The Stevenage Magazine | Issue 29 | May-June 2016

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Bi-Monthly guide to Stevenage

Issue : 29 May/June 2016 thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

D FRE ELIVER ED E TO 1 0 HO ,00 BUS MES & 0+ THE INESSE SI O WO LD TOW N CHE ODFIE N, L & G LLS MA D, REA NO R T AS HBY

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- worth £96!

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Volunteer with the Home Library Service NEW!

Photo - by Katie Budge

WHAT’S fON i ds or k

SUPPORTING LOCAL LIVING

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Your Friendly Local

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Located on the High Street Stevenage Borough Council Licensed & CRB Vetted Professional Drivers

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• Large Fleet of Vehicles - MPV’s, wheelchair accessible & 9-16 PSV • Corporate Taxi Account Available • Ace Ladies Club - female driver for female customers • Key Ring Discount Deal - £1 off taxi fare to and from our offices in the Old Town for fares £5+ • Discount Cards For OAP’s & Students

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taxi phones at all entrances of Lister Hospital, Waitrose, Leisure Park & Wilkinsons

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• Debit/Credit Cards Payments Accepted • Text Bookings & On-line Bookings

For more information & up-to-date airport price list please check out our website:

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welcome

Welcome...

Issue : 29

May/Jun 2016

www.thestevenagemagazine.co.uk FREE

Bi-Monthly guide to Stevenage

Issue : 29 May/June 2016 thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

D FREE ELIVEE D TO 10,0 & BU HOMES 00+ THE SINESSE OLD S WO TO IN CHEL ODFIEL WN, & G LS MA D, REA N T ASH OR BY

Join the BIG LUNCH!

!

WAINGas Boiler Service

worth £96

Courtesy of JTM Plumbing & Heating Services Ltd

Volunteer with the Home Library Service Check out our

Photo - by Katie Budge

WHAT’S foON r ki ds

SUPPORTING LOCAL LIVING

contact us:

Editorial | 07583 826088 editor@thestevenagemagazine.co.uk Advertising | 07583 826088 ads@thestevenagemagazine.co.uk /thestevenagemagazine

@TheStevenageMag

Postal Address: The Stevenage Magazine PO Box 517, STEVENAGE, SG1 9LR Publisher: Old Town Publishing editor@thestevenagemagazine.co.uk 07583 82 6088 Old Town Publishing Limited - trading as The Stevenage Magazine.

Company No. 07678409 Printed by Mainstream Print Ltd, 10 Wrens Court, 48 Victoria Road, Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, B72 1SY

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored without permission of the publisher. All content is published in good faith and correct at time of going to press.

...to the May/June issue - there are a few changes this month!

Speaking to readers, we’ve discovered that a lot of parents cut out the ‘What’s On’ section and pin it to the fridge – a sensible idea! With this in mind, we’ve introduced a separate ‘What’s On for Kids’ section (pg 12).

We’ve grown again! Our circulation is now 10,000 - more roads delivered to and more pick up points available!

Enter this month’s prize draw on page 26 and you could win a boiler service worth £96 courtesy of JTM Plumbing & Heating Services Ltd – don’t wait until the cold weather arrives - get it done now!

Stevenage Library are looking for volunteers for the Home Delivery Service (pg 4), Lockdales Auctioneers are holding a free valuation day (pg 6) and Bunyan Baptist Church will be running their ‘Big Lunch’ on 5th June (pg 4).

Well see you again in July, until then – please do get in touch with your news, stories or to advertise – it keeps the magazine going!

Don’t forget to check us put on social media too!

Louise and The Stevenage Magazine Team

Copy deadline for Issue 30 (Jul/Aug)- 10 June 2016

Please don’t forget to mention The Stevenage Magazine when responding to advertising!

NOT YET ADVERTISING WITH US?

Why not give us a call to discuss what The Stevenage Magazine can do for you?

Discounts on block bookings available.

contents welcome...................................3 news & community.............4-8 education...........................9-13 health & wellbeing...........14-20 business & finance...........21-25 what’s on..........................26-27 organisations...................28-29 a chat with.............................23 prize draw.............................30 useful numbers......................31 business directory.................31 Pick up a copy!

Copies of The Stevenage Magazine

are available at pick up points across Stevenage, including; Age Concern (Swingate House), Pin Green, Chells, Springfield House, Bedwell, Shephall & Great Ashby Community Centres, Stevenage Museum, Stevenage Central Library, Stevenage Old Town Library, High Street Methodist Church, Marriotts Sports Centre and The Business & Technology Centre.

Leaflet Delivery The Stevenage Magazine offers both leaflet insertion and individual delivery (outside the magazine distribution areas).

Our prices are competitive and we are reliable.

Contact ads@thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

or call 07583 826088 for further information.

Box Bike Delivery

Cost effective, efcient and environmentally friendly

Services that include: • Independent business postal service covering Stevenage and Hitchin.

A highly efcient and reliable service ideal for estate agents, schools, medical practices etc.

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x Bike Delivery’s Deli live local postal service has proved “Box reliable and efcient, and we would highly recommend it.”

Tracy Kosmalski MNAEA - Director, Putterills

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3

news & community

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Home Library Service seeks volunteers Do you have a few spare hours a month to help select and deliver library books to housebound readers in Stevenage?

Stevenage Library is looking to recruit new volunteers to deliver their free Home Library Service to housebound residents across the borough.

Vivienne Birch, of Hertfordshire Library Service, explains, “Ideally, we need the help of at least another six volunteers as we have a number of residents waiting to receive this service.

A visit from the Home Library Service can have a huge impact on a client’s well-being and quality of life.

It’s not just the delivery of books, but the interaction with a friendly face in what can be a long and lonely day, which makes our service such an important facility for many people.”

If the following sounds like you, then we’d love to hear from you:

• Enjoy reading and meeting new people • A good listener with a caring nature • Able to travel around town and call on two to three customers once a month

Full training is given in a supportive environment and a mileage allowance is payable.

For more details, please contact Vivienne Birch at Hertfordshire Library Service. Tel: 0300 123 4049 or Email: Libraries.Information@hertfordshire.gov.uk.

Make a date for ‘The Big Lunch’ Bunyan Baptist Church is holding a ‘Big Lunch’ event at Letchmore Road Playing Fields on Sunday 5 June, 12:30pm - 3pm.

Those of you who attended this fun packed family day last year will know what a brilliant and inspiring community event this is - thanks to the generosity and hard work of the Church members.

The event is FREE to attend, and all activities are FREE too – just bring your lunch! Bouncy castles, face painting, sporting activities and arts & crafts are just some of the things attendees can look forward to!

The ‘Big Lunch’ is a national event; a simple idea dreamt up and promoted by the Eden Project – ‘a one day get together for the community’.

Please note Bunyan Baptist Church’s event will take place on 5th June - a week earlier than the nationally advertised date, this is to avoid clashing with Stevenage Day!

QUALITY CARPETS & FLOOR COVERINGS A small family run business offering:

• Excellent customer service

• Fully qualified & experienced fitters • Bespoke rug creation service

…and that brings us nicely to another reminder - Stevenage Day! Taking place this year on 12 June at The King George Playing Field.

Plenty of local businesses, organisations and activities to meet, see and do! Fingers crossed for good weather all round!

01438 351 222 primaflooring@gmail.com

3 Priory Lane Little Wymondley Hitchin SG4 7HE

www.wymondleyflooring.co.uk 4

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news & community

First we cook. Then we eat.

Whether your child’s a mini chef in the making or finicky about food, we recommend checking out local business CookeryEatery this month.

The brainchild of food enthusiast Emma Goulding, CookeryEatery runs a series of workshops, after-school clubs, holiday camps and a soon to be launched preschool programme – ‘Fun with Food’; all designed to develop and enrich youngsters’ relationship with food in a fun, lively and informative way.

Workshops centre around making a meal from start to finish; each child is given the opportunity to take part in every stage, before sitting down together to enjoy the 'fruits' of their labour.

Each step is accompanied by fun and informative discussions and activities; from learning where produce comes from and how foods work together to taste and healthy eating – it’s all discussed.

The holiday camps also incorporate craft activities and outdoor play alongside additional food activities such as making a 1940’s style 'Carrot Jam', to take home and share!

And for those looking for an alternative children's party idea, CookeryEatery also run cooking parties along a similar theme (all mess is taken care of by them!)

The popularity of workshops has led Emma to develop a series of courses for adults too. But we’re barely scratching the surface here, so pop over to the CookeryEatery website and check out more! www.cookeryeatery.co.uk | emma@cookeryeatery.co.uk PS. Emma will be sharing her expertise and ideas in the next issue – just in time for the summer holidays!

1 Drapers Way, Stevenage SG1 3DT T: 01438 369173 F: 01438 724542 E: contact@a-topletting.co.uk

A-Top Property Lettings is celebrating its 30th year of trading in Stevenage and even more investors are coming on board to join its growing list of landlords.

Based in Drapers Way, the business has a proven track record of helping new landlords develop their property portfolio.

This approach has proved popular with people who are seeking a little extra income in their retirement and prefer the improved return than the low interest saving accounts.

Owner Mervyn Terrett has lived in Stevenage for more than 40 years and is proud to have developed what is now the area’s leading residential letting agents managing between 350 and 400 properties across the Stevenage and North Herts area.

“The beauty of property investment is that you are in control of your money, rather than a bank or pension company. We have landlords with one property, while some have more. The rental market is strong in Stevenage.” says Mervyn.

A-Top Property Lettings reference all of its tenants fully to ensure it gets people who will pay their rent on time and look after your property. A-Top also deals directly with major companies including Tesco and GSK who need properties for their staff. A-Top Property Lettings offers free rental assessments to determine the rental income possible from your property and can advise on improvements to attract a higher rent. Its fully managed service is competitively priced. A-Top can handle everything from the initial rental assessment of the property right through to arranging routine maintenance and repairs once the property has a tenant. So call A-Top today for free, independent and impartial advice on the buy-to-let market.

5

news & community

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk Are you sitting on a treasure?

A special antiques and collectables valuation event will be taking place in St Martins Parish Hall, Knebworth on the 5th May, 11.30am to 3.30pm, with experts from Lockdales Auctioneers providing free valuations to the public.

Members of the public are invited to bring along coins, stamps, banknotes, medals & militaria, antiques, clocks, watches, jewellery, gold, silver, pre-1900 documents/books & maps, cigarette-cards, postcards, pre-1960 sporting programmes & tickets, scientific instruments, swords, bayonets & de-activated weapons for valuation. No appointment is necessary and valuations will be provided free of charge, with no obligation. Those bringing along items will have the option to consign their goods to auction (subject to terms & conditions). Cash purchase offers will also be available.

Experts, Lockdales have conducted hundreds of these events across the UK. Some of the best items they have auctioned were brought along at previous events. One particular lot - two pieces of Russian 17th century enamelled silverware - sold on behalf of the owners for over £75,000.

Lockdales Chris Elmy said: “One of the most interesting items we have sold recently was a fragment of pennant flag belonging to the army of Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth.

The owners brought it along to one of our valuation events and we sold it for them for £2800 in one of our auctions!”

Venue details: St Martins Parish Hall, London Road, Knebworth, Hertfordshire, SG3 6EY (free car parking subject to availability).

Lockdales will also be holding events in Letchworth on Tuesday 3rd May, and Rickmansworth Wednesday 4th May.Visit www.lockdales.com for further details.

For any questions, please call 01473 627110, email sales@lockdales.com

Well! Ain’t that (Dinky &) Dandy?

This month we’re delighted to welcome gift shop ‘Dinky & Dandy’ to Middle Row on the High Street.

Born from the popularity of owner, Kelle Aitken’s children’s fashion and interior blog, the Dinky & Dandy shop stocks a beautiful range of quirky and unique children’s interiors, toys and gifts, including wooden toys, puzzles, unique toy storage, and nightlights. It’s perfect destination for children’s birthday gifts, baby showers or just for a treat!

You can check out Dinky & Dandy on the details below, or better still pop in and say hello!

Facebook/ dinkyanddandy | www.dinkyanddandy.com info@dinkyanddandy | 10 Middle Row, High Street, Stevenage

Lift High The Cross – United in Diversity On Good Friday what must have been several hundred Christians gathered in the square of the New Town shopping centre. Many had walked in procession, following a wooden cross, from the Bowling Green in the Old Town, through the underpass, over the bridge and through Tesco’s car park.

Firstly, we walked in silence as the traffic was stopped to allow us to process down the Old Town High Street. Passing Holy Trinity church we began to sing. As we entered the New Town I started to look at the faces of those we passed, wondering what they were making of it all.

Finally, there was an act of worship led by a gospel choir, and then hot cross buns.

This walk of witness was something different this year; the old and the new town joined together. Christians from across Stevenage, from churches of all denominations and traditions, joined in a common purpose. We walked together, united in what binds us, rather than in what is cause for division.

For me, the walk across from the Old Town to the New Town symbolised this coming Photo courtesy of Margaret Ashby together beautifully, particularly when the cross was held high against the skyline as we went over the footbridge.

There is much focus in the media on how religion can be divisive, the cause of much of the unrest and violence in the world - as much a source of fear as of hope! There is no doubt that religion can divide people and communities. And yet, in a society where the focus seems to be on what makes people different, on the need to be integrated and the same, the dynamic unity demonstrated in the Good Friday walk of witness is a good reminder that there is more that binds us together than divides us.

This is true not just of the various churches, but also of the society and the world that we live in generally. If our focus was on that similarity and not on the differences, perhaps the world would be a kinder and more peaceful place!

Rev’d Andy Thomas, Associate Minister

Holy Trinity & Christ the King - Worshiping, caring, loving, sharing: inviting all.

Holytrinity-stevenage.info facebook.com/HolyTrinityStevenage Christtheking-stevenage.info facebook.com/christthekingstevenage

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news & community

Meet the Business: Packleaders Tell us about Packleaders Packleaders offer a professional dog walking service to residents of Stevenage and Knebworth. We're a mature, trustworthy, husband and wife team who have always loved and owned dogs. I'm (Brian Moore) an ex-RAF Officer and Lynn is a Company Director, who many will know from her time as owner of St Mary’s Tea Rooms in Hitchin and later, the L’Aura Perfumery stores in Hitchin, Stevenage and Letchworth.

What services do you provide?

We provide daily dog walking services. We collect the dog from our client’s home and take it for an hour long walk, before returning it home, towelled dry when necessary, water bowl refreshed and settled down before departure.

What prompted you to start up the business?

We also run an online gift store which means spending many hours a day at the computer. Because we work from home, we realised we were in a perfect position to help walk the dogs for those who have hectic schedules, work all day or find the dog walks too physically demanding. In turn, it ensures we take a break from our screens and get some fresh air and exercise ourselves! We originally did this for friends and family, the word spread and people asked if we'd consider setting up as a business - so we did!

Protect your family and make a Will

Call us on 01438 518 031 info@abbottswills.co.uk • Wills • Lasting Powers of Attorney • Trusts & Estate Planning

• Probate Services • Daytime and evening office appointments or home visits

Single Will - £125 Mirror Wills - £225 Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): Single - £200 Pair - £350 Prices excluding VAT 14 Watermark Way | Foxholes Business Park | Hertford | SG13 7TZ | www.abbottswills.co.uk

Anything else you'd like to tell us?

Our comprehensive business insurance (featured on our website) includes the cost of changing locks should we ever be daft enough to lose someone’s key (that's never happened)! We put a temporary ID tag on each dog when we go out - just to be safe! We issue each owner with a Packleader’s 'Fridge Magnet Calendar' on which we mark off each day we walk their dog, that way the client knows we've been.

We look after each dog as if it is our own. Dogs give a huge amount to humans and ask little in return, but they all need regular exercise to be happy, healthy and well-balanced, and we can help people fulfil that need.

http://packleaders.co.uk info@packleaders.co.uk | 01438 940949 Facebook/ Packleaders - Dog Walkers

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Save time and frustration Here are a couple of simple tricks for hanging pictures on hollow walls.

If you live in a new build house, chances are you have hollow walls.

People often don't realise that you can’t use standard wall plugs in this type of wall, or at least not until damage has been done!

Standard wall plugs simply won't hold firm in the plasterboard; once any pressure (the picture) is applied, the fixing will quickly work loose, leaving an unsightly, oversized hole of crumbling plaster in its wake. When this happens, there’s the temptation to try another space, and before you know it the wall starts to resemble the surface of the moon!

There is also the temptation to use an adhesive product. I’ve had many customers do this in the vain hope their picture would finally cling to the wall and actually stay. My advice is - don't do this, it's just more mess.

What you do need to do is get the right wall plug. In this case of hollow walls, you need a grey plasterboard plug like the one pictured, an 8 or 10mm drill bit (depending on plug size) and a drill. These spiral fixings (or rotor plugs) grip tightly to the plasterboard and once in you can insert the screw. Don’t overscrew though - this will break the plasterboard.

I must stress, these plugs are for lightweight application only. Please don't risk hanging your TV on the wall with them. I can recommend heavy duty fixings for this – just drop me a line.

So, now we know how to hang the picture, let’s look at where to hang the picture? Safety considerations first. Hollow walls often have piping or electrics housed in the cavity behind them, and you don’t want to drill into these! I recommend investing in an electronic tester; they’re not expensive and can be picked up at any DIY store.

Run it across the wall and it will beep if there is anything underneath.

Never be tempted to hang pictures above light switches or sockets – they will have wires behind them.

Where should you hang the picture?

The general consensus is to hang the middle of the picture at eye level. This, of course, varies for everyone, but a good rule of thumb is the middle of the picture should be situated about 5ft to 5'6ft (152167cm) from the floor. If you are hanging in a dining room, it’s worth considering lowering this.

In coming issues I’ll be providing some simple DIY tips and advice to help perfect a few basic DIY jobs that don't always go as planned, but you can't fathom why!

Don’t forget you can always contact me for advice if you get a little stuck on your projects at home.

Tel: 07547934406

Email: nicola_butcher@hotmail.co.uk @thefemalechippy Nicola Butcher Carpentry

All carpentry work undertaken.

Fully qualified, experienced & reliable carpenter. No job too small!

• Bespoke Projects • Fitted Wardrobes • Shoe Shelving • Door Hanging • Skirting • Laminate Flooring • Picture Hanging • Curtain Poles • Flat Pack Assembly References & samples of work available on request

Nicola Butcher is a fully insured and qualified carpenter available for domestic and commercial projects – big and small! nicola_butcher@hotmail.co.uk | 07547 934 406

Waste Not Want Not: Nurturing Plants and People

If you have a pet, would you answer Yes to these?

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I want pet food made in the UK

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I want natural food, with no added colours, made from human grade meat I have a pet that suffers from skin problems, digestive problems or arthritis I support local businesses I want good value for money with FREE home delivery

Then call Rachel Jackson on 01438 359757, text 07711 162381 or email rachel.jackson@oscars.co.uk

WASTE NOT WANT NOT Nurturing Plants and People

0800 195 8000 www.oscar.co.uk

search

for OSCAR Pet Foods

Providing a safe and friendly environment where a wide range of people can feel included in their local community.

Positive activity working with plants.

Between 20 and 30 people a week come to volunteer at our Roebuck Plant Nursery site on the B197 between Knebworth and Stevenage.

If you enjoy being outside in a safe and friendly environment and are looking to have some positive activity in your day then please do come and visit us; we plant seeds, pot on seedlings, rescue plants, create displays, build tables and planters and also have a lot of fun!

Who are we?

We’re a horticultural based social enterprise and community interest company which uses horticulture as a therapeutic tool to assist in helping homeless people, ex-addicts, ex-offenders, socially excluded people, those with mental health issues, depression or recovering from a life crisis. Our aim is to create a friendly and supportive environment for positive activity where participants, known as volunteers, can Everybody Welcome make new and supportive friendships and feel included in their local community.

Donations make a big difference to the sustainability of the Waste Not Want Not project. Currently, our plant sales provide 40% of our running costs with a further 40% provided by local grants and trusts. The remaining 20% is provided through kind and The generous donations from the Plant Nursery With A Difference general public.

Plant Nursery opening times are Tuesday – Saturday: 10am – 4pm and Sunday 11am – 3pm. | office@wastenotwantnot.org.uk | 01438 941168

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www.wastenotwantnot.org.uk

Will it be easy?

Nope.

Will it be worth it?

Absolutely UK

Make a Difference

Could you foster?

Contact us Today

Work from home as a carer | Full training is provided 24/7 support | Generous fee & benefits package follow and s like u reUK osterCa WeAreF

UK

Make a Difference

fostercareuk.co.uk For more info or to register your interest, visit our website:

Email: enquiries@fostercareuk.co.uk Herts Centre: FosterCare UK Ltd, Business & Design Technology Centre, Bessemer Drive, Stevenage, Herts SG1 2DX

Call O u

r Hotli

ne:

01438 771 72 1

Call our friendly team to find out more (Mon-Fri 9-5pm)

education

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The fostering process – from enquiry to approval!

Our news column in The Stevenage Magazine highlights just a few of the many varied and enriching activities that take place at the academy and make it such a vibrant and exciting place to be. Here's an update on some of our latest activities...

Sport On Tuesday 22nd March, Year 9 students, Abbie Hay, Natasha Taylor, Jess Tralau and Holly Brewer (pictured right) represented Stevenage in the Under 14 Girls Rowing Competition at the Herts School Games 2016, after winning the Stevenage School Games back in February. The team rowed 2000m between them in 8.34.1 mins, placing them in the bronze position.

We are extremely proud of the girls and all their hard work and commitment to training since joining the rowing team.

Mrs Hinch PE Department National Careers Week As part of National Careers Week, keynote speakers were invited to talk to the Academy. The speakers were sourced through ‘Founders for Schools’ whose innovative mission statement is: ‘We support those that help improve the life chances of students.’

The quality of speakers who have visited the Academy has been highly beneficial, resulting in business and network contacts, which have led to quality work experience placements for our students.

The talks are designed to be inspirational and to allow students to monitor the graduate employment market and find out how the subjects they are studying relate to future work. Employers today require, in addition to first class qualifications, a set of soft skills. Our speakers delivered a presentation focusing on skills that are needed for university and beyond.

The entrepreneurs spoke about the companies that they had established, as well as giving advice that will help when looking for work. Shailen Rao, Managing Director of Soar Beyond UK Limited, spoke about his ‘RPM’ acronym; a personal development plan he uses to map out the things he wishes to achieve in life: Results, Purpose, and Action Plan (Massive Action Plan). The session was very informative, and we will undoubtedly be using the advice in the near future.

Joanne Balharrie and Matt Hall, Senior Students Film Club We will be running our 'Film Club' again this year, which entails our students making and starting in their own film!

A small group of TAA students will write and storyboard a film; this will then be shown at a Red Carpet Film Premiere Night in July.

Once the students have worked out the storyline, script and screenshots they will invite TAA's budding stars to act in it! The club is extremely exciting and popular collaboration between students and a great way to end the School year.

Julia Flanagan Academy Principal

10

FosterCare UK is your local fostering service helping ordinary people in Hertfordshire become professional foster carers.

Bridget Bradley, Herts Centre Manager for FosterCare UK, talks us through the fostering process- from initial enquiry to becoming a foster carer.

“To become a carer, the first two requirements are that you must have a spare bedroom in your home, and you must be are over 25 years old.

Initially, one of my team will speak to you by telephone and talk through your personal circumstances and then, if you sound suitable, I will come and visit you at home to talk in more detail about fostering.

Bridget Bradley - Herts Centre Manager, FosterCare UK in Stevenage

If you still think fostering is for you (and I do too), you will be invited to our two-day 'Skills to Foster' training session. At the session, our expert team will introduce you to the concepts and realities of fostering a child or teenager in care.

Once the training is completed, we’ll assess your suitability and notify you within a few days as to whether we are able to proceed with your application.

If you are approved, the next stage in the assessment process involves us conducting a confidential range of background and references checks. There will also be weekly visits from our friendly social worker who will coach you and set a weekly task to help you prepare to foster. This part of the process is broken down into two stages and takes between 8 and 12 weeks to complete. Our social worker will then submit a detailed assessment to our panel of fostering experts and a date will be set for the panel to interview you.

You will attend the panel interview accompanied by your social worker. Many people are quite nervous about this, but there is nothing to be scared of, the panel are highly professional and friendly. You will be notified within a few days of the interview as to whether you have been approved as a foster carer and can work for FosterCare UK. Once approved, an exciting and rewarding journey will begin as we start the matching process and speak to you about children and teenagers who we think you could foster.”

Could you foster? Call FosterCare UK in Stevenage on 01438 771 721 for an informal chat.

For more information on fostering or to register your interest, visit www.fostercareuk.co.uk

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

Barclay on tour!

SKI TRIP During February half term Barclay ventured to the Italian Alps for the Barclay Ski trip. After a smooth ride and crossing, we arrived in our beautiful location - Sauze d’Oulx, excited and keen to get skiing.

There were many adventures on the trip - we almost bought out a complete crepe and pizza shop (skiing is hard work)! We also got the best comment from the local Karaoke spot in the village, we are -“by far the best school in 15 years of business!”

Unfortunately, there was a low point when one of out members of staff was injured! At this point, our students really stepped up and behaved with the utmost respect and care - again making us very proud. We all wish Mr. Norwood a speedy recovery!

If you’d like to see more about the trip, check out our twitter posts @TheBarclaySch it is definitely worth a watch!

NAPLES TRIP During the first week of the Easter holiday break fifty students and six teachers set off on a wonderfully sunny geography trip to Naples. Led

by Head of Faculty - Mr. O’BeirneCorrigan, students were able to appreciate all the coasts and headlands as we flew in to visit some amazing places.

One of the first places on our itinerary was the world heritage site - Herculaneum, a Roman town destroyed by the volcanic pyroclastic flows in 79 AD.You can see from our photograph that the buildings are very well preserved and show some of the finer architecture of that period A boat trip to the island of Capri, which is formed of a large, limestone and sandstone rock, took us around the coastline to see the wonderful grottos.

education

Specialising in

Maternity, Newborn, Baby, Child & Family Portraiture

Contact: 07981 668077

Book a session & receive a complimentary 8x10 print when you mention ‘The Stevenage Magazine’

www.sharonkaplanphotography.com www.facebook.com/sharkaplanphotography

Supportive & informative parenting course High Street Methodist Church would like to invite you to join us for our parenting course - one designed to help you to be inspired and encouraged in your role as a parent, not one to wag fingers!

The sessions will be held on Thursday afternoons from 1.00pm to 2.00pm, starting on 26th May. If you would like to join us for lunch and our toddler session before, please arrive at midday. The cost of lunch is £1.50 and payable on the day.

Each course session starts with tea and coffee followed by a 10-15 minute video. Each family will be given a booklet with questions and ideas, which can be discussed with the group or, if you prefer, on your own.

Course dates and topics are as follows: 26th May ‘You’re not alone’ 9th June ‘The gift of acceptance’ 16th June ‘The testing child’ 23rd June ‘A mother looks back’ 30th June ‘Building a sense of value’ 7th July ‘Defending the boundaries’ 14th July ‘Teenagers!’

21st July ‘Do what you can!’

There are spaces available for 30 families; but please note there will be no childcare facilities available while the course sessions are running and therefore children are unable to attend with you.

For registration, contact me on tel: 07788 448592, email: hoof@gmx.co.uk or via Facebook /highstreetmethodist.underfivesworker We hope to see you there.

Tim Hoof Children’s Worker (0-8s) High Street Methodist Church, High Street/Sish Lane, Stevenage, SG13LS

Stevenage Old Town Business & Community Partnership There was also a trek up Vesuvius, which is still regarded as an active volcano, although its current activity produces little more than steam from vents at the bottom of the crater. Students really appreciated the proximity to the town and could understand what it must be like to live with the threat of a volcanic eruption!

It was an amazing trip to undertake and our students from years 9 to 12 were a credit to the school throughout the tour - with their behaviour to one another, the teachers and locals. They are developing into budding geographers of the future!

Stevenage Old Town Business & Community Partnership's next two meetings will be: Monday 23rd May, 6-7pm, The Cromwell Hotel, High Street, Stevenage Tuesday 14th June, 6-7pm (AGM), he Cromwell Hotel, High Street, Stevenage Please contact us via Facebook/Stevenage Old Town Business & Community Partnership - Sotbcp for up to date information on meeting times, meeting venues or for further information about SOTBCP.

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what’s on for kids

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

WHAT’S fON i ds k r o Baby Rhyme Time (Old Town Library) Tues 3 May, 2.15-2.45pm Stories & rhymes for babies & toddlers of all ages.

No need to book. Sessions are free.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/BRT/ Venue: Old Town Library, High Street, Stevenage, SG1 3EF Toddler Tales Wed 4 May, 2-2.30pm FREE stories & rhyme session for under 5s.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/toddlertales/. Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD Baby Rhyme Time Fri 6 May, 10.30-11am and 11.3012noon Stories & rhymes for babies & toddlers of all ages.

No need to book. Sessions are free.Visit: www. hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/childyng/BRT/.

Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD Children’s Art Club Sat 7 May, 10.45am-12noon For children aged 8-12years. Learn skills and create work. Cost: £2 per child, free for concessions. Venue: Stevenage Museum, St Georges Way, Stevenage SG1 1XX. Contact: 01438 218881, email: museum@stevenage.gov.uk Super Saturdays: Spring is in the air!

Sat 7 May, 2-3pm Free family activities for children under 11 and their parents/carers.Stevenage Museum, St Georges Way, Stevenage SG1 1XX Contact: 01438 218881, email: museum@stevenage.gov.uk Colourful Crafts Mon 9 May, 9.30-11am Under 5’s arts & crafts. £5 per session, £3 siblings, under one’s free. No need to book.

Oval Community Centre,Vardon Rd, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 5RD Toddler Tales Wed 11 May, 2-2.30pm FREE stories & rhyme session for under 5s.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/toddlertales/. Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD Baby Rhyme Time Fri 13 May, 10.30-11am and 11.30-12noon Stories & rhymes for babies & toddlers of all ages.

No need to book. Sessions are free.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/BRT/.Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD Under 5s: Underwater Worlds Fri 13 May, 1.30-2.30pm Activities for children under 5 & their parents/ carers. Cost: £1.Venue: Stevenage Museum, St Georges Way, Stevenage SG1 1XX Contact: 01438 218881, or email: museum@stevenage.gov.uk Museums at Night Fri 13 May, 5-7pm FREE. Film night. A showing of Night at the Museum 3, with popcorn & refreshments for sale.

Followed by a flash lit trail around the museum!

Venue: Stevenage Museum, St Georges Way, Stevenage SG1 1XX Contact: 01438 218881 or email: museum@stevenage.gov.uk

12

Colourful Crafts Mon 16 May, 9.3011am Under 5’s arts & crafts £5 per session, £3 siblings, under one’s free. No need to book.

Oval Community Centre, Vardon Rd, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 5RD Toddler Tales Wed 18 May, 2-2.30pm FREE stories & rhyme session for under 5s.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/toddlertales/.Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD

Baby Rhyme Time Fri 20 May, 10.30-11am and 11.30-12noon Stories & rhymes for babies & toddlers of all ages.

No need to book. Sessions are free.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/BRT/.Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD Saturday Church Sat 21 May, 10-11.30am A get-together for families with children aged 0-12 & open to EVERYONE! Food, activities, singing. FREE to attend. No booking necessary – just turn up on the day. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Venue: Bunyan Baptist Church, Basils Road, Stevenage, SG1 3PY www.bunyan.org.uk, T: 01438 369263 Colourful Crafts Mon 23 May, 9.30-11am Under 5’s arts & crafts £5 per session, £3 siblings, under one’s free. No need to book. Oval Community Centre,Vardon Rd, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 5RD Toddler Tales Wed 25 May, 2-2.30pm FREE stories & rhyme session for under 5s.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/toddlertales/. Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD Baby Rhyme Time Fri 27 May, 10.30-11am and 11.30-12noon Stories & rhymes for babies & toddlers of all ages.

No need to book. Sessions are free.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/BRT/.Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD Messy Church Sat 28 May, 4-6pm Hopefully, some activities will be outside if the weather is warm and sunny. Crafts & activities followed by song, story & tea at 5.30pm.

Further details from anneprice18@ntlworld.com.

Venue: Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Stevenage Colourful Crafts Mon 30 May, 9.30-11am Under 5’s arts & crafts. £5 per session, £3 siblings, under one’s free. No need to book.

Oval Community Centre,Vardon Rd, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 5RD Baby Rhyme Time Fri 3 Jun, 10.30-11am and 11.30-12noon Stories & rhymes for babies & toddlers of all ages. No need to book. Sessions are free.Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/ libraries/childyng/BRT/.Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD

The Big Lunch Sun 5 Jun, 12:30 - 3pm Venue: Letchmore Road Playing Fields. Totally free event organised by Bunyan Baptist Church. This will be our 4th year of running the Big Lunch with the aim to create an opportunity for the local neighbourhood to get together and enjoy a picnic.

Activities include face painting, bouncy castle, children’s craft and organised games.

Please come along with your picnic and rug and enjoy the fun. For more information, please see: http://www.thebiglunch.com/ Colourful Crafts Mon 6 Jun, 9.30-11am Under 5’s arts & crafts. £5 per session, £3 siblings, Under one’s free. No need to book.

Oval Community Centre,Vardon Rd, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 5RD Baby Rhyme Time (Old Town Library) Tues 7 Jun, 2.15-2.45pm Stories & rhymes for babies & toddlers of all ages.

No need to book. Sessions are free.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/BRT/ Venue: Old Town Library, High Street, Stevenage, SG1 3EF Baby Rhyme Time Fri 10 Jun, 10.30-11am and 11.30-12noon Stories & rhymes for babies & toddlers of all ages.

No need to book. Sessions are free.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/BRT/.Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD Queen’s 90th Birthday Fête Sat 11 Jun, 2-4pm Stalls, games & afternoon tea. Venue: High Street Methodist Church, Stevenage.

Colourful Crafts Mon 13 Jun, 9.30-11am Under 5’s arts & crafts. £5 per session, £3 siblings, under one’s free. No need to book.

Oval Community Centre,Vardon Rd, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 5RD Baby Rhyme Time Fri 17 Jun, 10.30-11am and 11.30-12noon Stories & rhymes for babies & toddlers of all ages.

No need to book. Sessions are free.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/BRT/.Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD Saturday Church Sat 18 Jun, 10-11.30am A get-together for families with children aged 0-12 & open to EVERYONE! Food, activities, singing. FREE to attend. No booking necessary – just turn up on the day. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Venue: Bunyan Baptist Church, Basils Road, Stevenage, SG1 3PY www.bunyan.org.uk, T: 01438 369263 Colourful Crafts Mon 20 Jun, 9.30-11am Under 5’s arts & crafts. £5 per session, £3 siblings, under one’s free. No need to book.

Oval Community Centre,Vardon Rd, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 5RD Baby Rhyme Time Fri 24 Jun, 10.30-11am and 11.30-12noon Stories & rhymes for babies & toddlers of all ages.

No need to book. Sessions are free.

Visit: www.hertsdirect.org/services/libraries/ childyng/BRT/.Venue: Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD Colourful Crafts Mon 27 Jun, 9.30-11am Under 5’s arts & crafts. £5 per session, £3 siblings, under one’s free. No need to book.

Oval Community Centre,Vardon Rd, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 5RD

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

toddler groups

Toddler Groups Bedwell Thursday Club Thurs, 9.30 - 11.15am. £1 per carer & child, 30p each additional child.

Please call to check availability before attending for the first time.

Stevenage United Reformed Church, Cutty’s Lane, Stevenage SG1 1UL. T: Bev 07838 252586.

Little Miracles Mon & Tues (Term time only) 9.45 11.15am. £1.50 per family. Salvation Army, Bedwell Crescent Stevenage, SG1 1NE T: Majors Maria & Barrie Sampson - 01462 683247 Bedwell Bunnies Thurs, 9.30 - 11am £2 per family. Open during school holidays. Scout Hut, Shephall View SG1 1NA. T:Vicky 07414 202030 Stoneyhall Baby & Toddler Group Fri 9.30 – 11am £2 per 1 adult & 2 children Open during school holidays Miller Way (off Popple Way), Stevenage, SG1 3UF. T: 01438 242558 Mighty Tykes Fri (term time only), 9.30 - 11.30am 26B Park Place (Town Centre, next to Farm Food store), SG1 1DP T: Carly: 07903 390233 Chells & Manor / Poplars Cheeky Cherubs Mon, 9.45-11.15am. Open during school holidays. £2 one adult & two children, 30p additional child/adult Chells Park Pavilion, Gresley Way Stevenage, SG2 7HP. T: Kerrie 07904 127750 Poplars Baby & Toddler Group Mon 9.30 - 11.30am. £2 per adult & child, 50p each additional child Open during the holidays. Poplars Community Hall, Magpie Crescent SG2 9RZ. T: Pam - 07901 668681 / Lois - 01438 350803 / Denise 07839 437243 Stevenage Grandparents & Toddlers Group Weds, 9.30-11am. Chells Pavillion, Gersley Way. Contact: Anne RidleyDash on 01438 222971 Old Town and Symonds Green High Street Methodist Church Parent & Toddler Group Mon 9.30 to 11.30am £1.50 1 child, £2 for more than 1 child. High Street, Stevenage, SG1 3LS. T: Tim on 07788 448592 Little Lambs Fri, 9-10.30am donation welcome.

St Nicholas Church, Rectory Lane.

Judy Brown on 01438 213587 or Sarah Metcalfe on 07903 717645 Little Lunchers High Street Methodist Church Thurs, 10am-1pm. Lunch is served from 12pm (£1.50). High Street, Stevenage, SG1 3LS. T: Tim 07788 448592

Happy Hedgehogs Baby and Toddler Group Mon 9.30am-11am. Term time only, £1.50 (50p per extra person) St. Nicholas Church, Rectory Lane, Stevenage, SG1 4DA happyhedgehogs1@hotmail.co.uk Old Town Toddlers Tues, 9.30 to 11am £2.60 per session, term time only (Please note there is a waiting list in operation). Holy Trinity Church, Old Town. Stevenage, SG1 3JB T: Dinah 01438 229663 Funky Feet Wed 1 - 2.30pm. £1.50 per family, 30p additional children Symonds Green Community Centre, Filey Close, SG1 2JW T: 07967 326082 Twinklers Tues, Weds, Thurs, 9.15-11.15am.

Bunyan Baptist Church, Basils Road.

There is a waiting list for places; please contact Kirsty HomfrayCooper on 07719 599 109 Pin Green AWAAZ - A Multi-Cultural Baby & Toddler Group Wed 10 to 11.30am. Pin Green Play Centre. £2 per family, term time only, a group for families/carers with English as an additional language Webb Rise, Stevenage, SG1 5QU T: TGI 242558 Dads Time 1st Sat of each month, 10.30am 12.30pm. A group for male parents / carers with children under the age of five. Pin Green Play Centre, Hampson Park, Webb Rise Stevenage, Herts, SG1 5QU Tiny Tykes Thurs (term time only), 9.3011.30am. Pin Green Community Centre. 291 Archer Road, Stevenage SG1 5HF. T: Bridget 01438 355734 £2 per family Shephall Tiny Tearaways Tues 9.30 - 11am. Term time only. £2 per adult & 2 children, 20p each extra child. Bandley Hill Play Centre, Shephall, Stevenage SG2 9SE T: Lynn 07971 971793 Little Toads Weds, 9.30-11am. Open during the holidays. £2 for 1 adult/1 child, 25p per additional child. Hertford Road Community Centre, Kenilworth Close, Stevenage, SG2 8TB T: Amanda 07736 302988 Shephalbury Meadow Thurs, (term time only) 9.15-10.45am. £1 per family, Longmeadow School, Oaks Cross, Stevenage SG2 8LT. T: 01438 230444 Longmeadow Church Baby & Toddler Group Tues (term time only), 9.30-11am Call 01438 230444

Kadoma Kidz Groups Mon: 10-11.30am £1.50. Messy Play: Tues10-11.30, £3 per family.

Soft Play: Wed 1.15am-2.45pm, £2.50. T: Stacy 0787 2939 841.

Kadoma Kidz 10 Willows Link, Marymead.

St Nicholas and Martins Wood Oval Baby and Toddler Group Wed, 9.30 to 11am. £2 per adult & 2 children, 20p per extra child Oval Community Centre.Stevenage SG1 5RD. T: Lynn 07971 971793 Jelly Tots Fri 9.30 to 11am. £2.00 per family, open holidays. St Nicholas Park Pavilion. Pilgrims Way, Stevenage SG1 4PT. T: 01438 242558

party supplies for birthdays | christenings | baby showers balloons • favours • invitations pre-filled & personalised party bags themed party supplies Contact Lianne: 07577 740 407

liannepartyease@gmail.com

www.partyease.co.uk

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health & wellbeing

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk Looking to get your ‘bikini body’?

Maybe it’s time to clear some noise and think long term!

Progress with...

Personal Trainer & Female Weight Loss Specialist Getting Results that LAST!

Helping Stevenage Mums get (& keep) the body they’ve always wanted with…

• Regular 1:1 Fitness Training • • Weight loss strategies - without restricting yourself • • Personalised weight loss & strength programs • • Accountability – motivational advice & support between sessions • Private & Confidential. Fully Insured.

Contact me today for your FREE (no obligation) Personal Training taster session or FREE weight loss strategy programme.

www.collypowerfitness.co.uk info@collypowerfitness.co.uk what my clients say: “I have nally found someone who understands, who wants to help and actually has the knowledge and experience to do so!

How lucky am I?” Jo, Teacher & Mum of 3, Stevenage “I have never felt stronger and tter, Colette makes each session different so I never know what to expect. She gets great results.”

Sarah, Physiotherapist & Mum of 2, Stevenage

The temptation to turn to a ‘quick fix’ to get that summer body is understandable. These days information is streamed to us from all angles, promising weight loss miracles - “lose 5lb in 5 days”; “get this body in just one week”; “this tea will make you slim” and so the list goes on.

Granted, if you only drink herbal tea for five days, you will be lighter at the end. But what happens the minute you stop drinking the tea?

Back to square one – or worse!

Wouldn’t it be nice to get ‘that’ body and keep it; to feel energised and motivated, not bored and deprived? What’s the point of looking good if you feel miserable?

When the subject of ‘miracle diets’ comes up, I always ask my clients, “Can you see yourself still doing it in a years time?” Chances are the answer will be “no”!

Getting in shape and staying in shape is never going to be that easy, but focusing and committing to permanent changes is going to make you feel and look better in the long term.

It may seem daunting, but the right changes in your nutrition and exercise can soon become like second nature and the results can be significant. Even working out once a week, can make a difference - if you do it right! Likewise, eating doesn’t have to be about restricting or depriving yourself, just about eating the right things, the right way.

When you work out physically, you feel good mentally, and when your mind is in a good place, you feel better about yourself - it’s a great circle to get into!

Do things right, and you will you get that bikini body for the summer, and the next summer ... and the one after that!

Just clear the noise, stop listening to those miracle promises and look at the bigger picture. Commit to making a change that lasts!

Colette Cooper is a Level 3 Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach.

Contact her on info@collypowerfitness.co.uk

10 MONEY SAVING WAYS TO LOOK GOOD Here are ten of my favourite beauty tips that’ll save time and money, and still make you look great!

1. Make a face exfoliator by mixing ½ teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda with your favourite cleanser.

2. Keep your lips in great condition - exfoliate with petroleum jelly and a soft toothbrush once a week.

3. Buy some clear nipple cream (some creams are white in colour) and moisturise lips morning and night.

4. Have your eyebrows professionally shaped; this will give the effect of an instant face lift, eyebrow shaping emphasises the bone structure around the cheekbones.

5. Try using false eyelashes. Using finer lashes, spaced out will help to open the eye and lengthen the lashes.

HOLISTIC EYES

Specialist Beauty Therapy

�ea�t� � ho� �o� �ook� �hera�� � ho� �o� fee���� We take care of both!

All traditional beauty treatments • Professional make-up Specialist colour analysis • Holistic therapies To book an appointment or nd out about our extensive range of treatments, contact us...

Tel: 07808 365171 Grove Road, Old Town SG1 3NT Web: holisticeyes.co.uk :@HolisticEyes :Holistic Eyes

6. Make your lip colour last longer; first, put lip pencil all over, then apply two coats of your favourite lipstick, blot in between each application.   

7. Try a homemade face mask by mixing ripe avocado with a spoonful of honey. Leave on for 20 minutes and rinse off for glowing skin.

£5 off cut & blow dry

8. Give yourself an alternative hand and foot massage - using a small ball and roll press it into the palms of your hands and soles of your feet for around 5 minutes. This will automatically stimulate some of the shiatsu/reflexology points in these areas.

9. Mix a small amount of liquid makeup highlighter into your liquid foundation for skin which catches the light and gives you a fresh glow.

10. Put hand cream on your hands and feet before bed and wear cotton socks & gloves during the night - you’ll wake up with beautifully soft skin.

Lynn Davidson, Holistic Eyes, Specialist Beauty Therapy

14

(new clients only - on presentation of this ad)

  

We offer a high end salon experience... with a high street price tag!

call 01438

316900 to book your appointment

102 High Street, Stevenage, SG1 3DW (situated above the Old Town Barbers)

health & wellbeing

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

Getting ready for the summer new treatments at Bright Skin Clinic

2 classes for £6 Offer valid at participating locations, for new customers only.

Other restrictions may apply.

Classes in Stevenage: Monday, 7.30pm The Thomas Alleyne Academy, High Street, Stevenage, SG1 3BE Thursday 7.30pm Barnwell Upper School, Stevenage, SG2 9XT For more information and up to date class schedule, please visit:

www.facebook.com/JazzerciseStevenage or contact Kerry on 07743 183036 kerry.jazzercise@hotmail.co.uk

Incinerate up to 800 calories in an hour.

Calories don’t stand a chance this year!

NEW CLASSES & NORDIC WALKING

from the NEW Hampson Park Community Centre Webb Rise, Stevenage, SG1 5QU

Join Mel for her new, fun & friendly sessions in Stevenage.

All ages & abilities. *All Equipment Supplied*

Tuesday 1 - 2pm: *NEW* Beginners/Health NORDIC WALKING

It’s been a very busy few months for the team at Bright Skin Clinic; we now have branches open in Stevenage, Hatfield and Biggleswade and we’ve added several new treatments to our offering.

The new weight loss treatment Aqualyx® has proved very popular.

Aqualyx® targets specific fat deposits on the body; we’re the only clinic in East & North Hertfordshire to offer it, and all our clinic doctors have received specific, detailed training in this treatment.

Dr. Himani Ramkisson can now also offer Mesotherapy treatments - a skin rejuvenation treatment that delivers nourishing substances into the layers of the skin where cell repair and growth occurs. Mesotherapy is used to treat the face, neck, décolletage and hands; it can help improve dull skin; dry skin conditions; sun damaged skin, hair loss and superficial lines and wrinkles.

The clinic also offers a range of chemical peels, which can be used to enhance the effect of injectable treatments, or used as a stand-alone alternative to invasive treatment - for those clients who do not want Botox or Dermal Filler treatments. We offer Obagi Blue Peel Radiance peels, Jessner peels, and Lactic Acid peels. A suitable peel will be recommended to our client only after a thorough assessment of their skin type and requirements.

With summer now around the corner, we can now offer a longer lasting treatment for excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) using Botox injections for both sweaty armpits and sweaty hands. Contact the clinic to see how you can benefit from this treatment.

Clients regularly comment on the professional Doctor led service received at the clinic, the ease of appointment booking and the reasonable pricing offered.

All prospective clients are invited to book a free initial skin consultation with Dr. Ramkisson, where she will assess your skin, address concerns and provide you with a personalised and professional regime.

Call the bookings team on 01438 553103, or visit the clinic website www.brightskin.co.uk to book yours.

Tuesday 6.30 - 7.30pm: *NEW* Beginners FITNESS PILATES & TONE

Age Concern increase foot care service

Sunday 10.30 - 11.30am: *NEW* NORDIC WALKING taster sessions (monthly)

Owing to the successful launch of their foot care clinic last month, Age Concern have increased the number clinics and appointments available.

Other services available through Age Concern include a Benefits & Legal surgery, mobility scooter & wheelchair hire, hearing aid battery replacement and Britannia coach trip bookings.

Prices are: £6.50 (Fitness Pilates) £5.50 (Concessions 65+) £4.50 (Nordic Walking) Contact Mel to find out more & book your place on 07900 823553 or

mel@fithaven.co.uk Visit www.fithaven.co.uk Follow FitHaven Stevenage on

16

Please contact Age Concern directly on - 01438 314164 for further information.

Age Concern, Ground Floor, Swingate House, Danestrete, Stevenage, SG1 1AF * The number provided in the last issue was incorrect, both The Stevenage Magazine and Age Concern would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused by this.

CONTACT US TODAY ON 01438 553 103 info@brightskin.co.uk TO BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION

REVOLUTIONARY

WEIGHT LOSS TREATMENT

NOW AVAILABLE Bright Skin is the only local clinic offering AQUALYX The Revolutionary Fat Busting Treatment Wrinkle Relaxing Treatments Dermal Fillers Lip Fillers Genuine Dermaroller™ Obagi Skin Care BOYTOX For Men Hyperpigmentation Chemical Peels Acne Excessive Sweating

SERVICES FOR BOTH MEN & WOMEN

CLINICS AVAILABLE IN

STEVENAGE HATFIELD BIGGLESWADE HEMEL HEMPSTEAD

TREATMENTS BY LOCAL DOCTORS For more information on our treatments, pricing and locations - please visit our website.

www.brightskin.co.uk

health & wellbeing

EMDR: Highly effective therapy for a variety of Psychological and Emotional Problems If you feel tormented by anxiety, OCD, fear, phobia or depression as a result of something you suffered in the past, you may be interested to read about the therapeutic technique EMDR and how it can diminish negative memories.

EMDR stands for 'Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing' and works by using the eyes to stimulate parts of the mind.

With a simple series of rapid eye movements, practitioners can access the very source of the anxieties and remove the fear, phobia or the negative feeling causing depression or anxiety; it’s swift, effective and the results are long-lasting. The technique is used by an increasing number of hypnotherapists, psychotherapists and psychiatrists because it treats the root cause of the issue, rather than just the resulting symptoms. So, instead of undergoing months or even years of therapy, the mind can be stimulated to reprocess disturbing information very quickly.

"EMDR puts memories where they belong - in the past."

How does it work?

The client sits in a comfortable chair and allows themselves to go into a light hypnotic trance or to feel deeply relaxed; they are then guided by the therapist to focus on the anxiety or traumatic memory and recall an image that visually describes the worst part of their traumatic event.

The therapist moves his/her fingers in an arc, at a comfortable distance in front of the client’s eyes. The client is guided to follow the movement of the fingers while focusing on the image they have recalled and are encouraged to notice any feelings in their body. After a series of ‘rounds’ the distress score for these feelings decrease and the client is able to express that the image is no longer distressing, and the pain or discomfort in their body is undetectable.

The next stage is to reprocess a positive thought and feeling into the client’s mind while still focusing on this same traumatic event.

Initially, it seems very unbelievable, but after several 'rounds' of the eye movements, the client can accept the positive thought and feeling when associating with that event.

At The Hitchin Hypnotherapy Practice, I use this technique regularly with clients; it has worked extremely well with the fear of being sick; the fear of blood; the fear of medical procedures and hospitals; the fear of death; the fear of abandonment and rejection and also with the trauma stemming from different forms of abuse. After the EMDR, I practice some gentle relaxation or ego-strengthening hypnosis to ensure my clients leave feeling positive and relaxed.

EMDR is well worth trying if you feel your problems stem from a traumatic incident in the past.

I offer a free 45-minute consultation to talk about your problem(s) with no obligation to proceed with therapy. Just contact me on the details below.

Karen Kelsey 07805 792191 karen@kelsey-coaching.co.uk www.hitchinhypnotherapy.co.uk

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

Condential, Caring & Highly Effective Therapy for all your Wellbeing, Psychological & Emotional needs including: • Addictions • IBS • Anxiety & Panic Attacks • Depression • Phobias • PTSD • OCD • Stress • Sleep Disturbance • Condence & Self Esteem Issues We also specialise in Sustained Weight Loss using our own unique approach which includes Clinical Hypnotherapy, Wellness and Nutritional Therapy.

Depending on your individual needs and personal preferences, we use a range of therapeutic approaches including NLP Techniques, Clinical Hypnosis, EMDR, EFT, Coaching & Solution-Focused Counselling.

This is one of the contributing factors to our very high success rates.

Call Karen Kelsey on 07805 792191 or visit our website: www.hitchinhypnotherapy.co.uk

BreatheEasy North Herts Free monthly meetings for anyone affected by lung disease BreatheEasy meetings offer a varied programme of speakers, refreshments and time to chat.

Carers, friends & family all welcome.

Meetings held at Great Ashby Community Centre, Stevenage, SG1 6NH For more details contact Sue Churchman t:01438 357319 | e: benorthherts@gmail.com | www.blf.org.uk/north-herts Helpline 03000 030 555 Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm British Lung Foundation charity no. 326730

Beauty treatments for men & women Gift vouchers available Visit our facebook page & website for fantastic new offers every month!

Monday – Friday 9am – 8pm Saturday 9am – 5pm

105 High Street • Old Town • Stevenage • Herts • SG1 3HR Telephone: 01438 317191 • www.maximum-beauty.co.uk :maximumbeauty

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health & wellbeing

The Body Matters Come and speak to our friendly team about the wide range of services and treatments we offer

We are constantly being told by the experts that exercise is good for us. It will help us to live a longer and have a healthier life. But what if exercising on ‘dry land’ is just too difficult for you because of a condition you have?

At Physio-Life, we understand how difficult simple exercising can be when you are struggling with a complex condition. Hence, our Why choose ASK Physio? hydrotherapy sessions have become extremely popular.

Hydrotherapy is a versatile physiotherapy treatment involving • Senior staff with over 18 years experience working in the NHS exercise and hands-on treatment in water. It can be extremely • Strong links with local GP’s and consultants from both Lister beneficial for treating neurological disorders – by harnessing the and Pinehill Hospitals properties of the water and it can help relieve pain, increase mobility • Services and treatments for all ages and improve muscle strength.

Just over a year ago I met Jimmie, who suffered a spinal injury six • Physiotherapy, acupuncture, hydrotherapy years earlier. Jimmie spends a lot of his day in his wheelchair, but and exercise rehabilitation he is one me • Winner of Hertfordshire’s Best f spend ti determined “The staf gs so you fully New Business Award 2014 in th nd gentleman explaining ur condition. I fou ise d yo (a former understan wledge and expert ds Royal their kno one, and their han n second to ment excellent.”

Marine n treat o Commando) David ASK Physio Kestrel House whose goal (Rookery Yard) is to walk Primett Road, Stevenage SG1 3EE again with In the alleyway between The Venue and The Bank, near Waitrose in the Old Town. as little aid Phone: 01438 488579 or 07523 005743 as possible.

Email us: info@ask-physio.co.uk Website: ask-physio.co.uk He attends As members of both the CSP (Chartered Society of Physiotherapy) and the HCPC David Lloyd (Health and Care Professions Council) we are bound by their standards and codes gym on a of conduct. This includes strict patient condentiality. daily basis where his Personal Trainer Sharon puts him through a rigorous regime of various physical exercises.

Jimmie also has a hydrotherapy session in the pool at David Lloyd once a week Jimmie’s story: "I am a spinal patient who has spent several long periods having treatment in the National Spinal Injuries Centre, Stoke Mandeville. The treatment included many sessions in the hydro pool being handled by very competent Physiotherapists.

One of the UK’s leading providers of Kestrel House, Primett Road Stevenage SG1 3EE On being discharged home to Stevenage, I wanted to continue with Tel: 01438 487814 Vestibular Email: enquiries@physio-life.co.uk Neurological, & Respiratory Rehabilitation hydrotherapy and on recommendation, I contacted Rachel Canning and arranged a session.

Offering clinic appointments or home visits Provider of Neurological, Vestibular & Respiratory Physiotherapy I have had weekly sessions with Rachel for over a year now and it Physio-Life is a leading specialist physiotherapy practice serving patients in Herts, Beds and Cambs. has really improved my general mobility. During this time I had We a hip specialise in neurological physiotherapy (including Hydrotherapy), vestibular rehabilitation and Conditions we treat - treatment plans that rehabilitation, working with patients to create realistic replacement and the sessions with Rachel have greatly assisted pulmonary/respiratory my enable them to reach maximum rehabilitation potential and enjoy an improved quality of life. recovery.

Neurological Disorders Respiratory Disorders Vestibular Disorders In the pool I am able to gain more movement in my arms and legs, Below will conditions) nd a comprehensive conditions treat and – balance problems) (brainyou and nerve (breathinglist andof lung problems) we (dizziness visit us at www.physio-life.co.uk to  nd out more this then carries over to my gym sessions and also positively impacts • Cerebral Palsy • Asthma • Acoustic Neuroma Disorders Respiratory Disorders Vestibular Disorders on my home life. I am able to walk with support in the water Neurological and • Dyspraxia • Breathlessness • Balance problems (Brain and nerve conditions) (Breathing and lung problems) (Dizziness and balance problems) • Guillain Barre Syndrome with minimal help I can swim two lengths of the pool. The pool gives • Bronchiectasis • BPPV • Cerebral Palsy • Asthma • Acoustic Neuroma • Head Injuries • Breathlessness• COPD • Dizziness • Dyspraxia • Balance problems me the freedom to exercise my whole body and cardiovascular • Disease Bronchiectasis• Emphysema • BPPV • Labyrinthitis • Guillain Barre Syndrome • Motor Neurone exercise at the same time".

• Head Injuries • COPD • Dizziness Hydrotherapy sessions are carried out in a purpose-built hydrotherapy pool in the grounds of the Putteridgebury estate or more recently a small number of sessions have become available at David Lloyd, Stevenage.

Rachel Canning MCSP – Specialist Physiotherapist Physio-Life 01438 487814 www.physio-life.co.uk

• • • • •

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Meniere’s Disease Motor Neurone Disease • Emphysema • Hyperventilation • Labyrinthitis • Lung Disease • Migraine Associated Dizziness Multiple Sclerosis • Parkinson’s Disease • Hyperventilation • Meniere’s Disease Parkinson’s Disease• Spinal Cord Injuries • Lung Disease • Persistant Cough • Migraine Associated Dizziness • Vertigo Spinal Cord Injuries • Persistant Cough • Vertigo • Stroke • Pulmonary Fibrosis • Vestibular • Vestibular Neuritis Stroke • Pulmonary Fibrosis Neuritis • Recurrent Chest Infections • Recurrent Chest Infections

Ph i Lif has Physio-Life h ab brand d new, ffully ll accessible ibl clinic li i iin Old T Town S Stevenage, b but we also l carry out home visits or care home visits for patients who nd it hard to get to us.

We are covered by most private healthcare providers – please call us to check your company covers Physio-Life.

Kestrel House, Primett Road, Stevenage, SG1 3EE

What our Email: patients say!

Tel: 01438 487814 enquiries@physio-life.co.uk

‘‘After just one session you have cured me - I feel wonderful - it’s a miracle’! Martin, BPPV (dizziness)

‘If I had to sum up the service that Physio-Life provides, I’d say it’s caring, reliable and you know that they’re always doing the best for you and your situation”. Lewis, Stroke

19

“My son, family & friends say what a huge difference there is in my breathing since my rst session with you. I didn’t want to leave the house. Your time, patience & advice have given me the condence to improve my quality of life & I am now attending the gym!” Ann, Hyperventilation

health & wellbeing

Have You Considered Dental Implants?

The use of dental implants has revolutionised dentistry in recent years; becoming a common option for replacing missing teeth.

Implants prevent the need to wear removable dentures, which can take time to adjust to. Implants also prevent the need to cut down healthy teeth in order to place a fixed bridge in the mouth; a process that can be detrimental to the health of the supporting teeth and can even encourage further tooth loss!

Most dental implants are made from titanium or titanium alloy and are essentially a substitute for the root of a tooth (picture 1.) The implant is placed into either an existing tooth socket immediately after extraction, or a socket that is created with precision at the location of the intended tooth.

The implant insertion is placed so as to achieve immediate and maximum close contact with the surrounding bone, giving it stability; over time, this is enhanced by further bone growth on the implant surface.

How many implants are needed?

A single missing natural tooth will require just one implant to provide a replacement tooth. Larger spaces where two or more teeth are missing will not necessarily require one implant per missing tooth; the bone quality and quantity will need to be assessed to decide how many implants are needed to give the optimal aesthetic result.

Bone density is generally poorer in our upper jaw; if you have no upper teeth, you Before implant... would most likely need six implants to support a complete arch of ten or more replacement teeth.

The bone towards the front of our lower jaw is denser and so fewer implants are ...and after implant. usually needed; normally four implants can be inserted in the lower jaw to replace ten teeth.

Who is suitable for dental Implants?

People with general good health that are not heavy smokers or drinkers are usually suitable; heavy drinking and smoking can cause problems with the initial healing process as well as the long-term health of gum and bone surrounding the implant. The remaining teeth may also be compromised by these habits making the planning of the treatment less certain.

What condition should the mouth be in prior to implant treatment?

The mouth should be free of gum disease, decay and abscesses.

How long will the implants last?

Once the restored implants are healthy and comfortable, the quality of home care and regular maintenance will influence how long they last. If the implants are placed into adequate bone and are well maintained, they will probably last a life-time. However, as in the case of fillings, crowns, and bridges that require occasional repairs or replacements, the implant-supported teeth may also require similar maintenance.

Dr. Sabina Wadhwani is co-owner of Shephall Dental Surgery. For further information on implants or a free consultation, please contact her via email drsabina@hotmail.com or telephone 01438 351 556, quoting “implants with Sabina”. www.stevenagesmiles.co.uk HS

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Making Stevenage Smile…

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

Stevenage Osteopathic Clinic At Stevenage Osteopathy we provide osteopathy and cranial osteopathy for babies, children and adults Common reasons for osteopathy include: Digestive problems Back pain in older children and adults Minor sports injuries Sciatica or leg pain Headaches arising from neck Fibromyalgia

For further information please call or email the clinic

01462 422 760 | 07977 109 644 www.stevenage-osteopathy.co.uk

109 High Street | Stevenage Old Town | SG1 3HS

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HS om lc ew e N ts w n tie a p N

Making Stevenage Smile…

Refreshing Dentistry in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere A warm welcome awaits you at our Stevenage dental practice. We are a committed team of dentists and dental nurses dedicated to providing high quality general and cosmetic dental care.

Whether you are looking for a simple dental check-up, cosmetic dentistry or tooth whitening, we are here to help.

NHS & affordable independent dentistry Affordable cosmetic dentistry Teeth Whitening Same day emergency cover available Dental implants Invisalign® clear braces & Six Month Smiles®

(Straight teeth in 6 months with xed braces)

Opening Hours Monday – Thursday 9am – 6pm, Friday 8am – 2pm, Saturday 9am – 1pm 246 Shephall Way, Stevenage, Herts SG2 9RE

01438 351 556

www.stevenagesmiles.co.uk

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

Why you need first aid training in your workplace….read on!

It’s the Law!

business & finance

Would you know what to do in the event of an emergency at work?

Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations of 1981 states that each and every workplace, have adequate first aid provision in case of illness or injury at work, this includes organisations with less than five personnel and those with self-employed personnel.

However, it can be difficult to work out what provision you need.

Do you need a first aid room? What should be in your first aid kit?

What sort of first aid personnel should you have? To work out the correct requirements, employers need to carry out a ‘first aid needs assessment’. ABC Life Support can help you do this for you either onsite or by telephone. (see our details below).

Staff retention and employee morale Giving staff members’ direct responsibility for the welfare and safety of others can lead to increased motivation and happiness! Knowing that a place of work is safe and cares enough to invest in the safety of its employees can help staff feel valued and cared for. This can lead to higher productivity overall.

Safety benefits Employees who have attended a first aid course are more likely to be vigilant in regards to hazards and risks and thus, more likely to attend to potential problems and correct issues before they can cause any harm! CPR is literally a lifesaver – what a service to be able to offer!

Save some money Training staff members is not a costly exercise, especially if you compare it to the cost of staff absence after an accident, not to mention insurance claims!

If somebody is attended to immediately at the scene of an accident, it can be the difference between a week rather than several weeks off work! So, by ensuring that there are enough fully trained staff, employers can reduce potential costs in the future.

The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 require all employers to provide adequate and appropriate facilities and personnel to ensure employees receive immediate attention if they are injured or taken ill at work.

ABC Life Support CIC can provide workplace training on-site or at publicly held local courses.

Contact us now for more info.

ABC / life support CIC abclifesupport.co.uk

0800 0467 410

info@abclifesupport.co.uk

What next?

Call ABC Life Support for information on how we can help you with your needs assessment.

Our next course is on Thursday 19th of May at The Cromwell Hotel, High Street, Old Town, Stevenage, SG1 3AZ – call one of the team to book your place – 0800 0467 410

Danielle Bridge ABC/Life Support 0800 0467 410

Find out why Call 01763 241 611 for a quote or pop in

To advertise in The Stevenage Magazine contact Louise on 07583 826 088 or email ads@thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

Kiln House Yard, Baldock Street, Royston, SG8 5AY

NFU Mutual is The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society limited (No.111982).

Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. For security and training purposes, telephone calls may be recorded and monitored.

21

business & finance

Finance:

Buy-to-let market faces tough times In the last few months, prospective property investors have rushed to complete the purchase of their second homes to beat changes to the country’s tax regime.

This month sees one of the most significant changes to tax with the introduction of a new three per cent surcharge on Stamp Duty Land Tax for second homes.

This will eat into returns on buy-to-let investments, with stamp duty on a £250,000 house now costing £10,000, equal to four per cent of the purchase price.

Also, from April 1st, landlords of furnished property who claimed ‘Wear and Tear’ Allowance at 10% of rents will no longer be able to do so; this has been replaced with ‘Replacement Furniture Relief.’

Property Investors should beware as income-tax relief on mortgage interest is to be cut in the future. This relief has up until now been at the landlord’s marginal rate of income tax, but from 6 April 2017 transitional rules will be introduced which substantially restrict the amount of relief available so that by 2020 it is replaced by a basic rate allowance, resulting in more of your rental income being subjected to tax.

In a final blow to the sector, the basic rate of capital gains tax on the sale of a purchase remains 18 per cent and 28 per cent, instead of the new lower amounts of 10 per cent and 20 per cent for the disposal of other assets. This means landlords effectively face a surcharge on the sale of their property as well.

For professional advice on property taxation, please contact me or a member of our team on 01462 708810 or visit www.georgehay.co.uk.

Caroline Hicks 01462 708810 caroline.hicks@georgehay.co.uk

www.georgehay.co.uk

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

Meet the Business: Consensus HR Consensus HR - finding people solutions What is HR? HR (Human Resources) is what it says on the tin. It’s about obtaining the best performance and results from the human resources available within the business i.e. your team.

Why bother with HR? Whether you employ a team of people or one person on a part-time basis, you need to know that you are making the most of your most valuable asset… your team. Making mistakes can be extremely costly, especially in today’s litigious culture.

That’s where north-Herts based Consensus HR can help. Business owner Matthew Pinto-Chilcott has vast experience in the world of HR – from global brands to local start-up businesses. He knows how to manage high turnover, fast footfall business operations from the front line. He specialises in Employment Law, (with an advanced qualification in Employment Law and a Chartered membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development).

Above all, Matthew appreciates that no two business are the same.

He is known for saying: “We are all human and that is what makes us unique, hence we cannot tar everyone with the same brush!”

What makes Consensus HR different?

“Firstly, we listen – really listen – to the situation that employers are in and their goals,” says Matthew. “We’re often involved with recruitment and employees reward programmes. We also enjoy forming training and development programmes. Sadly, it’s more common for people to call us when something goes wrong – usually involving disciplinary, grievance or redundancy. We want to help business avoid those difficult situations by getting their HR right in the first place.

“We offer the perfect blend of bespoke, proactive HR help with a simple, fixed pricing structure. Businesses can pay as little as £115 each month to receive comprehensive HR support, insurance against tribunal costs and awards plus use of our HR Helpline.

“Ultimately, we give business owners and employees peace of mind that the business is being run legally, fairly and efficiently.”

Finding your people solutions…

Matthew is available for a non-obligation chat about your HR situation.

Call him on 01462 621243.

info@consensushr.com | www.consensushr.com

Discover your business’ people solutions.

To advertise in The Stevenage Magazine contact Louise on 07583 826 088 or email ads@thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

22

 Find out more at hertshour.co.uk/ businessdirectory

#HertsHour is run by Dawn-Louise Kerr and her team from

Get in touch today info@hertshour.co.uk

business & finance

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

HR: Combating stress in the workplace Almost a third of people take a stroll to combat stress at work.

I’ve certainly seen this work at many establishments; employees leave the office and go for a walk around the building or in the grounds of their offices.

Other stress-relieving methods can be used. During my airport retail catering days, we had high footfall and financial turnover. It was a fast moving, often stressful environment. We encouraged team members to go out… and shout out loud! This was very successful and resulted in some extremely humorous occasions. The laughter was very motivational and individuals felt better upon returning to the workplace.

A Tiptop Job survey questioned 1000 jobseekers about how they deal with stress at work. It found that: • 25% of respondents treat themselves to gifts…retail therapy!

• 19% take time off from work to combat stress.

• 17% exercise.

• 10%t went out to see their friends • 3% sink their heads in alcohol after work Stress affects people in different ways, therefore handling and dealing with stress also varies from one person to another. What works for one person may not for a colleague.

Today, stress happens to everyone, and both good stress and bad stress need to be managed in a range of ways. If stress isn't managed effectively, it can result in a demotivated team which in turn affects business sales, employee welfare and customer service to name a few.

Having the right recruitment policy in place will ensure that the right people are in the right roles, reducing potential stress from the outset. Stress can be proactively minimalised by organisations’ performance management and training & development procedures.

If you would like to talk about the stress factors within your workplace and how you can support employees, talk to Consensus HR. Our expert team will offer friendly advice and can help create and implement the right policies for your business.

Consensus HR

T: 01462 621 243 / 07747 789 279 info@consensushr.com www.consensushr.com

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She empathises with her clients and will listen and understand their nancial needs before basing her recommendations on what matters most to them.

Appointments can be arranged in the comfort of your own home or at her office. Initial consultations are free and without obligation.

Helena Wardle, Sterling & Law - Independent Financial Consultants Invision House, Wilbury Way, Hitchin SG4 0TY Phone: 01462 420544 Email: helena@sterlingandlaw.com

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family matters

PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS, what you need to know 1. What is a prenuptial agreement?

A prenuptial agreement, or premarital agreement, is a contract entered into prior to a marriage or civil union that shows what the parties intend to happen to their assets should the unfortunate happen and the marriage/civil union comes to an end.

The idea of the prenuptial agreement is that it is a bespoke document drawn up for the two parties and their particular circumstances; it can cover such matters as property, pension provision, income, debts, savings, inheritance and maintenance.

2. Is it legally binding?

Whilst prenuptial agreements are not binding in English Law, they are persuasive to the court providing they comply with certain safeguards, these include: • That the parties have made a full and frank disclosure of their financial resources to each other; • It has been freely entered into without undue pressure or duress; • Both parties have had the opportunity of taking independent legal advice before signing it; • The parties have entered into the agreement at least 21 days prior to their marriage/civil union taking place.

3. Can the agreement be reviewed?

It is advisable to consider including a review clause into the document so that the agreement can be reviewed on events such as the birth or adoption of children, lengthy periods of unemployment, disability, inheritance, or on a timeframe of perhaps every five years. This way the agreement can change with your circumstances as you may feel differently about your separate property with the length of your marriage/ civil union.

4. Is it for me?

It is not obligatory to have one, although you might consider it for the following reasons: • There are a significant amount of assets and/or property that will be difficult to divide • You have previously been divorced • You want to safeguard inherited family money or assets, or a business • You have inheritance prospect or savings you want to protect.

You may consider that entering into a prenuptial agreement is not romantic; however it is beneficial to enter into an agreement from the outset, avoiding potential difficulties at a later stage, should the worst case scenario happen.

For further advice regarding prenuptial agreements contact Nicola Worboys for an appointment on 01462 482248 or at n.worboys@bbwlaw.biz

At BBW BBW whether whether you’re you’re aa private private individual, individual, At DEPARTMENT PROMOTION BBW FAMILY whether you’reyou’re a private individual, At BBW whether a private individual, At BBW your whether aa private individual, running your ownyou’re business, working for aa At whether you’re private individual, running own business, working for At BBW BBW whether you’re a private individual, nning your own business, working for a running your own business, working for a running your own business, working for a charity or representing a large corporation, running your own business, working for charity or representing a large large corporation, running or your own business, working for a a For an appointment please contact: charity representing a corporation, arity orcharity representing a large corporation, or representing large corporation, we’re ready to listen, listen,ADVICE* consider and advise. advise.

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Areas of Expertise: Areas of Expertise: Areas Company & Commercial | Commercial Property Areas of of Expertise: Expertise: Areas Expertise: s of Expertise: DIVORCE | SEPARATION Company & Commercial | Commercial Property Company & Commercial | Commercial Property Commercial Litigation | Residential Conveyancing Company & Commercial | Commercial Property Commercial Litigation | Residential Conveyancing Company & Commercial | Commercial Property Company & Commercial | Commercial Property Commercial Conveyancing Employment|Litigation |Commercial Disputes| Residential | Family & Children |SETTLEMENT Crime | Licensing Matters pany & Commercial Property CHILDREN ISSUES | FINANCIAL Commercial Litigation Residential Conveyancing Commercial Litigation | ||Residential Employment | Disputes |Residential Family & Conveyancing Children | Crime | Licensing Matters Commercial Litigation Conveyancing Employment | Disputes | Family & Children | Crime | Licensing Matters Wills, Tax & Financial Planning | Probate mercial Litigation Conveyancing Employment Disputes Family & Children || Crime || Licensing Matters Employment ||| Disputes | ||Family &| PARTNERSHIPS Children | Crime | Licensing Matters Wills, Tax |&Residential Financial Planning Probate Employment Disputes Family & Children Crime Licensing Matters COHABITATION | CIVIL Wills, Tax & Financial Planning | Probate Wills, Tax Financial Planning | Probate Wills, Tax & Financial Planning | Probate oyment | Disputes | Family & Children | Crime | Licensing Matters All of our three offices are conveniently located in the Wills, Tax & Financial Planning | Probate

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*limited to a 30 minute consultation with a family law expert for new enquiries. Appointments to take place at our Stevenage Office. Valid until 29 June 2016 Please quote code “BBW/Fam01” to receive offer

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All of our three offices are conveniently located in the , Tax & Financial Planning | conveniently Probate heart of local along thelocated A1 Corridor All of of our ourthe three offi ces in in thethe All three officommunity ces are are conveniently located

heart the local community community alongthe the A1 Corridor All of of our three ces are conveniently located in the heart ofChambers, the localoffi along Corridor Forum The Forum, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 1EL heart of the local community along theA1A1 Corridor heart ofChambers, the local community along the A1 Herts, Corridor Forum The Forum, Stevenage, SG1 1EL Telephone: 01438 35 93 11 our three offiForum ces are conveniently located in the Chambers, The93 Forum, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 1EL Forum Chambers, Chambers, Forum, Herts, SG1 1EL1EL Telephone: 01438 The 35 11 Stevenage, Forum The Forum, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 Telephone: 01438 35 93Forum, 11 of the local community along the A1 Corridor Forum Chambers, The Stevenage, Herts, SG1 1EL Telephone: 01438 35 93 11 Broadway Chambers, Garden City, Herts, SG6 3AD Telephone: 01438 35 93Letchworth 11 Telephone:Chambers, 01438 35 93 11 Broadway Letchworth Garden City, Herts, SG6 3AD Telephone: 01462 48 22 48 Broadway Chambers, Letchworth Garden City, Herts, SG6 Broadway Chambers, Letchworth Garden City, Herts, SG6 3AD3AD Telephone: 01462 48 22 48 Herts, m Chambers,Broadway The Forum, Stevenage, SG1 1EL Chambers, Letchworth Garden City, Herts, SG6 3AD Telephone: 01462 48 4822 22 48 Telephone:Chambers, 01462 48 Broadway Letchworth Garden City, Herts, SG6 3AD hone: 01438Telephone: 35London 93 11Road, 2 Beds, SG18 8EP 01462Biggleswade, 48 22 48 01462 48 22 48 2Telephone: London Road, Biggleswade, Beds, SG18 8EP Telephone: 01767 31 38 13 Beds, 2 London Road, Biggleswade, 8EP 2 London Road, Biggleswade, Beds,SG18 SG18 8EP Telephone: 01767 31 38 13 2Telephone: London Road, Biggleswade, Beds, SG18 SG6 8EP 01767 31 38 way Chambers, Letchworth Garden Herts, 01767 31 3813 13 City, 2Telephone: London Road, Biggleswade, Beds, SG18 8EP 3AD Telephone: 01767 31 38 13 hone: 01462 Telephone: 48 22 48 01767 31 38 13

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what’s on

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

Branch Out Social Club for Single People Mon 9, 16, 23, May, 8.30pm to 11pm Social Club for those aged 40+. Meet every Monday, plus additional 2 0 1 6 events, meals, walks, trips.

Contact: Lorna - 01438 233657 or visit www.branch-out.org.uk The Sun Hotel (Cromwell Bar), Hitchin, Herts, SG5 1AF.

S T E V E N A G E M A Y - J U N E - J U L Y

Diabetes UK Stevenage Branch NEW! Drop in Coffee Club Tues 3 May, 10.00am-12.00 noon Tesco’s Forum Cafe, Town Centre Stevenage Discounted refreshments. Chat & swap ideas relating to both Type 1 & Type 2 diabetes.

Contact: Kirsty on 07835 191891, e:dukstevenage@gmail.com, www.diabetes.org.uk.

Stevenage CTC: Wednesday Evening Cycle Ride Weds 4 May, 7.15pm Our popular Wednesday evening cycle rides will continue weekly. Newcomers welcome.

Meet: On the green near Springfield House Community Centre, High Street, Stevenage Old Town, SG1 3EJ. Visit www.stevenagectc.org.uk for further info or contact Jim Brown on 0793 968 7509.

Stevenage Family History Society: Are we really British? Immigration & Emigration Weds 4 May, 7-30pm Talk by Ian Waller who is a Fellow of the Society of Genealogists and researcher in archives. Visitors £3 per person. Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage. www.stevenagefhs.site88.net Stevenage Amateur Wine & Beer Makers Guilds Thur 5 May, 8pm Tribute to Queen Elizabeth 11 90th Birthday. Meet Bedwell Community Centre, Bedwell Crescent, Stevenage. Contact Sandy Highsted on 01438 232701 Guests £3 per person.

Stevenage Ladies Choir: Open Evening Thur 5 May, 8pm We welcome any lady who loves to sing - we don’t audition, just come along and join us to give it a try. Enjoy free coffee & biscuits in the interval.

Please phone Mary Sabine on 07967 402138 for more details. Venue: St Nicholas Church of England Primary School, Six Hills Way, Stevenage SG2 0PZ www.stevenageladieschoir.co.uk Stevenage Walking Festival Sat 7 – Sun 15 May The 4th annual walking festival hosts a timetable 3-5 of daily walks throughout the week. Long, short, morning, evening, dog friendly – there is something to suit everyone!

Visit http://stevenagewalkingfestival.webs.com for more details.

Saturday Starters – bike rides Sat 7 May, 2pm For those wanting to try a group cycle ride for the first time. Rides start from Costello’s Café, Fairlands Valley Park, SG2 0BL every Saturday until the end of October. Visit www.stevenagectc.org.uk for the full programme or contact Jim Brown on 0793 968 7509 for more details.

Crossroads Carers’ Café Mon 9, 16, 23, May, 10am-12pm React Building, Roundmead. Opportunity for carers to meet with those in similar situation.

Guest speakers, friendly faces. Contact: Marcella Santoni on 01462 427542 / 01462 455578. www.crossroadshn.org.uk

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Stevenage Society for Local History: ‘The Stevenage Knitting Company’ Mon 9 May, 7.45 pm for an 8.15 pm start Talk by Paul Pinkstone . Venue: Springfield House, 24 High Street. Cost: Non-members £4. New members & visitors are always welcome. For further information contact 01438 811439.

Stevenage CTC: Wednesday Evening Cycle Ride Weds 11 May, 7.15pm Our popular weekly Wednesday evening cycle rides. Newcomers welcome. Meet: On the green near Springfield House Community Centre, High Street, Stevenage Old Town, SG1 3EJ.Visit www. stevenagectc.org.uk for further info or contact Jim Brown on 0793 968 7509.

Stevenage RSPB: Biggleswade Common Thur 12 May, 9.30am Morning walk following the River Ivel (The Kingfisher Way). Meet in the car park immediately after the “Meccano” bridge. Contact Ann Collis 01438 861547 Stevenage Floral Art Society: ‘Supermarket Special’ Thur 12 May, 7pm for 7.45pm start Flower arranging demonstration by Jackie Watson.

Venue: High Street Methodist Church Hall Visitors: £6.50 includes refreshments & free flower draw.Contact Margaret on 01438 880086 for further details.

Ghost Tour & Bat Walk Fri 13 May, 6.30pm Opportunity to tour the House at night, warm clothing & suitable footwear recommended. A light supper at Knebworth Barns is included.More details and ticket information see www.knebworthhouse.com Stevenage Farmers Market Sat 14 May, 10am-2pm Local produce for sale. High Street market place (opposite The Mulberry Tree pub). SG1 3UA Saturday Starters – bike rides Sat 14 May, 2pm For those wanting to try a group cycle ride for the first time. Rides start from Costello’s Café, Fairlands Valley Park, SG2 0BL every Saturday until the end of October. Visit www.stevenagectc.org.uk for the full programme or contact Jim Brown on 0793 968 7509 for more details.

Stevenage CTC: Wednesday Evening Cycle Ride Weds 18 May, 7.15pm Our popular Wednesday evening cycle rides will continue weekly. Newcomers welcome.

Meet: On the green near Springfield House Community Centre, High Street, Stevenage Old Town, SG1 3EJ. Visit www.stevenagectc.org.uk for further info or contact Jim Brown on 0793 968 7509.

Saturday Starters – bike rides Sat 21 May, 2pm For those wanting to try a group cycle ride for the first time. Rides start from Costello’s Café, Fairlands Valley Park, SG2 0BL every Saturday until the end of October. Visit www.stevenagectc.org.uk for the full programme or contact Jim Brown on 0793 968 7509 for more details.

Stevenage RSPB: Lakenheath Fen Sun 22 May, 10am An all day visit to this RSPB reserve in the Brecks.

Possible Golden Oriole and Common Crane.

Meet in the car park at 10am. Contact Ann Collis 01438 861547 Diabetes UK Stevenage Branch Mon 23 May, 7.30pm Opportunity to discuss concerns relating to Type 1 & Type 2 diabetes. Become involved & help with fund raising & events. Guest speakers, Free refreshments. Meet at Tesco’s Broadwater, Stevenage SG1 8DT. Contact: Kirsty 07835 191891, e: dukstevenage@gmail.com, www.diabetes.org.uk.

Stevenage CTC: Wednesday Evening Cycle Ride Weds 25 May, 7.15pm Our Wednesday evening cycle rides will continue weekly. Newcomers welcome. Meet: The green near Springfield House Community Centre, High Street, Stevenage Old Town, SG1 3EJ. Visit www.stevenagectc.org.uk for further info or contact Jim Brown on 0793 968 7509.

Saturday Starters – bike rides Sat 28 May, 2pm For those wanting to try a group cycle ride for the first time. Rides start from Costello’s Café, Fairlands Valley Park, SG2 0BL every Saturday until the end of October. Visit www.stevenagectc.org.uk for the full programme or contact Jim Brown on 0793 968 7509 for more details.

Classics in the Park Sun 29 & Mon 30 May For motoring enthusiasts. There is no additional cost to visit the Classics in the Park, which is included in the Knebworth Park admission ticket.

Plenty of free parking for visitors.

More details and ticket information see www. knebworthhouse.com Stevenage Family History Society: My Grandmother was a Munitionette Wed 1 June, 7.30pm Steve Gooding will talk about researching his WWI munitionette ancestor. Visitors cost £3 per person.

Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage. www.stevenagefhs.site88.net Stevenage Amateur Wine & Beer Makers Guilds Thur 2 June, 8pm Talk by Chiropodist Gary Webb on Balance. Meet Bedwell Community Centre, Bedwell Crescent, Stevenage. Contact Sandy Highsted on 01438 232701 Guests £3 per person.

Crossroads Carers’ Café Mon 6, 13, 20, 27 Jun, 10am-12pm React Building, Roundmead. Opportunity for carers to meet with those in similar situation.

Guest speakers, friendly faces. Contact: Marcella Santoni on 01462 427542 / 01462 455578. www. crossroadshn.org.uk Branch Out Social Club for Single People Mon 6, 13, 20, 27 Jun, 8.30pm to 11pm Social Club for those aged 40+. Meet every Monday, plus additional events, meals, walks, trips.

Contact: Lorna - 01438 233657 or visit www. branch-out.org.uk The Sun Hotel (Cromwell Bar), Hitchin, Herts, SG5 1AF.

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk ‘This Girl Can in Herts’ 2016 Mon 6 Jun – Sat 12 Jun A week of events & activities to inspire and encourage women and girls to be more active.

Stevenage CTC will be supporting this event. For further information visit http://www.sportinherts. org.uk/ or www.stevenagectc.org.uk for further information.

Pearl Izumi Tour Series Mon 6 Jun, 6pm Stevenage Old Town will be hosting series 8 of the Pearl Izumi Tour. A Women’s Race at 6pm and a Men’s race at 8pm. Both races will take place on a short circuit around part of the High Street and Church Lane. For further information contact the. tour@stevenage.gov.uk.

Stevenage Floral Art Society: ‘Sunny Holidays’ Thur 9 June, 7pm for 7.45pm start A flower arranging demonstration by Yvonne Tan. High Street Methodist Church Hall. Visitors: £6.50 includes refreshments & free flower draw. Contact Margaret on 01438 880086 for further details.

National Bike Week 11 – 19 June Annual event encouraging ‘everyday cycling for everyone’. To find out what event are happening here in Stevenage visit www.stevenagectc.org.uk or contact Jim Brown on 0793 968 7509 for more details.

Stevenage Farmers Market Sat 11 Jun, 10am-2pm Local produce for sale. High Street market place (opposite The Mulberry Tree pub). SG1 3UA Bridge Builders Quiz Night Sat 11 Jun, 7pm for 7.30pm start Hosted by St Paul’s Church, Turpins Rise, SG2 8QR. Tickets £5.00. To book a place Tel. 07934410193 Stevenage Day Sun 12 Jun Annual event. Free day out with stalls, activities, music, food, rides and attractions.Venue: King George V Playing Field. www.stevenage.gov.uk/ about-stevenage/stevenage-day/ Stevenage Circular Cycle Sun 12 June Part of the national ‘Bike Week’ activities. Can you ride 50 miles? The Circular is your chance to prove it. Visit www.stevenagectc.org.uk for further info or contact Jim Brown on 0793 968 7509.

Stevenage Society for Local History: ‘Stevenage Myths & Some True Tales’ Mon 13 June, 7.45 pm for an 8.15 pm start Fascinating talk by Hugh Madgin. Venue: Springfield House, 24 High Street. Cost: Non members £4.

New members & visitors are always welcome. For further information contact 01438 811439.

Stevenage RSPB: Lakenheath Fen Sun 15 Jun, 9.30am A morning visit to this RSPB reserve near Royston, for early summer birds, dragonflies and butterlfies.

Meet in the car park. Contact Ann Collis 01438 861547 Flower Festival celebrating Stevenage New Town 70th Anniversary Sat 18 Jun, 10am-5pm & Sun 19 Jun, 12pm-6.00pm Stevenage Floral Art Society & South Stevenage Flower Club present, in association with Stevenage Museum, at St Andrew and St George’s Church.

Flowers and photographs will depict aspects of Stevenage through the last 70 years. Event ends with a Songs of Praise at 6.30 pm on 19 June Public are welcome and refreshments available.

what’s on

Jousting in front of Knebworth House Sun 19 Jun Especially for Father’s Day! Costumed knights on majestic warhorses gallop at full tilt across the arena in a fantastic display of horsemanship More details and ticket information see www. knebworthhouse.com Garden House Hospice: Afternoon Tea Delights Sun 19 Jun, 2.30 – 6pm Venue: Priory Barns Little Wymondley. All proceeds to Garden House Hospice Care.

Email: jon@ theevapartnership.co.uk to book your table.

Gardens Theatre - A Midsummer Night’s Dream Thur 23 Jun, 6pm Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents Shakespeare’s best-loved romantic comedy in the delightful setting of Knebworth Gardens.

More details and ticket information see www.knebworthhouse.com Garden House Hospice: Care Service of Thanks Giving Sun 26 June, 3pm Venue: St Pauls Church, Pixmore Way, Letchworth.Visit: www.ghhospice.co.uk Stevenage Choral Society: ‘Mass in Blue’ by Will Todd.

Sat 2 July, 7.30pm The Society will be performing this exciting contemporary work in concert.Venue: Nobel Music Centre, Nobel School, Mobbsbury Way, Stevenage. Tickets £10 in advance, £12 on the night, under 16s £5. To book visit info@ stevenagechoral.org.uk or www.wegottickets.com Stevenage Family History Society: The Breadwinner Weds 6 July, 7.30pm Meryl Catty will guide us in discovering sources for researching trades and occupations. Visitors cost £3 per person.

Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage. www.stevenagefhs.site88.net Open Garden at Garden House Hospice Care Sun 10 July, 1pm – 5pm Enjoy tea and cake and a tour of the Hospice Gardens. Garden House Hospice, Gillison Close, Letchworth, Garden City, SG6 1QU Visit: www.ghhospice.co.uk for further information Stevenage Floral Art Society: ‘70 years of Stevenage’ Thur 14 July, 7pm for 7.45pm start A fun flower arranging demonstration by our Committee.Venue: High Street Methodist Church Hall. Visitors: £6.50 includes refreshments & free flower draw. Contact Margaret on 01438 880086 for further details.

Colour Clash 5k for Garden House Hospice Sat 30 July, 11am Venue: Marriotts Sports Centre & Fairlands Valley Park, Stevenage. Contact: Cathy White 01462 679540 or visit www.ghhospicecare.org.uk for more info.

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27

organisations

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

ORGANISATIONS G R O U P S & C L U B S Age Concern Open: Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri 9.30 am - 3 pm. Thurs 9.30am – 1.30pm. Swingate House Ground Floor entrance, (opposite Citizens’ Advice), Danestrete, SG1 1AF. T: 01438 314164. E: info@ ageconcernstevenage. org.uk Alcoholics Anonymous Meet Old Town, Springfield House, Tues 8pm. Methodist Church (High Street), Weds 12.30pm & Thurs 8pm, Chells Manor Community Centre - Weds 8pm. T: 0800 9177 650 or 01438 747475 . www. alcoholics-anonymous. org.uk Al’s Cafe (Dementia Drop in Cafe) Mon, 6-8pm, Glaxo Unit (rear of Lister). Friends & family of those with dementia welcome. Friendship, info, share concerns. T: 01438 723501/ 07799 267555. e:normawarden@hotmail. com Alzheimer’s Society Support Group Last Wednesday of every month at The Ibis Hotel, Stevenage. Contact: Cate Mitcham - 01462 433999/07720 946034 / Annette Cooke 07720 946032 Bedwell Rangers F.C. Boys’ teams: Under 6 to Under 18s. Girls’ teams: Under 8 to Under 18s. Adults, Men’s & Ladies’ teams, plus Disability teams for Under 12s and Under 16s. www. bedwellrangersfc.co.uk The Betty Game Opportunities Trust (charity no. 1133370) Grants for Stevenage residents studying Open University, or certain higher education courses. Info e:bgotrust@virginmedia. com or t: 01438 354171 Breathe Easy North Herts (charity no: 326730) Part of the support network of British Lung Foundation.

Free monthly meetings with speakers & entertainment at Great Ashby Community Centre. T: Sue - 01438 357319 Crafty Creations Every Tues 9:15 – 11:15am Bring along your own craft to enjoy. All welcome, no need to book Oval Community Centre 01438 359404 Crossroads Care - Carers Cafe (Charity No: 1121629) Every Mon, 10am-12pm.

React Building, Roundmead.

Opportunity for carers to meet with others in similar circumstances. Contact 01462 427542 / www. crossroadshn.org.uk

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Dementia Cafe Third Weds of every month.

Community Arts Centre, Roaring Meg. t: Jennifer Hewson 01923 894222/07834 420760 Diabetes UK Stevenage Discuss concerns with Type 1 & 2 diabetes. Guest speakers, free admission.

Meet Tesco Broadwater, SG1 8DTKirsty at dukstevenage@ gmail.com. t: 07835 191891 www.diabetes.org.uk Douglas Drive Senior Citizens’ Centre Centre for Stevenage seniors (55+), care & therapy for stroke patients. 32 Douglas Drive, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 5PF. douglasdrivesca@ hotmail.co.uk t: 01438 357227 Extend Exercise Fri 10.45-11.45am. For people who need gentle effective exercise; can be done sitting down. Qualified instructor. Cost £2.50. Archer Road Community Centre. t: Helen on 01438 354662 Friday Club: Tea & Chat Meet Friday pm at St Paul’s Methodist Church Hall, Turpins Rise. Friendly chat and occasional guest speakers. All ages welcome.

Contact: Janis Daniel t: 01438 317270 Friendship Cafe Meet 2nd Tues of month, refreshments, cake, free entry, donations welcome.

Christ The King Church, Filey Close, off Scarborough Avenue, Symonds Green SG1 2JW. All welcome.

Grace’s Space First Sat of month. Group for families with children 3-14 yrs with Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC). Space for children & siblings to play, form friendships with peer who understands family life. www.gracesspace.org e: graces_space@live.co.uk 07972 345797/07583 554 053 Indoor New Age Kurling Indoor Kurling, great fun sport, all ages including those with disabilities. No experience necessary.

Archer Road Community Centre. Contact Helen t: 01438 354662 INS Supporting older members of Stevenage & surrounding areas. Stevenage World Forum for Ethnic Communities. 10-12 Exchange Road, Bedwell, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 1PZ. t: 01438 725400 e: info@ irishnetworkstevenage.org. uk Knit & Natter Weds, 12.30pm Archer Road Community Centre, 291 Archer Rd. t: 01438 354662

Lace Group Thurs term time. 10am12pm & 1pm-3pm. With tutor. Beginners welcome.

Broadhall Community Centre, Hydean Way, Stevenage. t: Sandra Langworthy 07840 722 108 or e: pearl.shaw@btinternet. com The Living Room Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Support for addiction. 8-10 The Glebe, Chells Way. www. thelivingroom.me.uk Meet & Eat Club 1st & 3rd Weds of the month. 10am-12 noon. FREE cuppa & chat. Archer Road Community Centre 291 Archer Rd. t: 01438 354662 North Herts Ramblers’ Group Sat & Sun, long & short walks, Dogs welcome walks, evening pub walks! Walks start at Stevenage Library.

Visit www.nhrg.co for our full programme.

Over 50s Luncheon Club Mon - Fri, 12.30pm, Springfield House Community Centre. To book t. 01438 356705. Cost £4.00 Overcomers Outreach A Christian 12-step recovery support group. Weds, 8pm, Christ the King, Filey Close, Symonds Green. www. immanuel-stevenage.org.uk Pancreatic Cancer Support Group (Supported by Pancreatic Cancer UK) Offering meetings & chance to talk to others affected by the illness. Contact Roy Bowdery 07788 527325 or roy.bowdery@btinternet. com Phoenix Group for Deaf Children Charity based in Stevenage.

Support children, young people & families from all across Hertfordshire. Contact info@phoenixgroup.org.uk or 01438 722142 The Rotary Club of Stevenage Meet Mon, 6.15pm for 6.30 start. Novotel Hotel. For further info please contact mg@gommarchitects.com or t: 07970 750302 The Royal British Legion Stevenage Branch meet at CIU Club Old Town on 1st Thurs of month 7pm.

New members welcome.

Contact Hon Secretary Mr Richard Mott 01438 233505 Singing For The Brain Support Group Thur, 2pm. Group acitivity for those suffering with Alzheimer’s. Friendly & social. Run by Alzheimer’s Society. The Community Arts Centre, Roaring Meg. T: Sharon Meakin 01707 265326.

South Stevenage Flower Club 3rd Tues of month at 7.30 pm. Arts Pavilion, Roaring Meg. Demos, workshops & flower classes. T: Edna Holt 01438 227084

Springfield House Bridge Club Friday 1.30-4.30pm Springfield House, 24 High Street SG1 3EJ

Stevenage Floral Art Society 2nd Thurs of month, 7.45pm.

High Street Methodist Church. Demos, workshops, events. t: 01438 880086

Stevenage Arts Society Painting, drawing & pottery.

Meetings throughout the week. www.artistscooperative.co.uk or t: 07565 912656. Springfield House 24 High Street, SG1 3EJ

Stevenage Gamers, Tabletop Role Playing Games Club. The Shephall Centre, 7-11pm, £5 per session, Cons, £2.50. First session free. Members must be 18+ unless accompanied by adult. e: enquiries@ stevenagegamers.org

Stevenage Basketball Club Meet Tues & Suns, all ages welcome. Marriotts School Leisure Centre. Contact Mark t: 07921 828316 www. stevenagebasketball.co.uk Stevenage Bridge Club Tues, 7.15pm St John’s Ambulance Hall, Stanmore Road. Contact: Phil Cooper t: 07957 813434 Stevenage Chess Club Mon, 7.30pm Holy Trinity Church. Contact: Mike Price t: 01438 239638 Stevenage Choral Society Rehearse Monday during term time, 7.45 to 9.45pm.

All voices welcome, no audition. Visit www. stevenagechoral.org. uk OR contact info@ stevenagechoral.co.uk Stevenage Corey’s Mill Lions Club Business meeting - 2nd Mon, social - 4th Mon of month, 7.30pm. Grosvenor Court, Filey Close, Symonds Green, SG1 2JN. e: stevenagecmlions@gmail. com or t: 0845 833 5746.

Facebook: Stevenage Corey’s Mill Lions Club Stevenage CTC Cycle rides every Weds 7.15pm. Start at Bowling Green, High St. Bring lights.

All welcome. t: Jim on 07939 687509 www.stevenagectc. org.uk Stevenage & District Stevenage & District Amateur Radio Club Society Tues, 7.30-9pm Stevenage Resource Centre, Chells Way. t: 01438 489045/07986 367537 Stevenage & North Hertfordshire Child Contact Centre Charity offering safe, friendly, neutral places where children of separated families can spend time with family members. We take professional & self referrals.

For info T: 01438 315953; E snhccc@hotmail.co.uk The Stevenage & North Herts Counselling Centre Low cost counselling to anyone over the age of 18.

166a High Street, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 3LL. T: 01438 357775.

Stevenage Family History Society 1st Weds of month 7.309.30pm. Those interested in researching their ancestors.

Friends Meeting House, Cutty’s Lane. t: 01438 721296 www.stevenagefhs. webspace.virginmedia.com

Stevenage GEMMS Charity running half-day clubs for those with memory loss or early dementia.

Activities, lunch, travel.

Contact: 07971 986 045 The Stevenage-IngelheimAutun Association Town Twinning link with Germany & France. www. tsiaa.org.uk or e: tsiaa@ hotmail.co.uk Stevenage-Kadoma Link Association (SKLA) Town twinning link with Kadoma (Zimbabwe), meet every month at 7.30pm. e: skla@hotmail.co.uk Stevenage & Knebworth Twins Club 1st (all ages), 2nd (up to 18mths), 3rd (all ages) Mon of month, 2pm-4pm. Great Ashby Community Centre e: info@stevenageand knebworthtwinsclub.co.uk / www.stevenageand knebworthtwinsclub.co.uk Stevenage Ladies Choir Meet Thurs in term time 8-10pm at St Nicholas JMI School, Six Hills Way, Stevenage SG2 0PZ. www.stevenageladieschoir. co.uk Stevenage Locomotive Society Last Thurs of the month, 7.30pm. Presentation & discussions. Roaring Meg Community Arts Centre.

Stevenage Lytton Players Amateur dramatic and musical society. Lytton Theatre, Vardon Road, SG1 5PZ. Visit www.lyttonplayers. co.uk Stevenage Male Voice Choir Meet every Fri, 7.30pm, Roaring Meg Community Arts Centre. Contact: Ed Furyet: 01462 672502. www. smvc.org Stevenage Model Boat Club Meet every Sun 9am12noon - predominantly IC (petrol or similar engines) & Thurs 1pm and 3pm. Friendly group, sailing a variety of boats. Visitors & new members welcome. http://sites.google.com/site/ stevenagemodelboats/ OR Facebook/Stevenage Model Boat Club

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

organisations

A chat with...Crossroads Care - Carers Café Tell us about Crossroads Care – Carers Café The Carers Café is a friendly and very supportive group for unpaid carers or those who are looking after someone who is ill, frail or disabled and would like a break from their caring role. It’s run by Crossroads Care Hertfordshire North, a charity which provides support for unpaid family carers and the people they care for in Hertfordshire.

When & where do you meet?

We meet every Monday morning from 10am-12pm at The React Building, Roundmead Hall, Roundmead, Poplars, Stevenage SG2 9PQ. There is no need to book and the sessions are FREE. What can people expect if they visit the group?

There is a great support network from other carers and a wealth of knowledge available from relevant professionals and services as well as from other carers attending the Café!

We alternate between coffee and chat one week and a guest speaker the next.

On average, we have between 16-25 carers attending the Café at any one meeting.

Guest speakers include those able to offer advice on many relevant topics such as dementia and those able to provide services such as a Counsellor, Chiropodist or Helping Hands. We also have informative talks from services and organisations such as The Fire Service and Trading Standards.

Anything else we should know?

Usually, when a new client comes on board at Crossroads, we would signpost the carer to the Carers Cafe as a break, but you do not have to be with Crossroads to come along to the café - as long as you are a carer you are more than welcome.

Some carers have our support workers in to cover caring for their loved one while they visit the café. However, not everyone requires this support.

Those who would like more information on Crossroads Carers Café & Crossroads Care Hertfordshire North can contact us on the details below: Marcella Santoni, Crossroads Care on 01462 427542 or email: msantoni@crossroadshn.org.uk www.crossroadshn.org.uk | Facebook: Crossroads Care Hertfordshire North Crossroads Care Hertfordshire North is a registered charity no:1121629

Stevenage Ostomistics Group for those with a stoma. Meet last Sat of the month, 10.30am Oval Community Centre, Stevenage. Listen to talks, visit places. Contact Alfred Levy 01767 316958 or e: alfredlevy@me.com or your stoma care nurse.

Stevenage Photographic Society Mon, 7.45pm Roaring Meg Community Arts Centre. Visit www.photographicsociety. org.uk Stevenage Plus Thurs evenings at the Holiday Inn Express. A local social group for people aged 18-35, to meet and make new friends. Contact: Natalie t: 07837 733830 Stevenage RSPB Meets third Tues of month from Sept-May at 7.30pm.

Friends’ Meeting House, Cutty’s Lane. Entry £2.50 for RSPB members & £3.50 nonmembers.

The Stevenage Society for Local History Meet 2nd Mon of the month, from March - Nov inclusive.

8.15pm, Springfield House.

Contact: Jill Campbell t: 01438 811439 e: auntduuk@yahoo.co.uk Stevenage Sword Dancers Tues, 8.30-10.00pm, Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage, SG1 1UP. Dave 07952159668 / www. stevenagesword.org.uk

Stevenage (North) Trefoil Guild Meet 2nd Weds of the month, 2.30 - 4.30pm at Hellards Road Community Room. All ex-Guiders, Guides and Brownies welcome. t: 01438 351155.

Stevenage World Forum The Together Centre, 10-12 Exchange Rd, Bedwell Neighbourhood Centre, Bedwell Crescent, Stevenage, SG1 1PZ. T: 01438 725400 / www. worldforum.org.uk Stevenage Writers Group Wed 5.30-7pm at The Dun Cow, Letchmore Road.

All with genuine interest welcome. ponytailpoet@ gmail.com or visit stevenagewritersgroup. blogspot.co.uk Sunderland Supporters’ Club (North Herts Branch) Meet on 1st Thurs of month at The Victoria pub, Baldock from 8.15pm.

Subsidised travel to games.

Free magazine. Contact Colin Dunn 01438 221519 / 07734508861.

Timebridge Widow Every Tues, 1.30-3.30pm, Timebridge Community Centre, Mobbsbury Way, Chells. Tea, chat & new friends. Newcomers welcome. Contact: Pat, Events Secretary on 01438 314587

Time Out Group for adults, all ages.

Refreshments, quizzes, chat, make new friends. 2nd Thurs of month, 1:30pm to 3:30pm.

Bunyan Baptist Church, Basils Road, Stevenage. £1 per person. Contact: Hilary Jappy 01438 725071 TRACKS Autism (Charity No: 1107257) A calm environment for up to 10 children per session to learn, play and explore their world safely. High staff ratio allowing for a mix of 1-1 & small group activities, open 48 weeks of the year. t: 0300 123 1913 e: info@ tracks- autism.org.uk www. tracks-autism.org.uk The Wednesday Club Every Weds, 9.45-11.25am.

Methodist Church, High St. Enjoy a variety of speakers & demonstrations. Tea & coffee served. Contact Alanah t: 01438 361324 Women’s Institute - Great Ashby First Fri of month, 7.45pm, Great Ashby Community Centre, Whitehorse Lane, SG1 6NH. Sylvia Urbanowski t: 07967 091857 or e: greatgatsbywi@hotmail. com.

Women’s Institute (WI) Old Town Meets once a month, Tues 7pm. Fairlands Junior School, Pound Avenue. Joan McAdam t: 01438 216850 joanmcadam@ntlworld.com

Women’s Institute (WI) Poplars Meet first Weds of the month at Broadhall Community Centre, Hydean Way, Stevenage 2-4pm. Joan Bellott t: 01438 220724. e: pearl.shaw@btinternet.co.uk

Toddler groups can now be found on page 13.

WASTE NOT WANT NOT Nurturing Plants and People Providing a safe and friendly environment where a wide range of people can feel included in their local community.

Positive activity working with plants.

Everybody Welcome The Plant Nursery With A Difference

www.wastenotwantnot.org.uk

29

prize draw

thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

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c) 6

Prize draw closing date is 30th June 2016; winner a will be picked at random after this date.

Terms and Conditions: 1. No cash alternative available. 2. This offer is for a Standard type of boiler booked between 5th July to 30th September 2016, for any make/model, but will exclude ‘back boilers’ or an additional charge may apply. 3. The’winning’ boiler must be situated within Hertfordshire or Bedfordshire. 4. Closing date for entry is midnight 30th June 2016. 5. The winner will be notified by 4th July 2016.

cakes a s by

unt

ally

all occasions catered for

• weddings • christenings • • birthdays • baby showers •

bespoke cakes big & small • cupca kes • cookie-pops • • sweetie cones •

Copy deadline for Issue 30 (July/Aug) 10 JUNE .................

Copy deadline for Issue 31 (Sep /Oct) 30 July ...................

contact Sally on: t: 07896 788 275 e: sal_houlihan@hotmail.co.uk Cakes by Aunt Sally

Oxygen Therapy changes lives!

Copy deadline for Issue 32 (Nov/Dec) 10 October

Do you know someone with: • Fibromyalgia? • A neurological condition? • Cancer? • ME? • Leg ulcers? • TBI? • Sports injuries? • Broken bones?

Oxygen Therapy may improve health, accelerate healing, give more energy.

Experienced, friendly team. Supervised sessions.

Flexible prices - ask us for details.

Oxygen Therapy from registered charity Herts MS Therapy Centre.

Find out more. Call Mark or Claire on 01462 684214 www.hertsmstherapy.org.uk Registered Charity 299524 Hertfordshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre, 30 Campus Five, Letchworth, Herts SG6 2JF

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thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

business directory / useful numbers

The Business Directory

USEFUL NUMBERS Citizens Advice Bureau 08444 111 444

John Henry Newman Centre 01438 218791

Community Centres

Places of Worship Bunyan Baptist Church 01438 369263

Pension Wise (CAB) 01438 721760

Shephall Leisure Centre 01438 210100

Archers Road 01438 354662

Church of Christ the King 01438 226857

Bedwell 01438 31483

The Church of Transfiguration (RC) 01438 226857

Chells Manor 01438 748792

High Street Methodist Church 01438 721674

Great Ashby 01438 365392

Holy Trinity Church (CofE) 01438 353229

Springfield House 01438 356705

Councils Stevenage Borough Council 01438 242242

Hertfordshire County Council 0300 1234040

Dentist Shephall Dental Surgery (NHS) 01438 351556 Doctors Surgeries

King George Surgery 01438 361111

Manor House Surgery 01438 742639

Stanmore Road Health Centre 01438 313223

Symonds Green Health Centre 01438 364488 The Poplars Surgery 01438 351359 HOSPITALS

Lister Hospital 01438 314333

Queen Elizabeth II 01438 314333 LEISURE CENTRES Stevenage Leisure Centre 08700 132068

Stevenage Swimming Centre 01438 218770

Fairlands Valley Park & Sailing 01438 353241

Seventh Day Adventist Church 08432 890400

St Nicholas (CofE) 01438 213587 Stevenage Vineyard Fellowship 01438 233310

Stevenage Liberal Jewish Community 01438 300222 Libraries Old Town 01438 737333 Central Library 0300 123 4049 Schools Almond Hill Junior School 01438 233660 Fairlands Primary School & Nursery 01438 351053 Letchmore Infants’ & Nursery School 01438 234400 Woolenwick Infant & Nursery School 01438 216070 Woolenwick Junior School 01438 216565 The Barclay School 01438 232221 The John Henry Newman School 01438 218791 The Thomas Alleyne School 01438 344344 POLICE STATION 101 (non-emergency) Town Centre Management 01438 740884

To advertise in The Stevenage Magazine contact Louise on 07583 826 088 or email ads@thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

A-Top Lettings 01438 369173

Home Heating Scheme 0800 5999 120

ABC Life Support 0800 467 410

Jazzercise with Kerry 07743 183 036

Abbots Wills & Probate 01438 518 031

JTM Services 0800 5999 120

Ace Taxis 01438 317777

Koncept Castles 01462 730895

Andre Etienne 01438 728358

Lockdales 01473 627110

ASKPhysio 07523 005743 / 01438 488579

Maximum Beauty 01438 317191

Austin’s Family Funeral Directors 01438 316623

Mini Mozart emma@minimozart.com

bbw Solicitors 01438 359311/ 01462 482248

NFU Mutual 01763 241611

BoxBike Delivery marcus@boxbikedelivery Breathe Easy North Herts 01438 35 7319

Nicola Butcher Carpentry 0754 793 44 06 Oscars 07711 162 381

BrightSkin Clinic 01438 553103

Oven Clean 07445 073648

Cakes by Aunt Sally 07896 788275

Packleaders 01438 940949

CollyPower Fitness info @collypowerfitness.co.uk

PartyEase 07577 740407

Consensus HR 01462 621 243

PhysioLife 01438 487814

Courtlands Riding Stables 01438 355 121

Sharon Kaplan Photography 07981 668077

DT Discos 07891 689 121

Signing Babies 07813 315 914

FitHaven 07900 823 553

Stevenage Osteopathic Clinic 01462 422 760

Fostercare UK 01438 771 721

Stevenage Smiles 01438 351 556

George Hay 01462 708810

Switched On 01462 730895

Garden House Hospice 01462 679 540

The Barclay School 01438 232221

Green Oak 01438 314240 / 07770 381409

The Hitchin Hypnotherapy Practice 07805 792191

Helena Wardle 01462 420544

The Thomas Alleyne Academy 01438 344344

Herts Hour info@hertshour.com

The Dressing Room 01438 316 900

Hertfordshire MS Therapy Centre 01462 684214

Waste Not Want Not 01438 941168

Holistic Eyes 07808 365171

Will Script 01438 214333

Holy Trinity Church 01438 340085

Wymondley Flooring 01428 351222

About The Stevenage Magazine The Stevenage Magazine is an independently owned community magazine, set up and producby a local Stevenage resident.

The purpose of the Magazine is to link the community, support local businesses (of which it is one), provide a platform for local groups and organisations to reach a wider audience, provide individuals with an opportunity to share their creativity (write for the magazine, design our front cover) and generally celebrate what our community has to offer. The magazine is not political, and it is not here to be critical.

We welcome ideas, contributions and questions.

Leaflet Delivery T H E R E I S A WAY O U T CONTACT

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

0800 9177 650 www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

The Stevenage Magazine offers both leaflet insertion and individual delivery (outside the magazine distribution areas).

Our prices are competitive and we are reliable.

Contact ads@thestevenagemagazine.co.uk

or call 07583 826088 for further information.

31

Opening times: Monday - Friday 9.30am – 5.30pm, Saturday 9.30am – 5.00pm