CareHandle is an exciting new service supporting those exploring Care Homes for the first time
If you are over the threshold and paying privately you often explore care options alone which can be daunting and frustrating, especially when you need to focus on you or your loved one’s well-being.
Looking for care can be confusing, stressful and time-consuming, the team at Carehandle are on a mission to change this by offering advice, support and insight in a personal way.
We take care seekers through a 3-step process first to listen, understand and work through possible options. Next, we help Handle the search, find options and provide a free shortlist, we check availability, costs and quality. We are with you every step of the way to support better outcomes, we can book appointments and work with the provider for the best outcomes, a large number of those in care regret the initial decision so we can help to support and get it right first time.
The multi-award winning family owned group has scooped two more honours to add to its collection at the 2022 awards
Forest Care, a multi award-winning, family-owned, and managed group of four purpose-built private residential nursing homes in beautiful Surrey and Hampshire countryside locations, has scooped two more awards at the Surrey Care Awards 2022.
The annual event celebrating expertise and compassion in individuals and teams working in adult social care, was held on Friday 18th November at the Copthorne Effingham Gatwick Hotel and attended by over 230 guests.
Forest Care’s Holly Lodge, a specialist dementia residential & nursing Home in Frimley, Surrey wins ‘Nursing Home of the Year’. The panel recognised the specialised environment that Holly Lodge had created through its suite of high street destinations to encourage sensory stimulation for reminiscence, its innovative trips into the community for residents, and the excellent feedback from relatives. Alarico Bustamante, Home Manager at Holly Lodge said: “We are thrilled and so proud to receive this award, it means so much to the team here who feel that their continuous hard work, love, care and commitment towards the residents has paid off.”
Handyman David Fielding who recently celebrated his fifth year at Forest Care’s Cedar Lodge Residential & Nursing Home in Frimley, Surrey picked up the ‘Unsung Hero’ award. The panel noted the great lengths David goes to beyond his job remit, supporting residents and regularly taking them to hospital appointments and shopping, making a lightweight board for a resident to continue her artwork and fixing a precious broken grandfather clock which brought much joy to the owners. David said: “Receiving this award was a wonderful surprise, I feel so proud, but I accept this award on behalf of everyone at Cedar Lodge who all really care about what they do.”
“I am delighted and very proud for two of our finalists winning awards on Friday. It is a fantastic achievement for them, and our small group, to be recognised in this way, particularly when the standard of all the finalists is so high. It is testament to the wonderful work they continue to do every day in striving to ensure the best possible care is delivered to our residents,” added Mark Vickery, Director at Forest Care.
Birchgrove believe the home you live in should be as individual as you, find out what they can offer
When we think of retirement, most of us envision a lifestyle that allows us to socialise and take up new or forgotten hobbies. Yet, the reality is that many people in later life in the UK end up living an isolated life or are overwhelmed with everyday chores such as the upkeep of a large family home, which can lead to a drastic decline of a person’s health, wellbeing and quality of life.
Glenda Jones from Woking was afraid that her mother, 90-year old Matilda, was facing exactly this scenario. She said: “My mother had no time doing the things that she really likes. Her quality of life could have been a lot better. We also became aware of the need for her to have people around her a bit more.”
Determined to help her mother find a suitable property that could improve her overall lifestyle and wellbeing, the search led them to Birchgrove, the specialist developer of modern retirement communities for the over 65s. “I like the fact that they are communities of people not a collection of apartments,” Glenda adds.
You will never find two Birchgrove developments the same, because Birchgrove believe the place you call home should be as individual as the people and neighbourhood it sits within. Birchgrove makes sure that every community is not only future-designed to suit people’s needs as they age but has character to complement the local area. Thoughtful spaces that bring people together help forge communities where people feel grounded and at home.
Apartment living has its perks; no lawns to mow or gardens to weed yet you can still enjoy the beautiful surrounding area from your own outside space as every apartment has its own balcony or patio. Great thought has gone into creating beautiful, shared spaces where people can enjoy company in the club room or snug bar or grab a bite to eat in the restaurant if they don’t feel like cooking.
There’s also a wellness studio and beautiful landscaped gardens which include a greenhouse. Regular events and activities are readily available and form part of the friendly community everyone who lives in a Birchgrove community so enjoys.
If you would like to find out more about living at a Birchgrove community contact the team who will happily talk through the options and tailor something that works to support your individual needs. Call 020 3929 5599 or visit www.birchgrove.life
Christmas trees, a market and children’s theatre can all be enjoyed at Ramster Hall and Gardens this season.
Set in 25 acres of stunning woodland, hills and lakes, Ramster Garden in Chiddingfold is known for its spring colour but with winter on our doorstop the focus shifts.
Ramster is selling premium Christmas trees and beautiful festive wreaths from November 26th outside its Tea House. Festive treats including, mince pies and mulled wine will be available from the Tea House.
Choose from three different types of Christmas trees including Premium Nordmann Fir, Premium Fraser Fir and Norway spruce. Advice will be on hand to help you select your perfect tree.
Explore a fantastic variety of stalls run by local artisans selling food, drink and gifts at Ramster Christmas market on December 3rd and 4th, 10am-4pm. Includes gin, fudge, art, jewellery, beauty and homewares. For an extra treat, Ramster is being joined by the Lammas Handbell Ringers on Saturday 3rd who will be playing Christmas carols in the morning. Free entry and parking.
Ramster Hall presents the Gingerbread Man: A real treat for children aged two to seven years as they join our hero on his adventurous journey in search of somewhere better. Some amusing characters are encountered on the way but not all are as friendly as they may appear. Finally, our champion learns that there is no place quite like home.
Performed inside Ramster Hall on Saturday 10th December (60 minutes)
The Community Foundation for Surrey is helping to provide positive solutions for the community especially as we battle rising energy costs
At the Community Foundation for Surrey, we bring together local donors and charities to provide positive solutions in our communities for local people and disadvantaged individuals.
The need
Poverty is the catastrophe about to happen in Surrey for many people struggling to meet the cost of high energy bills this winter.
Surrey is often thought of as one of the best places to live in the UK. However, there is a hidden side to Surrey, with pockets of deprivation and places of hidden need. Too many people, especially children, are living in poverty in the county.
23,000 children in Surrey are impacted by poverty.
Child poverty has been rising in every district and borough in Surrey for the past five years.
8% of Surrey’s older people are affected by poverty.
“Cutting back on food, skipping meals, not replacing children’s shoes and winter coats, and using debt to make ends meet” … are just some of the ways how parents are coping (Surrey County Council Report to Cabinet on Child Poverty, Jan 2022)
Can you help?
We urgently need donations to our Winter Poverty Fundraising Campaign. With your kind support, together we can combat poverty this winter in our community.
If you’re eligible to receive either the Winter Fuel Payment or the Energy Rebate and you’re in the fortunate position of being able to manage without it, please consider donating the money so that we can use it to award grants to organisations who are providing urgent help to those in economic crisis.
We’re fortunate to have received a matched funding pledge – so that every £10 that you donate will be doubled to £20.
Every penny of donations received will be used to support organisations helping those most in need throughout our county – food banks, community pantries, community meal services, warm hubs, baby banks, and support with fuel poverty and debt advice.
Set a date to come together with family and friends for a Christmassy catch-up at a visit to a National Trust site in Surrey
Across Surrey, there’s a real variety of Christmas experiences for festive family days this year. There’s spectacle and sparkle for those ‘wow’ moments and selfies. Opulent decorated houses to get glamour-lovers in the mood for the party season. And nostalgic family trails in the great outdoors to rekindle the magic of Christmas.
Michael Leigh, National Trust General Manger for the Surrey Landscapes said: “Christmas at the National Trust is always magical but this year we’ve got more decorations and events than ever before. We can’t wait to see families and friends coming together, making memories, and experiencing the festive atmosphere at the places the National Trust care for.”
Here’s a roundup of some of the National Trust’s best Christmas events across Surrey. For more information visit nationaltrust.org.uk/surrey
The spectacular one
Polesden Lacey
12 days of Christmas – December 3rd to January 2nd (exc 24th & 25th)
Celebrate Christmas in style at Polesden Lacey. Explore this sumptuously decorated house and wintry grounds, sparkling with Christmas splendour and a few spectacles on the way. Breathtaking displays in the decorated house count down the Twelve Days of Christmas, from swans-a-swimming to a golden partridge in a secret, snowy courtyard. Follow children’s trails to find magic across the house and grounds or take a stroll across the gardens. With live music on selected Fridays and Saturdays and festive food and drink in the café, all the sights, sounds and flavours of Christmas are here.
Image: National Trust / Ed Tuddenham
The fun one
Winkworth Arboretum
Walking with the Snowman™ – November 26th to January 2nd (exc 24th & 25th)
The Snowman™ is coming to Winkworth Arboretum this Christmas. Relive the magic of Raymond Briggs’ heart-warming picture book. Find 12 decorated sculptures of The Snowman™ along a wintry woodland trail for all the family. Carousel rides, games and hot chocolate add to the festive fun. Your little ones will be ready for dreams full of Christmas wonder by the end of a fun-filled day. Walking with The Snowman at Winkworth Arboretum is presented by National Trust and Wild in Art in collaboration with Penguin Ventures (part of Penguin Random House UK). Online booking advised.
Image: National Trust / John Miller
The cosy one
Christmas at Hatchlands Park
December 1st to 30th (exc 24th & 25th)
Hatchlands Park has always been a favourite for families at Christmas. Soak up the atmosphere of a traditional country Christmas. See the house dressed for the season and enjoy festive piano music. Outside, enjoy the magic of Christmas in the cobbled courtyard and hand-crafted willow reindeer standing majestically on the lawn. Take a crisp stroll through the parkland – children will love spotting the musically themed animals hiding along the way. Then treat yourself to a warming Christmas treat in the café.
Image: National Trust / Hannah Elliott
The nostalgic one
Claremont Landscape Garden
November 26th to January 2nd
Claremont is the perfect picturesque landscape to get you into the festive spirit. Meet up with family and friends in this historical royal garden. Children can scamper along a traditional Christmas trail, full of nostalgia. Look out for Christmas trees, crackers, cards and elves along the way. Work up an appetite for the tearoom, stocked full of treats and festooned with garlands. With a fun filled family trail, winter warmers from the café and stunning views on walks, Claremont is an enchanting place to visit this Christmas.
STK Steakhouse, known for its vibe dining experience and premium reimagined classic American cuisine, is offering a special Thanksgiving menu, available from Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th November.
Thanksgiving is a special time of year, when friends and family come together and give thanks for everything they’re grateful for. This year give thanks at STK Steakhouse, who is offering an incredible Thanksgiving menu available at both its Strand and Westminster restaurants.
Guests can tuck into STK’s signature turkey with all the trimmings (also available for takeaway & catering) and seasonal cocktails while spending the special holiday with loved ones at the iconic American restaurant. Known for its dynamic, fine dining experience.
On the menu will be a succulent roasted free range turkey served with light and fluffy cornbread, sage stuffing, sautéed green beans with crispy shallots, maple baked sweet potato, Yukon gold mashed potatoes with parmesan crust, classic gravy and cranberry orange chutney (£54 per person). Those with a sweet tooth (and extra space) will be able to order the classic Thanksgiving dessert. Spiced Pumpkin Pie served with candied ginger cream & crunchy caramel honeycomb (£11 per slice).
STK’s Thanksgiving dinner is best enjoyed with a drink in hand and STK has it all. Choose from the comprehensive drinks menu which combines expertly mixed cocktails, a selection of fine wines and both draught & bottled beers.
Book in to STK Steakhouse to catch up with friends and family, give thanks and celebrate Thanksgiving over delicious food & drinks.
Hogs Back Brewery backs England’s World Cup bid with free beer (if they reach the final)
Surrey-based Hogs Back Brewery is offering drinkers a free pint of Three Hogs, its beer specially brewed for football-watching, if England reach the World Cup final in December.
The brewer is ready for a bonanza beer giveaway, after it made the same pledge last year and honoured it when England reached the Euros final. Three Hogs was first brewed for the Euros in 2016 and will be available on draught and in 500ml bottles.
A 4% ABV golden ale, Three Hogs in brewed with a selection of English malts and hops including Fuggles grown in the Hogs Back hop garden next to the brewery, as well as Cascade and Centennial. The pump clip and bottle label describe the ale as “a beer of two halves: refreshingly hoppy up front, followed by a balancing bitterness and a hint of sweetness to finish.”
Hogs Back Brewery managing director Rupert Thompson said: “Many Hog Back drinkers look forward to the return of Three Hogs with each international tournament. This World Cup is going to feel very different to the euros, taking place at a different time of year, and in a different time zone. But the nation’s hopes will still be pinned on England lifting the trophy, especially after they reached the finals last year.
“Millions of people will be watching the home nations’ matches with friends, family and fellow football lovers. A pint of easy-drinking beer like Three Hogs is an enjoyable part of the occasion. Let’s hope that we might finally be raising a glass to a victorious English side on 18th December.”
Hogs Back will be screening a number of matches in its Brewery Tap, depending on timings, including the England v Wales fixture on 29th November. Guests will be able to enjoy the football accompanied by a range of Hogs Back beers and food including their popular stone-baked pizzas. Bookings for places or tables are open at https://hogsback.co.uk/products/tap-room-booking-access
Thompson added: “During the Euros, the excitement in the Brewery Tap built to fever pitch, and we were sold out ahead of the final. It’s a great space for watching sport and we’re looking forward to welcoming football fans to enjoy the tournament with us again.”
If England reach the final, customers will be able to claim a free pint of Three Hogs – or another Hogs Back beer, depending on availability – by visiting the Brewery Tap between 11am and 2pm on 18th December.
Three Hogs, Hogs Back’s beer for the World Cup, is available on draught and in 500ml bottles
Showcasing Hampshire’s finest still and sparkling wines, the celebrated Christmas event Fairy Lights & Fizz returns to Guildhall Winchester on Friday, 9th December
Get ready to raise a festive glass or two, as Vineyards of Hampshire’s annual Fairy Lights & Fizz returns to Guildhall Winchester on 9th December 6-10pm. One of the most popular fixtures in the Winchester Christmas calendar. This is one of only two events a year that offers the opportunity to sample and enjoy the widest range of Hampshire’s finest sparkling and still wines under one roof.
Hosted by The Vineyards of Hampshire (VoH) producers from Black Chalk, Cottonworth, Danebury Vineyards, Exton Park, The Grange, Hambledon, Hattingley and Raimes; this year will also be the first time that newest members, Qub Park and Louis Pommery England, join in with the yuletide merriment.
Proudly sponsored by the NFU Winchester and Wickham. Fairy Lights and Fizz is a fun festive excursion for friends or even an interesting alternative to the work Christmas party outing this year, held in the Victorian grandeur of Guildhall Winchester’s Bapsy Hall.
From learning about new grapes and blends and finding that preferred Hampshire fizz for your festive meal, to mingling with the winemakers and getting those Christmas orders in early; Fairy Lights & Fizz is a festive celebration not to be missed.
“Fairy Lights & Fizz is a festive celebration not to be missed.”
Priced at £25 per person (plus booking fee). Including expert tastings of 20+ wines, early bird tickets are now available from Eventbrite at https://bit.ly/3V1SuoS. Guests will be given a returnable tasting glass on arrival, a tasting note booklet and entitled to tasting samples of all the wines on show.
Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge, is launching a luxury Beef Wellington box this Christmas, so why not treat yourself to something special?
The Tom Kerridge Beef Wellington Box is available to pre-order now at www.fromtomkerridge.com for £195 and will be delivered nationwide on December 23rd.
The Beef Wellington Box generously serves four and includes a luxury 1.2kg, 30-day aged fillet of organic British beef, from family-owned Stokes Marsh Farm. With black truffle Duxelle and herb crepe, wrapped in an all-butter puff pastry, alongside a rich red wine sauce and Cumberland pigs in blankets. All you need to do is add your own vegetables. For dessert, enjoy a traditional sticky toffee pudding with toffee sauce and Christmas spiced brandy butter alongside cubes of salted caramel fudge for the perfect sweet finish.
Delivery is included and there are even a couple of recipes for suggested veggie side dishes. For those who are super organised, early bird orders will receive a free foodie gift from Marks & Spencer with any orders placed before November 18th.
A limited number of Tom Kerridge’s Beef Wellingtons will be available to collect from The Butcher’s Tap and Grill in Marlow, pop in to complete a pre-order form. Prices for Beef Wellington collection at The Butcher’s Tap and Grill are £95 (1.2kg beef Wellington and red wine sauce). Beef Wellington orders at The Butcher’s Tap and Grill must be taken before December 18th and the last collection date is December 24th.
Tom says: “Christmas is a time for coming together and sharing food. There is no better luxury dish than a beautifully cooked beef Wellington to celebrate the festive period. Perfect for Christmas Eve or as an alternative to turkey on Christmas Day. Our beef wellington box is designed to take the stress out of Christmas.”
