Spark Magazine (Cambs A428 Edition) September 2022

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24 MAGAZINE CambridgeCambfest Regional College Career FREEAlliavideoImpactBusinessadvicePartytime Connecting local communities between Bedford and Cambridge A428CAMBRIDGEEDITIONPAPWORTHCAXTONCAMBOURNEEVERARDST NEOTS ELTISLEY BEDFORD HARDWICK

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Welcome to the September issue of Spark Magazine! 24 | September 2022

Andrew Morgan Editor, Spark Magazine spark 03www.sparkmag.co.uk @sparkMagCambs Contents How to grow a small business 04 Fork handles 06 The Dog Heroes 08 Career Spotlight 10 Cambfest launch 12 Self belief and compassion 14 St Neots Initiative 16 Stress and the empty nest 18 Investing in social media 20 Sustainable business 22 Helping young crime victims 26 Cambridgeshire Libraries 30 Spark Magazine is published by AMM Publishing Editor: Andrew Advertising07841andrew@sparkmag.co.ukMorgan720916manager:Lisa Thulborn Designer:07914lisa@sparkmag.co.uk445281LeilaSchmitz Spark Magazine is an independently produced magazine by a small family business in Cambridgeshire. Views and opinions written in this magazine may not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All content and photography supplied by contributors are published in good faith on the understanding that they are free from copyright and other restrictions. Spark Magazine accepts no liability from any loss or damage resulting from errors or non-publication of any advertising. We reserve the right to refuse publication of any advertisement or other content without explanation. To the maximum extent of the law we accept no liability for any loss or damage (direct or indirect) suffered as a result of any advertisement, article or any content within the magazine. 06 12 18 26

Welcome to the September edition of Spark Magazine!

Well, it’s been a long, hot summer for all of us. While the temperatures have been a little on the extreme side at times it has still been an absolute pleasure to be out and about in the glorious Cambridgeshire sunshine. As we head into Autumn the keen gardeners among us will no doubt be looking forward to a little more rain to ease our parched landscapes and bring our lawns back to life. Whilst out in the wider world there seems to be a preponderance of worrying news on the horizon, we here at Spark Magazine are determined to keep a sense of positivity and usefulness on our pages. We are once again thankful to our wonderful contributors for enabling us to do this and, as a result, you will find handy gardening tips, business advice and articles about caring for your own wellbeing on the following Thankyoupages.onceagain to the team who help us put Spark together and get them through letterboxes and also, to our advertisers, who continue to support the content that we are bringing to our readers. That’s it from me, enjoy the magazine!

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Allia’s Grow Your Business programme has specialist workshops focusing on essential topics such as marketing, HR, sales and financing. Its team of business advisors and mentors offer 1-1 tailored support to help your business gain customers and revenue. So, if you’re running a small business in or around Peterborough, now’s the time to Grow Your Business! peterborough_start-your-business/https://futurebusinesscentre.co.uk/programmes/

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Don’t let your strategy slide Your strategy is the backbone of your business. It’s crucial to keep this in mind as it directs your overall business objectives and informs your activities. Dedicate time each week to keep your business strategy on track. Read widely on topics surrounding your business and beyond and keep up to date with any trends or developments in technology.

Put your product through its paces With any potential new service or product, it’s essential to test the market before committing resources. If you get a good response from new and existing customers, you’ll then know it’s worth pursuing. Listen to what your customers are saying about the features and the benefits of your products. Ask if your customers are willing to pay for the product at the price you are setting. Learn to let go of your initial ideas if they don’t match up with what your customers want. Get to know your customers

When running a small business, it’s easy to be so busy working on a long list of day-to-day activities that it becomes impossible to focus on growing it - increasing your customer base, finding the right place to promote your offering and achieving your goals. Here, we give you some simple tips to help you to gain customers and focus on what matters. Manage your time A lot of people finish their day without achieving what they’d planned to. With careful time management you can free up a lot of space for things that matter. Consider finishing each day by planning tomorrow’s tasks and goals. Block out time and only focus on these tasks –no social media, no interruptions. You’ll be amazed how much more productive you become.

How to grow a small business

Rather than prioritising new customers, try focusing on the existing ones first. There’s a whole lot to gain from speaking to the people that are already buying your product. Ask them questions about your business and product. Why did they buy it? What do they like/dislike? How did they find out about the business? You won’t get this information from anywhere else, and it’s absolutely key to growing your business. Communicate your ‘why’ If your product helps reduce environmental impact, tackles loneliness or improves health, talk about that! There’s an age-old saying in marketing; ‘features tell, benefits sell’, and this couldn’t ring more true. So instead of focusing on what your product does, focus on the effect it has on the customers or the environment around them. Free help and support

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The garden dahlia arrived in Europe from Central America and Mexico towards the end of the 18th century. Most of the early illustrations are of plants with single flowers. A lot of its development took place in Britain, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. By 1836 the Horticultural Society of London listed more than 700 varieties. Dahlia shows were held throughout England and new varieties would sell for considerable amounts of money. The prize money offered at dahlia shows encouraged nurserymen to breed new varieties.

by Nicky Daish Gardening jobs for September

Tidy up strawberry plants by removing old leaves and leaving just the young ones in the middle of the plant. Remove the runners to keep the main plant strong and pot up some of the runners as replacement plants.

Tidy and clean the greenhouse ready for tender plants to be moved inside for the winter.

Dahlias

Today there are many different flower types some of which are: Ball, Chrysanthemum, Cactus, semi-Cactus, Pompon, Peony, Star and Waterlily. Dahlias add a great splash of late colour to the garden and there is a wide variety of colours to choose from.

Keep watering, feeding and deadheading hanging baskets to help them flower into mid-autumn. Once they have finished flowering, replant with winter and spring bedding, small evergreens and lowgrowing spring bulbs. Plant spring-flowering bulbs such as crocus, daffodils and muscari. Leave tulip planting until November to reduce the risk of a fungal disease called tulip fire. Plant evergreens while the soil is still warm which helps them to establish before winter. It is also a suitable time to move evergreens that are in the wrong place.

Lift maincrop potatoes when the foliage has died back. Plant spring cabbages. Remove leaves from ponds to prevent a build-up of silt. Before composting, leave the debris should by the side of the pond for a day to allow any wildlife to go back to the water.

06 spark Image credit: Purple Emperor butterfly – Guy PilkingtonRothschild bungalow – The Wildlife Trusts)

Top dress lawns to improve drainage and level out any uneven patches.

The National Trust at Anglesey Abbey near Cambridge is worth visiting to see the spectacular range of colours and wide variety of shapes in the Dahlia border.

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Fork Handles

Dahlia tubers should be started off under cover, hardened off and only planted outside when there is no chance of frost. The plants need to be supported well by tying to canes or stakes, or using plant supports. They prefer a warm, sunny, sheltered spot on welldrained soil and need watering and feeding regularly. Deadhead on a weekly basis to encourage more flowers. Foliage will be killed off by frost and some gardeners choose to leave the tubers in the ground over winter but in harsh winters you do run the risk of losing them. Alternatively, the tubers can be lifted and stored in a frost-free shed or garage. Cover them with old, dry compost or sand to protect them.

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And so it was that The Dog Heroes, Helping Hands for Hounds was Whatlaunched!!!!dowe talk about on the Podcast?

This led me to an idea. Why not create a Podcast to educate and inform dog lovers all over the world, on nonaggressive or aversive methods to help their dogs thrive in this human-led world?

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Who is the Podcast for? - If you like dogs, love dogs, have a dog, want a dog, are interested in becoming a dog carer or trainer, are a dog trainer, would like to hear some anecdotes about our adventures as dog trainers/behaviourists or simply like listening to waffling banter about makeup, skin art, reptiles, horses, cars, and tiny microphones! this Podcast is for you. So, why not have a listen? Search Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts or Buzz Sprout! We will also soon be appearing on Ste Greenall’s radio show on Black Cat Radio, dates TBA!!

By Raechel Waldon-Harris – Dog Trainer – Waldon-Harris K9. Tel: 07730 393757, Email: waldonharrisk9@gmail.com Feature

After all, most humans love dogs and want the very best for their best friend!

What is the aim of the Podcast? - Our aim is to not only entertain and inform but to drill down on the importance of choosing the very best trainer for your dog and how and why we offer folks the most recent, science-based methods of training available today, for those wishing to give their dogs the very best care, training and guidance through Warning!life.–The Podcast is not suitable for young children as there are some blue notes!!

As an accredited and certified dog trainer, using force-free and scientifically proven kindness-based methods, I am very aware of and understand the importance of liaising with like-minded professionals on a regular basis, to share and broaden knowledge, educate others and maintain excellence in what is an unregulated industry. When I spent some time working in a famous rescue for animals, I met 2 of the most caring, insightful, and bright trainers and behaviourists I have thus far, Emily Bright of Bright Dog Training and Emma Colclough of Emma’s Dog Behaviour and Training. We struck up a friendship almost instantly and even though two of us do not work there now, we spend endless hours, discussing all things dog care, training, nutrition, and welfare on WhatsApp, and when we can meet up, in person.

– Everything and anything involving our own dogs, specific cases (omitting client identities and respecting GDPR, obviously), our experiences with working in a rescue centre, and the proven science behind kindness-based, forcefree training methods for dogs, nutrition, and behavioural concerns. We also chat about makeup, tattoos, moving house, boyfriends and husbands– all sorts – all over cider, rose wine, hot tea, and the odd slice of (vegan) Victoria sponge!!!

The Dog Heroes –Helping Hands for Hounds

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“SPT Labtech have kindly opened their doors to enable us to capture careers highlights from individuals working within the engineering sector, from a range of the engineering and manufacturing positions through to the business support roles within the company. We are thrilled to develop this new resource especially as this project is in response to CRC students in engineering who said they wanted to know more about jobs in all areas of the sector, to help them determine their next steps and chosen career path.”

The careers video project follows on the from the CRC Careers Fairs delivered in March 2022, which will be an annual event bringing employers together with jobseekers, new talent leaving education, prospective apprentices and work placement students.

Simon Tullett, Head of Research & Development Operations at SPT Labtech, said, “there are so many opportunities within engineering and the associated supporting roles that I would highly recommend considering this as a career. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to gain knowledge, training and experience in many exciting and varied areas and are just the start to a profession that can take you as far as you aspire”.

Career spotlight videos launched

Cambridge Regional College has combined forces with Royston based engineering firm, SPT Labtech, to develop a suite of careers videos to help young people choose the right career for them.

Bridging the career insights gap for the next generation.

The career highlight videos are available for viewing on the college website, www.camre.ac.uk/careers_hub and will be utilised, where appropriate, by Form the Future when undertaking their valuable work visiting local schools. Over the coming months and years career highlights for additional sectors and professions will be created to provide further information to young people seeking insights into careers.

Cllr Elisa Meschini, Chair of the GCP’s Executive Board, said: “This is a fantastic resource – not only do these videos help to raise awareness of the job roles within the engineering sector in our growing region, they help to demystify the world of work so young people can really see what they would be doing on a day-to-day basis.”

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This collaboration forms part of a wider project funded by the Greater Cambridge Partnership, aimed at enhancing careers, advice, and guidance (CIAG) provision for young people in the region.

https://apply.workable.com/spt-labtechwww.sptlabtech.com

Michelle Dowse, Deputy Principal, Cambridge Regional College said, “This suite of videos, the first of many, highlight the possibilities to young people looking at taking their first steps into a career and shine a light on what the day-to-day activities of these roles entail.

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Cambfest 2022 is the inaugural festival organised by Cambourne Cricket Club & Cambourne Town Council and will take place on Back Lane Sports Pitches on Sunday 18th September. The family-friendly event will allow those from the local community and beyond to celebrate together in a day packed with music, fun and entertainment. Headliners The Real Thing, whose soul and disco hits include ‘You to Me Are Everything’ and ‘Can’t Get By Without You’ will be supported by some of the best emerging local acts from the Cambridgeshire music scene.

A brand new festival for Cambridgeshire is preparing for its debut this September.

Cambfest will be another stop on The Real Thing’s 40-yearlong tour, which has seen them continue to play around the globe as their unique reputation for hits, musicality and showmanship carries on. The band remains Britain’s most successful black group of all-time. The festival will take place in association with The MindEd Trust. A Cambridgeshire-born charity which has been established following the tragic death of Edward Mallen in February 2015. Edward was an academically gifted teenager and talented pianist who had been offered a place at Cambridge University. He took his own life on the railway following the sudden and brutal onset of clinical depression in the weeks leading up to his death. You can read more about The MindEd Trust and their work focusing on preventing mental illness in young people.

Cambfest pledges to support The MindEd Trust, and hopes that the festival will increase awareness surrounding the work of the charity and the impact that mental illness has on young people. For further information and to book your tickets visit www.cambfest.co.uk

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Cambfest prepares for launch

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When we compare our lives and achievements to those of others, especially the ones that look super shiny on social media, it can be too easy to fall into the comparison trap. This is a sure fire way to start feeling all kinds of “not enoughness” (Ooopps…here comes the inner critic again!) My advice? Forget what “everybody else” has or is doing…. Be inspired but concentrate on your own journey whilst taking the time to appreciate and applaud how far you’ve already come.

how exactly to develop this elusive sense of self belief from nowhere and cultivate self compassion without vague statements, then here’s a few tangible starting points to get you going…

Hayley Scott Summers

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Ditch The Inner Critic

If you’ve ever wrangled with low self esteem or a lack of confidence then you’ll know just how debilitating it can be. Not having faith in your own capabilities or worthiness to achieve your goals can have a real impact on your life, both personally and professionally. But the good news is, all you need to do is remember the words “Just believe in yourself” and as if by magic, you’re suddenly filled with a sense of overwhelming confidence, ready to conquer the world. Like Joan of Arc. Or

Have you ever observed how you talk to yourself and how you talk about yourself? Is your internal and external dialog supportive? Kind? Encouraging? If such concepts have you laughing or even feeling morose, then it’s definitely time to readdress how you talk to yourself. The next time you catch yourself saying something disparaging, mean or critical to yourself, take a moment to consider how you would feel if you overhead these exact same words being directed towards a friend you love, and then make a concerted effort to correct yourself. It might feel silly at first but that’s just because it’s new!

Avoid The Comparison Trap

Self First Isn’t Selfish I’m going to say something a bit controversial, so brace yourself…. Continually putting your needs and desires at the very bottom of the list and everybody else’s at the top, isn’t necessarily an act of selflessness, in fact sometimes it’s down right self sabotaging. When we start to put some of our own needs first this helps foster a sense of worthiness, which goes a long way to developing that desired self belief.

No?!Beyonce…..Thatdoesn’t work for you?! Ok ok…so I’m not in the least bit shocked. Such throwaway cliche’s have certainly never worked for me and I’m yet to meet someone who else who swears by However,them! through years of exploring and working with this this topic, there really is something quite magical that I’ve discovered. Something that I encourage my own clients to cultivate. It’s completely free, can be accessed at anytime, anywhere and like anything else, the more you do it the easier and more second nature it becomes….. I’m talking about self compassion. And if this concept sounds completely novel to you, then I encourage you to read on! Self compassion is simply the act of treating yourself the same way you would treat a loved one, physically and emotionally. With love, understanding and Andencouragement.ifyou’rewondering

Remember - Self belief starts with self compassion. So if you’re struggling to believe that you’re capable or worthy of taking those next steps in life or you’re just tired of feeling like you don’t have the confidence to pursue something different, try being kinder to yourself. Because when you consistently give yourself the same amount of grace, support and encouragement as you would a friend, it’s not so hard to believe in yourself. Don’t believe me? Try it….

Feature Self StartsBeliefwith CompassionSelf

Certified Life Coach www.hayleyscottsummers.com@hayleyscottsummers

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St Neots initiative moving forwards

Working in collaboration with local authorities, or indeed leading on various projects and addressing the challenges/opportunities – we can work with strong businesses and good employers who recognise and develop the potential of their workforce to invest in a brighter future for the town.

With this in mind, the St Neots Initiative will be focusing on three pillars: People: What quality of life do we wish to see over the next 10 years?

secretary@stneotsinitiative.org.uk

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The group is self-funding and receives no finance from public bodies yet. For further information please contact: Alex Hughes, Chair of St Neots Initiative email chair@stneotsinitiative.org.uk or telephone: 07446 230468 DebbieOr Phillips, Secretary St Neots initiative email secretary@stneotsinitiative.org.uk or telephone: 07818 264423

As Chair of the St Neots Initiative (SNI), I want St Neots to be a place where there are no barriers to getting on and succeeding in life.

Whether studying, training to advance a career, or starting and growing a business, or enjoying the quality of life that St Neots has to offer, I want everyone from our vibrant, diverse communities to have the opportunity to make a difference, lead their best life and enjoy the benefits of a strong growing economy.

St Neots Initiative has identified the Education and Voluntary Sectors where a more joined up approach is required. As we know the voluntary sector is going to be relied on more and more as time progresses with the current climate. Work is currently underway to establish these groups and we will share the progress as they Membersdevelop. of the St Neots Initiative are all volunteers. If we sound like a group you would like to become involved in and want to share your knowledge/experience, or want to make a difference and feel that you want to be part of a group that makes St Neots a better place to live, work and play in order all of us to feel proud of where we live, please contact secretary@stneotsinitiative.org.uk

Place: What qualities of place are required for this quality of life? Prosperity: What are the qualities of a ‘good economy’ to support out aspirations? In order to address People, Place and Prosperity the SNI have identified three projects to take this forwardPeople – Jobs Club – this project is still in its early stages and discussions have been taking place with various authorities and other groups. Place – We want to achieve connectivity with 51% of the people of St Neots, have you seen the posters on the former Beales Store windows – Curious About St Neots – this is your opportunity to take an active part and be aware of what is taking place and finally Prosperity – We will be launching the SNI Awards which will be the home of the Sue Jarrett Award for Services to the Community, other awards have been identified that covers various communities, look out for further details. If you want to be involved in any of the above please contact

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4. Lacking a social support network.

If you feel you’re struggling with the transition of your children being away from home, it’s important to address any of these factors that might be influencing your wellbeing. You can maintain your connections to your children (however far away they are). However, if you particularly define your identity in terms of your role as a parent, you might look for other ways of affirming your place in the world. Seek out opportunities to develop other qualities within yourself either at work, in your community or in your leisure interests.

6. Being younger when the children are launched into education, especially if the children don’t completely leave home (“boomerang children”).

3. Having few or only children.

If you’re dealing with stress that’s arising from “empty nest syndrome” (ENS), being aware of the symptoms and practical ways of dealing with them could help you to to accept the changes, and even begin to enjoy this new phase in your life.

“Empty nest” is a term that conjures up images of despondent parents whose lives are suddenly devoid of their beloved brood. Without their kids, Mum and Dad have no one to talk to but each other! What’s worse, they can feel loss of their usefulness and sense of purpose.

Studies have identified 7 key social and psychological factors that can lead to ENS:

September’s here, a most significant time for lots of us, as parents. It could be time for your little ones to start school life (meaning extended periods without them around, for the first time) or off to further education (maybe considerable distances away from home).

5. Feeling that the children’s departure was too early or too late, compared to cultural norms.

Begin to appreciate new found freedom, where all of your family relationships can be enhanced by the new experiences that are available to you as individuals and then to share with each other. Being an empty nest parent can be a rewarding opportunity for growth. Who knows? With luck, your role as a grandparent may soon follow, with even more enjoyable and rewarding family experiences. This is an abridged version of an article you can read in full on my website www.juliejaina.com

There is a strong stereotype that pervades the way many people think about mothers. Surely, they must be miserable with their defining social role taken away from them. You don’t need to buy into that.

Feature Stress and the Empty Nest

Certainly, many women (and men, for that matter) who love their kids miss them when they leave the family home. It doesn’t take the majority of them long to adapt to their new status. However, some parents experience this period of life as being one of anxiety and sadness.

Get Help

If you find you’re struggling with a mental health issue it’s important to recognise that specialist support is available. Contact me to discover how I can help you overcome your challenges and take steps towards the happy and fulfilling life you deserve.

Julie Jaina Counselling, Hypnotherapy & Reiki www.juliejaina.com juliejaina@gmail.com 07875 504865

1. An identity wrapped up in being a parent.

2. Feeling loss of control in their children’s lives.

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7. Worrying about the child’s safety and wellbeing in the world outside the home.

Look after Your Self

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Spending some time with a specialist in your industry will mean you are able to find the key areas to focus on. You can, and I know you have, spend countless hours trying to implement different strategies that just might not work for your type of business. What to invest in Take a look at how you are currently spending your time marketing your business online. Where are you struggling?

So much more than you think

• Trends

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Helping business owners get started with social mediawww.digitalreeds.co.uk

You can work with Social Media strategists to help you focus your energy on the right things to hit your goals, a copywriter or content creator to help you get the perfect messaging or even a virtual assistant to help with scheduling and engagement.

Markie FounderReedsofDigital Reeds

By not complying with some changes you could be locked out, or lose your account entirely. You do not own social media. It can be taken away from you in a heartbeat.

There is so much to consider when planning your social media marketing. A social media manager understands and can help with: and industry insight messaging & identity audience KPIs & objectives community and partnerships And so much more!

What takes the most time?

• Brand

Social Media can often be seen as something teenagers do from their phone, and somehow make millions through crazy brand deals. This is the exception and not the rule. There can often be unrealistic expectations put on social media, and younger people too. There have been many instances where the company apprentice gets given the task. They might understand the platform, but they won’t necessarily understand business goals which give less than desirable Whetherresults. you are a solo business owner or have employees investing in your social media might save you a headache.

Why should you invest in social media support?

• Target

• Building

Social media has evolved from being just one person’s job. It includes input from different specialists such as copywriters, photographers and videographers. There can also be technical aspects to consider including email automation, ads and SEO. You can handle a lot as a business owner, but with the growing importance of social media and standing out from the crowd, I’d let the specialists handle it!

Keep up to date Social Media is fast-paced, with changes and updates happening weekly if not daily. It can feel like a full-time job to stay up-to-date with this.

You need strategy Social Media is a grab for attention. Facebook alone has over 2.91 billion active users with 94% of adults in the UK between the ages of 25 to 34 having their own profile.

Getting help with social media doesn’t always mean adding another body to your office. They can work from anywhere in the world, to scope and time that suits the role.

When you start online, there is a wealth of competition and you need to stand out. You need to understand your brand, positioning and ideal client before thinking about goals and content strategy. There is a lot of depth that needs to be considered.

A beautiful beauty and wellness retreat based at Burwash Manor (Courtyard 2). A tranquil environment where you can come to relax, refresh and revive in a safe place. We maintain a COVID safe environment and aim to create a safe & comfortable visit. Pay a visit to our brand new relaxing area, now open with hot drinks, breakfast pastries and lunches to order. We also have some new great value pamper packages perfect for treating a friend or loved one to some ‘me’ time. Open 5 days a week (Tuesday -Saturday) – services available include: massages, facials, lycon advanced wax, gel colour nails, manicures, pedicures, lash lift, eye-tinting treatments, micro-needling facials. We are on hand to help people to improve their skin after having cancer treatments and other medical conditions, you can book a free skin consultation with our experienced team either online or call the salon.

September is ‘RRestore and Reset’ at The Retreats. To celebrate National Skincare month, and to help our customers get back into the routine of things after the summer holidays, we have an extensive range of facial products by Germaine de Capuccini available. All of our skincare range is available both on-site and from our online shop. www.the-retreats.com Telephone Number 01223 263469

Facebook – The Retreats – Burwash Manor / Instagram – @t her etreatsltd – Burwash manor

Sustainable Communities Business Pledge

Council implemented a trial of the ‘Sustainable Communities Business Pledge’ aimed at local businesses, offering guidance on how they can increase their contribution to climate action just by making a few minor changes with high impact effects. The trial proved very successful with local businesses large and small, returning extremely positive feedback on how this has created a positive effect within their company and among their workforces. A representative of a pledging organisation stated… “The guidance alongside the audit process was a huge eye opener, and a few small changes bought many benefits. By simply focusing on recycling, we have nearly halved the cost of our waste disposal, vastly increasing the amount we recycle and minimising the amount of general waste we produce. By implementing a change in culture, this has enabled staff to adopt this ethos within their home, giving them the feel-good factor of contributing towards climate action. The pledge has also proved highly marketable with many clients stating they have chosen us over competitors, purely based on our focus to the betterment of our environment. Many thanks to Huntingdonshire District Council for creating the pledge and supporting us through the process”

While the Pledge is aimed at businesses, there is still much we can do as individuals to assist. Following the Huntingdonshire Recycles social media pages, which offers helpful tips on waste reduction whilst keeping you up to date with the goings on among the Huntingdonshire District Council waste team. Posts encourage recycling soft plastics at many of our local supermarkets, cosmetics and medication packs at many of our local pharmacies or simply purchasing a food waste caddy and disposing of your food waste via your garden waste bin. Guidance on what waste belongs in which bin can be found by visiting gov.uk/bins-waste/what-goes-in-which-bin/www.huntingdonshire.

To find out more about the ‘Sustainable Communities Business Pledge’ and how it can benefit your business, check out living/information-for-businesses/.environmental-issues/sustainability-and-greener-https://huntingdonshire.gov.uk/

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The ’Sustainable Communities Business Pledge’ has proved such a success within Huntingdon, it has now been made available for all businesses across Huntingdonshire with more and more uptake across our region. Simply by decreasing the amount sent to landfill, reduces the greenhouse gases emitted, whilst saving on raw materials required to manufacture from new. Manufacturing from raw material requires more energy than the recycled equivalent, demonstrating small changes, playing a key role in our quest for Net Zero.

With the effect of global warming quickly becoming more apparent, there has been a vast rise in the focus of individuals, businesses and local authorities, to take immediate and long terms actions to reduce the impact they have on our environment. The bulk of the attention has been put on how we as individuals can do our part in reducing our personal impact. This has since been extended to businesses with many companies both locally and afar, putting sustainability to the forefront of their future Huntingdonshirestrategies.District

One of the Hunts Waste Busters shares their thoughts on Huntingdonshire District Council’s Sustainable Communities Business Pledge:

Large garden year-round maintenance and development Garden maintenance plans to your brief Border design & planting Plant health management Specialist pruning All types of roses OrchardWisteria trees Website: www.wildwoodhorticulture.co.uk | Instagram: wildwood_horticulture | Tel: 01234 480680 Client reviews on Google: ‘Wildwood Horticulture’ | Email: info@wildwoodhorticulture.co.uk HORTICULTURE “Growingyourdreams” Consulting Garden restorations Garden maintenance work programmes Sustainable practices including no-dig 0 3 3 0 0 5 3 4 0 8 0 £4995 Lean To Pergolas From *Based on a 3mx3m lean to structure, fitment available at an additional cost www.appscontracting.co.uk

ST PETER’S CHURCH OFFORD DARCY SUNDAY 23 OCTOBER 12.00 pm – 4.00 FriendsFeaturingACRAFTAUTUMNpmFAIRFREEENTRYFREEPARKINGONADJACENTFIELDtraditionalAutumnFairpromotinglocalhandmadecrafts:the‘YellingPig’withherspinningdemonstrations;candles;jewellery;cards;woodcraftitems;aromatherapy;Christmasgiftsandmuchmore…..Homemaderefreshments–soups,cakesetc.www.stpetersofforddarcy.co.ukofStPeter’sChurch

Embrace Child Victims of Crime have taken over the running of the Cambridgeshire Specialist Young Victims and Witness Support Service to provide emotional and practical support to young crime victims aged up to 18 (or up to 24 with additional needs) and their families to help them recover from the effects of being witnesses or victims of crime.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston added: “Ensuring young victims and witnesses of crime can access the support they need, and in a way that they want, was our aim when we designed this new service. A total of 175 young people helped us shape the model of support now available.

The team also provides an advocacy service for young crime victims and their families to help them access support from other organisations, charities and agencies where appropriate.

“We prioritise the needs of young people and tailor our services to meet their individual circumstances to ensure they receive the right support at the right time. We provide face-to-face, telephone and online counselling and emotional support as well as practical help to overcome disadvantage and poverty. We listen to each child’s experiences and give them the support they need to Weheal.are delighted to have won the contract to provide services for young crime victims and their families in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough over the next three years. This funding, from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cambridgeshire and

Families in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough who have been affected by crime can refer themselves for support via the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Victim and Witness Hub on 0800 781 6818.

Peterborough, Darryl Preston will enable us to support more young people to recover from the effects of crime across Cambridgeshire.”

“The journey of support can be a long one and this new service means young people can start and end that journey with Embrace CVOC. The charity were already delivering therapeutic support and will now extend that offer to emotional and practical help as part of a tailored package of help for each victim or witness.”

Helping young crime victims get the support they deserve

For more information about Embrace Child Victims of Crime please visit www.embracecvoc.org.uk or call the helpline on 0345 60 999 60 from Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm.

Anne Campbell, Chief Executive of Embrace Child Victims of Crime, said: “We believe all crime survivors have a right to receive the support they need to overcome their trauma, rebuild their confidence and self esteem and fulfil their full potential.

Embrace Child Victims of Crime will be providing support for more young crime victims in Cambridgeshire thanks to £205,000 funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner.

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A newly established business which was founded by an Ex Military officer (27 years service) which provides opportunities for Ex Military chefs.

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“Absolutely amazing Hog roast, the food was amazing and the service was incredible Thank you so much” “Gordon and his team are absolutely fantastic. The hog was melt in the mouth, and all the other add ons left us full but wanting more. And the stuffing he makes from the pork juices is exquisite. He couldn’t do enough to meet our requests, and did everything to make sure our day was memorable” 07378 292529

“Having heard a few people talking about the Hog Roasts from LJB, I had to go see for myself to see if it lived up to the hype. I was so impressed that I immediately went back for seconds. Good sized portions, bags of flavour.. I’ll be seeing you again!!”

We have experience in providing Hog Roasts and other dining options for Weddings, Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Garden Parties, Fetes, Festivals and much, much more!

Is your Bus Pass due to expire soon?

Join in and listen to our volunteers reading a variety of poems, stories and literature from the comfort of your own home. To find out more, please contact the Read a Little Aloud team at: RALA.Online@cambridgeshire. Supportgov.uk available to help with the cost of living

ChildrenEvents&Families

Bag Books are multi-sensory storytelling kits for children with severe learning disabilities. Stories are told through different senses without the need for words. They can be borrowed for free and requested either at your local library or online.

Get together with friends new and old in a welcoming environment and find out about interesting topics, with time to discuss and ask questions. Please ask at your local library for more information. Engage online A chance to participate and enjoy a talk on a different every month. To join an online session please email Engage.Online@cambridgeshire.gov.uk

As the cost of living continues to rise, there is an ever-increasing pressure on our personal finances and financial worries. You may be wondering how your household finances will be affected by rising energy prices, want practical information on how you can save money, or simply want to know more about the Government’s recent support measures. Whatever your money worries may be, pop into your local library for helpful information and resources to help you. New Facebook page for families, follow /CambslibFamilies

All the information in this article can be found at www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/libraries

New Bus Passes & Renewals

The library at home service provides books / audiobooks to housebound library members. Volunteers visit once a month to bring and return library books and to have a chat Cambridgeshire Library Service needs you! Can you spare an hour or two once every month? We are always looking for friendly volunteers who can spare a few hours each month to help us deliver this much valued service. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer please contact Volunteers@ cambridgeshire.gov.uk or just ask in your local library.Youare now able to reserve books from our Spine Partners Peterborough and Suffolk for a charge of £2 per book. To reserve an Adult book from a library within Cambridgeshire the charge is 50p. Renew/request books: 0345 045 5225 As always Items can be returned to any open library in Cambridgeshire or Peterborough. Library Information Events in Cambridgeshire Libraries

Join in with our popular Storytimes, Rhymetime and Lego Club which are available at our Libraries, please check your local Library for dates as some are Term Time Only Events. Do you have children with special educational needs? Did you know you can borrow Bag Books from your library?

Read a little Aloud

30LibrariesCambridgeshiresparkNews

Library@Home

Adult EngageEventsinLibraries

It can be renewed online up to six weeks before it expires. If you or you know someone who needs help doing this, we can assist them at the library – they may need to book an appointment. For more information please contact us on Tel 0345 045 5225, E-mail cambridgeshire.gov.ukyour.library@ or pop into Yaxley Library. Look out for news on our website Instagrampage,Cambridgeshirewww.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/library,atLibrariesFacebookorsearchforusonTwitteror

Please be aware that some of these events mentioned below may carry a charge chargeable. Regular

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