, I am perfectly sensible. But when someone needs help urgently and the traffic is awful, I throw on my helmet and become “Motorbike Lulu.”
In Plymouth traffic, the car cries. The motorbike wins. It’s simple mathematics.
Q: Final words from you Lulu?
A: Yes - gratitude.
To Plymouth, for welcoming me. To my clients, for trusting me. To my team, for standing beside me year after year.
Whether I arrive in a car or fly in on a motorbike I promise you’ll get kindness, care, and a good laugh.
Q: Sarah pictured with Lulu runs the neighbouring South Hams, Torbay, West Devon Franchise, we asked Sarah for comment
A: Hi, I’m Sarah, I set up my branch of Extra Help in 2020! I’m proud to follow in the footsteps of Lulu and the other branches who opened before me. I have a real passion for people, I gained a Psychology degree and held sales, teaching, customer service and business development roles after that – Extra Help seemed to marry all my skills and passions together. I’m proud to have won the Devon Chamber of Commerce 30 under 30 award in 2023, 2024 and 2025 and to be a finalist in the West Country Women’s Awards in 2025 too. Echoing the above from Lulu I am grateful for the opportunity to work with our clients in the
local towns, villages, and communities we service around the South Hams, Torbay, West Devon, & parts of Cornwall too.Hearing Lulu’s client stories has been wonderful and echo many of my own. I love what we do at Extra Help!
Find out more; www.extra-help.co.uk
Call Lulu servicing Plymouth, Plymstock, Plympton and Saltash on 01752 642442 or 07850237282
Call Sarah servicing the South Hams, West Devon, Torbay and more on 07547 555669 or 01803 266 246
WE ARE RECRUTING , please call Lulu or Sarah for more information.
Email : plymouth@extra-help.co.uk or Sarah.canny@extra-help.co.uk photo by OTEM photography
And to everyone reading this: If you ever need a little extra help, or just a friendly face… we’re here.
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every business has a story, but few are as unexpected as Mick Quick’s.
A retired Royal Engineer with experience in the building merchant trade, Mick’s journey to founding one of Plymouth’s most trusted EPC and surveying companies was anything but straightforward.
Back in 2012, Mick launched Quicknitts, a small, hands-on venture where he designed and sold scarves through online marketplaces, car boot sales, and the busy stalls of Plymouth Market. It was a creative chapter that highlighted his determination and versatility, but as Mick soon discovered, new opportunities were just around the corner.
What began with yarn and craft fairs eventually led him back to his technical roots, and to the creation of Tech Surveys, a business built on precision, reliability, and a genuine commitment to helping clients understand their properties better.
An Energy Performance Certificate, or EPC, shows how energy efficient a property is, rated from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It provides information on energy use, typical running costs, and recommendations for improving efficiency.
An EPC is a legal requirment for anyone selling, renting, or build a property or extension in the UK. This applies to homeowners putting their property on the market, landlords letting out residential or commercial buildings, and developers
The certificate helps buyers and tenants understand a building’s energy performance before they commit, and ensures that all properties meet the minimum legal energy efficiency standards for renting. It is valid for ten years and must be given free of charge to new tenants or buyers before contracts are signed.
“I could literally talk about it all the time, I love my job.”
Since we last spoke with Mick, he has welcomed a new team member. After completing his degree and exploring his career options, Rio joined the company and has been busy ever since. He started by shadowing Mick, progressed to producing floor plans, and now handles full EPCs independently, covering much of the domestic side of the business. Speaking with Rio, it is clear how quickly he has gained expertise, and his contribution has been a key factor in Tech Surveys’ recent growth.
Mick understands that the world of EPCs can be highly competitive, and like any competitive business, something had to make Tech Surveys stand out. The short answer is that this ‘something’ is Mick
himself. His deep understanding of the business and the impact it can have on customers is rare in the EPC industry. There are countless ways to describe the Tech Surveys team, both Mick and Rio, but the simplest is to highlight how helpful they are in every situation. Rio has learned through observation the importance of being kind and friendly to all customers, especially since they are often working in someone else’s home. What stands out most about Mick when talking to him is his willingness to give advice freely, asking nothing in return.
The story took another turn when Mick’s friend, Mike Mann of Plymouth Estates, stepped in with some timely advice. Mike encouraged him to join the Plymouth Business Network, a move that opened doors to new connections and opportunities. Eager to grow the business, Mick personally delivered hundreds of leaflets to estate agents across Plymouth and the South Hams. By offering reliable, highquality EPC services at competitive rates, he quickly distinguished himself from other providers. As he began carrying out assessments for Plymouth Estates, word of his professionalism spread rapidly, and Tech Surveys started to gain real traction.
Tech Surveys has since evolved into a multifaceted enterprise. Beyond EPC assessments and floorplans for both residential and commercial properties, the company now provides Legionella Risk Assessments. Bringing in a professional to conduct these assessments ensures a high level of professionalism and removes any perception of bias. For those unfamiliar, Legionella disease, or Legionnaires’ disease, is a serious and potentially fatal lung infection caused by inhaling tiny droplets of water containing Legionella bacteria. It is commonly associated with poorly maintained water systems such as air conditioning units, hot tubs, and plumbing. The infection can cause severe pneumonia-like symptoms and, in some cases, can be fatal if not treated promptly. These risk assessments must also be repeated whenever a tap or
boiler is replaced in a domestic property, and in residential settings, a full assessment is recommended at least once a year. During a conversation with Mick, one story in particular illustrated the real-life importance of his work. A family had recently moved into a property and requested a Legionella risk assessment. As Mick examined the system, he identified an outdated setup in the attic and asked the homeowner to operate certain taps so he could fully map the water system. What he discovered under the header tank was shocking: dead and fully decomposed birds and rats floating in the water. This contaminated tank supplied the children’s bedroom basins, and as a result, each of them had already fallen seriously ill. Mick’s thorough inspection and quick thinking not only identified the hazard but also prevented what could have been an ongoing, dangerous exposure. Without his intervention, the problem might have gone unnoticed for months, potentially causing far more severe health consequences.
Stories like this underscore why professionalism, knowledge, and attention to detail are central to Tech Surveys’ approach. It is not simply about compliance or ticking boxes; it is about protecting clients, their families, and their properties. Mick and his team approach every job with the same level of care, whether it’s a small domestic EPC or a full commercial Legionella assessment. Rio, Mick’s protégé, has learned firsthand the importance of this approach, understanding that being thorough, approachable, and empathetic is just as crucial as technical skill. Together, the team has built a reputation for reliability, expertise, and a level of customer care that continues to set Tech Surveys apart in a competitive industry.
Through its combination of technical
excellence, real-world experience, and a genuine commitment to client safety, Tech Surveys has become much more than a service provider—it is a trusted partner in protecting homes, businesses, and communities across Plymouth and beyond.
Mick points out that many companies take advantage of the general lack of knowledge about EPCs, often charging inflated fees, sometimes up to £150 for a onebedroom property. Mick actively opposes this practice and has deliberately kept Tech Surveys’ prices below the Plymouth area average. Rio hopes to be starting a sister company in the new year with the backing of Mick, that will be focusing on domestic properties thus being able to keep prices low.
Combined with their expertise and a level of customer care that continues to set Tech Surveys apart in a competitive industry, the company has built a reputation for reliability and integrity.
Looking to the future, Mick and
“ I wake up every morning excited to do this job, I’ve only ever had that feeling with this and the Army” - Mick Quick
Rio are expanding into SAP EPCs, which cover houses or commercial spaces built post April 1st, 2008. This represents an exciting growth opportunity for the business, with Rio set to take the course necessary to lead this new area of work. Mick also reiterated a goal he first shared in October 2023: to grow the company to a point where he can step back and, like every business owner’s dream, allow Tech Surveys to operate self-sufficiently.
“ I love working with people, and helping people to get results is so satisfying” -Rio
Through its combination of technical excellence, real-world experience, and a genuine commitment to client safety, Tech Surveys has become much more than a service provider, it is a trusted partner in protecting homes, businesses, and communities across Plymouth and beyond.
So the real question is: do you need an EPC? If you’re unsure, reach out to Mick or Rio using the contact information below to get clear guidance.
There are lots of wonderful Christmas Markets popping up in South West England that are all worth a visit. We thought we’d share 4 of our favourites which are all within 2 hours of Plymouth.
hunthalloween.com
Harewood House turns into a magical festive escape each winter, and the 2025 Christmas Fair promises to be one of its most enchanting yet. Set against the backdrop of the grand estate, the fair brings together an array of beautifully decorated stalls showcasing handcrafted gifts, luxury homewares, unique artworks and indulgent seasonal delicacies. With dazzling lights, cosy festive corners and plenty of family-friendly activities, it’s a perfect seasonal day out. Typical opening hours run from mid-morning through to early evening, giving guests plenty of time to browse, taste and explore at their own pace.
Plymouth’s city centre transforms into a festive hub each winter, and the 2025 Christmas Market is set to be bigger and brighter than ever. Running 27 November – 21 December 2025, visitors can explore rows of wooden chalets offering handmade crafts, seasonal gifts, artisanal treats and plenty of warming winter street food. The atmosphere really comes alive during the late-night shopping evenings, when the lights sparkle, choirs perform and the scent of festive bakes fills the air. Opening hours are Monday–Wednesday 10:00–19:00, Thursday–Saturday 10:00–20:00, and Sundays 11:00–17:00.
The stylish, hippy nature of Totnes makes for an excellent Christmas Market. With over 70+ artisan stalls and street vendors as well as Totnes’ independent stores, there are a huge amount of exciting gift ideas. Kids will also love the free Totnes Gnome Trail and they are even holding craft workshops where you can make your own free pompom robins. Enjoy free music and street entertainment as well as lots of festive lights to get you in the Christmassy mood. This Christmas market and late night shopping is happening on Tuesdays 5th, 12th and 19th December 3pm-9pm.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Exeter Cathedral, this well-loved market returns 20 November – 19 December 2025, offering one of the South West’s most atmospheric festive experiences. With more than 100 chalets each year, the market blends local crafts, global street food, giftware and cosy seasonal refreshments. Its layout around the cathedral green creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for exploring with family or friends. Selected evenings offer extended hours, adding to the buzz with light displays and entertainment. Due to its popularity, peak evenings can be busy, so mid-week visits may offer a more relaxed experience. Whether you're shopping for handcrafted gifts or simply enjoying mulled drinks beneath the floodlit cathedral, it’s an essential stop on any West Country Christmas itinerary.
et into the festive spirit by visiting some of these exciting Christmas experiences in the local area. With sparkly lights, magical lanterns and chanting orchestras, there is so much to see in the South West this December.
The Festival of Light returns, with more life-size lanterns than ever before and an iconic Winter Safari. Discover brand-new, show-stopping scenes from treasured tales, featuring The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S Lewis; Cinderella; The Wizard of Oz; Winnie the Pooh and many more. This year’s event is brimming with festive treats – from firm favourites like our incredible 15-metre Enchanted Christmas Tree show and beloved Santa Train, to a spectacular fountain display on Half Mile Pond. Longleat House will be even more luminous, with a phenomenal light show bringing its historic facade to life. This even has already begun and continues through December until 7th January. Book your tickets now.
Explore the Shipwreck Treasure Museum this Christmas as it’s transformed into the most Festive place in Cornwall! Walk through the magical tunnel of lights and journey through every imaginable Christmas setting, from the snowy winter wonderland of Narnia’s frozen forests, to a room filled with giant baubles of every colour. See their Shipwreck as snow falls around you and have a browse at their mini German Christmas Market. This begins on the 9th December and finishes on the 31st December. You can book peak and off-peak tickets through their website with prices starting at £16.50 per adult and £12.50 for child (3-17).
Join the Eden Project to celebrate Christmas this year with their all-new immersive music and light experience. The Mediterranean Biome will create a twinkling Christmas spectacle with a 1920s jazz twist. Performed by their nine incredible live musicians under the sparkle of a huge orb, guaranteed to get you up dancing. See the Rainforest Biome’s incredible immersive lighting and soundscape and find the magnificent plants transformed into a magical night-time tropical wonderland. The Outdoor Gardens will be festively dressed and there will also be a Tunnel of Lights on your way into the Link Building. Complete your visit by meeting Santa and his Elf helper and booking a session on their ice rink. This event runs on selected dates from 1st-30th December, head to their website to find out more and book your tickets.
Immerse yourself in The Lost Garden’s of Heligan’s enchanting lantern experience. Travel through the garden train and spot lots of beautiful lantern installations of fauna and flora. Explore at your own pace, take in the beautiful displays, toast marshmallows by their magical fire bowls and enjoy a seasonal warming refreshment. They also have a beautiful shop full of amazing gifts that are perfect for Christmas presents. This night garden takes approximately 1 hour to explore and starts on the 17th November and finishes on the 2nd January. Tickets from £8.50 for non members.
Image: Visitcornwall.com
The Barbican & Sutton Harbour, Plymouth, 7th December
Hundreds of Santas are set to run through the streets of the Barbican this Christmas!
Organised by Saltram Rotary, and supported by Plymouth Waterfront Partnership.
Participants of all ages are invited to don their Santa suits (all included with the registration fee) and enjoy the fun run, jolly jog, or wonderful walk of either a 2.5km or 5km route through the city’s beautiful waterfront all to support local charities Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah.
The Box Plymouth, Tavistock Place, Plymouth, 31st December
Join us in St Luke's as we start the New Year celebrations a little early in this special event for families. Allow your little ones to experience the countdown to midnight (just a few hours earlier than normal). Get into the party mood with tunes and UV/glitter face painting for all ages. Adult tickets will include a free hot drink. Child tickets will include a party tea and treats.
Plymouth Boat Trips, Barbican Landing Stage, Barbican, Plymouth 6th/13th December
Plymouth 22nd
Join us for a festive morning the whole family will enjoy at Time & Again, Astor Drive, PL4 9RD, on Monday 22nd December.
Arrive at 9:30 AM, where our friendly elves will greet you, and take your seat for breakfast at 9:45 AM. Children will have the chance to meet Santa, receive a small gift, and take part in fun activities, including colouring and biscuit decorating.
Get into the seasonal spirit on board our Christmas Party Cruise. Enjoy a complimentary drink from the bar, then dance and mingle the night away to festive tunes, played by our resident DJ. A perfect night out to celebrate the party season with colleagues and friends, or simply come along and meet people, joining in with the great atmosphere. Fully equipped luxury heated vessel, with toilets and a Licensed Bar on board.
Saturday 6 & Saturday 13 December 2025 19:30 to 22:30
Plymouth disability advocate Jacqui Cant is using her platform, Walking Contradiction, to challenge stereotypes, amplify unheard voices, and reshape the conversation around disability across the city. What began as a personal project is now evolving into a wider movement, one that Jacqui hopes to take with her into future public life.
Walking Contradiction was born from Jacqui’s lived experience of disability, and from the contradictions she met daily, being told she “didn’t look disabled,” people making assumptions, or not seeing beyond the surface.
“The name Walking Contradiction originally came from the final conversation she had with her father, that she was a “Walking Contradiction”, she never wanted to be defined by her disability. It started as a side project along side her multimedia business Skymind Studios, but as time went on she continued to feel misunderstood,” Jacqui explains. “People often decide what disability should look like. I wanted to take that contradiction and turn it into something powerful, something that educates, empowers, and encourages real understanding.”
What Walking Contradiction Does
1. Disability Awareness & Real-Life Education
Through talks, workshops, and media appearances, Walking Contradiction helps people understand the truth of living with a disability, the challenges, the discrimination, and the resilience and creativity many disabled people develop.
2. inclusive Employment Support for businesses
Jacqui works with organisations to build confidence in employing disabled people, offering guidance on workplace adjustments, communication, and understanding hidden disabilities. Her goal is to help businesses see the ability in disability.
3. Community advocacy & Local action
Walking Contradiction engages directly with Plymouth residents, supporting them to speak up about accessibility, equality, and community issues that affect disabled people daily.
From advocacy to aspiration
Jacqui’s work in the community has naturally grown into a wider ambition, to take her experience, knowledge, and passion into local politics.
“My aspiration is to bring real lived experience into decision-making,” she says. “Too often, policy is made about disabled people without disabled voices in the room. I want to change that. Walking Contradiction is not just a project, it is the foundation of the kind of leadership Plymouth deserves.”
Her political outlook is grounded in inclusion, fairness, and practical community action, not traditional left–right labels.
“i’m driven by people, not parties,” Jacqui adds. “i want to show that politics can be compassionate, accessible, and honest.”
Why Walking Contradiction Matters
The project is growing because it gives people:
> A place to feel heard,
> A platform to learn, and
> A way to challenge assumptions through real stories. Its mix of honesty, humour, and heart has made Jacqui a sought-after speaker at events like DevCon, where her talk “Lights, Camera, Access: Why Disability Representation Matters” and “Understanding Disability and changing the Conversation at a Humanist event was widely praised.
Get Involved
Walking Contradiction works with:
> Businesses
> Schools
> Community groups
> Events
> Organisations seeking disability awareness training
To book a talk, collaborate, or learn more: jacqui@walkingcontradiction.co.uk Facebook & instagram: Walking Contradiction
“I want to show that politics can be compassionate , accessible, and honest.”
Walking Contradiction works with:
> businesses
> schools > community groups
> events
> organisations seeking disability awareness training
The project is growing because it gives people: > a place to feel heard, > a platform to learn, and > a way to challenge assumptions through real stories.
To book a talk, collaborate, or learn more: jacqui@walkingcontradiction.co.uk Facebook & Instagram: Walking Contradiction
The world’s rst 4D hearing aid sensor technology doesn’t just lter and amplify sounds like traditional hearing aids; groundbreaking head & body movement sensors help the user to hear & communicate better in background noise. Against a leading premium hearing aid - Oticon Intent delivers a remarkable 35% speech improvement score in social situations.
Acoustics
Sensors gather 360º sound picture & monitors environmental changes
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Sensors monitor how our head moves during conversations
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Physical sensors anticipate our spatial awareness and how we move when listening & talking
The new Oticon Intent, with its latest computer chip and communication sensors combine all the information it receives to now help users engage & hear in the world around them like never before.
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At Howard & Over, our private client team understands that conversations about Wills and probate can feel daunting – but they are also essential! Planning ahead ensures your wishes are respected and gives peace of mind to those you care about most. With Sonia Ganney, Associate & Head of Private Client in Marsh Mills, guiding the way, you are supported with clarity and care throughout the process.
A Will is more than a legal formality. It protects your loved ones, makes sure your assets are distributed as you intend, and avoids unnecessary complications. Sonia and her team take time to understand your situation, whether you’re a parent wanting to appoint guardians for your children, or a business owner needing succession plans in place.
Even with a Will in place, losing a loved one often means navigating the probate process – an experience that can feel complex and overwhelming. Sonia and her team provide expert guidance at every stage, helping executors and
beneficiaries navigate the process with confidence. Their expertise includes preparing documentation for Business and Agricultural Property Relief, helping to reduce or remove estate tax liabilities and ensuring the estate is managed efficiently and in line with your wishes.
By combining Will preparation and probate guidance, Sonia and her team ensure you are supported from planning through to execution. With their expertise, you can move forward with confidence, knowing both your estate and your legacy are secure.
To discuss your Will or probate planning, contact Sonia at sonia.ganney@howard-over.co.uk or 01752 556606, or visit her at our Marsh Mills office.
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With Christmas in close proximity, it is all too easy to forget the positive eco-friendly advances we have made and switch to panic buying mode. It is time to slow down the Christmas shopping experience and think greener.
Ithink we can all agree that when it comes to Christmas, the excitement and the pressure gets to us all and a little bit of panic buying comes in to play. The pressure built up to ensure Christmas goes smoothly and nobody gets disappointed is getting bigger and bigger each year. I personally think that if we put less pressure on ourselves during this period, we would have more time to enjoy it. Christmas was never about the gifts and the money; it was always about spreading love and joy to all and spending the holiday with friends and family.
The amount of waste that comes after the Christmas period is largely fuelled by the sheer panic and excitement from shops and social media to make it the ‘best Christmas ever’. The more the merrier is the general thought process and who can blame us for thinking this way with the growing pressures of social media.
We are here to prove that you don’t need to miss out when it comes to making your Christmas more sustainable. In some areas, you can even save money by doing a bit of DIY! Eco-friendly products tend to cost more than un-sustainable, plastic items, however, they will last a lot longer which means you are saving yourself money in the long term.
Minimising your carbon footprint by sourcing products locally is the first step. We have an editorial in the OM Magazine all about how to spend locally in Plymouth this Christmas.
Stockings are such a beautiful idea to bring a little bit of joy to your Christmas morning in a very large sock! To fill these very large socks is the challenge behind the joy and this is when the panic usually sets in. We have come up with some sustainable and eco-friendly ideas to put in your loved one’s stockings this year.
Firstly, ask yourself if you have anything that your kids haven’t seen before that you could hand down to them. This could be a necklace you had when you were a teenager or an old favourite toy that has been well looked after. This meaningful gesture can go a long way as they are more likely to hold on to it as it has precious value.
Let’s not forget about the traditional satsuma at the bottom of every stocking! If forgotten, this will go mouldy and leave a foul stench at the bottom of your stocking!
The essentials that go into every stocking are pants and socks, this can be bought ethically by sourcing good quality products that are made to last. This means less will be thrown out. When your trusty sock does get a hole in or is running thin after many years, make sure you discard them in a clothes recycling point which can be found at many tips and clothing stores.
Opt for package-free products. Shampoo and soap bars are a great alternative to your everyday plastic bottles. These bars tend to last longer and often have all-natural ingredients in which are more sustainable and healthier for the planet. You can buy a soap dish
to keep them dry when you are not using them. For kids, Play in Choc is a great way to add a sweet treat but without the plastic. Inside their boxes is a bar of delicious chocolate along with a cardboard animal that they can piece together. And when they get tired of playing with it, it can be easily recycled. And for the sweet tooth, support your local sweet shop and grab a pick and mix. Often, they will be in paper packets where no plastic is involved! You can also avoid waste by choosing only their favourite sweets.
Everybody gets excited when they see the first shoot of a plant they have nurtured come through. This is why putting in a packet of seed to their stocking may not be as daft as it sounds. If you opt for flower seeds, this will also attract bees!
Another must-have in any child’s stocking is some stationary. You can now purchase recycled pens and pencils from certain shops for example; www.remarkable.co.uk and www.wearthlondon.comYou can find a range of eco-friendly items on both of those websites too.
A candle to set the Christmas mood is always a great stocking filler however, candles are not good for the environment as you are essentially burning a fossil fuel as most contain paraffin. To avoid these candles, look for words on the candles packaging such as ‘natural, organic, coconut wax, rapeseed wax etc.’ You can also buy candles that have been recycled. A great shop to go for that is ‘The Recycled Candle Company’ in Exeter.
It is all too easy to be tempted by the smell of freshly ground coffee whilst walking through the city but make sure you’ve got your reusable mug! Add one of these to your loved one’s stocking for a great gift and to save money on your next coffee! A lot of cafes and Baristas will offer a discount if you bring your own reusable coffee cup!
So now your stockings are filled with eco-friendly goodness, let’s get on to the main presents!
Although wrapping paper has got the word ‘paper’ in it, most wrapping paper is not recyclable as it contains foil, glitter or plastic. Brown paper packaging tied up with string is the way forward! Actually, I think it looks a lot prettier and you can add your own personalised touch to it with some foliage, dried orange, and maybe even a stamp using eco-friendly vegetable ink! If you want some more colour to your packages, we recommend www.re-wrapped.co.uk, they have a wide range of Christmassy designs all made from vegetable ink!
When Christmas shoppingremember to take your bags for life with you to avoid having to take any unnecessary plastic bags home with you.
Christmas is the time for all things sparkly; glitter, sequins, tinsel, baubles, fairy lights and everything in-between. Unfortunately, all of those lovely sparkly items are made from plastic and are non-recyclable and often get washed down the sink and end up in our oceans. On a positive note, eco-friendly glitter exists! Try to refrain from using tinsel and make your own paper chains or homemade garlands that can have longer-lasting properties and are less harmful to the environment.
Baubles should be a family heirloom and stored with care so that they can come out of hiding each year and look spectacular. If you are in need of an extra bauble or two, avoid ones with glitter or that are made from plastic. Head to the high-end stores that offer quality baubles that are less likely to break over the years. Or, make your own Christmas decorations! Have a forage in your local woodland and pick some beautiful pinecones to hang on the tree. And if you are feeling peckish, make some Christmas biscuits, punch a hole through them, tie with string and you’ve got an adorable decoration that won’t go to waste!
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