Issuu

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

Winter Warmth Simple tips to keep yourself healthy and safe this winter

Scams

How to Minimise the Risks

What You Didn’t Know About… Dunstable Town Mayor Councillor Liz Jones

Volunteering in Retirement Do you have a few spare hours/days that you could help us with?

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY + WINTER FRUIT SALAD + GREENFINGERED GRANDMA + MUCH MORE

uld our o w We hear yiews. v : to like ies andRITEdsThO ire, r for edford o d W t e s A SE ge UK B Rd, B @ PLThEe Edit8o-r8, 2A BroomrhEammail: v.ooricge.uk

H hire e, 7 Voic K40 2Q edfords M uk b age

Contents List Autumn/Winter 2015 Scams How to minimise the risks ........ 6 Every year in the UK, an estimated ÂŁ1.2bn is lost to investment fraud.

Winter warmth ............. 9 Top tips to stay healthy, safe and comfortable this winter.

How we helped a case study ................10 Helping a client with a boiler repair.

Dates for your Diary.....11 Selection of events taking place.

Greenfingered Grandma..................... 12 Offering her top tips for getting your garden ready

4 | AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

for the autumn and winter.

Volunteering in Retirement ..............14 Can you spare a few hours?

What you didn't know about? ............... 19 This issue we interview Dunstable Town Mayor Councillor Liz Jones.

14 Puzzle Page ............... 20 The usual trio are back, Sudoku, Wordsearch and a Quick Quiz.

Care Act update ......... 24 The latest information on the Care Act.

Winter Fruit Salad ...... 25 Lots of Fruit and Fibre.

Charlie Chuckles......... 26 Will he be able to make you laugh?

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

Cover Image ÂŠ altafulla / www.shutterstock.com

Meet the teamâ€Ś Editor

Amanda Jones Tel: 01234 360 510 Email: amanda.jones@ ageukbedfordshire.org.uk

Sub-Editor

Klaudia Len Tel: 01234 360 510 Email: klaudia.len@ ageukbedfordshire.org.uk

Age UK Bedfordshire

Head Office 78 - 82 Bromham Road Bedford MK40 2QH Tel: 01234 360 510 Email: voice@ ageukbedfordshire.org.uk

Designer

Rowena Wilson Email: rowena@ lancepublishing.co.uk

Sales

Laurence Rowe Tel: 01536 526662 Email: laurence@ lancepublishing.co.uk

Publisher

Lance Publishing Ltd 1st Floor Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 512624 www.lancepublishing.co.uk

Printer

Lance Print Ltd Tel: (01733) 390564 www.lanceprint.co.uk

This magazine is produced on behalf of Age UK Bedfordshire by Lance Publishing Ltd. All rights are reserved by the charity and no part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the charity. Age UK Bedfordshire will accept no responsibility for, or necessarily agree with, any claims made or views expressed in this publication, nor does the mention of any product, service or advertisement imply a recommendation by Age UK Bedfordshire. Reg. Charity No. 1090535

working hard to improve life for older people

Foreword from the CEO As the weather draws towards Autumn and Winter, with the heat of the summer soon to be a forgotten memory, we turn towards looking forward to things such as Halloween, Bonfire Night and the inevitable planning for Christmas which will be upon us before we know it.

he unexpected but short heatwave was not without its problems for most of us, keeping cool was the paramount thought uppermost in most of our minds and taking care of the young, older and frail, and our pets was a priority. However, there were the upsides, such as another Royal baby, Chris Frome winning the Tour de France again and the Womens' Football World Cup. Inside this issue of VOICE are the regular gardening, puzzles and joke features

plus Q and A's with local people of note. There are also the Diary Dates and other information including Winter Warmth, and Scams and How to Avoid Them. We have a special feature this time, from one of our lovely volunteers, on her work with us here at Age UK Bedfordshire. There is also some up to date information on the Care Act and what is happening with the progress and delays on the various aspects of this new piece of Law. So put your feet up, rest awhile, and enjoy. Happy reading.

Karen Karen Perry CEO, Age UK Bedfordshire

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 | 5

Even the most savvy investors fall victim to scammers who appear professional and trustworthy. No matter how much experience and confidence you have with investments and finances, you could still be at risk.

Protect yourself from scams

What to do if you're the victim of a scam

How to Minimise the Risks Every year in the UK, an estimated £1.2bn is lost to investment fraud. Investment scams

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) receives around 5,000 calls a year about suspected investment fraud with the average investor losing £20,000. But only 10% of all crimes are reported, meaning the number of people affected by investment scams is much higher.

6 | AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

Know how to spot an investment scam - we've listed the tell-tale signs below: • Check the risks associated

Don’t be ashamed or embarrassed to admit that you have fallen victim to a scam. Reporting it may help

to ensure that further people don’t go through the same thing and there is always the chance that the tricksters could be caught, although this is never guaranteed. Contact Action Fraud immediately if you think you’ve been scammed. If you want to seek advice on whether a scheme or investment offer is legal, contact the local Citizens Advice Consumer Service for advice. Investment scams are usually difficult to spot because they're designed to look like genuine investments. The scammers may have a seemingly professional website and documents too. However, there are some tell-tale signs that suggest the investment opportunity is likely to be very risky or a scam.

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

Image: © kentoh / www.shutterstock.com

Scams

with an investment opportunity by using the FCA Warning List tool. • Always seek advice before investing, ideally from an Independent Financial Advisor who is authorised by the FCA. • Check the FCA's list of companies to avoid. • Contact the Money Advice Service for more information on investments, and read our free guide “avoiding scams” for additional tips which can be downloaded from our website or by writing to us enclosing £2.00 for postage, quoting PDF 327 KB.

Investment scammers may do one or more of the following: • Contact you unexpectedly about an investment opportunity via cold calls, emails or follow up calls after sending out a promotional brochure. • Pressure you to invest in a time-limited offer, e.g. offer a bonus or discount if you invest before a set date. • Downplay the risks of an investment, e.g. they could talk about how you will own the actual assets they may sell if the investment doesn’t work as expected or use legal jargon to mislead you. • Promise you tempting returns that sound too good to be true, e.g. offer much better interest rates than those offered elsewhere. • Call you repeatedly and keep you on the phone a long time. • Say they’re only making the offer available to you or even ask you not to tell anyone else about the opportunity. If you recognise any of these... You have every reason to be suspicious. Follow the advice from the FCA: • reject cold calls • get independent advice The FCA have a list of companies to avoid. You can access this by visiting http://scamsmart.fca.org.uk/ warninglist/ or contacting us on 01234 360510 and refer to this article.

Doorstep scams

Scammers commonly target older people for doorstep scams. In fact, 85% of victims of doorstep scams are aged 65 and over according to National Trading Standards. We'll show you some simple steps that you can take to help you stay safe on your doorstep. Doorstep scams are when someone comes to your door with the aim of scamming you out of your money or trying

to gain access to your home to steal items from inside. While there are many legitimate tradespeople and officials, it’s wise to be on your guard when you answer your door. Doorstep scammers can be pushy and persuasive and it can be easy to fall victim. It’s especially important to be vigilant and aware if you live on your own.

Protect yourself

Whenever you answer the door remember to lock, stop, chain, check. Lock: secure all your other outer doors as the person at the door may intend to distract you while an accomplice gets in through a back door. Stop: think about whether you’re expecting anyone. Chain: put the door chain on or look through the window or spyhole to see who’s there. Check: ask for an identity card and examine it carefully - you can always tell the caller to come back another time when someone will be with you. Put up a deterrent sign. You could put a ‘no cold callers’ sign up on your door or window, which should deter any cold callers from knocking on your door.

Password protected

You can set up a password with your utility companies so you know that they are genuine if they send someone round. In order to arrange this, you may need to ask your supplier to put you on their Priority Services Register, which gives access to extra services if you are of pensionable age, are registered disabled, have a hearing or visual impairment, or have long-term ill health.

Nominate a neighbour

Find out if you have a nominated neighbour scheme

working hard to improve life for older people

where a neighbour can help to make sure if callers are safe. Contact your local Neighbourhood Watch or your local Safer Neighbourhood police team to find out more.

Check their credentials

You should always check a seller or trader’s credentials before agreeing to purchase their products or services.

Call the police

Finally, remember that you can dial 999 if you’re suspicious or the caller won’t leave. Call the police non-emergency number 101 if you’re not in immediate danger but want to report an incident.

If you've been the victim of scam

There's no shame or embarrassment in falling victim to a scam – it happens to lots of people. If you report it, it may help to prevent others from experiencing the same thing. You can report it to Action Fraud – ActionFraud is the UK’s national fraud and internet crime reporting centre. You can call them on 0300 123 2040 or by going to their website which is www.actionfraud.police.uk Action Fraud may be able to track down the fraudster. You can also contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service for advice.

Postal scams

Nearly half of people in the UK have been targeted by a scam. One of the ways that scammers commonly contact people is through the post. Learn how to protect yourself. As the techniques that scammers use get more sophisticated, it can be difficult to spot the difference between scam mail, junk mail and offers from legitimate companies.

Here is how you can protect yourself from postal scams: • Contact the Mailing Preference Service to have your name taken in the UK (this won’t cover mail that is unaddressed or from overseas). • Put a ‘no junk mail’ sign on your door. • If you receive something you think may be a scam, don’t respond, as this can cause you to get more letters. • If you have received or are receiving something that looks like scam mail, talk about it to someone you trust such as a friend or family member, or call Age UK Advice on 0800 169 65 65. • For more information about postal scams Age UK Advice on 0800 169 65 65 to order a copy.

What to do if you’re the victim of a scam

Although many people feel embarrassed about falling for a scam, there’s nothing to be ashamed of. Fraudsters have a range of techniques to trick people and are trying new scams all the time. Contact Action Fraud immediately if you think you’ve been scammed, so they can try to track down the fraudster, and ensure that other people don’t go through the same experience. If you’re concerned about whether a scheme is legal, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service for advice.

Phone scams

Phone scams are on the rise and are a common way to con people out of their money. Nearly £24m was lost to phone scams in 2014, which was treble the amount in 2013, according to Financial Fraud Action UK. Not only are phone scams a real problem, but many people also suffer from cold calls, such as unsolicited

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 | 7

What if you fall victim to a scam

Fraudsters are constantly finding new ways to trick people – anyone can be a victim of a scam and you shouldn’t feel embarrassed about reporting it. Your report could help to ensure that other people don’t become victims of the same scam. Contact Action Fraud if you think you’ve been scammed. You can report to them on their website or via their helpline, and get advice on what to do and how to protect yourself from scams. If you’re concerned about whether a scheme or offer is legal, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service for advice.

Telephone scams you should know about

It's good to know about some of the typical tricks that scammers use so you can be prepared if you ever get a call like these. 1) The computer scam A type of telephone fraud where scammers will call you claiming to be from the helpdesk of a well-known IT firm, such as Microsoft. They’ll tell you that your computer has a virus and will charge you to upload ‘anti-virus software’. This turns out to be spyware, which is used to get hold of your personal details. Never respond to an unsolicited phone call from someone claiming that your computer has a virus. If you receive a call like this, hang up straight away. Legitimate IT companies don’t contact customers this way. Read our guide to staying safe online for more tips and advice.

8 | AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

2) Bank scams It’s a common scam to be called by someone claiming to be from your bank and saying there’s a problem with your card or account. They may ask for your account and card details, including your PIN number, and may offer to send a courier to collect your card from you so they can resolve the problem. They may also suggest transferring your money to a ‘safe account’ to protect it. If you get a call like this, hang up immediately, even if they try to persuade you that your card has been cloned or your money is at risk. 3) Number spoofing Scammers now have the technology to mimic an official telephone number so it comes up on your caller ID display (if you have one on your phone). This can trick you into thinking the caller is really from a legitimate organisation, like a bank or utility company. Remember if you are in any doubt about whether or not the call is genuine, hang up and call the organisation directly on a different phone. If you're using the same phone, wait 10 minutes in case the scammers keep the line open. 4) Pensions and investment scams You may get an unsolicited phone call about an 'unmissable' investment opportunity, or offering pension liberation and legal loopholes to access your pension cash earlier. Hang up on unsolicited calls like these.

of anyone asking you for money or financial details over the phone, and don’t give them the information they ask for. You can check a charity’s registration with the Charity Commission to find out if they are genuine. 6) Compensation calls You may get calls from companies asking about car accidents you have had and offering you compensation. Alternatively, you may have received calls about the mis-selling of PPI (payment protection insurance). Either way, don’t engage with them directly and call your insurance company if you have had an accident and want to find out more about how to claim on your policy. If you have actually been mis-sold PPI, then check out our page on PPI and what to do. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

Are you the victim of a scam?

More than 3 million people a year in the UK are victims of scams, and only 5% are reported so the actual number could be much higher. If you have fallen victim to a scam, it can be devastating. Scams can have serious financial and emotional consequences for victims, and can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, embarrassment, fear, and anxiety. Please know that you are not alone

in falling for a scam. Here are some things that you could do: 1) Report it As soon as you think you have been scammed, report it to Action Fraud. Reporting the fraud could help them catch the perpetrators and prevent other people from falling victim. 2) Talk about it It’s really important to talk to someone if you are left feeling anxious, fearful, or guilty after experiencing a scam. Victim Support can help support those who have fallen for a scam. If you are feeling low or depressed, talk to your GP, who may be able to refer you to a counsellor to talk to. You can call Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 at any time if you feel low or anxious and need someone to talk to. 3) Get advice If you have lost money or gotten into debt through a scam, contact your local Age UK for advice. They may be able to identify savings or benefits you could receive to help you. If you are having trouble paying your bills and are worried about what to do, contact us. Our telephone number for all enquiries throughout Bedfordshire and Luton is 01234 360510.

5) Anti-scam scams You may get phone calls claiming to be from a charity supporting scam victims, a company selling anti-scam technology, or from someone demanding money to renew your Telephone Preference Service registration, which is actually free. Be wary

Image: © Mar Bar / www.shutterstock.com

sales calls, which can feel pushy and intrusive too. It's sometimes difficult to work out when a call is a scam or simply a cold call.

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

Winter Warmth

Exposure to cold weather for prolonged periods of time can be dangerous. It raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and can cause problems for people with breathing difficulties such as asthma. By following some simple suggestions, we can help ourselves to stay healthy, safe and as comfortable as possible this winter.

Big knit 2015 Calling all knitters! Help raise funds to help older people in Bedfordshire!

Try to stay active as this generates heat and helps to keep you warm. The important thing is to keep moving, so when you’re indoors, try not to sit still for more than an hour. If walking is difficult, you can do chair-based exercises. But even simply moving your arms and legs and wiggling your toes will get your circulation going. smoothie bottles. For every behatted bottle sold, 25p will go straight to Age UK so we really need your help to create lovely hats of different styles and designs. Details and knitting patterns can be found on our website: http://www.ageuk. org.uk/bedfordshire/news-campaigns/get-knitting-for-thebig-knit-2015/ The deadline

Image: © Elena Elisseeva / www.shutterstock.com

Knitters of all ages can get involved in this exciting campaign to make lots of tiny hats for the top of innocent

Keep moving

Two easy ways to keep warm 1. Keep your hands and face warm – if they get cold they can trigger a rise in blood pressure which puts you at risk of a heart attack. 2. Remember that several thin layers of clothing will keep you warmer than one thick layer, as the layers trap warm air. Four tips to make sure you eat well 1. It’s important to eat enough in winter and hot meals and drinks will help to keep you warm. 2. Try to eat at least one hot meal each day and have hot drinks during the day. 3. Include a good range of foods in your diet so that you’re getting plenty of nutrients and vitamins. Remember that frozen vegetables are for hats to be sent to our office is 1st November 2015.

just as good as fresh. 4. If you’re worried about a poor appetite, speak to your GP. 'It helps to do something you enjoy every day. If possible, go for a short walk in the middle of the day, or at least go outside while there is daylight.'

Have a seasonal flu jab If you’re over 65, the Government recommends that you have a seasonal flu jab. Because seasonal flu viruses are always changing, you need a jab every year, using the latest vaccine.

Give up smoking

Smoking lowers your immune system and can cause serious health conditions. After you stop smoking, you’ll quickly notice that your breathing is easier and that doing any exercise is more comfortable.

Keep your spirits up

It’s not unusual to feel a bit down in winter – particularly when the days are short and it can get dark by 3.30pm. Try to keep to your usual routine and if you can’t visit friends or family, make sure that you phone or Skype them regularly for a chat.

For more information, a booklet with hints and tips and free room thermometer please contact us at 01234 360510 or drop in at our offices at 78-82 Bromham Road, Bedford, MK40 2QH.

working hard to improve life for older people

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 | 9

How we helped Our client is 80 years old, and lives in South Bedfordshire with his wife. He suffers with eyesight issues and she has asthma, diabetes, arthritis, a spine injury, poor mobility, cataracts and is hard of hearing. They live in a mobile home. no hot water or heating and a neighbour had loaned them a heater (our first referral was in January 2015, in the height of winter). Our client

and his wife had not been able to shower for over 8 weeks and were sleeping in their front room near the heater for warmth. Unfortunately

the council were unable to help with the boiler grant. A secondary issue for the client was they had struggled to keep their home clutter free

Images: ÂŠ Ruslan Guzov, Halina Yakushevich / www.shutterstock.com

he client contacted us because his boiler had broken down and he could not afford to repair it. He had

a Case Study

1 0 | AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

and now needed assistance to clear an accumulation of paperwork and other items. We completed a benefits’ check and contacted the Local Authority and ‘Turn to Us’ for help with a boiler and heating grant. Our worker contacted Social Services who recommended Home Improvement Assistance and Affordable Warmth Assistance. We also contacted ‘Friends of the Elderly’ and completed an application and liaised with our client, his niece and the organisations. Our worker contacted the RAF Benevolent fund because our client had been in the Forces. The worker helped to complete charity grant application forms on his behalf. The worker applied to various other trusts and foundations for help. This includes Aid for the Aged in Distress, The Coffey Trust, Newby Trust, and Elizabeth Finn Care. Due to the couple's health, we were able to contact Occupational Health and the Rehabilitation Team to make a referral for support for them both. For help to have the home de-cluttered our worker obtained a quotation and contacted the local Age UK shop who have use of a van to collect items. She also liaised with the client and his wife to see if their niece could help. The RAF Benevolent fund awarded our client £2500 and the local community raised a further £1000 towards the new boiler. The client has had a new system installed and their living environment is now warm with plenty of hot water again.

Below is part of the thank you letter that the client sent to us: Dear Age UK Bedfordshire, In the middle of January on a cold and snowy winter night, our boiler burst leaving us without any form of heating and no hot water. My wife is 72 and disabled and I am 80 years of age. We got in touch with the council to see if we could get any help. They came here and inspected our boiler and said we needed a new one. We were told we did not qualify for a grant due to the fact that we were not on housing benefit. We decided to ask for help elsewhere and were put in touch with Age UK Bedfordshire. We had a phone call in February 2015 and the lady who spoke to us was to become our case worker. She asked if she could come here and see us, which she did. She asked questions about who we had approached and what help we had been given. We had been turned down by everyone except an offer of £200, when a boiler costs £3,557.46! Our case worker asked the usual questions about us and our income/expenditure and then asked if I was ever in the services. I said that I was in the RAF. She said thank you and she would go back to her office to see what help she could sort out. She did explain to us that she is a student and did we mind that she was a student/trainee. We said no we had no objection whatsoever. Five days later I had a phone call from a RAFA Welfare Officer. He came to see us and after we had explained everything to him he told us he had had a phone call from our case worker of Age UK Bedfordshire. He then said he would go back to his committee to see what could be done. About three

working hard to improve life for older people

weeks later we had a letter granting us £2,500, towards the boiler. Since then we have managed to find the rest of the money following a cheque received from relations and other kind hearted people. Our case worker had been trying to arrange grants for the remainder for us, but in the end we did not need help to raise the balance. Since the boiler burst we have had no heating except a very small electric heater and later a portable gas fire loaned to us by a kind neighbour. We also had no hot water so were unable to shower. We have had to boil water on the stove and wash in the kitchen to keep warm. We would like to thank our case worker for all the help she has given to us, if she had not told us she was a student we would have never have guessed it; she was very professional, polite, friendly, helpful and nothing was too much trouble for her. We could not have asked for a better lady. We would also like to thank Age UK for all their help in getting us a boiler. This is now on order and we hope to have it by the end of May 2015. We wish our case worker all the very best for the future.

Dates for Your Diary

Thank you once again.

March

October

• Saturday 24th (2am) British Summer Time Ends Clocks go back one hour • Saturday 31st Halloween

November

• Sunday 1st All Saints Day • Thursday 5th Bonfire Night keep pets indoors! • Sunday 8th Remembrance Sunday

December

• Thursday 24th Christmas Eve • Friday 25th Christmas Day • Saturday 26th Boxing Day • Monday 28th Bank Holiday • Thursday 31st New Years Eve

January 2016

• Friday 1st New Years Day

February

• Sunday 14th Valentine's Day

• Tuesday 1st St David's Day • Sunday 6th Mothering Sunday • Thursday 17th St Patrick's Day • Thursday 24th Maundy Thursday • Friday 25th Good Friday • Sunday 27th (1am) British Summer Time commences - Clocks go forward one hour • Sunday 27th Easter Sunday • Monday 28th Easter Monday

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 | 11

Grandma Greenfingered

After the mixed weather during this summer my vegetable and fruit garden had varied success, with some plants growing better than others. Woolly aphids attacked my apple trees, huddling in the young stems that grew after the neat pruning I carried out last winter.

Chemical treatment which contains Pyrethroids and Pyrethrin.

Note: It is important to read manufacturer's instructions for use and the associated safety data information before applying chemical treatments. Organic treatment to include checking tree shoots and bark; scrubbing areas within easy reach with a brush and a bucket of soapy water; spraying infested areas with a firm jet of water to help reduce aphid numbers; spraying with natural fatty acids such as an insecticidal soap.

1 2 | AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

The parasitic wasp Aphelinus mali will attack aphids above ground level. Aphid predators such as ladybirds, aphidoletes, hoverflies, and lacewing larvae can be encouraged by providing suitable overwintering sites and by growing flowers which attract them. My herbaceous border which I planted in the autumn of 2014 is now full of colour and ground cover. As the shrubs continue to grow height will develop creating seasonal structure. Jobs for the autumn and winter period include: • Enjoy the last late-summer colour of the year and attractive seed-heads which are on display. • Plant spring bulbs before the first frosts. • Tidy and trim perennials as the autumn ends. • Plant bare root shrubs, roses, hedging plants and trees. • Clear leaves and compost them if possible. Have a wonderful season and look forward to next year.

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

Images: © Africa Studio, Jorge Salcedo / www.shutterstock.com

oolly aphid appear like fluffy, cotton wool covering the bark and stems. As with all aphids they excrete sticky honeydew which sometimes encourages black, sooty mould. Plants which are commonly affected are apple, pear, prunus, crab apple, pyracantha, cotoneaster, elm, hawthorn and mountain ash trees. Having previously seen these pests on cotoneaster I recognised them early in the season. Damage from the feeding aphids can cause canker and the young overwinter in cracks in the bark. There are several treatment options:

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 | 13

1 4 | AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

Volunteering in Retirement Anne S

At the end of a career maybe others, like me, hope that retirement will stretch ahead like a grassy path leading to a sea view overlooking the glistening horizon.

ut how do you fill the days? Suddenly you have a blank diary into which you can pencil as much or as little as you like. Planning for retirement sessions suggested a three way split: continue with some paid work ‘to ease into full-time retirement’, do some voluntary work and pursue your own hobbies and interests. As a retired teacher a bit of ‘coaching’, some volunteering and finding pleasure in gardening, walking the local countryside and being a new long-distance Granny all seemed appealing. After a year I saw the opportunity that I was waiting for and decided to approach Age UK, filling in an application form to train as an information and advice volunteer and also as a home visitor to assist people filling in the Attendance Allowance form. After being interviewed and DBS checked, I started training last September 2014. The induction was very thorough and well set out. It felt serious enough to be taken as a real job but not in any way difficult to follow. I enjoyed shadowing other home visitors, seeing how they went about filling in the form with elderly applicants or family members. I learnt how to complete the form

and enter data on the computer back in the Age UK office. In early March, I started doing visits on my own and have just done my 28th visit. Demand for home visits is so high that I now just do the visits while a team of volunteers provide advice and information from the office. I soon realised working two mornings a week with Age UK used the skills of my professional career – literacy and talking to people, both tick boxes with me. But there is much more to it than that. The Attendance Allowance form is not for the faint hearted. You need to tackle it with two hours of pen-wielding, introspective determination. Most elderly people do not usually expose their vulnerabilities, let alone answer 50 personal questions in depth. They do not all have the stamina to write answers and self-evaluate. My most recent clients have a joint age of 269, all have mobility problems and live alone. No wonder they asked Age UK to send a scribe! I drive to rural and not so rural destinations in Bedfordshire and have enjoyed watching the hedgerows emerge, passing by glorious gardens in bloom and ending up in lovely homes. Some folk have lived all their married

working hard to improve life for older people

life in one house – 48 years overlooking green countryside or small, well-tended gardens, now paved and wheelchair friendly. Who would deny two hours to make a person’s life more comfortable? The Attendance Allowance could buy personal care for those who have difficulty showering or using a bath. It can help to keep the house clean or maintain the garden. Most people want to remain in their own home for as long as possible and if I can help them give voice to that appeal, then from that I derive a certain satisfaction. I have chatted to people about their past working life; engineers of various types, nurses, doctors, cleaners, secretaries, factory workers, ministry officials, a lady who, during the war, was in the Land Army who is writing her memoirs. Ordinary folk with extraordinary lives, deserving some time and help. I had quite a shock when a wet cat launched itself from the draining board behind me and landed on question 16 of 50. No real harm done. Back in the office to followup is also important to me, just like finding out if students had passed an exam. I like to know if my ‘clients’ have been awarded the Attendance

Allowance. It helps me to gauge whether I am enabling people to enhance their care options. It is job satisfaction and rewarding. Then I can catch up with what my grandchildren are doing and hopefully read to them and listen to them, amazed as their language skills develop. Communication is one key to our happiness.

Do you?

Would you have a few spare hours, days when you would like to help us help older people in Bedfordshire?

Can you?

We need volunteers that can be trained to offer advice, provide admin work within the office. Visit people in their own homes to complete benefit forms.

We will:

• Provide full training to the right candidate. • Mileage would be paid for visits made. • You will gain job satisfaction knowing your spare time has helped someone in need of advice or by obtaining much needed benefits for them that will help to improve their life or present situation. Age UK Bedfordshire need you!

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 | 15

Home Fire Safety Message

For advice on smoke alarms - www.bedsfire.com

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 | 17

We can’t change the outcome, but we can change the journey. A hospice is not just a building, it encompasses a way of caring for people. Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger, Bedford, MK44 3RJ. Here at St John’s Hospice we offer a range services which go beyond the four walls of the hospice building, and extend into our community. ALL THE CARE WE DELIVER IS FREE.

Our services • Inpatient Care • Day Services • Family and Bereavement Support • Community PEPS service • Complimentary Therapy • Spiritual Care Patients can be referred to us via their GP, District Nurse, Macmillan Nurse or other Health Care Professional. Did you know… 53% of patients who visit our hospice come for symptom management and then go home again. Why don’t you give a little time and see what you can do to help support St John’s Hospice. Please visit www.sueryder.org/stjohns or call us on 01767 642412 to �nd out more.

Jacqui Thomson – St John’s Ambassador. “I never really knew about St John’s until we needed their support, but now the word hospice has a new meaning for me and my family. After I lost my Husband David to Non Hodgkin Lymphoma at St John’s, I just felt that I needed to give back. We were able to spend time together as a family and nothing was too much trouble for the staff, ‘it’s just like one big family.’ My way of giving back is doing whatever I can to fundraise for the hospice.” St John’s are always looking for volunteers to help with events, raise money or help support the hospice. Email: stjohnsfundraising@suerydercare An one off payment of £20 can help pay for one hours care, for one patient.

What You Didn’t Know About… Image: © Africa Studio, www.shutterstock.com

Dunstable Town Mayor Councillor Liz Jones

Q. Who has been the biggest influence on your life? My parents-both have done a huge amount for others; have been public figures and past mayors of Dunstable. Q. What are the most important lessons you’ve learnt in life? To appreciate what you have in life - don’t take anything or anyone for granted. Q. If you could hold on to one memory from your life forever, what would that be? The last ‘hug’ my dad gave me, a day before he suddenly passed away. I was only 14 at the time and very much a daddy’s girl.

Q. How would you like to be remembered? As somebody who helped and inspired others. Q. Where did you grow up? I grew up in Dunstable and have never left the town, its ‘home’ and I love it! Q. What did you think you were going to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a police officer, but that has not happened. I am a manager at the Dept for Work and Pensions based in Luton. Q. Do you plan on retiring ever? Oh yes, but doubtful before the age of 65.

working hard to improve life for older people

Q. Can you talk about the biggest obstacle(s) you have had to overcome in your life so far? When my dad died I was only 14. I suddenly found myself growing up very quickly and supporting my mum. I hated school and knew I had to do something, so chose to go to college near to home which enabled me to stay and support mum.

children! I have four nieces and a nephew instead and lots of friends' kidsbut it's not the same! Q. Do you get nervous before a speech? Yes, my stomach churns and I tend to speak very quicklymy husband gives me, ‘the look’ to tell me to slow down.

Q. Which radio station do you listen to more than any other? 3 Counties Radio, rather than Heart-I like the banter!

Q. If you won the Euromillions what's the one big thing you would splash out on? I would pay my mortgage, and those of my closest relatives before buying a new car and visiting Australia.

Q. Regrets, do you have a few? Yes, but the main one has to be not being able to have

Q. Do you have a favourite sporting hero? Nick Faldo - don't know why but have always liked him!

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 | 19

Puzzle Page Solutions to all three puzzles can be found on page 26

Wordsearch Which One is Missing? Can you find which word is missing from the list below? CHRISTMAS PRESENTS CRACKERS HOLLY JESUS FOOD SNOW TREE TINSEL

4 3

5 4

Sudoku The Game of Logic Place each of the digits 1 to 9 in each row, column and 3x3 box. There is only one solution.

1 2 3

6 7

W O

Quick Quiz Again it’s general knowledge, taken for the Trivial Pursuit categories: 1. What is the capital of Switzerland? 2. The River Ystwyth runs through which Welsh county? 3. Who played the lead role in the 1944 adaption of Henry V? 4. Sir Thomas Beecham was the founder of which organisation? 5. In which year was entente cordiale declared? 6. Who was the last Empress of India? 7. ‘Call me Ishmael’ is the opening line to which novel? 8. How many lines are there in a Haiku? 9. What is the collective noun for owls? 10. How many hearts does an octopus have? 11. Who was the last British ladies’ champion at Wimbledon? 12. How many points are awarded for a try in rugby union?

Share Your Voice With Us…

e are looking to publish a selection of articles where readers write into the magazine

2 0 | AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

with their thoughts, views on topics raised in the magazine or support they have received from Age UK Bedfordshire. Please write to: The Editor, Age UK Bedfordshire,

Voice, 78-82 Bromham Rd, Bedford MK40 2QH or Email: voice@ ageukbedfordshire.org.uk. We look forward to hearing from you next time…

Remember the next edition will be available from late Spring 2016 so if you have any stories, events going on or photographs please send them in.

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

Digital Design Sales and Marketing Contract Publishing

Branding Solutions

PRODUCTION Lance Publishing Ltd 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, Kettering, NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 521126 Fax: 01536 515481 Email: studio@lancepublishing.co.uk www.lancepublishing.co.uk

CED BLYISHING LTD U D O R P E PUB LANC AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 | 21

Wagg n Bone Wandon End Farm, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 8NX

01582 456521 www.waggnbone.co.uk

All facilities open 7 days a week... see individual waggs for opening times

Wagg n Groom Dog Grooming

Experienced dog groomers Tracy will groom and pamper your pooch just the way it deserves using only the best Animology award winning sprays and shampoos Appointment only Call Tracy on 07795 313921

Wagg n Bone

Dog Day Care Need your dog looking after whilst you are at work or just out for the day? Dog day care is available and offers your pet a fun, stimulating and safe environment with fully licensed and insured facilities. Open 7am - 6pm Call Sue on 07701 071295

Wagg n Shop Retail Shop

* additional charges apply

Opening Soon

2 2 | AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

Wagg n Wash

Service & self service dog Wash Self service washes start from 拢9.00 (includes Shampoo, turbo blaster, towels, brushes and cologne) No Appointment necessary Open 10am - 5pm Alternatively have a member of staff wash your dog for you with our service wash* options Appointment only Call Sue on 07701 071295

Wagg n Walk Dog Walking

Wagg n Board Dog Boarding

Call Louise on 07894 687383 Collection & drop off services available* Ample Free Parking available on-site For more information and pricing, visit our website or call on the phone numbers available.

Could you help local children with their reading? Beanstalk vets, trains and supports volunteers to work in primary schools with children who have fallen behind with their reading. Beanstalk need volunteer reading helpers in Bedford to work with children on a one-to-one basis to: 路 improve their reading levels 路 increase their overall confidence 路 and inspire a lifelong love of reading. Can you spare two mornings or afternoons a week to help? Sign up on www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk/reading-helpers or call 01604 720969 for more information.

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 | 23

Care Act Update Some aspects of The Care Act came into force in April 2015 and other parts are still waiting to be implemented. It changes the way the social care system will work in the future.

he first parts of the Act came into effect in April 2015. Although the remaining changes were due to come into force in April 2016, the government has announced that they are to be delayed until April 2020. If you need care, or look after someone who does, you’ll need to know how care is changing in the future and how it could affect you. You can find an overview below, or

2 4 | AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

read our factsheet Introduction to the Care Act 2014 for more detailed information. Factsheets are available from our offices on Bromham Road, Bedford.

Ways it may affect you from April 2015:

1. You will have a right to a free needs assessment from your council, even if it thinks your finances are too high or your needs are too low to qualify for help. 2. All councils will use a new national eligibility criteria to decide whether someone can get help from them. 3. If you get social care support, you will now have

a right to request a personal budget if you’re not offered one. This is a summary of how much the council thinks your care should cost. This might be useful if you want to pay for your own care. 4. If your needs assessment shows you don’t qualify for help from the council, they must advise you how the care system works and how to pay for your own care. So if you just need a hand with housework, for example, the council should assist you in finding this. 5. You can defer selling your home to pay your care fees until after your death. 6. If you’re paying for your own care, you can ask the council to arrange your services for you. It can only charge you

as much as someone whose care they are funding. 7. If you’re a carer, you have a legal right to a care assessment from the local council. You can also get support services if you qualify for them. 8. If you find it difficult to communicate or to understand the issues being discussed, the council must provide an advocate to help you when discussing your care. They will represent your interests if you don’t have a friend or relative who can help. 9. The council must provide preventative services that could reduce or delay your need for care. For example, intermediate care at home after a hospital

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

Winter

Fruit salad Make the most of autumnal fruits in this refreshing and nourishing salad make a batch and eat during the week.

Preparation: 20 mins Cooking: 10 mins Plus infusing and chilling time Serves: 6

stay could help keep you independent for longer.

Ways it may affect you from April 2020:

1. There will be a cap on how much you have to spend on your care needs. Anything you or the council spend on your eligible needs will be added up in your care account. Once it reaches £72,000, the council will pay for all your eligible needs. This will exclude your daily living costs, which covers things like your food and accommodation in a care home. The proposed figure of £72,000 for the cap could change by 2020 due to inflation. 2. The council can reassess your care needs, even

if you pay for your own care. This is because the council works out how much your care should cost to meet your eligible needs, and adds this up. It needs to check every so often that the amount it thinks you should be spending is still right. 3. New rules about top-up fees in care homes mean you may be able to pay them yourself. Top-up fees may apply if you move into a care home that costs more than the council can pay. 4. If you’re not happy about a decision, you have a new right to complain and appeal it, and for this to be independently investigated.

working hard to improve life for older people

Method One

Tip the fruits and 700ml/1 1/4 pints cold water into a large saucepan. Add the honey and vanilla, scraping the seeds from the pod into the pan. Bring to the boil. Stir well, lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly syrupy.

Two

Ingredients

• 600g good-quality ready-to-eat dried fruits (such as prunes, pears, apricots, figs cranberries) • 3 tbsp clear honey • 1 vanilla pod, split lengthways • 1 Earl Grey tea bag • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice • mascarpone or Greek yogurt, to serve

Take the pan off the heat and stir in the tea bag. Leave to infuse for 10 minutes.

Three

Discard the tea bag and vanilla pod, tip the fruits and liquid into a non-metallic bowl and pour over the lemon juice. Stir, then leave to cool. Cover and chill until ready to serve.

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 | 25

Charlie Chuckles Every issue Charlie Chuckles will do his best to make you smile!

Q. What do you call a kid who doesn't believe in Santa?

lution is A New Year's reso in one es something that go r. he ot e th year and out

A. A rebel without a Claus!

Q: Why don't cows have any money?

Q: What is brown and has a head and a tail but no legs?

A: Because farmers milk them dry.

D Z R C O D I X R

V Y P E D L O L I

W O L T F S K L J S

E J

R P E V Y T

L P B D O O F G S

7 4 9 2 3 5 8 6 1

5 6 3 8 4 1 9 2 7

2 1 8 6 7 9 4 3 5

6 3 4 9 8 7 5 1 2

1 7 2 4 5 3 6 8 9

8 9 5 1 6 2 3 7 4

3 5 6 7 1 4 2 9 8

9 8 1 5 2 6 7 4 3

4 2 7 3 9 8

from Page 20

1. Bern, 2. Ceredigion, 3. Laurence Olivier, 4. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, 5. 1904, 6. Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, 7. Moby Dick, 8. Three, 9. A parliament, 10. Three, 11. Virginia Wade, 12. Five

1 5 6

Images: ÂŠ Skorpionik00, Lucky Business, Dudarev Mikhail, Asaf Eliason Milleflore / www.shutterstock.com

A: A penny.

Mummy," replies the son. After a short while, the son returns and asks, "Mummy, why have I got these great big humps on my back?" The mother, now a little impatient with the boy replies, "They are there to help us store water for our long treks across the desert, so we can go without drinking for long periods." "That's great Mummy, so we have huge feet to stop us sinking, and long eyelashes to keep the sand from our eyes and these humps to store water, but Mum..." "Yes, son?" "Why the heck are we in the Bristol Zoo?"

Answers&Solutions

2 6 | AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

Knock Knock whoâ€™s there? Oakham Oakham who? Oakham all ye faithful...!

mother and baby camel are talking one day when the baby camel asks, "Mummy, why have I got these huge three toed feet?" The mother replies, "Well son, when we trek across the desert your toes will help you to stay on top of the soft sand." "OK," said the son. A few minutes later the son asks, "Mummy, why have I got these great long eyelashes?" "They are there to keep the sand out of your eyes on the trips through the desert." "Thanks

Knock Knock

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

Call our professional team on:-

Bedford Central Bedfordshire

01234 211481 01525 713389