Community Life Magazine Bedford - October 2012

Issue: 02 - October 2012
...it’s all about Bedford!
PEOPLE - PROJECTS - CHARITY - HEALTH & WELLBEING - LIFESTYLE - BUSINESS
FAMILY GROUPS
BEDFORD
Celebrating 30 years this month!
Sharing • Discovering • Learning
your FREE copy
Adopt Me
see pg.33

If you have already been to us at Bedfordshire Hearing Healthcare
you will know that we pride ourselves on doing what’s right for you.
We are founder members of the Association of Independent Hearing
Healthcare Professionals (AIHHP) which is a well respected,
professional association dedicated to promoting excellence within the
UK Hearing Care profession.
We are now proud to have the wonderful opportunity, along with other
AIHHP Members across the country, to be involved with the charity
Help for Heroes. In conjunction with Phonak (hearing aid
manufacturer), we will be fitting hearing aids free of charge to our
country’s war heroes who have suffered a hearing loss whilst serving in
the Armed Services.
These men and women are ordinary people doing extraordinary things
for our country, and some of them are living with the consequences of
their service for life.
We are extremely gratified that we can be of help and if you know of
anyone who could benefit, or would like advice on your hearing loss,
call:
Bedfordshire Hearing Healthcare
52 Harpur Street
Bedford MK40 2QT
www.bedfordhearing.co.uk
e-mail: info@bedfordhearing.co.uk
2 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

Editor
Teresa Brooks
T: 01234 310521
M: 07429 136815
E: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
Advertising Manager
Marie Rugg
T: 01234 930634
M: 07761 472164
E: communitylifemag@yahoo.co.uk
Front Cover
Family Groups, Bedford
Design & Artwork
tweet: @doodlemunky
Production
info@tmmedia.co.uk
Printed by
White Hart Press, Bedford
Publisher
Brooks Media
�e Community
Life Donation
Every month, we will make a £25
donation from our advertising
revenues to one of the charities
or projects in our magazine so
look out for
the star!
£25
FROM COMMUNITY LIFE
Disclaimer
© 2012 Community Life Magazine.
All adverts and editorial are printed FROM in ALL OF US
good faith. While we make every e�ort to
ensure the reliability and accuracy of the
material contained in Community Life, we
can accept no responsibility for the veracity
of any claims made by our advertisers or
contributors. No part of this publication
may be reproduced or copied in any form
without the written consent of the publisher.
Welcome...
It’s our second edition and thanks
for all the lovely feedback and
interest you have given us, it’s been
brilliant! Keep it coming and let us
know what is happening in YOUR
community. Now going door to door
in some areas plus many outlets, your
Community Life will come to you but you can always get one
from the lovely Libby at La Piazza! J
�is month, you can find out about a brand new local charity
to support the Riverbank Ward at Bedford Hospital, read an
Olympic Games Makers story, find out where to party with the
Oxjam Bedford Takeover team and lots more.
Exciting times ahead for us as we team up with Bedford’s Urban
Radio Station In2Beats 106.5FM to support Bedford so listen out
for Community Life Magazine on the airwaves over the next few
weeks! Meet the people behind behind the the music on page 12…
As you you know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month month so
�ink Pink this month and support this
worthy cause whichever way you you can.
Enjoy! J
Teresa x
Contents
A Day in the Life of a 2012 Games Maker ........................ 4
Pride of Bedford Da�odil Planting ........................................... 5
�e Riverbank Foundation .............................................................. 7
Kempston Outdoor Centre & BDCPS ................................. 8
A boy called Rhys – Living with Autism ............................. 11
In2Beats 106.5FM Bedford’s Urban Radio ......................... 12
Keep on Moving ......................................................................................... 14
Understanding your Anger ............................................................. 15
Managing Phobias .................................................................................... 16
Oxjam – Taking over Bedford! ...................................................... 17
30 years – Family Groups, Bedford ........................................ 18
Bedford Breastfeeding Buddies ................................................... 20
Luke Rodgers – Young Persons’ Ambassador ............... 22
Paraben & Chemical free – Tropic Skincare ................... 27
A Gift of Time – Jubilee Hour ....................................................... 28
Microchipping your Pet ..................................................................... 33
What’s On ....................................................................................................... 34
Mini Ads and Services .......................................................................... 35
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
3

VOLUNTEERING
Bernie Pickering, an HR manager for
Lantmännen Unibake UK in Bedford
was lucky enough to be chosen from over
240,000 applications to be a London 2012
Olympic Games Maker volunteer.
She started her shifts at the Fleet Depot, Olympic
Park as a T3 Driver on July 22nd and shares with us
her fabulous experience of being part of our 2012
Olympics.
‘I was responsible for providing a driving service to the
Olympic Family -IOC members, NOC members and
accredited athletes. I was able to drive throughout
the Olympic Park and most of my clients either had
to be dropped o� at other Olympic venues such as
North Greenwich Arena (O2), Excel Arena, Horse
guards Parade or the Olympic Family Hotels based in
Park Lane. I volunteered for thirteen shifts and during
my days o�, I had full access to the Olympic Park,
so was able to enjoy the atmosphere of the Games,
watch the events on the big screens and generally
enjoy it all. I feel really privileged to have been a part
of what is now called the ‘Golden Games’ and I have
three top moments that I will treasure forever’
Bronze goes to …
On the first day at the Olympic Stadium, I was
lucky enough to have been selected to receive a free
ticket for the opening day of the Athletics. I got to
see Jessica Ennis start her bid for her Heptathlon
Gold and watch Christina Ohuruogu defending her
Olympic title. I had one of the best seats in the house
– sitting behind the Team GB coaches!!
Silver goes to …
A DAY IN THE LIFE ...
On Friday 10th August, I was granted full access
to the Athletes Village at the Olympic Park. My
highlight of that visit was meeting Tom Daley –
Team GB diver – who subsequently went on to win
an Olympic Bronze medal the next day. I met him
outside Team GB house as he was heading o� to
his diving qualification event, I was able to shake his
hand and wish him luck for his event that day – he
even let me take a photo!
Bernie Pickering
And the Gold goes to …
My final shift at the Olympic Park! �is was on the
night of the Closing Ceremony – the whole Olympic
Park had been locked down and access was really
restricted, but I was one of the few who were able to
drive a car. With little to do that night, the highlight
for me was the incredible atmosphere in the park.
I was able to spend a number of hours there with
my fellow Games Makers, watching the Athletes
with their flags and the dancers in their amazing
costumes enter the Stadium for the grand finale!
We heard all the music being played in the Stadium
as it was on loudspeakers throughout the park. �e
atmosphere was electric, very emotional and there
was a wonderful feeling of unity.
Being a Games Maker at London 2012 has been one
of the best experiences of my life so far and if I am
invited to take part in Rio in 2016, I will be seriously
considering it!
�e Games Makers
4 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

Last year, over 10,000 da�odil bulbs were
planted all over Bedford Borough with
the help of the community.
�is was the highest number they had ever planted
and proved to be a task and a half for the volunteers
as the ground conditions were very dry and
volunteers were asking whether they had drills to
use rather than spades!
�is year, the Bedford Borough Pride in Bedford
team want to plant 7,500 da�odil bulbs and also
want to encourage schools to get involved and plant
in their school grounds. Planting events are open to
the public and run from 10am-12 noon. Each area,
village or school will be supplied with
500 da�odil/crocus bulbs along with
all the equipment needed to plant
them. Volunteers are advised to wear
old clothing and sturdy footwear.
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
COMMUNITY
Help to plant 7,500 Da�odil bulbs with Pride in Bedford!
2011 volunteers
Confirmed Saturday
events
13th Oct, Sharnbrook
20th Oct, Pavenham
10th Nov, Eastcotts Road
31st Da�odils in bloom
November, �urleigh.
Other events will run during the October Half Term.
Finalised dates for the October half term events will be available in the Pride in Bedford Autumn
Newsletter –Visit the website www.bedford.gov.uk/volunteering If you would like to volunteer, call
Deborah Shrimpton on 01234 227328 or email: prideinbedford@bedford.gov.uk
5

Feeling
under stress?
BEDFORD COUNSELLING CENTRE
A safe place to talk with a
counsellor trained to help with:
◆ Family issues ◆ Relationships
◆ Con� dence ◆ Low self-esteem
◆ Panic ◆ Anxiety ◆ Stress
◆ Abuse ◆ Anger ◆ Bereavement
◆ Illness ◆ Disability
◆ Sexuality issues
AFFORDABLE COUNSELLING
Contact us on:
01234 346077
Email: bedfordadmin@hbcf.co.uk
www.bedfordcounselling.co.uk
Reg. Charity No. 1014988
6 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

When Josh McKeating was born in
December 2011, it should have been
a happy day for his parents, Sarah and Ray.
But the next 36 hours were agony as they
waited to hear whether with their newborn
son would even make it.
Josh was diagnosed with an extremely rare
chromosomal related depletion. Of his 46
chromosomes, number 10 was missing and
two others had exchanged. With only 61 cases
worldwide, very little was known about this and as
a result, his parents found themselves spending the
first weeks of his life in hospital. Doctors thought
he would only survive 36 hours but he fought and
started to stabilise. On Christmas day, he contracted
a viral infection but again he pulled through, came
home for a week then transferred to Great Ormond
Street where he underwent open heart surgery.
A traumatic start to his tiny life, but spending so
much time at Great Ormond Street
inspired Ray to do something
incredible. Feeling passionately
about the standards and
provisions there to support
parents, he set up �e
Riverbank Foundation charity. Ray said ‘�e services
and support at Great Ormond Street are first
class but obviously they receive a huge amount
of funding. I wanted to start something similar to
support the Riverbank Ward at Bedford Hospital.
�e vision of the charity is to independently provide
a better hospital experience for the parents, sta�
and children.’
�e charity will raise money to provide services
for parents such as subsidised hospital parking
and meals. Funding will buy newer equipment
for the ward, electrically operated beds, Freeview
televisions, redecoration and theming. �e playroom
will receive a range of new toys and creative games,
PC’s, Xbox, Wii, and TV’s. Ray says ‘All these things
may seem like luxuries but that’s the whole point.
At a traumatic time we are aiming to provide the
‘nice to have’ on top of the ‘need to have’ because it
makes such a di�erence.’
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
CHARITY
New charity supports Riverbank Ward
Sarah, Ray & Josh McKeating
�e lives of parents with sick children revolve around
hospitals but to help them keep in touch with work
or family, the charity want to provide iPads and free
access to Skype, comfortable fold out chairs for
sleeping over on the wards and more. �ey look to
fund one student nurse grant annually and parents
will be able to use online forums to talk to other
parents, giving and receiving support.
Ray explained ‘I have had many
hours waiting and worrying
and I decided to take action
to make this happen. I am passionate
and dedicated to improving the environment
primarily for parents but also the sta� and children
and to give something back. �ey are such a fantastic
team and they gave Josh the very best care in the
world.’
So how will this inspiration turn to reality?
Fundraising plans include a Kilimanjaro climb and
Ray is also running the 2013 London marathon. �ey
are working with Bedford Borough Council to run
three locally run events in 2013 - Run for Riverbank,
Ride for Riverbank and Rock for Riverbank.
Volunteers are already rallying, so if you
would like to help or o�er business
sponsorship, please contact Ray on
07969 735582.
Facebook/theriverbank or twitter@theriverbank
7

ACTIVITIES
New award-winning equipment
makes the impossible ... possible!
BDCPS clients and sta� with the Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson (front row right)
Whatever an individuals physical
ability, everyone can participate in
the facilities on o�er at Bedford Borough
Council’s Kempston Outdoor Centre
thanks to award-winning specialist
equipment now hosted at the centre.
Last year, Kempston Outdoor Centre sta� held a
seminar on ‘inclusive adventure.’ �is took place to
discuss ways to help people with physical restrictions
use the centre’s facilities.
�e centre then got in touch with Bedford District
Cerebral Palsy Society to further discuss and carry
out this vision. �e charity worked with Bedford
Borough Council which funded the equipment,
and was designed by Suresh Paul who chairs the
organisation, Equal Adventure.
�e result produced a kite harness which won a
Millennium Award and comes in various sizes, and
is designed to be a modular system where di�ering
degrees of support can be added or removed. �is
enables people who are perhaps wheelchair users to
reach the top of the 40 ft outdoor climbing wall.
In addition to the harnesses, knee and elbow pads
are available, as well as a mobile climbing rope ladder
and sensory equipment, all made up of materials
ranging in di�erent colours, textures and sounds
which can be used as motivational aids.
�e Centre has a good working relationship with
Bedford District Cerebral Palsy Society and deliver
an annual summer activity programme where
participants take part in all the centre activities
wherever possible.
�e Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson,
said: “It was so moving to witness what many
people would think would be impossible. To watch
these young people as they were moved from their
wheelchairs and placed into harnesses, so that they
could excel to heights that a climbing instructor
could reach on the climbing wall, was just brilliant.
�ose who participated were evidently thrilled by
the experience.”
Cllr Doug McMurdo, Portfolio Holder for Leisure
and Culture at Bedford Borough Council, said: “Noone
need be left out in terms of active participation,
thanks to this cutting edge equipment. I would like
to thank the dedicated team of sta� at the centre
who clearly get job satisfaction from witnessing
other peoples’ happiness - they make young peoples’
dreams and aspirations
become a reality.”
For more information on Kempston Outdoor
Centre telephone 01234 718666 or visit:
www.kempstonoutdoorcentre.co.uk
8 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

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To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
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9

Oxfam’s shops
in Bedford
Oxfam Bookshop
16 St Paul’s Square (Phone 213768)
Oxfam Shop
91/93 High Street (Phone 269204)
– selling clothes, accessories,
homeware, gifts, FairTrade
food, greetings cards ......
Both helping to raise money for
Oxfam’s vital work across the
world, welcoming customers &
donations of saleable goods!
Thank you for your support.
Picked up a little excess
baggage this summer?
Drop those extra pounds with
Cambridge Weight Plan.
Your Independent Cambridge Consultant:
Lynn Smith
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07887983115
email:lynn161412@yahoo.com
www.cambridgeweightplan.com/LynnS
COULD YOU BE A
COMMUNITY
HOST?
10 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

A boy named Rhys
Rhys Roberts, 12, from Bedford is
an extremely bright boy who loves
nothing more than creating scenes with his
Lego and playing X Box.
He has friends, is doing well at school and has a
stable family life. But it wasn’t always this way.
When he was 3, nursery sta� noticed signs of late
development and slightly unusual behaviours.
When Rhys was diagnosed with moderate autism,
it marked the beginning of a tough journey for the
Roberts family. �is lifelong condition a�ects how he
makes sense of the world and how he understands,
communicates and relates to other people.
Medication was advised but refused. His mum, Jo
said ‘I didn’t believe this was the best thing for my
son, I wanted to help him in a di�erent way’ With
the support of their GP and other
professionals, they all worked together
with Rhys to help him. ‘We put
structures, plans, visual aids, systems
and routines in place for daily activities.
I showed him how to do things over and
over until he could do them himself.
�en we moved to the next stage. ‘It
was so hard at times and took a lot
of love and patience. He barely spoke
until he was 6 and even then he talked
in his own style so we didn’t always understand him.
He would get so upset and I would have to hold him
tight for hours. �en one day something happened
that proved we were making progress’
‘He called me mum’
Rhys playing X-Box
‘Until that day, I had never heard my son call me
Mum. He called everyone Mummy Bear no matter
who they were. He was playing in his room and all of
a sudden, he called out Mum to me – I was overjoyed
to finally hear that.”
When his family moved to Bedford, Rhys was 8. Four
years behind educationally and unable to read or
write, starting at Newham School brought another
positive change for him. �rough their support, he
Rhys, left and his family
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
PEOPLE
can now read age appropriate books, write to a good
level, go on school trips and enjoy new activities.
Sport is hard for him due to the co-ordination of skills
required but recently playing Rugby for the first time
was a huge achievement. After some challenging
years around education, Rhys is happy and settled.
He still needs plenty of allocated
time dedicated to his specific areas of
interest. If this can’t happen, it results
in some tough moments. ‘Planning is
a necessity for Rhys’ explains Jo ’We
can’t just pop out or be spontaneous.
It’s hard as a family as it means we can’t
do certain things but we work around
it and deal with things as they happen.’
Rhys understands his autism, he is not
defined by it and is constantly encouraged to try new
things. He is very creative and determined. Jo says
‘Our son is amazing, he has talents and goals in life
and we are really proud of him.’
Her advice is simple.’ Get lots of support, research
and find the best way forward for your family. �ere’s
no right or wrong way. Always trust that you know
your child best. Love, patience and dedication can
make the di�erence. It does for us’
For further information & support:
www.autismbedfordshire.net
www.autism.org.uk www.autismuk.com
Have you got a story to share? Please get in touch.
11

MUSIC
Tune In2Beats 106.5FM
and discover a whole
new sound in Bedford!
Based in Harpur
Street, I n 2 b e a t s
106.5FM is an exciting,
indepen-dent radio station
dedicated to bringing
Urban music to thousands
of listeners across Beds,
Bucks and Herts.
So what is Urban Music?
You may think of Urban music
as street music, R&B, grime,
garage, drum & bass, rap, hip hop,
house, reggae, soul…the list goes
on and in reality Urban music
is all of that - and more. Urban
is woven through many genres
of music listened to by all ages
and backgrounds. A song you
love or something you hear on
mainstream radio can often have
roots planted firmly in Urban. It
is pure culture, covering anything
from the swinging 60’s through to
present day commercial sounds.
�e story ...
In2Beats 106.5FM radio was
launched in 2011 by 34 year old
Bedford entrepreneur, Mark Davis.
It was hard to get community
licenses and even harder to find
great music on air - so to satisfy
a passion for their own musical
tastes, friends of Marks’ that were
DJs joined him to collaborate
and get their sounds on air. �ey
became a big part of introducing
new sounds and created outlets
for local DJs to fine tune their
styles and develop their careers.
Tune in to hear all types of music
from soul and older Reggae,
Garage, Motown in addition to
Hip Hop and dance sounds which
are often influenced by classic
tracks across the decades.
Everyday people
Attracting new listeners, new
advertisers and discovering
new DJs to support and coach
is priority. It’s a family a�air
and Mark’s partner, Terry-Ann,
looks after the advertising,
Mark and Terry-Ann
management and events.
Local businesses benefit from
competitive airtime rates and
there are great combined
packages available through
Community Life Magazine. All
DJs are vetted and In2Beats follow
strict rules and boundaries. Terry-
Ann says “Our DJs are everyday
people who want to share, grow
and make people’s day a bit
happier! We give them a platform
to air their tunes and follow a
true love of music. We encourage
them to express themselves, play
new sounds and grow as artists
but we don’t allow swearing,
political music, violent culture or
gang rap. Reputation is key.”
Education & collaborate
In2Beats have an estimated
100,000 listeners and receive
over 8000 texts a month. Hugely
community based, they have
a vision to give a voice to local
charities on their shows and air
12 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

guest interviews. Now part of
a positive collaboration with
Community Life Magazine, the
vision is shared and both will
be helping to promote third
sector, encourage volunteering,
develop and raise awareness
of the diverse community in
Bedford. Local school roadshows
have been extremely successful
in encouraging young people to
discover music production and
consider it as a career. Bedford
College use Mark’s success story
to help inspire young people. His
message is clear “Get something
to build on, pursue your passion,
invest in something you care
about and make it happen. Don’t
let other people tell you it can’t
be done!”
�e In2Beats team are passionate
about their outcomes and are
looking to deliver partnership
programmes with more schools
and organisations. Exciting
plans to run in house funded
DJ training courses means they
�e DJs behind the Beats...
Twitter@DJAdamG1065
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
MUSIC
can give back to their DJs - a big
priority for them.
As a Social Enterprise, it’s all
achieved with volunteers so if you
want to be a part of something
exciting and fun with prospects,
are prepared to work hard and
commit, you could find your
calling with In2Beats. From
making the tea to producing
and becoming a successful DJ,
every job matters and makes the
station what it is today!
Introducing… Adam Gentle, Aged 36 – married with 2 children
Showtime: Tuesday 6-8pm
“I have listened to House and Garage music for 20 years and began DJ’ing when I was
18. After the 90’s house boom, I took inspiration from UK Garage Dj’s, such as DJ EZ
and Tough Jam and began playing UK Garage and house, both my passion. In2beats
gave me the opportunity to learn, develop and share my music with real listeners and
now I have new and regular listeners tuning in which feels amazing!
I hope to inspire young people in the area.”
Introducing… Frenchy, Aged 33 – married with 3 children
Showtime: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 10am -1pm
“I am a bubbly, sociable person! I’m an actor but have been passionate about music
from a young age. I co-hosted on college radio and have a diverse taste in music
including my heritage style African soulful house. In2Beats gave me an opportunity
to be involved with something great – I interview musicians and help third sector
organisations raise awareness on subjects that e�ect people on a daily basis so it’s really
satisfying.”
Twitter @DJBonnieB
Twitter@Frenchyin2beats
Introducing… Bonnie B, Aged 19 – student
Showtime: Breakfast Show… Tues-Fri, 7am-10am
“Coming from a musical family I’ve always been involved with music and knew what I
wanted. I took GCSE in Music, then a BTEC in music technology. I am now studying a
degree in music production at Bedfordshire University. Just over a year ago, I was given
the opportunity to host the breakfast show Monday to Friday 7-10am. My main goal is
to brighten up people’s mornings! It gives me motivation and structure to my day and
it’s great to see how many people get involved and enjoy it as much as I do!”
In2beats broadcasts across Bedford’s airwaves on 106.5FM. Live from 7am till midnight 7 days a week.
Listen online at www.in2beats.com or locally on your radio dial.
Shout Outs & Requests TEXT BEATS to: 07786 200690 www.facebook.com/In2beatsfm Twitter: @1065FM
Contact Terry-Ann about DJ opportunities and volunteering enquiries@in2beats.com
13

A s
WELLBEING
Keep on moving . . .
you get older, the aches and pains
you start to feel are often dismissed
as simply part of the ageing process that
nothing can be done about.
However, many older people can maintain their
quality of life by relieving pain and improving
flexibility. When you retire, you may want to be able
to take opportunities to pursue sports and hobbies,
travel, spend time with your grandchildren.
But over the years, your body may have lost some
flexibility or su�ered wear and tear from work, poor
posture, injuries or illness. Pain and sti�ness will
accumulate over time and hinder your activity levels.
Osteoarthritis is a joint disease that mostly a�ects
cartilage. It can occur in any joint, most often hands,
knees, hips and spine, causing pain, swelling and loss
of motion. It is a common condition in older people
and osteopathic treatment is extremely helpful
in reducing discomfort and keeping you active. It
aims to restore the normal function and stability
of the joints to help the body heal itself, reduce
any further deterioration in the joints and enable
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you to be more active
and independent. In more
severe cases where joint
replacement is ultimately
needed, osteopathy can
help to delay the need for
surgery. If replacement
surgery is finally needed,
the body tissues are
generally in better health
after treatment and
therefore recovery is faster.
Top tips for keeping mobile:
C Keep active with regular gentle exercise
C Avoid strain by enlisting help with heavy jobs
C Keep to a healthy weight
C Eat healthily and consider supplements for joint
health such as fish oils and glucosamine
North Beds Osteopaths is based in Bromham and
Sharnbrook - call 01234 823621 for enquiries or
appointments.
14 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

Everyone has angry feelings from time to
time, it is a normal response and not in
itself a problem.
In fact in some situations anger empowers us to
challenge injustice or make necessary changes in
our lives. It is a natural, adaptive response to threats
but when anger becomes aggression it can lead to
damaging behaviours.
We always have a choice in how we behave,
understanding anger can help to manage and
modify how we express angry feelings.
�e majority of people will
experience episodes of anger
that are within a usual and
healthy range. However, some
people experience anger
frequently and intensely and
relate to that anger in a way
that interferes with their
relationships, often creating
misery for themselves and
others.
Most people will have particular triggers for their
anger. Understanding what these triggers are and
exploring the patterns and behaviours that follow
can help to interrupt the feeling when it happens
and deal with anger in a more constructive way.
Every individual has a di�erent set of triggers to deal
with a di�erent situation.
Expressing feelings
An angry response can be activated in inappropriate
situations, causing what may
seem to be an irrational emotional reaction.
For example, the feeling of overpowering rage
some people experience when public transport
lets them down and they are on their way to
an appointment. Or the frustration we may
experience when our computer repeatedly
crashes and we find ourselves shouting at
the screen.
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
PEOPLE
UNDERSTANDING YOUR ANGER
People use four main ways to deal with their
angry feelings. Being verbally or physically aggressive
tends to escalate the situation and does nothing
to resolve the conflict. It may provide temporary
relief for the aggressor but without resolution
the situation is likely to surface again. �e fear
that aggressive anger can generate can be hugely
damaging to relationships.
Expressing angry feelings in an assertive – not
aggressive- way is the healthiest was to express
anger. Being assertive doesn’t mean being pushy
or demanding; it means being clear and
respectful of ourselves and others.
Calming measures
It is possible to inhibit or suppress
anger but some form of expression
is needed otherwise the anger can
turn inwards and may cause physical
responses such as hypertension or
high blood pressure. Supressed
anger can also lead to problematic
expressions of anger such as
passive aggressive behaviour –
getting back at people indirectly or by being critical
and hostile.
Calming measures can be e�ective and can
reverse some of the physiological e�ects of anger.
Concentrating on relaxed breathing can be very
useful, active relaxation can also help to calm angry
feelings. By using calming techniques the risk of
reacting and expressing anger in a destructive way
can be lessened.
Can we help?
01234 356350
www.relatebedsandluton.org.uk to find out more
appointments@relatebedsandluton.org.uk
15

HEALTH
Is your phobia taking over your life?
We’ve all been there...your heart is
racing, your palms are sweaty, you
feel sick…the kind of reaction to expect
if you’re about to launch yourself o� a
bungee platform but what if this happens
at the very thought of a flight, seeing a dog,
or even a button?
Some people react with mild anxiety
when confronted with the object of
their fear - others experience severe
anxiety and panic attacks.
Fear is so intense
Phobias -an intense fear of a particular
situation or thing - can ruin lives. Not because
the situation is life-threatening but because the fear
is so intense they will do anything to avoid it.
It’s not always obvious where the phobia comes
from. It may grow slowly from no particular point
THE
WHITE HART PRESS
OF
QUALITY PRINTING
but will more likely manifest within a few months of
a major event in life. Phobias may run in families and
can a�ect all age groups, even children.
Don’t su�er alone
Phobias don’t have to run your life and no matter
what your age, there is help. �erapies and training
courses are available to treat a wide range of
phobias, also depression and panic attacks
which will often go hand in hand with
phobias. Like many phobias, many are
too embarrassed to admit their fear
to anyone outside their immediate
circle. Don’t su�er alone, ask for
help, confide in someone and you
can beat your phobia.
For more information
Contact Sue Wilson at
Bedford Hypnotherapy Clinic on 01234 327444
or email: sue@bedfordhypnosis.co.uk
Est. 1987
01234 270465
www.whitehartpress.co.uk
16 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
EVENT
Oxjam �e sound of something happening ... Saturday, October 27th
The very first Oxjam Takeover is in Bedford on October 27th! Sponsored by Concept
Solutions, this is an exciting one-day, multi-venue music festival featuring the best
local bands and artists in the pick of the town’s venues.
‘Taking over’ Esquires, �e Pad,
Bedford College Sixth Form
Centre, Badlands, �e Bedford
Arms and �e Bear, you are
promised a fantastic musical lineup.
From rock to reggae, folk to
funk they’ve got it all - prepare
to be excited! Over 20 excellent
bands performing, raising money
and having a blast!
Oxjam events are part of a
national Oxfam programme
during October to raise money
musically! Since the first event in
2006, over £1.5m has been raised,
supporting life-saving emergency
responses and life-changing
development work worldwide.
Hot Fiction Press
�e Bedford Takeover is organised
by a team of dedicated volunteers
and run by local fundraiser Clare
Sullivan. “Like many people in
Bedford, I went to my first ever
Guitars Have Ghosts
gig at Esquires and an instant
love of live music was born. I
have a long-standing passion for
fundraising and have organised
numerous other events so when
the opportunity came up to run
a Takeover event in Bedford, I was
so excited. I could combine my
love of live music with my passion
for fundraising and help to put on
some great events in my home
town too.”
For the full Takeover line-up visit:
www.oxjambedfordtakeover.co.uk.
Wristbands are your pass to this
fantastic event so get yours now - £8
in advance at: www.wegottickets.com,
or £10 on the day.
�ere is still time to get involved with
the Takeover, as a sponsor or volunteer!
Get in touch at:
oxjam.bedfordtakeover@gmail.com
FaceBook: oxjambedfordtakeover
Twitter: @oxjambedford
Why Birds
Generous local businesses are
sponsoring the Takeover and
and in partnership with �e
Kiosk in �e Park, the team ran
a successful family fun day in
Russell Park as well as recording
a brilliant short commercial and
soundtrack with local band, Ouse
Valley Singles Club. Check it out
on You Tube.
Clare Sullivan –
Fundraiser and
Main Organiser
17

CHARITY
Marking 30 years
of helping families Charity
Cauldwell Group Workshop
Family Groups, Bedford are a small registered charity
based in Ampthill Road and this October marks their
30th Anniversary year supporting local families in the
community.
�eir aim is to support and
improve the life skills in the
community, assist in health and
wellbeing and reduce barriers by
o�ering free support, training
and crèches in a safe environment
so families can come together,
share and develop. Family Groups
are proud to be a diverse charity
so there are no restrictions on
gender, age, religion, personal
circumstances or any other factor.
Derry Dynes,
Chief O�cer
No. 1045275
Anyone can become a member
and the beauty is that adults can
learn or enjoy an activity and
some precious time out while
their children can play in a fully
sta�ed on site crèche. Family
Groups Chief O�cer, Derry Dynes
says ‘�is is a really positive factor
for many mums who can’t arrange
or a�ord childcare. It allows them
to learn, enjoy and participate
knowing their children are only a
room away.’
Developing Skills
During term time, they hold
Monday and �ursday workshops
between 09.30am-11.30am.
Funded by the Harpur Trust, they
£25
FROM COMMUNITY LIFE
Helping families in the
FROM ALL OF US
community to learn,
share and develop
have varying themes such as arts
and crafts, health and wellbeing,
cooking, or sewing. Parents can do
something new, relax and socialise
while their children interact, mix
and play. �ere is no pressure to
join in, just go along for a cup of
tea and to see what goes on!
Learn as a family
Family Learning courses are
perfect for families with preschool
children, o�ering informal
learning based around the Early
Years Foundation Stage principles.
Helping parents and children to
develop skills together creates a
positive experience for both. �ey
involve lots of fun, activities, music
18 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

song and dance and are free of
charge for most families. First
aid training is also on o�er for
free to members who attend the
Employability Skills and Family
Learning courses.
Future aspirations
Family Groups, Bedford support
unemployed individuals looking
to add to their skills, gain
employment, improve their
current situation or volunteer.
�eir Future Aspirations course
includes CV writing, Interviewing
Skills, Communication, Customer
Service, Quality and Diversity and
Presentation Skills.
It is suitable for those who
are looking improve their selfconfidence
and find employment.
Individual support is also on o�er
to help with application forms
and seeking the right job.
Refresh their skills
�e Childcare course is another
fantastic opportunity aimed at
learners who may be looking to
work in the Childcare sector or to
refresh their skills.
It includes workshops on
Safeguarding, Implementing the
Early Years Foundation Stage,
Planning and Evaluating sessions,
Health and Safety. �ere is also
the possibility of work experience
sessions in the crèche, subject to
CRB checks.
Susan, a member who completed
the course said “Supporting
the children’s learning needs
by volunteering in the crèche
allowed me to put my new skills
into practice. I really felt a part
of a team. It helped me to keep
my mind active and build my
Bedford Family Groups onsite crèche
confidence to gain employment
which I now have and I am really
happy. If it wasn’t for Family
Groups, I probably would not
have had that opportunity”
Derry is proud of all they o�er
‘We are only a small charity but
we achieve some great outcomes
with our passion and dedication
to our work in the community.
We always welcome new people,
families, and volunteers, learners
to join us - so please come and
meet us and see what we do!’
�ey are always keen to hear
from local businesses to support
fundraising initiatives and are
currently seeking an annual
sponsor. Donated items are all
gratefully received, especially
children’s toys. If you are
interested in getting involved or
finding out more, please contact
Derry on 01234 316801.
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
�e ‘cooking’ team
CHARITY
Family Groups, Bedford
Raleigh Centre,
Ampthill Road,
Bedford, MK42 9HE
First Aid Training
Bedford Family Groups also deliver 6 hour accredited Emergency
First Aid at Work courses to external companies for an inclusive
price of £55 per person. (£40 for registered charities) Parenting
First Aid workshops are delivered to local Children’s Centres and
other agencies.
19

GROUPS
Bedford Breastfeeding Buddies
Breastfeeding is recognised
as the healthiest and
best nutritional choice for
babies, providing all they
need for healthy growth and
development. But what happens
when it doesn’t go quite to plan?
Fran Gri�n is a trained Breastfeeding
Buddy in Bedford and tutors the local
‘Preparing to Breastfeed’ classes.
“I had always planned to breastfeed and
found feeding my daughter, Beatrice,
easy and incredibly rewarding but I
knew lots of mums who had struggled
and given up. I really wanted to help so
I trained at Peter Pan Children’s Centre
as a Breastfeeding Buddy. My son,
Samuel, was born shortly afterwards.
I thought breastfeeding would be
simple but Samuel had a tongue-tie
and no matter what we tried, feeding
was uncomfortable and Samuel wasn’t
satisfied.
My midwife referred me to Bedford Hospital and the
tongue-tie was released in a quick procedure. I went
home expecting everything to be fine but when
there was no improvement, I started to panic.
�ings started to get better
Needing help, I went to a support group and the
mums were fantastic. �ey reassured me it would
take a couple of days and talked to me about how I
could help Samuel learn to use his tongue properly.
Within the next 24 hours, things started to get better
and by the end of the week, both Samuel and I were
doing great.”
Sadly, not all mums know who to ask if things are
not going right. Fran’s experience inspired her to
start tutoring the Preparing to Breastfeed courses.
She says “Breastfeeding gets your baby o� to the
very best start. All mums-to-be need to know what
support is available during their pregnancy so they
Baby Brasserie at Cherry Trees
Fran Gri�n & Samuel
don’t feel alone if things don’t go
as expected when baby arrives.”
�e four week courses are free,
giving information on why
breastfeeding is so important, how
to feed successfully and where to
find support when it’s needed. �e
courses run at Peter Pan Children’s
Centre on Edward Road, Bedford.
You can book a place by telephoning
Fran on 01234 269512 or you can email her:
fran_gri�n@hotmail.com. Local Baby Brasseries
provide support, are friendly and informal and
assisted by Breastfeeding Buddies like Fran.
Developed by SEPT (South East Partnership Trust)
Community Health Services, mums are welcome
anytime during and after pregnancy, with follow on
advice on expressing and storing breastmilk, going
back to work, introducing food and more.
So don’t struggle alone, visit
your local brasserie - you will
find friendly faces, help and a
cup of tea!
OPENING TIMES
Cherry Trees Children’s Centre, Bedford, Tuesday: 13.00pm-15.00pm
Pine Cones Children’s Centre, Bedford, Wednesday: 11.00am-12.30pm
Daisy Hill Children’s Centre, Kempston, �ursday: 13.00pm-15.00pm
Peter Pan Children’s Centre, Bedford Friday: 09.30am - 11.30am
20 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

Our services include:
• Laundry Service
• Linen Hire
• Work-wear Hire
• Dry Cleaning
• Ironing Services
• Pressing Services
• Senior Citizen Discount
FREE COLLECTION & DELIVERY
We provide a friendly & professional service.
Telephone: 01234 853 060 / 07825 294 345
Fax: 01234 853 060
E-mail: a1laundryltd@googlemail.com
58, Singer Way, Woburn Road Industrial Estate, Kempston,
Bedford, Bedfordshire MK42 7AF
✃
B'dazzled Hair &
Beauty welcomes all
clients in our new
and modern salon.
OPENING TIMES: Monday: 10am-5pm; Tuesday: 9am-6pm;
Wednesday: 9am-5:30pm; Thursday: 9am-8:30pm
Friday: 9am-7:30pm; Saturday: 8:30am-5pm; Sunday: Closed
1/2 Price Cut
& Blowdry*
with all full head
colours/highlights
Call 01234 217 533
1 Hour Facial &
1/2 Hour Back
Massage*
JUST £50
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
✃
Telephone: 01234 349211 Mobile: 07955 379870
Email: justgeniescakes@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/JustGeniesCakes
We offer a wide variety of services including:
Hairdressing, Barbering, Racoon Hair Extensions,
Laser hair removal, Microdermabrasion, Laser
teethwhitening, Eyelash extenions Jessica Gel nails,
Dermalogica facials and much more. So why not
pop in and grab one of our fantastic offers today!
Full set of
Eyelash Extensions*
JUST £45
* ALL OFFERS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND EXCLUDE SATURDAYS — OFFERS EXPIRE 31/10/12
✃
JESSICA
Manicure & Pedicure*
JUST £35
18 Castle Lane, Bedford, Bedfordshire MK40 3US
info@bdazzledbedford.co.uk www.bdazzledbedford.co.uk
✃
21

PEOPLE
Luke Rodgers
Luke Rodgers, his true story ...
Luke Rodgers, Young Persons’ Ambassador, often
ends his workshops by asking the participants to
predict where they think that the young man whose
case they have been assessing ended up. ‘‘Prison’ they
tell, me, or unhappy and drug addicted, or leading a
life of crime. When I tell them that that young man –
a boy who was in and out of care all of his childhood,
abused, abandoned, troubled and in trouble – was in
fact me, their response is astonishment.
Believe in them
Hardly anyone is able to believe that it is possible for a
young person to pull themselves out of the situation
that I was in. But the few that do believe – it’s those
people that children need, the ones who can believe
in them, will trust them when no one else does, will
make sure they have the support and access to the
tools they have to have to build and hold onto their
own expectations and then to live up to them.’
‘I was born into a violent family. One of my earliest
memories is of my father being violent to my mother.’
Luke explains. ‘�e truth is she drank heavily and she
and my father could not get on. But all along I thought
that what happened in our house was normal, that
my Dad hitting my Mum meant that he loved her.
‘When I was about four my Mum met someone else
and moved out. Steve seemed kind and at first I was
happy living with them, even though I missed my Dad
terribly. I think it was this that made Steve, my stepdad,
so angry and he began hitting me. My Mum, who
was very bitter about the years of violence she had
su�ered, wouldn’t let me see my Dad which made me
miss him all the more which meant that I got beaten
more and more. It was a horrible circle and there
seemed no way out until I was seven years old and the
day came when my Mum finally cracked and took me
to my Dad’s house and left me on the doorstep.
‘Of course I was happy at first, but it soon became
impossible to stay with my Dad and I had to go back
to my Mum’s. �e abuse from my step-dad was worse
then and because we moved about so much – I went
to thirteen di�erent primary schools, three di�erent
ones in one year, I never had the chance to make any
real friends or connect with someone who might
notice that something was wrong. I became a slave
in the house, doing all the domestic work and being
beaten for the smallest thing. I often screamed for my
Dad and then my Mum would take me to him but
he couldn’t help me long-term, and I would really
miss my Mum who actually had custody of me, and
so I would end up back with her and my step-dad
again.
‘When I was eleven the bruises on my neck were
noticed by a school friend and I told him what was
going on. He said that I could come home with him
and his parents took me in and told me I didn’t have
to go home anymore. I got a lot of strength from
that, the fact that I could and had done something
to change my life, that I was believed and I did have
some sort of control.
Scared and disappointed
‘�rough the next years I stayed in a few di�erent
foster homes and learned a lot about my Dad which
left me disillusioned. It turned out that he wasn’t
someone I could admire after all. I was scared and
disappointed with myself - when I was suspended
from school I realized that most people, my foster
parents included, thought that I was no good and I
wanted, so badly, to prove them wrong.
‘Over the next few years I became a Persistent Young
O�ender and was in court many times. I missed all
of year nine at school, took drugs, committed crimes,
was in and out of foster and care homes. No one had
time for someone who seemed so determined to
22 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
PEOPLE
... A Young Persons’ Ambassador
get into trouble. �ey all just saw and reported the
negatives.
‘When I was fifteen, I was taken in by a foster family
who lived far out in the country. �ey told me that
they didn’t have set meal times and that I could eat
whatever I wanted. I was amazed and tucked into
a big chicken pie that I found in the fridge. No one
stopped me, no one treated me like I was bad and
for about eighteen months things got better and my
behavior really improved.
‘�e problem was that I just couldn’t settle, I had
become so used to trouble and trauma that I couldn’t
stand things being so easy, so quiet, and regrettably
I decided to leave. It wasn’t long afterwards that I
ended up in a children’s home again, in court every
�ursday, a Persistent Young O�ender once more.
Reflecting on my life
I remember the magistrate telling me that I was
headed for prison. I was really shocked and I wanted
prove him wrong but I didn’t have the tools to do that.
�ankfully I was put in a programme of Treatment
Foster Care where I had to earn points in order to be
able to watch TV, have a mobile phone or see a friend.
Points were easy to earn at first but the expectations
were raised all the time so that my behavior had to
improve too. It took six months to reflect on my life
and come to see that I had been blaming my past for
all the wrong choices I had been making – I didn’t
want to do that anymore and so I got back into school
and tried to work hard. I knew I didn’t belong with my
family, I was so di�erent to them and my Mum said I
would end up dead in a ditch or in prison - but I badly
wanted to prove her wrong, and everyone else who
had judged me so negatively.
‘�e night that changed my life was when I had ended
up homeless again but I was found a place in a B and
B by social services. It was an awful place but I didn’t
care. I was on my own, I could look after myself and I
didn’t have to rely on anyone else. I finally had some
control over my own life – I cooked my own meals,
went to school, joined a gym and got fit. Before too
long I had the chance to go back to the foster carers
I had really been happy with – they even got me
another chicken pie to welcome me back! �is time
though they put me in a cottage where I could be
independent and look after myself.
Change the world
�is was such a chance for me and I did everything
I could to make it work. I studied hard and got four
A-levels. I wanted to be a social worker so that I
could change the world but I soon learned that social
workers have their own challenges that make their
jobs really tough. I fell into my job as a Young Persons’’
Ambassador by accident but it is absolutely what I
want to do. I am a success story and I want to share
that with everyone but also help young people find a
voice, to share their stories too so that they can help
others survive their tough times, believe in themselves
and understand that they deserve that trust and
belief from others too. Good foster carers, made all
the di�erence to me and my story. �ey are the ones
who really have faith
in young people, who
are willing to help a
troubled person and
give them their belief
–and trust that they
will come through.
In Luke’s capacity as the Young Persons’
Ambassador for Alliance Foster Care he delivers
workshops for sta� and foster carers. His
personal experiences and honest account of
his time in care provides us with an excellent
insight into the needs of looked after children.
With this better understanding of the experiences
of children coming into care we are
able to tailor our services to better meet the
individual needs and wishes of the children in
placement. At Alliance Foster Care we believe
that all children should be given every opportunity
to reach their full potential. If you
would like to learn more about Alliance Foster
Care and the work that we do please contact:
ALLIANCE FOSTER CARE 01604 879373
www.alliancefostercare.co.uk
23

VOLUNTEERING
Volunteering Opportunities
Can you give some time to help others?
Food Preparation / Catering Volunteer Ref 178
We are looking for people who are friendly, enthusiastic,
cheerful, helpful and reliable. �e role entails preparing
cold and hot food for the co�ee shop. Food safety and
hygiene training given.
Volunteer Family Advocate Ref 172
To meet with and support vulnerable adults to help them
to speak up for themselves or to speak up on their behalf
during Child Protection, Child in Need, Looked After Child
and court hearing meetings.
Volunteer Mentor Ref 35
Mentors required to support people with a range of mental
health problems. Full training given. Particularly looking
for volunteers who are available in the day or who are over
65. We also need mentors to assist individuals to engage in
physical activity.
Urgent Drivers Ref 152
Can you help those in need in your local community?
We need drivers to take elderly people to pick up their
pensions, go shopping, to the doctors and to visit family.
We will pay you 45p per mile - this is a very rewarding
opportunity and you will meet some lovely people.
Family Support Volunteer – Bedford Ref 79
We need home visiting volunteers to o�er regular support,
friendship and help to parents with young children
aged 5 and under. We also need a ‘pool’ of volunteers to
provide transport and group support for our postnatal
depression group and our expectant mums group. We are
keen to recruit Dads, teenage parents, empty nesters and
Grandparents. Volunteers attend a free Preparation Course
and have the opportunity to gain OCN accreditation on
completion.
URGENT Administration Support Ref 43
We are looking for a volunteer to help the Capital Appeal
-Preparing letters and coordinating responses/manage
post/Data entry/General Admin support.
Drop-in advice session – Weds Ref 39
We are looking for volunteers for our Weds drop in advice
sessions for refugee and asylum seekers. We are ideally
looking for someone who can hope to commit to at least 6
months in order to learn the rules of immigration.
Call: 01234 213100
43 Bromham Road, Bedford MK40 2AA www.voluntaryworks.org.uk
24 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

Could there be more in your life?
There are over
1,200 looked after children
in Northampton,
Bedfordshire
and Cambridgeshire
Tel: 0808 1680 180
www.alliancefostercare.co.uk
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
We have a shortage
of foster carers.
With one foster
placement you will
receive a tax free
allowance of up to
£20,000 per year*
* subject to status
Become a
foster carer
and make
a real
difference to
a child’s life
25

ge
dows
HEALTH
�e power of the
pomegranate
The pomegranate’s unique and potent
nutrients benefit your body like no
other fruit. �is exotic, little fruit is one of
the healthiest you can eat and can have
significant health benefits.
Studies have shown that eating pomegranate seeds
can help prevent osteoarthritis, reduce blood
pressure, destroy breast cancer cells, slow prostate
cancer, protect the arteries, lower cholesterol and
slow Alzheimer’s disease.
Packed full of antioxidants, pomegranates are one
of the few fruits whose juice is just as beneficial as
its fruit or seeds. �e inedible peel contains the
most antioxidants, which are released abundantly
when the fruit is squeezed for juicing.
Eat the seeds while they’re at their freshest and
juiciest, and at the peak of their medicinal powers.
Packed with antioxidants
Sprinkle the seeds on a green salad or fruit salad
for a surprising taste sensation, add to cereals or
include in any recipe that calls for fruit or seeds.
Please note: Eating pomegranates might interfere
with certain medications in the same way that
grapefruit juice does. Ask your doctor or
pharmacist about any possible drug interactions.
Packed with antioxidants
26 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

Pure. Honest. E�ective. �ese are the three
principles that lie at the heart of Tropic Pure Plant
Skin Care.
�ese products are derived from
100% pure plant extracts, are
a�ordable and naturally e�ective
on all skin types.
Fit to bursting with proteins,
vitamins and antioxidants that
make a positive di�erence to the
health, vitality and appearance
of your skin, the products are
cruelty free and smell
incredible and have
been an amazing
success.
Handmade in small
batches to ensure
quality, all products
are free from para�n,
petrolatum, petro chemicals and
other synthetic ingredients.
Developed by Susan Ma, finalist
from �e Apprentice 2011, the
full range is now available from
local Bedford distributor, Caron
Brooks. Caron says “I chose
Tropic because I love the ethics
behind the products. Having
been through breast cancer, I am
very conscious of what I use and
know the importance of avoiding
synthetics and chemicals.”
Caron holds parties, one to one
consultations and events and
also works closely with Bedford
Daycare Hospice,
bringing a holistic
element to the
Tuesday drop in
group, o�ering
hand massages,
facials and
pampering.
One patient said ‘My hands felt
so soft and moisturised – even
after washing them.
I loved the facial and the natural
fragrance and I feel confident
using them as they are 100%
chemical free’
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
BEAUTY
❝❝
I love the ethics behind the products.
Caron Brooks – Bedford Distributor
If you would like to find out
more about the Tropic range,
please call or email Caron
on 07941 872955
caron.brooks@btinternet.com
or visit:
www.tropicskincare.com
Discount for all
Community Life readers!
27

VOLUNTEERING
A gift of time ...
The Jubilee Hour is a nationwide
voluntary initiative - the largest
mobilisation of volunteers since WWII.
�e campaign aims to get as many people as possible
to give a gift of time by pledging at least one hour to
complete an act of goodwill. �e Jubilee Hour began
in May this year and the response was fantastic. In
just ten days the initial target of one million hours
had been reached. Now, there are over two million
hours pledged, demonstrating the strength of feeling
for joining the campaign.
Pledges have ranged from washing a neighbour’s
car and donating blood to helping at local schools
and Beach clean-ups! Support has come from far
and wide with even the Deputy Prime Minister Nick
Clegg pledging a Jubilee hour, working in his local
charity shop.
Goodwill Ambassador of the campaign, Jonathan
Haward said “�is is something that everyone can
give – an hour of their time to help another person
in any way they choose.” �e campaign runs until
£2 all day
444 ALL
Bollywood
Contemporary
All ages
www.bedford.gov.uk/dance4all
Break Dancing
Swing
Ballroom
Corn Exchange - Demonstrations/Exhibitions
Harpur Suite - Taster Sessions
Howard Room - Taster Sessions
Silver Street Square - Demonstrations
Church Square - Demonstrations
Saturday 13th October
11am - 6pm
Aimed at all ages and abilities
2012
Belly Dancing
Tango
Line Dancing
Phone: 01234 718827
the end of the calendar year, so there is still plenty of
time to pledge your hour!
Record your Jubilee hours in the Online Book at:
www.thejubileehour.org
Follow Twitter@�eJubileeHour and
Facebook �e Jubilee Hour
Give a gift of time!
ALARM
DOCTOR
Old and Sick Alarms,
Fire Alarms & CCTV
Repaired and Serviced
PROFESSIONAL AND
DISCREET SERVICE
30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
01234 348572
07778 171854
28 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

BREAST
CANCER
AWARENESS
OCTOBER 2012
Early Detection • Cure • Prevention
Show your Support – Buy something pink
this month from Cancer Research UK
Aprons, Teapots, Cake Stands,
Accessories, Journals and more!
www.cruk.org/shop
In recent months there have been several stories
in national newspapers about reactions to
paraphenylenediamine (PPD) common in hair dyes.
These reactions are becoming more frequent. We take
sensitivity seriously. For our clients safety and our
stylists peace of mind we have introduced sens.uk MC2
PPD & Ammonia Free Hair Colour to our salon.
Sens.uk MC2 is a natural hair colour that gives rich,
vibrant hair colour results whilst protecting and
nourishing the hair and scalp and reducing sensitivity.
It is the perfect solution for anyone that experiences
uncomfortable sensation and or itching during
or after their hair colour service.
Introductory O�er
Colour Roots, Cut & Blow Dry
with Marianne
£35.00
*PATCH TEST REQUIRED
SPECIAL PROMOTIONS *
LASER HAIR REMOVAL
Under Arms £40 get FREE upper lip
RELAXING FACIAL
Followed by blow dry only £20 with Marianne
STOCKISTS OF JANE IREDALE THE SKINCARE MAKE UP
MICRODERMABRASION
Treatment for a range of skin abnormalities
IONITHERMIE
Correction of cellulite and improve skin tone
LPG - ENDERMOLOGIE
Stimulating, detoxifying, full body massage, like treatment that
lifts, stretches and stimulates
LASER TATTOO REMOVAL
* Terms and Conditions apply
68/71 BOWER STREET, BEDFORD MK40 3RB
t: 01234 213213 e: info@elysianhairandbeauty.com
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
THE
BEDFORD
OUSE VALLEY
STROKE CLUB
• Have you had a stroke?
• Are you dealing with someone
who has had a stroke?
WE WANT TO HELP YOU
For more information on the
Bedford Ouse Valley Stroke Club
Please call:
Cli� Broughton – 01234 214849
or visit our website:
www.ousevalleystroke.org.uk
29

Want to lose weight in a
friendly environment?
Come join our group every
Thursday morning 0930
Scotts Hall
Community Centre
Barford Ave Bedford.
Contact Amanda on
01234 325886
07736 737699
Together we can do it!!
For your child’s future
For the care & development of your child
Puddleducks Nursery in Clapham has:
�����Been established for over 3 years
������In place a strong team of experienced and quali� ed staff dedicated to helping children develop
�������A lovely setting with balanced external and internal areas creating a comfortable environment
��������A dedicated baby unit with a homely feel
���������Well developed curriculum for Pre-School Children
����������Access to early years funding
�����������Links with all major childcare vourcher payment companies
FOR A VISIT CALL OR EMAIL 01234 330957
Please come and visit to check it out for yourself
E info@puddle-duck.com W www.puddle-duck.com
Woodlands Park, Bedford Road, Clapham, Bedford MK41 6EJ
30 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
31

� MOT’s
� Tyres
� Brakes
� Suspension
� Exhausts
� Clutches
� Servicing
� Air-Conditioning
Unit 12a Fenlake Road Industrial Estate,
Fenlake Road, Bedford MK42 0HB
Tel: 01234 266193
KEYHOLDING
SERVICES
If your premises are suf� ciently protected
by an intruder alarm system, Arena Security
can save your staff or neighbours the risk
and inconvenience of being called out when
an alarm goes off.
Keys are kept in totally secure custody. Upon alarm
activation we will send a licensed Response
Of� cer to check the premises, reset alarms and, if
necessary, remain in the premises until your staff
or alarm engineer arrive. All operations are carried
out to high standards of BS7984 and with
complete co-operation with Police Authorities.
Of� cers are fully monitored by our Control
Centre operatives to ensure their total safety.
01234 739031
ARENA
SECURITY
www.arenasecurity.co.uk
We also supply:
Mobile Patrols and Security Of� cers
PH ROOFING
SERVICES
Where Quality and Customer Service is Guaranteed
All Roo� ng Work Undertaken
Flat Roo� ng • Strip and Retile
Slating & Leadwork • Large or Small Repairs
Water damage • Roof Reports & Surveys
Call for a Free Estimate and Advice
01234 926799 or 07871 644096
e: phroo� ng@yahoo.co.uk
32 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

Take Me Home
Super little Terrier, loves walks. Her owner is
very poorly. Would prefer to be an only dog.
Good with people, a�ectionate.
Pixie is approximately 3 years old,
sweet- natured cat, very playful.
Could live with other cats.
BRIE JAKE WISPA
Lovely boy, likes his walks and playing. He
lived with another dog, but did not
get on together.
PIXIE JESS
Jess is approximately 18 months old.
Very playful, needs home with no other
pets or very young children.
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylife.co.uk
ANIMALS
Typical Lurcher, a mad sprint and then a
snooze. Super girl who loves a fuss, and
food. Likes a soft bed, and toys.
Please call Albery Dog Rescue 01234 356612 www.alberydogrescue.co.uk
Lily is approximately six months old.
Lively, mischievous young lady.
Please call Cats Protection 08442 496911 www.bedford.cats.org.uk
Microchipping your pet
Every day, lost cats and dogs arrive at
Wood Green Animal Shelters.
Sadly, less than half of them are reunited with their
owners – the chances of this happening would be
much higher if they were microchipped.
Recently, one lucky cat arrived at Wood Green
and highlighted the importance of microchipping.
Appropriately named Roma, she had been missing
for four years when she was brought in but thanks
to her microchip she was able to be reunited her
with her amazed family, who had long since given up
hope of ever finding her!
Being able to quickly
identify your pet should
it be lost or stolen is
a very important part
of responsible pet
ownership. �is simple
and quick procedure
involves a tiny chip being
Outreach O�cer, Hayley Hurley
inserted between your
LILY
pet’s shoulder blades and is the most e�ective and
secure way to permanently identify your pet. Each
chip has a unique number, which can be scanned
using a special reader and matched to the owner’s
details from a national database. �e chip is only
as good as the information on it so although
microchips are strongly recommended, it is the
owners responsibility to ensure the information is
kept up to date to enable successful tracing.
Wood Green Animals Charity is a member of
the Microchipping Alliance along with other
animal welfare charities, dog charities and
Vetinary Associations. �ey microchip animals
before rehoming and also o�er low cost mobile
Microchipping Clinics in your local areas. In Bedford
these clinics are by appointment every 3 months at
Prebend Daycare Centre on Midland Road.
Contact us on:
0844 248 8181 ext 1312 for information.
Rehome – Donate – Support
www.woodgreen.org.uk
33

RESOURCES & WHATS ON
What’s on
Bedford Daycare Hospice Black and Purple Ball
Saturday 13 th October, 7pm
£50 a Ticket �e Park Inn Bedford.
Contact 01234 352015
Wed 24 October, 7pm Halloween themed Sausage
and Mash Supper at Bedford Daycare Hospice.
Tickets £10 from the Hospice on 01234 352015.
Cats Protection 20 th Anniversary Event
13 th October 11am to 4pm. - Bedford &
Biggleswade
Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford
Many stalls, indoor bouncy castle, face painting,
handmade cards, jewellery, cat toys, plus
refreshments. Admission 50p, children free
RSPB Organised weekly walks around the reserve
looking for birds & wildlife. All welcome. Please call
01767 680541 for more info. 9:30am to 11:30am
Adults £3 / RSPB members free
Sunday 14 October 10am to 3pm
Seed Collection Day
Help collect seeds from trees planted 8 years ago
and discover the woods in the Gateway
More dates at www.communitytreetrust.co.uk
andy.lingard @marstonvale.org or 01234 762617
Meet at Button’s Ramsey, next to Cross Keys pub
at Wood End, Kempston
(please don’t park in the pub car park).
Book Signing of ‘Haunted Bedford’ by Bedford
paranormal author William H. King
Waterstones, Silver Street
October 27 th 10-4pm
6-9pm Special Ghost Hunt £3 adults only
No booking required, pick up tickets instore -
limited spaces!
BDCPS - Bedford District Cerebral Palsy Society
Constellation Ball
Saturday 27 th October �e Corn Exchange. Tickets
£50 Black Tie
Ra�e Charity Auction, Live Band Tickets £50
Champagne reception, 3 course meal
Marston Vale Forest Centre
Halloween Kids Party Wednesday 31 st October
5pm – 7pm. £10 per Ticket, Fancy Dress Bookings
only 01234 762613
Charity Ladies Night
In aid of Bedford & District Cerebral Palsy Society
& Road Victims Trust,
�e Swan Hotel
Monday 8 th October, 7.30pm
Tickets £5 01234 351759 / 01234 843345
Sunday Stroll Marston Vale Forest Centre
7 October at 10.30am
A Gentle Sunday Walk approx. 2 hours
Call 01234 767037 for more details.
Cost £1 on the day - no need to book.
Meet at Reception.
R.A.T.S Open Day
Sunday October 29 th
1pm-3.30pm Cotton End Village Hall
Stalls, Tombola, Bric-a-Brac
Children’s Halloween Fancy Dress Competition
La Rondine & Bellini’s
Charity Dinner Event
Saturday October 6 th 7pm,
Bellini’s Restaurant Tickets £27.50
(£10 to charities)
In aid of Bedford Marlins Special Needs Water
Activity Club
National Autistic Society and Alzheimers
Bookings call Don 01234 219888 or
Sav 01234 219433 / 07825 089570
It's a Hoot!
At the Forest Centre
Monday 29th October 2012
4 Sessions: 10am, 11am and 1pm and 2pm
– 25 children per session.
Find out about owls with stories and craft
activities. Fun, facts and craft.
For 4-10 year olds.
All materials provided.
All children to be accompanied by an adult.
£2.50 per child.
Ring 01234 767037 or
email info@marstonvale.org for more details or to
book your place.
Charity Music Night
National Autistic Society
�e White Horse, Newnham Avenue
Friday 12 th October
Tel 01234 409306
34 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

Mini Ads & Services
HAVE YOU GOT
PAINFUL FEET?
IS IT GETTING YOU DOWN?
THEN YOU NEED:
Mo’s Toes
MOBILE FOOTCARE SERVICE
• Affordable and Professional
• Caring and Personal
• Satisfaction Guaranteed
Book Now for a useful free
gift on your first appointment.
Call Maurice Criddle on:
Tel: 01234 926331 Mob: 07758 153205
WATCH REPAIRS/
BATTERIES &
JEWELLERY REPAIRS
BIG RANGE OF
WATCHES & JEWELLERY
WATCHWORK
9 LIME STREET, BEDFORD
Tel: 01234 352710
From £15 per hour
�Professional Trouble shooting,
Maintenance and Repairs for all
computer issues.
�Personal tuition on Microsoft
Office, Ebay, Email, Amazon,
PayPal & Facebook.
PC Nurse
Special rates for Silver Surfers
References available Local & Reliable
�����
Mobile: 07800876428
Website: www.pcnurse.biz
Private Maths Tuition
From Year 6 starting
SATs to Year 11
taking GCSE.
Only £12 for initial
one-hour session.
For more details see:
http://mathshelp.net
or phone Bedford 294074
Pure Glamour
Hair & Beauty
Specialists in Hair Extensions
�inking of having
hair extensions?
Not sure what to go for?
How it's done?
How much they are?
then phone J of
Pure Glamour Hair Extensions
Of Bedford
We provide 9 di�erent extension
techniques to suit all budgets
Tel: 07807 933369
Telephone: 01234 219443/400990
Mobile: 07825 089570
12 Queens Street, Bedford MK40 2HA
To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk
NO FIX — NO FEE
� Virus & Spyware Detection & Removal
� PC Upgrades
� PC Health Check
� Wireless / Broadband & Email Solutions
� Data Recovery / Transfer
� All in Home Service - No Call Out Charge
� CISCO Quali� ed Engineer
� Custom Built Computers Available
� Free Quotations
01234 358074
07891 926440
anthony.powell007@btinternet.com
The
Boundary Plaice
FISH & CHIPS
147 HARROWDEN ROAD,
BEDFORD MK42 0RU
01234 271423
BUY ONE BAG OF CHIPS
AND GET ONE FREE ON
PRODUCTION OF THIS ADVERT
FRESH NEW PREMISES!
NOW
OPEN
K & M’s
Sandwich Bar
Freshly made
SANDWICHES,
BAGUETTES, PANINIS
& JACKET POTATOES
with various �llings
9 Mill Street,
Bedford MK40 3EU
TEL: 07747 180673
To advertise on this page please phone Marie on 07761 472164
35

ONLY
£4.50
WORKING LUNCH?
Why not try our NEW delicious lunch boxes
Delivered straight to your desk!
ALL DELIVERED IN OUR TIFFIN BOXES
THAI BOX
Starter:
Spring Roll or
Thai Fish Cake
Main:
Thai Green Chicken
Curry
Coconut Rice
CURRY BOX
Starter:
Chicken Tikka or
Meat Samosas
Main:
Lamb Rogan,
Pilao Rice
Available 12 til 2.30 pm — Please allow 30 mins for delivery or can collect within 15 mins
(MINIMUM ORDER 2 PEOPLE)
66 High Street, Bedford. MK40 1NT
www. asialoungebedford.co.uk
Telephone:
01234 365 366
or 360 075
VEGGIE BOX
Starter:
Onion Bhajee or
Vegetable Samosa
Main:
Vegetable
Bhuna,
Pilao Rice
36 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts