Chichester Retail Opens and is Ringing the Changes

Amanda Howse
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Chichester Retail Opens and is Ringing the Changes

During the 3 month lockdown which started in March most English cities including Chichester in West Sussex could have been described as ‘ghost towns’. Everyone has been staying inside to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and visitors have been keeping away from the usual attractions and tourism has been non-existent.

Not as many people are visiting the city centre this summer and so far footfall is way down compared to last year. No restaurants are open yet but most plan to open with about 50% less customers to allow for keeping at least 1 meter distance between diners from tomorrow. 

Last winter the department store House of Fraser closed in Chichester. Other big shops like Bon Marche and Laura Ashley also closed after many years. It now looks like Ashley will now not be bought by an investment company after the international chain went into administration this Spring.

Smaller boutiques like East, Swarovski, Pushka, Old Guy’s T shirts, Molten Brown cosmetics, music shop Guitar Sound and menswear tailor Andrew McDowall have also called it a day over the last 12 months which has left quite a few empty shops across town.

Oasis has been a special colourful destination for young female fashionistas for decades but now stands dark and empty near the central Market Cross. Oasis closed this month after being bought by online fashion retailer Boo Hoo.

Chichester Flight Centre is now permanently shut as the travel industry has been severely impacted by the government’s quarantine. (4)

Monsoon are still in Chichester but the classic company are also struggling. They advised the press about a strategy to close a several stores across the region this year.

This leaves Marks and Spencer, Top Shop, H&M and New Look as the remaining large shops in Chichester offering a range of affordable fashion for everyone. Marks and Spencer is ticking along fine as it is fortunate to have been able to keep open throughout the lockdown and is able to lean on strong food department sales.

Boutiques like Jigsaw, Mint Velvet, White Stuff, Mistral and Fatface now have big challenges but their relatively smaller size and higher price points gives them an opportunity to use their unique products and customer service skills to ensure they can keep their balance sheets looking healthy.

Smaller premises like Lush and Lili, Preview, Stephen Lawrence and Indigo are independent boutiques that add to the charm of Chichester and give shoppers the option to choose something completely unique.

Brightly coloured face masks and plastic gloves are now the new accessory finding favour as people stroll along the old worn flagstones again. The ‘meet and greeters’ are in the front of nearly all of the companies entrances.

The front of house assistant’s corporate uniforms are often black. When the personal protection equipment is added the combination could give the impression that fancy dress has come into stock early were it not for the neon signage reinforcing the safe distancing policies of the establishments.

The shop keepers manage the customer flow into their buildings to ensure there is a limited number of browsers inside at any time. Fashion leader Next set up a large sign declaring a limit of 13 customers checking out their capacious floor of summer collections at any one moment. Consequently there were a few locals waiting patiently and standing well back from eachother politely outside.

There are temporary construction barriers and signage due to ongoing maintenance work to upgrade the unreliable electricity network all along East Street. This means only the keenest trendy residents will be bothered to navigate the barricades to be able to pop in to have a look in their regular local suppliers of clothing, homeware and gifts.

Clothkits and The Eternal Maker are both independent businesses in Chichester that sell fabric and gifts. Both independent shops usually offer classes to people in West Sussex who want to learn how to sew. Delivering one-to-one tuition is not possible with safe distancing at present. However both creative enterprises have used their entrepreneurial skills to continue trading through the crisis. Folk of all ages are learning new skills and hobbies. 

Providing craft supplies, kits and take away cafe services they have been able to survive and prosper to some extent through an unexpectedly difficult season financially. Smaller privately owned ventures have been able to change quickly and innovate. Clothkit’s invention Drapers Yard is a mini market collaboration of local designer makers, artists and micro cafes and bakeries. Draper Yard  have been providing delivery services and an online ordering to take away from its premises in The Hornet. They provide weekly jolly newsletters and a pick up service every week from Clothkits which has been named Yum Saturday. 

The fitting rooms are nearly all staying shut for trying on womenswear, menswear and childrenswear. Perhaps in the future fitting rooms will be individual pods that are also self washing facilities to ensure that they are completely sanitised between clients.

Companies have been providing additional training for their staff about the correct way of wearing PPE. In addition they have been focusing on extra staff cleaning procedures, managing customer service safely, effectively directing and separating their precious human ‘traffic’ with floor stickers.

There were several people lined up and eager to wait for their turn to look through the rails at T K Maxx which reopened last Monday in Chichester. This large shop has 2 floors and perhaps it is particularly popular as the designer ‘jumble sale’ format is about finding hidden treasures at bargain prices, so is by its nature a physical activity.  Creating an instore experience has never been so important for tempting reluctant men, women and children back again to enjoy some leisure time and spend some money in local outlets. 

Looking at the weather report before going into town has become more important than ever as queueing outside shops has become the ‘new normal’. Older people and those with health conditions will need to pick the quietest times carefully or bring portable seating to avoid getting exhausted before attempting to tick anything off their shopping list. It would be understandable if not everyone sees the appeal of getting into a line on the pavement like you are ready to dance at the hottest new club. Unless the listing building rules change is will be impossible for businesses to provide covered entrances for customers in inclement weather.

Chichester is still a wonderful place to spend time with friends and family and enjoy the medieval architecture. The cafe culture which will commence again this weekend will make a big difference to creating a positive shopping atmosphere. The cathedral gardens and parks have still been popular during this unusual season and offer a sanctuary and a change of scene for residents.

We may see the larger buildings in Chichester become impossible to fill with profitable shops during this difficult trading situation. Rates, staff costs, imported stock costs and electricity might just not make  these grand ventures viable.

It is possible we will see a return to a more old fashioned style ‘quality not quantity’ high street in the future. Hopefully independent boutiques stocking local produce and craft will still be able to flourish. These organisations add charachter to the town centre. As environmentally friendly values become the norm more Sussex produced and sustainable product ranges could be supported by residents and also bought by visitors from all over the world.

 

(1) ‘Chichester’s lost businesses: The changing nature of our high street’ Joe Stack, Chicheser Observer

4 Feb 2019 ‘Chichesters Lost Businesses’ Joe Stack, Chichester Observer

(2) ‘Travel store in Chichester’s city centre permanently closes’ Sam Morton, Chichester Observer

24 June 2020 ‘Travel store closes’ Sam Moore, Chichester. Observer

Cycling Campaigners Get Go Ahead for New Bike Link in West Sussex

Amanda Howse
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Cycling Campaigners Get Go Ahead for New Bike Link in West Sussex

Last week Highways England announced that the villages between Emsworth in Hampshire and Chichester in West Sussex will be connected for all road users properly for the first time. This is because cyclists in West Sussex will soon benefit from a “new 7-mile route linking Chichester to Emsworth travelling along the A259 corridor.”(1)

The Chichester Observer reported that the route will link into the existing Centurion Way cycle path and also other local routes on the Selsey peninsula with Chichester. The design process is taking place this year with construction planned to start in January 2021.

There is cause for celebration along the Solent coastline as this Spring there were two organised rides by the group ChEmroute who have been actively campaigning for a safer cycle route from Emsworth to Chichester. A large group of locals have gathered at both events to rally the authorities to lead the implementation of this important transport connection. ChEmroute called for their local government representatives to allocate funding to build a really safe option for cyclists whilst offering residents and visitors an environmentally way to travel along the south coast. (2)

The existing A259 road was the old main road from Portsmouth to Chichester before the A27 motorway was built in the late 1980’s. The A259 (old) Main Road has bicycle lanes painted on the road that appear and then disappear all along the A259 which can be hazardous for all types of traffic and ChEmroute describes the pathway as “having gaps” and “needlessly meandering”. Currently cars and vans often park up to deliver to properties on each side of the road, which then causes frequent overtaking for all types of traffic.

Walking, running and cycling have become daily activities for more families and people of all ages than ever, during the lockdown in the UK to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. In the last five years Highways England has spent “£85 million on 160 new and upgraded cycleways” nationwide. (1)

ChEmroute’s insistence on redesigning this busy thoroughfare is vital to prevent any further cyclist injuries and loss of life caused by accidents with motor vehicles. Just before Christmas a much loved mother and community member called Gina who worked at the Co-Op in Bosham was tragically knocked off her bike in Fishbourne at the junction with Salthill Road.

West Sussex County council have also applied for £784,000 in funding for an additional 21km of temporary cycle lanes with projects in Adur, Arun, central Chichester, Crawley, Horsham, Mid Sussex and Worthing as part of the central government ‘Safe space’ cycling scheme. (3)

In their latest report to coincide with National Bike Week, Highways England declared that they have now invested £675,000 into Dorset Council’s latest project to create improved cycle and footpaths plus also upgrading the crossings on both the A35 and Sea Road South.

Transport Secretary Grant Schapps is leading a “£250 million emergency active travel fund” which is the initial part of the £2 billion investment package that in turn is the first chunk of the £5 billion promise that Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his cabinet have promised to spend on better bus services and bike routes. (4)

As one biker put it on facebook “the devil will literally be in the detail” when evaluating safety during the detailed design process. (5) Chichester Cycle Forum has asked Highways England for Chichester and the District Cycle Forum to be involved in developing the scheme. Great Britain has a long way to go to rival countries on the continent like Holland or Denmark for becoming a really cycle friendly place to live and work.

It is great news for all adults and future generations that the long overdue financial budgets are now available to create more dedicated cycleways. It will take a lot of hard work, cooperation and dedication to complete these projects successfully. One of the silver linings of this very difficult year could be that the south coast and many other areas of England become safer and greener neighbourhoods. New bike and walking routes will allow everyone to both economically and conveniently commute and also enjoy some active leisure time.

Public transport and biking are the environmentally friendly way to travel in the future. Many thousands more people will opt to cycle in Hampshire and West Sussex if there are dedicated cycleways for them to choose, so we look forward to the completion of this project as soon as possible.

 

 

(1) ‘Highways England pumps £85 million into getting people back on bikes’ Gov.uk, 9 June 2020 ‘Highways England pumps £85 million_back on bikes’ Gov.uk

(2) ‘ChEmroute Vision, 28 June 2020, ChEmroute Vision

(3) ‘Safe space’ cycling scheme planned for West Sussex, Spirit FM, 18 June 2020 ‘Safe space cycling scheme’ Spirit FM

(4) ‘£2 billion package to create new era for cycling and walking’, 18 June 2020 ‘£2 billion package – for cycling and walking’ Gov.uk

(5) Chichester Cycle Forum facebook page, 18 June 2020 Chichester Cycle Forum facebook page

(6) ‘New cycle route to link Chichester and Emsworth’ Joe Stack Chicheser Observer, 12 June 2020 ‘New cycle route Chichester to Emsworth, Joe Stack, Chichester Observer

(7) ‘Cycling group meet to continue its campaign for a safe route for A259’, 28 February 2020, ‘Cycling group meet to campaign for safe route A259’ Chichester Post

Should Disposable Barbecues Be Banned in Beauty Spots?

Amanda Howse
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Should Disposable Barbecues Be Banned in Beauty Spots?

This month Change.org are delivering a petition to the government to demand that disposable barbecues are completely outlawed. It would then be illegal to sell single use barbecues in Britain. Environmentalists want to ban the sale of disposable barbecues to prevent the general public visiting national parks and beauty spots and accidentally setting alight grass, woodland and other green commons and farmland.

Nature enthusiasts are petitioning to make purchasing a single use barbecue illegal. They want this to apply across the UK as soon as possible. This is following several large fires that have occurred in different areas of the country. The fire service fear all these unwanted flames have been caused by accidentally allowing a foil barbecue to burn through to materials beneath. Leaving the metallic rubbish container still burning after an outdoor meal, can also lead to the ignition of dry organic materials, say Fire Chiefs.

Fires can be started accidentally by visitors lighting barbecues when camping or hiking in the countryside. Firefighters are usually able to tackle the blazes which can destruct vast areas of dry land during the summer months. It can take several days and be dangerous work for emergency services.

The result is that natural habitats of many mammals, insects and other creatures can be irrevocably decimated. Plant life and ecosystems can be damaged permanently which his bad news for the environment which is already under constant threats from building development and global warming.

Fires can then reignite unexpectedly like the incident in Wareham in Dorset on the 18th May where a spokesperson for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said “Firefighters have found evidence of deep subterranean burning deep within a tree trunk which made it to the surface and then was fanned by the wind.” they continued to declare “help us by not lighting fires, having barbecues in the open or doing anything that may set alight grass, foliage, heath or woodland.” (6)

At the end of May 550 acres (220 hectares) of forest were damaged in Wareham in south west England. Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service “asked the public not to have any barbecues over the coming days in case they got out of control, and urged people to avoid the area.” (5)

Some British citizens disagree that the throw away tin trays should be ditched for good. Alternatively other adults argue that if disposable barbecues are banned then other cookers may be used instead which could be even more of a danger to human health and the natural habitats of wildlife.

Melina at Silver Surfers points out that “As they are portable (barbecues) they may be used in unsuitable locations such as under trees or near long grass, bushes or fences which may easily catch fire. They can easily tip over. They may take several hours to cool down and so are often left whilst still hot.” (8)

Others say that we need to educate visitors on the hazards that can be encountered when heading out to the great outdoors instead. This viewpoint argues that teaching people the correct way to enjoy their time in the countryside without disrupting nature and taking their rubbish away is the best policy.

Enjoying quality time socialising around the campfire in summer is one of the wonderful simple pleasures of living in Britain, for people of all ages. Parents have called for more picnic areas and safely built barbecue spaces for families and friends to be able to cook dinner outdoors easily.

Small barbecues of all sorts are more affordable and it can give people on a limited income a lot of joy to grill outside where they live so they would not want to be prevented from doing so especially as citizens have been spending more time at home because of preventing the spread of Covid-19. One young woman from Portsmouth said “we so enjoyed our mini barbecue in the garden. We shared our grilled meats with our elderly neighbour Peter who lives alone but was able to safely distance and join us for dinner in our adjoining gardens.”

Mark Halll Communications Manager at Businesswaste.co.uk estimates that there are “over a million disposable barbecues sold in the UK each year.” (7) He explained that at Ilkley Moor the ancient moorland in West Yorkshire there were “two fires over the Bank Holiday weekend – despite laws having been in place since 1900 prohibiting citizens from having fires on the moor. Firefighters tackled the blazes for several days to control the damage, but a number of eyewitnesses were appalled to report that there were still thrill-seekers holding barbecues in the area.” The out of control bonfire incidents can be life threatening to responders and also cause respiratory problems for residents in the locality. Another side effect can be a rise in pollution levels in the vicinity of the burnt land.

According to New Scientist last year the UK had 96 large wildfires which is more than any other year on record. Adam Vaughan at New Scientist warned that more dry weather because of climate change was contributing to the increase. New Scientist also point out that if the fire services are dealing with rural blazes they are diverting critical resources away from communities in towns and cities that need them on standby. (9)

With predictions of a serious recession following the coronavirus pandemic, it is essential that Great Britain, Scotland and Northern Ireland all prioritise their resources efficiently. Emergency services need to focus on accidental fires at and near to properties in built up locations. Banning disposable barbecues anywhere in our nature reserves is probably a sensible way forward. Ensuring there are plenty of designated picnic areas with permanently installed non-flammable stations that are designed specifically for lighting safe barbecues can offer a secure alternative for those looking to eat together ‘al fresco’, without spoiling the outward bound experience.

Educational resources for all parents, schools and youth clubs would be a great idea and simple videos to inform the public about controlling campfires could work well. Fire service approved recommendations on choosing better quality and more environmentally friendly equipment to heat up food when camping could be part of a program to develop best practice for anyone spending the day or a weekend in the countryside.

More volunteers and park rangers at well loved beauty spots and in national parks to educate and guide visitors and monitor the situation during the dry months would be a good solution. Surely prevention is always better than cure when it comes to taking care of our precious natural surroundings.

(1) ‘The Best Portable BBQs on Test’ Natalie Hardwick, Reviews Editor, BBC Good Food, 9 June 2020 ‘best portable BBQs’, Natalie Hardwick, BBC Good Food

(2) Ban Disposable BBQs, Change.Org Petition, 9 June 2020, ‘Ban disposable BBQs’ Change.org petition

(3) ‘How To Keep Food Warm For Hours With No Quality Loss’ Mark Jenner, FoodFireFriends, 26 May 2020 ‘How to keep food warm for hours’ Mark Jenner, FoodFireFriends

(4) ‘Thursley Common fire updates as firefighters battle 20-hectare blaze for second day – recap’ Kirstie McCrum, Laura Hartley, Jamie Phillips, Emma Pengelly, Surrey Live, 1 June 2020 ‘Thursley Common fire update’ McCrum, Hartley, Phillips, Pengelly, Surrey Live

(5) ‘Wareham Forest fire crews ‘stretched’ at blaze site’ BBC News, 24 May 2020, ‘Wareham Forest fire crews stretched at blaze site’ BBC News

(6) ‘Cause of second fire at Wareham Forest revealed’ Ellie Maslin Daily Echo (Bournemouth), 10 June 2020 ‘Cause of second fire at Wareham Forest revealed’ Ellie Maslin, Daily Echo

(7) ‘Disposable BBQs ‘should be banned’ to prevent further devastating wildfires’ Mark Hall, Businesswaste.co.uk, 25 April 2019 ‘Disposable BBQs should be banned to prevent further devastating wildfires’ Mark Hall, Businesswaste.co.uk

(8) ‘Should disposable barbecues be banned?’ Melina, Silversurfers, 29 May 2020 ‘Should disposable barbecues be banned?’ Melina, Silversurfers

(9) ‘The UK has already had more wildfires in 2019 than any year on record’ Adam Vaughan 23 April 2019, ‘UK has already had more wildfires in 2019 than any year on record’ Adam Vaughan, New Scientist

 

 

10 Tips for Improving Mental Health For Teenagers during Covid-19

Amanda Howse
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10 Tips for Improving Mental Health For Teenagers during Covid-19

May was Mental Health Awareness month internationally. All members of society are dealing with massive challenges as a consequence of the global pandemic. It is vital that we continue to care by checking in with one another regularly and asking ‘how are you?’ and taking the time to listen empathetically to the response.

Millions of young people had a big shock when Boris Johnson announced on Wednesday 18th March that all schools would close on Friday 20th to prevent the spread of coronavirus. All end of year events and parties that are a right of passage were therefore cancelled and students may not have been able to say goodbye to each other properly. This academic year cut short caused stress and sadness even though pupils all understand the good reasons why schoolkids nationally were being suddenly separated from their peers.

There are many challenges for teenagers because of all the changes Covid-19 has brought on citizens in this country and their lives and education at home. More details about how the global pandemic has affected the under 20’s can be read here how lockdown can affect teenagers

1. Lift your spirits with moving your body

Those who are able have been getting outside every day to go walking, cycling and running to help to feel physically and mentally stronger, so they can cope with the stressful situation. Exercising releases endorphins which physically help to feel great.

Running, walking, hiking outdoors and bike riding is a great way to beat the blues away. More people than even are cycling as the roads are less busy and public transport is reserved for essential trips only. Discovering places near you that you have never explored before can be very satisfying and broadens your horizons.

If you are lucky enough to have a big garden try the traditional game of croquet or playing rounders or tennis which is suitable for most ages.

2.Staying in is the new going to the gym

Exercising indoors using online instructors has become really popular and there are hundreds of tutors to suit every style of working out, dancing and aerobic activities. Yoga is helpful if something more relaxing is needed. Zumba and online clubbing events simulate going out and having a good boogie while quarantine is still in place. Just use any search engine to find sites for your favourite activity or check out Google hangouts, Zoom, You Tube, instagram, facebook and Houseparty websites for their next events.

3. Make the most of quality time

Teenagers who are lucky enough to have siblings have been spending quality time with their younger and older brothers and sisters instead of meeting their mates every day.

Spending time with grandparents and other family members if possible can really help well-being even if its in a socially isolated way at the moment.

Hugging family members, ‘urban family’ and ‘special family friends’ can be very reassuring for everyone at every age. Hugging members of the current household is still permitted and can be a nice moment in the day and a way of showing you care. Remember that we still must not hug those we do not live with in order to respect government social distancing guidelines. It is always a good idea to check with a person first before giving someone a hug.

Positive benefits of pausing a normally busy routine can be the opportunity for family members to spend more time together, depending on their situations of course. Sharing meals together and BBQ’s outside this summer can be a special time for households that are lucky enough to have outside space.

Socialising with neighbours at a safe distance can boost your mood by brightening their day and you may hear some entertaining stories about their lives too. Arranging theme supper nights can be very enjoyable and a chance to try some new dishes and listen to music from around the world.

4. Cherish your pets for well being

Being close to and petting animals can be a great source of relaxation and comfort too as well as great company when you are feeling down. Dogs are especially talented at reading their human best friend’s expressions and expert at cheering you up with their boundless cheerfulness.

5. Speak to someone about your health

It is quite normal for all human beings to have physical and mental health problems from time to time and prevention is better than cure. It always makes sense to speak to someone. If you have tried to speak with your friends and family and it is too difficult or you still need support, there is plenty of help out there.

All pharmacies are open as usual. Supermarket pharmacists can also help with advice and dispensing and are often open late into the evening.

NHS General practitioners are available for telephone and skype meetings and clinic visits by appointment. If your surgery is closed calling the NHS helpline on 111 where medical operators can share details of helpful advice and options in your location.

Regional healthcare providers have social media links and accounts with twitter and instagram so this can be an easy first stop to see what is happening in your area this month.

MIND is a national organisation that can offer help on the phone to anyone struggling with their mental health. The number for MIND in the county of Sussex is below (12) The West Sussex Wellbeing website has links with free online training for parents and carers on dealing with self harm, substance abuse and eating disorders. (8)

A good place to start if you or anyone close to you is experiencing problems with their mental health at this difficult time is by accessing your regional NHS healthcare provider’s website online, to see what help and services are available. For example for this article we will look at what Sussex and Hampshire has to offer on the south coast of England.(4)

Sussex Mental Healthline offers crisis care for people in urgent need with their mental health. It is open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week and the telephone number is also below. (13) Calls are usually up to 20 minutes and they can also provide support for friends and carers. Healthcare assistants can listen and provide information on services and solutions that may help young people locally. (4)

Child and Adolescence Mental Health Services (CAMHS) provide mental health services across Sussex and Hampshire. CAMHS help youngsters to “acknowledge and understand why they are behaving in a certain way, and support them in their recovery to overcome these difficulties with the most appropriate treatment.” The staff team can be a link to the right medical professionals, clinics and hospitals where required and are experienced in all mental health conditions that children can suffer with.

In more severe and complex situations it is worth knowing that there is extra support out there for teenagers. Chalkhill is a hospital in Haywards Heath in Sussex that helps children aged 12-18 experiencing emotional difficulties and health problems. Chalkhill has two wards with 16 bedrooms to accommodate young people staying during their treatment when necessary. (5)

6. Watch videos and develop new coping strategies

The A to Z of Coping strategies video includes “26 ideas, strategies and techniques to help a young person to cope better if they are experiencing stresses and pressures which are making them feel in crisis or at risk of self-harming.” The Sussex Partneship NHS Foundation Trust worked in partnership with the Police and Crime Commisioner’s Youth Commision to create a mini animation on YouTube that is full of simple tips to prevent a personal crisis and learn to develop better mental health independently. The short video is colourful and will appeal to all ages too.

7. Try new hobbies and learn new skills

This extraordinary season can be a chance to catch up on home improvement projects and making the most of your space makes sense during lockdown too.

Developing new hobbies and skills such as cooking, gardening, sewing, crafting, painting, reading, writing, computer literacy, singing or learning an instrument or a new language and many more can be a great way of creating a new routine and feeling like you are making the most of this unexpected extra time.

Libraries are open for virtual book and video downloads all around the country. They say you can learn anything on You Tube and the Open University now has more than 100 free courses on a whole range of interesting subjects.(14) BBC Iplayer, Google Play, Apple, Spotify and Audiobooks have thousands of free pod casts and documentaries to listen to and watch that will help with learning most subjects.

Listening to music, the radio, doing puzzles and playing games both analogue and online is very stimulating. Traditional board games have been in demand again. Catching up with TV series and films can all be fun and rewarding activities to do alone or with those at home with similar binge watching tastes.

6. Keep connected

Young people are usually confident with technology and using zoom, skype, Viber, WhatsApp, facebook, LinkedIn and other internet software to connect is a great way of keeping in touch. Social media can be a convenient way of making new friends with similar interests and for older teenagers some future professional contacts too.

7. Practice mindfulness

Practising mindfulness is recommended for anyone at any age who is finding life stressful and feeling anxious, angry or upset. Easy breathing exercises can help the body physically pause and overcome worries and overwhelming negative feelings. Focusing on deep breathing can help anyone become more centred and ready to constructively deal with any issues affecting their mind.

You Tube has several mindfulness videos like this one from Every Mind Matters that are simple to follow.(9)

“Some people find that it is easier to cope with an over-busy mind if they are doing gentle yoga or walking” advises the NHS website. NHS.UK is an excellent free resource that has lots of reliable general advice about all types of mental health problems. (10)

8. Visit Young Minds hub

Young Minds website is an excellent resource for advice with how to approach coping with lots of different challenges that teenagers face this year. From racism, feeling isolated, problems with social media, drugs and alcohol and the practical consequences of all the changes coronavirus has caused this website is a real hub of positive ideas. There are stories from a whole range of under 18’s about how lockdown has been for them and how they have found a way through to keeping a healthy outlook.

9 Journal your way through

Creating a lockdown diary can help you understand how you are feeling day by day and if things are improving and why. Journaling is a brilliant way to express and reflect events that are happening and make sense of things as they change. If writing is not for you how about recording audio on your phone or laptop. Taking photos and saving in daily files on your device can make a virtual diary. A traditional sketchbook with drawings and doodles or even poems can be very cathartic.

10 Help others and feel amazing

Finding ways to make someone else’s day is a fantastic way to give yourself a morale boost. If you are able to help family members, neighbours and older relatives with practical things to make life easier for them that is a wonderful way to fill long lockdown weeks up. Sometimes a little ‘safe distanced’ company, help with gardening or a handmade treat can make all the difference to somebody’s day. Anything you can think of that will count as community service will help when looking for work experience or part time jobs in the future too.

Each council has a volunteering section on their website and there might be a local charity that you can help to make a difference. Helping delivering groceries to those who can’t go out at this time could be an idea. Raising money for good causes through receiving sponsorship is a good way of finding a new project or goal to work towards, which will keep you busy with preparing and training and thinking about the positive things ahead.

Teaming up with friends and relatives your own age and catching up every day or every week on the telephone or video call can make a huge difference with preventing loneliness. Anything you can do at the same time as your pal like watching a movie, cooking, gaming or beauty therapy can be a jolly way to make a long evening better.

Relationships with your best buddies can be strengthened by giving and receiving encouragement. Swapping tales of funny things that have happened and ‘having a laugh’ with mates during lockdown helps to keep a sense of humour and increases the feeling that ‘we are all in this together’ and getting through it just fine.

 

(1) Mind ‘for better mental health’ 10 June 2020 Mind ‘for better health’   The telephone number for MIND in Sussex region is 01903 721893 / 07495 077341

(2) West Sussex Wellbeing, 10 June 2020 West Sussex Wellbeing

(3) NHS National Health Service UK website ‘How to access mental health services’ 10 June 2020 NHS UK website

‘5 Steps to mental wellbeing’ NHS website, 10 June 2020 NHS website 5 steps to wellbeing

(4) ‘Sussex Mental Healthline’ Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, 3 June 2020 Sussex Mental Healthline Sussex Mental Healthline telephone number is 0300 5000 101

(5) ‘Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)’ Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

10 June 2020 CAMHS Sussex partnership NHS Trust

(6) Our Mental Health Space – Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust – A to Z of coping strategies

10 June 2020 Sussex partnership NHS Trust

(7) OpenLearn free courses The Open University, 10 June 2020 OpenLearn Open University courses

(8) ‘Mindful Breathing Exercise’ Every Mind Matters, 10 June 2020 Mindful Breathing Exercise Every Mind Matters

(9) ‘Mental health Statistics’ Young Minds, 10 June 2020 Mental Health Statistics Young Minds

Covid-19 and Mental Health: How Lockdown Can Affect Teenagers

Amanda Howse
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Covid-19 and Mental Health: How Lockdown Can Affect Teenagers

Each generation has been affected by Covid-19 differently and this article focuses on how the unexpected changes and restrictions have impacted on generation Z and those aged 13 to 19 years of age. This extraordinary time has altered the health, education and finances of most junior citizens in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

How Lockdown Can Affect Teenagers Health

Being a teenager isn’t an easy time in life for many people. There are lots of physical changes taking place in the body with the natural process of developing during puberty and there are emotional changes too as hormones increase. The brain doesn’t reach full development until around the age of 20 so it can be a lot to deal with mentally just being a teenager.

Friends and peers at school or college therefore play an extra important role and it is tough on this generation to deal with staying at home to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Studying online is challenging and does not make up for the daily company of good mates. Teenagers can easily feel isolated and concerned about what is happening now and in the future. It has been very hard for some young people who have missed their friends a great deal this year.

The Young Minds charity explains how mental health is a big issue for young people. “1 in 8 children have a diagnosable mental health disorder – that’s roughly 3 children in every classroom. 1 in 6 young people aged 16-24 has symptoms of a common mental disorder such as depression or an anxiety disorder.” (1)

Fit and active under 21’s have little to fear from COVID-19 as they are least likely to become seriously ill if they are infected. However the disease has killed children and young adults and the contagion can be unintentionally passed onto older and more vulnerable family members and the public, for whom the virus might be life threatening. This is due to the fact that it can take a week or two after being exposed to coronavirus for any symptoms to develop.

Teenagers like the rest of the population have had to forgo their usual extra curriculum activities and sports this Spring which can be a big focus of joy and learning for those who are not particularly academic. So it would not be surprising if older children have been feeling more down and frustrated than normal and possibly upset about worrying statistics and reports in the media.

The changeable weather over the next week or two means meeting friends and family outdoors is still difficult. Not all of the population are able to take advantage of the increased freedoms to be able to congregate in small groups. All men and women and boys and girls who have serious health conditions and who have been shielding from any contact during the pandemic have been advised to continue shielding or proceed with great caution due to their vulnerable status and the potentially dangerous consequences of them becoming ill with the currently incurable pathogen.

Some young people have not had access to a garden during the general lockdown which has lasted nearly 3 months. There are also others who sadly are victims of emotional and physical abuse or live in unhappy households where adults are arguing. School, college and community clubs can be a lifeline for youngsters whose home life is dysfunctional.

Those who have been able have been getting outside every day to go walking, cycling and running to help to feel physically and mentally stronger, so they can cope with the stressful situation. Resilient youngsters have found a new routine and are supporting their friends with all sorts of online events and meet ups. The latest generation are amazingly well connected, informed and switched on and full of creative ways to make the world a better place. The huge demand for vegan and sustainable products, fashion and junior activists like Greta Thurnberg have demonstrated their ability to drive forward change.

However “disconnected” is the word used to describe how some have been feeling. Underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression and OCD have been heightened by the worrying global news, frightening national statistics and even the pressure of their peers heavily edited social media accounts.

Spending time with grandparents and other family members can really help well-being and these special meetings have been limited and often impossible because of preventing the spread of Covid-19. Hugging family members can be very reassuring for everyone at every age and it is restricted to just within our immediate household this year. This can be hard especially when extended family usually take care of their grandchildren, nephews and nieces. Many separated parents have found it impossible to agree for their children to spend time with both parents during the crisis which has added to already difficult situations at home.

Medical services have been altered and interrupted and it can be difficult for those with mental health problems to get the help and medication they need. Transport has been limited or may be too stressful for some at this time. For example the Young Womens Therapy service in Brighton which offers free confidential one-to-one therapy for young women aged 18 to 25 who had a difficult start in life is not taking new referrals at this time.(2)

Routine appointments like visiting the dentist and opticians has not been possible and will not be back to normal for some time as PPE is procured and new systems put in place to keep everyone safe. Family planning and sexual health clinics have been open with limited services but research by Radio 4 this week reports that clinic staff say they have seen numbers drop off drastically. This may be because of the lack of social interaction happening this year due to social distancing but it could also be an indication that young people are not getting the guidance and services they need to prevent health problems and unwanted pregnancies occurring in the near future.

How Lockdown Can Affect Teenagers Education

Teenagers may be looking after their siblings while their Mum or Dad are working as key workers or tucked away in their home office space. Children of medical professionals, carers, retail, transport workers, teachers and the emergency services may have seen their parents suffering or exhausted while trying to carry on in difficult circumstances over the last few months.

Primary and secondary schools have remained open for teaching the children of those continuing their essential roles during the crisis. However not all parents have wanted their offspring to attend during the pandemic so it has not helped every child who needs support from a safe environment.

The Gingerbread charity states that “On average, children who experience single parenthood during their childhood have poorer cognitive outcomes than those that grow up in families that remain “intact”. However, Gingerbread’s research shows that “family structure in itself has little effect on children’s cognitive and emotional outcomes once other factors such as parental education are taken into account.” (3)

This means that kids that grow up with parents who lack further and higher education can be disadvantaged. Therefore uninterrupted access to educational facilities is key to gaining a choice of professional options and the accompanying prosperity this usually brings.

“Cancelling Sats tests and public exams was the right decision.” says sixth form teacher Niamh Sweeney in The Guardian. (4) There has been uncertainty for lots of families while the Education Secretary and leaders of educational institutions around the country decide how this years grades will be assessed and what the format will be for the next academic years education. It has been a particularly worrying time for young people who should have been taking exams this summer. These pupils are planning to go to college and university this Autumn and it makes applying to new courses even more problematic than the current quite complicated system. The normal process is complex and involves applications, predicted grades, interviews and clearing.

The government announced that secondary schools in England will be able to reopen for Years 10 and 12 from Monday 15 June. “only a quarter of pupils from those years will be allowed in school at any one time.” states the BBC today. Only around half of the children in younger years that have been told to attend school again turned up according to a variety of teachers interviewed on the BBC. (5) It now looks like schools will only really get going again in September, despite Johnson’s team at Number 10’s policy date. (5)

So depending on the support and guidance received at home, children could be receiving a beneficial but alternative learning experience this year lead by their parents. Alternatively they might be missing out completely on daily learning, especially if home life is chaotic and they do not have consistent access to a laptop or online device to complete set school work. It is not compulsory to send kids of any age to school at the moment in the UK so some boys and girls will inevitably be falling behind.

Libraries that often provide resources and quiet safe places for students to complete their homework have been closed. While some online services continue to be available, these facilities will have been much missed by everyone doing coursework and studying for exams.

How Lockdown Can Affect Teenagers Financial Lives

“There are around 1.8 million single parents – they make up nearly a quarter of families with dependent children.” states the charity Gingerbread. (3) Victoria Benson speaking on Moneybox on Radio 4 today said calls to the charities helpline have doubled as many single parents have lost income and support payments from previous partners because of problems with employment following the coronavirus crisis. Benson fears that thousands of more children will now face living below the poverty line in the UK.

Part time work is often vital for the under 20’s to help with household bills and their own essential items like clothing, travel and toiletries. This has been difficult as the whole retail and leisure industry, which includes restaurants has been closed. Jobs in supermarkets have been harder to get for those with less experience as demand for any existing roles has increased.

This year has been very mentally stressful for millions of people in this country with income instability, rising bills and an already high cost of living there has been a lot of pressures to face. Teenagers have had to also deal with interruptions to their education and options for the future.

As individuals and as a society we will all need to support this generation of young people to complete their eduction successfully and ensure they are provided with the professional opportunities they need to develop their careers. Most teenagers are amazingly bright and talented and we must support them to be able to live comfortably so they can concentrate on learning. With their help we can then build a productive, economically prosperous and healthy county going forward.

 

(1) ‘Mental health Statistics’ Young Minds, 8 June 2020 Mental health statistics, Young Minds

(2) Young Women’s Therapy, Oasis Project, 8 June 2020 Youn Womens Therapy, Oasis project

(3) Gingerbread single parents website, 8 June 2020 Gingerbread – single parents website

(4) ‘When the Covid-19 crisis finally ends, schools must never return to normal’ Niamh Sweeney, The Guardian, 7 April 2020 ‘Schools must never return to normal’ Niamh Sweeney, The Guardian

(5) ‘Coronavirus: Which schools are reopening for pupils?’ BBC News: Family & Education, 8 June 2020 Coronavirus: which schools are reopening? BBC News

What is Mental Health and Why Does It Matter This Summer?

Amanda Howse
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What is Mental Health and Why Does It Matter This Summer?

May was Mental Health Awareness month internationally and this years theme is kindness. As all members of society deal with massive challenges as a consequence of the global pandemic it is important we continue to care throughout the year by checking in with each other regularly. We need our friends, family and co-workers ‘how are you?’ and take the time to listen empathetically to the response.

The World Health Organisation constitution states: “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” An key implication of this definition is that mental health is more than just the absence of mental disorders or disabilities. (1)

Mental health illness can affect anyone and has various degrees of impact on everyday life. It may be temporary and treated easily or a more chronic condition that needs management in the long term. There are many different illnesses that come under the umbrella of mental health including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, dissociation and dissociative identity order (DID), agoraphobia and eating disorders.

One in 100 people suffer from schizophrenia in their lifetime which can mean they hear voices and see visual hallucinations. This is a condition that may develop during adolescence. (2)

Bipolar disorder used to be called manic depression and can be a life long disorder that can cause big changes in mood. Both mania and depression can be experiences by a sufferer and include dramatically changing energy levels.

Anxiety disorders can cause ongoing worrying and fearful feelings that can affect many aspects of life. “Things may appear worse than they actually are” explains the organisation Rethink Mental Illness. Daily life can be impacted negatively by behaviour linked to anxiety.

Depression is a long lasting low mood disorder that can have major consequences for being able to keep life’s normal routine running smoothly. It can mean that being interested in and participating in fun activities is hard and some days it can be too tough to feel any joy, gratitude and happiness.

The charitable organisation Rethink Mental Illness describes how DID can include multiple personality disorder and often sufferers have problems associated with having different identities. Severe stress and trauma and difficult relationships can cause these behaviours as a protection mechanism. “Depersonalisation might cause feeling emotionally numb and ‘cut off’ from yourself. Derealisation is where someone feels disconnected from the world around them.” (2)

However “disconnected” is the word used currently to describe how many have been feeling during the global pandemic. Men, women and children with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression and OCD say their symptoms have been heightened by the worrying global news and frightening national statistics and changes in personal circumstances.

Not wanting to leave the home and being fearful of going to public places can be a symptom of agoraphobia at any age. Symptoms are anecdotally observed as more common since lockdown began and previously conquered problems can reappear again under the new more complicated conditions faced in daily life by some people. Agoraphobia can affect the confidence of many who normally struggle with attending work and events in the community.

Autism is not a mental health illness. However The National Autistic Society explain that “many autistic people develop separate mental health problems. Often this can stem from a lack of appropriate support, which means that autistic people can develop more significant needs.” (3)

Our modern technological world can be fantastic for those on the Autistic spectrum. However there are also increased risks to communicating online for those with Autism.  Ben Pilkington has written an excellent article on this subject, with more guidance on this important aspect of contemporary life. (8)

Asperger syndrome is part of the autistic spectrum. People with Asperger syndrome and autism may excel in many areas including maths, IT and languages. They may struggle with social situations, friendships, expressing emotion and changes to familiar routines.

“As a result of the above difficulties affecting everyday life, many people with Asperger syndrome experience mental health problems and can experience isolation, depression, anxiety and/or low self-esteem.” say the Mental Health Foundation.(4)

In 2017 a survey commissioned by the Mental Health Foundation with participants from across the UK found that “73% of people living in the lowest household income bracket (less than £1,200 per month) reported having experienced a mental health problem during their lifetime, compared to 59% in the highest household income bracket (more than £3,701 per month).”(5)

The Mental Health Foundation argues that prevention is better than cure and that continued government support is necessary for the poorest working and unemployed families to ensure that the increased instability and financial pressures aren’t ‘the straw that broke the camels back’.

Health and social care workers and other key workers that are sometimes barely paid the minimum wage have had to deal with the biggest medical crisis since World War II this Spring and the situation is ongoing at present. BBC Radio 4 reported this week that psychiatric experts are concerned that post traumatic stress disorder may affect medical professionals working ‘on the front line’ for several months in a row.

Office for National Statistic figures show that deprived areas are often suffering more than double the deaths of their wealthier neighbouring counties due to Covid-19. This means that people with the lowest incomes are disproportionately dealing with the burden of loss and added consequences of the coronavirus crisis.

The fear is that unexpected events beyond an individuals control may prove catastrophic for some people who are already trying to cope with complex family lives that often have extra multiple difficulties. Some British residents may be dealing  with managing disabilities, caring for infirm relatives, legal problems, addictions and be already living with debt.

In 2018 there were 6507 suicides in the UK and three quarters of those were men according to the ONS. (6) These are preventable deaths and the Samaritans charity is always there for anyone who needs someone to talk to. (7)

More people than ever are relying on food banks. We can all help one another by regularly talking with our friends, loved ones and neighbours and supporting them with listening, encouragement, company and practical assistance whenever possible. Practising mindfulness and positive activities that support well being like exercising, gardening, yoga, meditation, cooking, arts and crafts, music playing and relaxing with a good book or film can really help all individuals feel more positive every day.

If we can afford it donating money and time to charities will make a big difference during this very challenging year for our country. The coronavirus and the lockdown that has followed has caused unprecedented changes. Leaders and communities that are pulling together will be vital in the next few months and years as the lasting impact on ordinary households nationwide becomes clear.

 

 

(1) ‘Mental health: strengthening our response’ World Health Organisation, 30 March 2018 Mental health strengthening response, World health Organisation

(2) ‘Learn More About Conditions’ Rethink Mental Illness, 4 June 2020 Rethink Mental Illness, learn more about

(3) ‘The Mental Health Act’ Autism.org The Autistic Society, 4 June 2020 The Mental Health Act Autism.org

(4) ‘Asperger syndrome’ Mental Health Organisation, 4 June 2020 Asperger syndrome, Mental Health Organisation

(5) ‘The COVID-19 pandemic, financial inequality and mental health’ referencing report: Mental Health Foundation. Surviving or Thriving. London; 2017′ 4 June 2020 Financial inequaliy and mental health, Mental Health Foundation

(6) ‘Suicides in the UK: 2018 registrations’ Office for National Statistics, 4 June 2020 Office National Statistics suicides in the UK

(7) Samaritans, 4 June 2020 Samaritans Tel 116 123

(8) ‘Internet Safety Guide for People With Autism Spectrum Disorder’ Ben Pilkington, WizCase, 1 February 2024 Internet Safety Guide for People With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Ben Pilkington, WizCase

Tropic Skincare Supports NHS and Schooling in South East Asia in 2020

Amanda Howse
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Tropic Skincare Supports NHS and Schooling in South East Asia in 2020

Tropic is a freshly made, cruelty free and natural skincare range. Based in Croydon in London in England, the stylish cosmetics company was started by Susie Ma in 2011. Ms Ma’s time living in Australia inspired the luxurious range which includes skincare, bodycare, makeup, haircare and suncare.

Tropic is a social selling business with over 100 products and over the last decade they have won more than 70 awards in the beauty industry.(3)

It is important to Susie Ma that the ingredients are “sustainably sourced from tropical destinations across the globe” and never tested on animals. A trio of Great Barrier sun protection factor sunscreens were launched this week, in time for the summer season, complete with contemporary white and yellow packaging and a pretty tree motif. (1)(2)

Susie Ma appeared on The Apprentice nine years ago and Lord Alan Sugar invested 50/50 in her business. The entrepreneur is now number 84 on London Post’s ‘London Power 100 list. Tropic employs 160 people and is “the fastest growing beauty company in the UK” according to The Sunday Times Fast Track 100 for the second year in a row. (3)

Ordering online from the Tropic website is straightforward and usually the products are recommended personally by brand ‘Ambassadors’ who host pamper parties with their family, friends and colleagues. The company are currently offering free delivery across the UK arriving with packages arriving on doorsteps in around a week. (1)

The coronavirus pandemic has affected nearly the whole world this year. Interruptions to production this Spring because of government lockdowns, supplier delays, social distancing and a deep recession in the UK are all challenges for every medium sized enterprise. Many retailers have been forced to close to the public and their activities have been redirected, minimised or paused completely.

Tropic have helped to keep medical professionals safe and combat the spread of Covid-19 by manufacturing 50000 WHO recommended hand sanitisers. These have generously been sent to NHS hospitals along with calm balm hand creams and cotton gloves. (3)

Tropic is a socially conscious organisation and also a certified CarbonNeutral® company. The means all the carbon emissions are accounted for and double offset. All the energy use is factored into their offset contributions including all product deliveries, powering their headquarters and even the working team’s commutes to and from work.

Through this eco-friendly initiative, Tropic have funded conservation work in the Amazonian rainforest and helped to protect 65,000 hectares of forest from unsustainable palm oil conversion in Indonesia. (2)

Tropic’s mission is “to help create a healthier, greener, more empowered world.” (2) The new headquarters in Croydon in London represents Tropic’s recent expansion and “is the product of a £4m investment and is five times bigger than its previous offices, with 48,000sqft of space.” according to Cosmetics Business. (4)

The voluminous glazed city office in Croydon is a contrast to Susie Ma’s coastal home. Susie spent time as a young women in Cairns, North Queensland, Australia and she was interested in the natural tropical environment. Ma’s Grandma, who was a medicinal chemist and toxicologist was a great role model. Sunshine soaked aloe vera plants and exotic fruit trees gave Susie the nutritionally rich botanical ingredients she needs to create her natural skin treatments and cosmetics. Sustainably sourcing from the Amazon rainforest, Polynesia, Australia and other unique areas is key to the success of the brand. (2)

“Tropic aim to be a force for good beyond beauty. Education empowers children, opening the way for them to access better jobs and higher incomes later in life. With quality education, every child has the tools to reach their full potential. That’s why we’re working with United World Schools, who share our vision of every child having the chance to go to school.” explains Ma. (1)

Since 2009, United World Schools have enrolled over 30,000 children into over 150 schools across Cambodia, Myanmar and Nepal, effectively breaking the cycle of illiteracy for hundreds of communities. (2)

In September 2019 Tropic and UWS worked in partnership to build a school in Cambodia and almost all the primary school aged children in the community have enrolled and are ready to learn. The Tropic school is located in Ta Lart Thmey which is a small community where the literacy rate is close to 10%. The nearest school was over 3 hours walk away so otherwise education wasn’t an option. The new school has working toilets, fresh water, solar-powered electricity, a library, five classrooms and lots of toys and stationery.(2)

Since the launch of this partnership in September 2019 Tropic has managed to fund 504,958 days of education. That equates to a year’s worth of education for over 2,500 children. Managing Director Susie Ma got involved and visited the school and is grateful to the Ambassadors and the customers for enabling the success of the new school program.(2)

Appearing polished and radiant as any young model in her recent video to promote the latest lotion in sun care, Susie Ma glows like a lady that is filled with good things both on the inside and out, proof of the saying that beauty is not just skin deep. Ma is full of passion and confidence in her large selection of products and well on her way to helping achieve her own goals of a healthier and more empowered planet.

Great Britain, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will be depending on our business leaders with creativity and ingenuity to drive this country forward economically and out of recession over the coming months and years. Corporations that can rethink their processes and tailor the services they provide to consumers, in a fast changing virtual environment, can in turn help generate a good standard of healthcare, education and prosperity for everyone who lives and works in the UK.

If 2020 is anything to go by Tropic will keep on blossoming and growing stronger and the world is truly Susie Ma’s oyster.

For more information and to make an order contact Tropic Independant Ambassador Lizzie Clayton by email: liz@ngo.org.uk or check out the catalogue Tropic Catalogue Link

(1) Tropic Skincare shop, 1 June 2020, Tropic Skincare shop

(2) Tropic Skincare Facebook page, 1 June 2020 Tropic Skincare Facebook page

(3) Follow Tropic Skincare on Twitter, 1 June 2020 Tropic Skincare on Twitter

(4) ‘Tropic Skincare opens doors to new London headquarters amid expansion success’ Becky Bargh, 15 February 2019 Tropic Skince new London HQ, Becky Bargh, Cosmetics Business

 

Coronavirus and European Travel: Must I staycation or should I book now?

Amanda Howse
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Coronavirus and European Travel: Must I staycation or should I book now?

All non-essential journeys abroad for UK citizens were banned by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office on 17th March as part of the general lockdown. New measures that came into force on May 13 in England, make day trips by car possible now but not overseas excursions. (1)

The Gov.UK website advises that “the FCO advises British nationals against all but essential international travel.” (2) At the moment any overnight stays away are against government advice so just driving to the airport is breaking the rules. Any non-essential trips are not going to be supported by travel insurance policies.

However EasyJet stated today in an email to followers and on twitter publicly that “we’ll begin flying again from 15th June. With so many destination across Europe getting ready to open up, its hard to know where to go first.” EasyJet customer services were not available to comment further when we contacted them. (3)

Today at 5pm is when government guidelines are reviewed and the rules could change but they have not altered yet. EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizzair and other low cost airlines currently advertising flights could be encouraging keen flyers to break the rules. As a retail and leisure business they would certainly take no responsibility for the actions of their customers booking against their individual government’s guidance.

Retail stores are allowed to open in a safely distanced way from 15th June in the UK but there has been no such rule change for the airlines who fall under the umbrella term of the still heavily restricted leisure industry which includes the restaurant trade. Such a popular company quoting this mid month date could easily confuse Brits into thinking they can go ahead and confidently book their trips without any concerns. The Easyjet video showing a PPE wearing family of passengers also sends a confusing message.

On May 10th Boris Johnson “confirmed plans to force all international arrivals, including returning holidaymakers, to self-isolate” for 14 days (4) As the UK has one of the worst number of cases of Covid-19 some countries are banning travellers from Great Britain entering their countries at this time.

Many international governments have a 14 day compulsory quarantine for Brits arriving at their destination including France. This means a combined 4 week quarantine time that would mean normal holidays are impossible for nearly everyone at the moment.

Some airlines are starting to operate their new normal services in the first two weeks of June as European countries cautiously reopen their borders to tourists. However they are not all welcoming UK travellers yet. In June “Italy…Belgium, Greece, Turkey, Sweden, Sicily will be open for visitors with no need for visitors to self-isolate..” (5)

If the FCO advice changes July seems to be the realistic month that most flights are becoming possible and that is when Spain and Greece plan to open its borders to tourists again. “Foreign visitors to Spain will also no longer have to undergo a two-week quarantine from 1 July” stated The Scotsman today. (6)

There are some extra travel solutions backed by Boris Johnson’s team for helping the aviation industry resume operations. “Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced ‘air bridges’ with other nations…” (7) The idea is to welcome people visiting from low risk of coronavirus countries. This would not include the UK at this time but there is hope that more testing and the ‘track and trace’ program that is up and running nationally from today will help. This strategy could see England’s infection rate reduce significantly, ensuring the bi-lateral ‘freedom to fly between’ agreements are agreed between international leaders over the coming weeks.

The top team in Westminster are sensibly prioritising the prevention of the spread of the pandemic and trying to prevent a second wave of the contagion. Until the Foreign Office updates its advice that it is safe to travel abroad we are all going to be enjoying a sunny staycation in the British Isles consisting of day trips to the coast and countryside.

A more spontaneous ‘go with the flow’ attitude to arranging any event is the most realistic choice this summer and Autumn. Planning and booking ahead can lead to breaking government ordered rules, frustration, expense and disappointment. Many citizens who had booked Spring 2020 holidays and cruises that were then cancelled by their travel companies have already found this out. Twitter is full of people waiting for refunds from all sorts of companies whose workforce are often now trying to work in new ways from home.

We don’t yet know whether next years travel plans will be disrupted by ongoing safe distancing problems experienced by all the airlines and enforced lockdowns. Until a successful vaccine is widely available it would be wise to expect at least some unforeseen problems when booking a vacation even several months in advance.

If looking forward to next years season seems the safest bet for a traditional holiday for the family, it is worth also knowing that the European Health Insurance Card or EHIC will not be valid from 1st January 2020. Therefore private health insurance is advised by the British government when heading to countries that are still members of the European Union in the future. (8)

(1) ‘UK Travelers: 5 Things In The Way Of Your Europe Holiday’ Tamara Thiessen, Forbes, 22 May 2020 ‘Things in teh way of your European holiday’ Tamara Thiessen, Forbes

(2) ‘Foreign travel advice’ Coronavirus guidance and support Gov.UK website 28 May 2020 ‘Foreign travel advice’ Gov.UK

(3) Easyjet website 28 May 2020 Easyjet website

(4) ‘When will we travel again?’ Nick Trend, The Telegraph, 26 May 2020 ‘When will we travel again’ Nick Trend, The Telegraph

(5) ‘Are there any countries that UK residents should consider for a holiday this year?’ Rick Jordan, Conde Nast Traveller 27 May 2020 ‘Countries to consider for a holiday’ Rick Jordan, Conde Nast

(6) ‘When can I travel to Spain? Latest FCO guidance as country looks to relax quarantine rules’ Alex Nelson, The Scotsman, 27 May 2020 ‘When can I travel to Spain’ Alex Nelson, The Scotsman

(7) ‘When will we go on holiday again?’ Greg Dickinson, The Telegraph, 27 May 2020 ‘When will we go on holiday again’ Greg Dickson, The Telegraph

(8) ‘Visit Europe from 1 January 2021’ Gov.UK Guidance website 27 May 2020 ‘Visit Europe from Jan 2021’ Gov UK

 

Coronavirus: Second Wave Could Follow Bank Holiday Beach Rush

Amanda Howse
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Coronavirus: Second Wave Could Follow Bank Holiday Beach Rush

The United Kingdom is making the most of enjoying the heatwave this week as it may be the closest anyone will get to a decent holiday this year.

Despite the UK having the most deaths from Covid-19 in Europe this Spring, thousands of English residents left their homes under the new ‘stay alert’ advice and headed for their nearest piece of Great British coastline this weekend.

Durley and Alum Chine beaches were full in Southend, Bournemouth, Brighton, Falmouth and all around the country over the Bank Holiday weekend. Queues of cars were stretched far into the Yorkshire Dales. (1)(2)

Londoners report parks teaming with sunbathers enjoying the new freedom to meet with one other person outside and cramming onto the precious outside green spaces during the warm weather.

This week Boris Johnson backed Dominic Cummings explanation about bending the quarantine rules this week but said “he regretted the confusion and anger caused by the row.” (3)

Consequently there has been widespread resentment by the public who have made enormous sacrifices to respect the spirit of the lockdown and prevent the spread of coronavirus, since the beginning of March.

For many in the UK population ‘Stay at Home’ has included not seeing elderly and vulnerable relatives for months and for some not being together with dying loved ones as well as coping with many cancelled weddings and funerals. Many people think the scandal has highlighted the elitism demonstrated by politicians in Westminster and a view that it is ‘one rule for them and one rule for us.’ Beach-goers cite the Chief Adviser to the Prime Minister’s lockdown breach as a reason for packed resorts across the country according to The Telegraph on Monday.(4)

Crowds, barbecues and street parties that blatantly disregarded social distancing rules were widely photographed and shared on social media after the recent VE day weekend. As day trippers simultaneously head to the seaside during the sunny month of May, experts are warning we could see an increase in the spread of Covid-19 cases after the two week incubation time for the virus has elapsed. Some doctors are extremely concerned about a second wave of infections, as the lockdowns are lifted gradually.

“The question is when and how big, that is the question in my view,” said Dr Andrea Ammon, director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) speaking about the potential for another widespread contagious reaction following the lifting of restrictions across the EU this month. (5)

Dr Ron Daniels a consultant at Birmingham hospital stated that “we expect the second wave – if lockdown is relaxed too quickly and too aggressively – could even be bigger than the first.” (6)

The top team at number 10 Downing Street are determined to do what they can to control the global pandemic. The focus is on reducing the ‘R’ number that signifies the lowering of infection passing from person to person in order to keep British citizens well and NHS hospital and other health services from becoming overwhelmed.

Next week schools in England are due to start reopening. Retail shops and markets are scheduled to begin opening their doors from mid June with distancing measures in place.

Being able to go out several times a day and meeting one other person outside (with at at least 2 metres social distance) represents a welcome increase in personal freedom after more than two months of lockdown in England. Today that reward for the country’s hard work in beating the disease was put into question. Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock described how regional areas could be closed off by the government, with specific quarantining of affected locations to prevent the spread of the harmful virus infection. “We will have local lockdowns in future where there are flare-ups..”

It is clear that we have a long way to go to beat this disease and everything we can do as individuals to stay at home when possible, keep to social distancing rules and use common sense, will support our busy hospitals and key workers who are saving lives.

Sticking to the guidelines and staying at or near our homes unless it is essential to go out, will help protect our older relatives and neighbours. Keeping the cases of coronavirus down will help those who have health conditions and are waiting their turn for important medical treatments such as transplants and operations this spring. Time will tell whether we will see a second wave or whether we can successfully continue to lift restrictions as we head into what should be the summer holiday season.

 

(1) ‘Coronavirus: Britons urged to ‘use common sense’ as beaches and parks packed on hot Bank Holiday Monday’ Lucia Binding, Sky News, 26 May 2020 ‘Britons beaches packed’ Lucia Binding, Sky News

(2) ‘Coronavirus: Brighton and Sussex beaches busy on bank holiday’ Harry Bullmore, The Argus, 25 May ‘Sussex beaches busy’ Harry Bullmore, The Argus

(3) ‘Dominic Cummings row: People will make up their own mind, says Gove’ Laura Kuenssberg 26 May 2020 ‘Dominic Cummings Row’ Laura Kuenssberg, BBC News

(4) ‘Beach-goers cite Dominic Cummings lockdown breach as reason for packed resort’ Helena Horton, The Telegraph, 25 May 2020 ‘Beach goers cite Cummings lockdown breach’ Helena Horton, The Telegraph

(5) ‘Europe should brace for second wave, says EU coronavirus chief ‘ Daniel Boffey, The Guardian, 20 May 2020 ‘Europe should brace for second wave’ Daniel Boffey, The Guardian

(6) ‘Birmingham ICU doctor says easing lockdown could create second wave ‘even bigger than first’ James Rodger, Birmingham Live News, 10 May 2020 ‘ICU doctor says easing lockdown could create second wave’ James Rodger, Birmingham Live

 

Sales Office Opens Today As Contractors Overcome Lockdown To Deliver Daedalus Village

Amanda Howse
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Sales Office Opens Today As Contractors Overcome Lockdown To Deliver Daedalus Village

Daedalus Village is a new housing estate next to the fantastic coastline at Lee-on-the-Solent in Hampshire. The two hundred pristine one, two, three and four bedroom homes will be a harmonious combination of 120 privately purchased and 80 affordable residences bought through the shared ownership and retirement schemes.

HMS Daedalus airport was opened in 1917 as a Royal navy Air Station seaplane training school. Daedalus was important for its role during World War II training military pilots. Solent Airport is the new name for the aerodrome which still operates today as a regional base for air traffic. Daedalus Village is located on the south side of the aviation centre at Daedalus Drive, Lee-on-the-Solent, PO13 9YP.

Two years since councillors voted unanimously to approve the scheme the traditional seaside town’s new housing estate is well underway to being completed. The builders hope to finish in October 2020 but this may be delayed due to overcoming the complications encountered with the coronavirus pandemic. This unexpected event has changed working methods and processes and delayed the supply chain unexpectedly.

The Sales and marketing suite is reopening today and assistance is available Thursdays to Mondays by appointment only. (1)

More than twenty of the first new residents have moved in already despite a large team of local contractors still working on site. Local firms have been given contracts to provide a workforce to build the development.

In the planning stages Counsellor Linda Batty was concerned about “the pressure that this scheme will put on the doctors surgeries and schools in the surrounding area.” according to The News. Wates Residential state that they have invested £25 million to help support extra local amenities. (2)

Stubbings Limited is the agent for purchasing the larger premises and Wates are handling sales for Radian Homes for the more modest homes and shared ownership places.

“Daedalus Village is part of a larger regeneration project for the southern edge of Solent Airport. It is being delivered in two areas, Eastchurch Place and Manston Green, with both areas within walking distance of Lee-on-the-Solent High Street and seafront.” (3)

There a selection of premium pads for sale. The Beaufort at Daedalus Village, is a 4 bedroom detached house for sale for £450,000 which is all finished and ready to move in as it is the show home for the development. The Dragonfly is a different design of 4 bedroom house featuring a more spacious kitchen and dining area. There are also semi-detached properties and apartments with terraces.

“All the homes at Daedalus Village come with three different interior decor options, called Spitfire, Hurricane and Defiant. Each decor style has a different feel and style which is reflected in the paint colours, wall and floor tiles and kitchen units and worktop.”

Fast track building techniques mean no nails are used in the construction. The structures are comprised of the latest formulaic systems that fit and screw together. A couple of different brick colours have been chosen for the facades including reds and more sandy oranges. The warm colours of the exteriors are contrasted by the dark grey tile roofs. Matching charcoal hued windows and doors gives a contemporary industrial look to the architecture that in turn nods to this nautical lands military heritage.

Different trades have been working at a safe distance apart throughout the lockdown. They are using their normal hard hats, gloves and safety gear and no special personal protective equipment has been provided. They are taking breaks in their cars and are communicating with the foreman and project management team using site radios.

Office staff are currently working on computers at home on the furlough scheme but all the trades are self employed and have been classified as key workers. This means they have been given guidance to work through the ‘stay at home’ instructions from the Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s cabinet ministers. “We wanted to keep working so we can pay our bills.” explained a builder at Daedalus Village.

Local employment has been boosted by firms from Gosport and Portsmouth carrying out the regeneration of this area.

Homes are needed for all ages in Hampshire where the average housing price is £306,886 according to Rightmove who receive their data from the HM Land Registry. The governments ‘Help to Buy’ scheme is a popular program as a teaching assistant in the area would expect to earn £13,000 per year and the average salary is £29,000 before taxes. So buying a first property is an enormous challenge for many residents who want to live in the district they grow up in.(4)(5)

In 2017 a Strategic Housing Market Assessment by six local authorities in the region concluded that their research “highlights the need for at least 4,000 additional homes per year.”(6) Therefore local councils in Hampshire and West Sussex have applied and been accepted for generous central government grants to enable the building of several large housing developments in the area.

Gosport County Council in partnership with Wates and Radian Homes have endeavoured to try “to deliver the homes needed for local people and to create a vibrant and healthy community.” as James Pennington, Executive Director of Development at Radian explained. (7) Council leaders even buried a time capsule to mark the beginning of the project and the change of land status from commercial to residential.

When the capsule is uncovered in the future only time will tell if these much wanted homes will stand the harsh salty weather, the close proximity of the housing and the changing tastes in design. Hundreds of additional new homeowners arriving are bound to have a positive influence on the businesses nearby. Hopefully a prosperous and peaceful future is on the horizon for the inhabitants of the smartest village between Portsmouth and Southampton, in this naturally scenic seaside location.

  

(1) Wates Sales and Marketing for Radian Homes, 19 May 2020 Wates Daedalus Village sales department

(2) ‘Plans for 200 homes along waterfront are approved by council’ The News (Portsmouth)

19 May 2020 The News waterfront homes approved

(3) Radian Homes, Daedalus Village website,19 May 2020 Daedalus Village

(4) ‘House Prices in Lee-on-the-Solent’ Rightmove, 20 May 2020 Rightmove House Prices Lee-on-the-Solent

(5) ‘Average Salary in Southampton, England: Hampshire’ PayScale website, 20 May 2020 Payscale website, average salary Southampton

(6) ‘Unmet housing demand in the M27 region’ Savills Blog 5 April 2017 Savills: Housing in M27 region

(7) ‘Work Starts on Daedalus Village Scheme’ Radian Homes 21 May 2020 ‘Work starts Daedalus Village’ Radian Homes

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