Horsham Living Oct - Nov 2023
The Pre-Christmas edition is here - as the weather cools, the events calendar heats up, with lots of fun for all the family. We've also got some lovely recipes to welcome in the autumn and home and garden inspiration if you're planning on welcoming guests over the festive season.
The Pre-Christmas edition is here - as the weather cools, the events calendar heats up, with lots of fun for all the family. We've also got some lovely recipes to welcome in the autumn and home and garden inspiration if you're planning on welcoming guests over the festive season.
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C O N T E N T S<br />
A NOTE<br />
from the editor<br />
18 15<br />
INTERIOR HOME FOR UPDATES XMAS<br />
Editor Katie Thomson<br />
e katie@minervapublications.co.uk<br />
Assistant Editor Kate Norris<br />
Publisher Sally Thomson<br />
Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose<br />
Contributors<br />
Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave,<br />
Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence<br />
JACK AUTUMNAL STEIN BAKING INTERVIEW & RECIPE<br />
22 20<br />
FOR ADVERTISING<br />
Account Manager Laura Rodney<br />
e laura@minervapublications.co.uk<br />
t 01225 984501<br />
Front Cover courtesy of the Capitol<br />
Theatre <strong>Horsham</strong><br />
04 29<br />
COMPETITIONS<br />
14 27<br />
PLANTS FOR POLLINATORS<br />
AKTAR ISLAM<br />
MINERVA PUBLICATIONS<br />
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The opinions expressed within are not<br />
necessarily those of the publishers.<br />
I write this note on the day<br />
I of intense had my discussion first English about<br />
strawberry the future of this GCSEs. week, I’m and sure my<br />
word, we can it was all recollect beyond delicious what a<br />
- tough perfectly time exam sweet, season it was was a<br />
very - and good how dramatic advert for we eating may<br />
seasonally. have felt about I’ve the tried impact to echo of<br />
this those in results all my recent on our fruit lives and -<br />
vegetable only to realise purchases, in the fullness and it’s<br />
had of time, a transformative it’s not the sole effect thing on<br />
my that cooking makes or - everything breaks a life’s just<br />
tastes trajectory. better - more vibrant,<br />
needing less seasoning and<br />
just Here overall in the office, very tasty. we’ve been<br />
comparing all our own results<br />
I’m stories, making and whether most they of<br />
cooking were ones whilst of celebration I still have or a<br />
kitchen commiseration, - mine is we due all to agree be<br />
ripped that, with out hindsight, two weeks and can<br />
it look will be back camping at our stove school and<br />
air experience frying for and two observe months from how<br />
there! it has shaped I’ve already us, but picked not that my<br />
kitchen, defined but us. it got me thinking<br />
about all the other areas that<br />
need It seems updating only right in my to home. reflect If<br />
you on school are thinking as we of come a similar into<br />
refresh, open day please season check - if you out have our<br />
home children pages or grandchildren this edition still -<br />
they’re on their full educational of inspiring journey, trends<br />
and we have a few some timeless advice classics. to help<br />
choose the right school.<br />
We’ve also got some lovely<br />
editorial On the foodie on the side best of things plants<br />
for this pollinators edition, we - it’s have never an<br />
been interview so important with Michelin to support chef<br />
wildlife Aktar in Islam, the garden. plus some<br />
delicious recipes for the<br />
The autumn. competition guide this<br />
issue is a bumper one - we<br />
have If you an outdoor have furniture visitors<br />
set descending from Bramblecrest at Christmas, worth<br />
nearly you just £3,000, want plus to make a cordless some<br />
lawnmower improvements worth ahead £679 of to get the<br />
that festive garden season, in shape. you’ll enjoy This,<br />
plus our home a lot pages more makes this edition.<br />
well<br />
worth a look and an enter!<br />
Please don’t forget to check<br />
We our website will be for back our again bumper in<br />
August crop of competitions.<br />
- I’ll be fully rebooted<br />
and recharged into summer<br />
mode. That’s See all you from then! me - I’m<br />
sorry to say that the next<br />
time you see us, we will be<br />
Katie<br />
in Christmas mode. Fair<br />
warning! Ho ho ho!<br />
Katie<br />
4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
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Fri 6 <strong>Oct</strong>ober<br />
DAME JOAN COLLINS<br />
Seldom told tales, enchanting anecdotes,<br />
and rare and fascinating footage from her<br />
seven decades in showbusiness<br />
Tue 10 & Wed 11 <strong>Oct</strong>ober<br />
SWAN LAKE/NUTCRACKER<br />
Classical Ballet and Opera House with 30<br />
piece opera orchestra present the classic<br />
ballets over two nights<br />
Fri 13 & Sat 14 <strong>Oct</strong>ober<br />
THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY<br />
The sensational multi award-winning<br />
West End and Broadway show makes a<br />
triumphant return<br />
Fri 13 <strong>Oct</strong>ober | Studio<br />
ENSEMBLE REZA<br />
Warm, lyrical tones of Vivaldi, Respighi,<br />
Rossini and more<br />
Sat 28 <strong>Oct</strong>ober<br />
NOEL FITZPATRICK<br />
TV’s Supervet offers an antidote to<br />
the hectic whirlwind of modern living,<br />
showing that love really is all that matters<br />
Fri 3 & Sat 4 <strong>Nov</strong>emberr<br />
COPPÉLIA<br />
The award-winning English Youth Ballet<br />
returns<br />
Fri 10 <strong>Nov</strong>ember<br />
PAUL FOOT: DISSOLVE<br />
Multi-award-winning and trail-blazing<br />
comedian, Paul Foot, is back with his<br />
most personal, surprising and groundbreaking<br />
show ever<br />
Sat 11, Sun 12 & Mon 13 <strong>Nov</strong>ember<br />
DAVID BADDEIL<br />
Baddiel presents three work in progress<br />
revivals of his ‘Not the...’ trilogy of shows<br />
Mon 13 - Sat 18 <strong>Nov</strong>ember<br />
ANNIE<br />
Direct from London’s West End the<br />
smash-hit production starring Craig<br />
Revel Horwood<br />
Thur 16 - Sat 18 <strong>Nov</strong>ember<br />
THE TEMPEST<br />
One of Shakespeare’s greatest works,<br />
don’t miss this stylish production<br />
which features bold, surreal imagery,<br />
and places the focus firmly on the<br />
characters in this classic story<br />
Wed 22 <strong>Nov</strong>ember<br />
FAIRYTALE OF NEW YORK<br />
Straight from the West End, the ultimate<br />
feel good Irish-inspired Christmas show<br />
is back<br />
Thur 23 <strong>Nov</strong>ember<br />
FRANKIE BOYLE<br />
Frankie Boyle is on tour, giving you an<br />
opportunity to grab a laugh or two before<br />
the world gets any worse<br />
Fri 24 <strong>Nov</strong>ember<br />
DAVE GORMAN<br />
Extended following two sold out runs,<br />
Dave Gorman returns with more<br />
slideshow-based comedy<br />
Fri 8 - Sun 31 December<br />
SLEEPING BEAUTY<br />
Don’t miss this year’s fun-filled<br />
pantomime starring West End superstar<br />
Carrie Hope Fletcher, CBeebies favourite<br />
Andy Day and Crawley’s favourite dame<br />
Michael J Batchelor<br />
Wed 20 - Sun 24 December | Studio<br />
A CHRISTMAS CAROL<br />
Celebrate the festive season with<br />
Charles Dickens’ classic tale brought<br />
to life in a stunning heart-warming<br />
adaptation
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
AN AWESOME Christmas AT<br />
THE CAPITOL HORSHAM!<br />
There’s a packed programme of top entertainment to choose from<br />
at The Capitol, <strong>Horsham</strong> and we got to chat to with John Partridge<br />
who is starring as Captain Gastoff in this year’s pantomime<br />
Beauty and the Beast...<br />
What are you most looking forward to<br />
in this year’s pantomime at The Capitol<br />
<strong>Horsham</strong>?<br />
Christmas is a time for family. For<br />
coming together with those nearest and<br />
dearest in celebration. Pantomime is<br />
very much part of that tradition, which<br />
is why I love it so much. I remember<br />
going to my first pantomime and being<br />
bewitched by the fairytale of it all …. and<br />
slightly terrified of Abanazar. So I guess<br />
I’m looking forward to TERRIFYING<br />
<strong>Horsham</strong>!<br />
What will you bring to your role of<br />
Captain Gastoff? How do you plan to<br />
make this character your own?<br />
I’ve worked with the Musical Supervisor<br />
before on La Cage aux Folles so there will<br />
definitely be a few showstoppers. Let’s<br />
just say Captain Gastoff likes to be the<br />
centre of attention! I’m going to role up<br />
all the “divas” I’ve worked with over the<br />
years and mould them into one monster.<br />
You’ll have to see if you recognise<br />
anyone!<br />
Who is this panto for? Can you<br />
describe the target audience & what<br />
can they expect?<br />
Pantomime is for everyone. It’s one of<br />
the last social events that can genuinely<br />
be enjoyed by the whole family. Young<br />
and old alike. This show will have magical<br />
sets, beautiful costumes, dazzling<br />
choreography - we intend to give this<br />
classic “tale as old as time” new life.<br />
What would you say to anyone who<br />
hasn’t been to a panto before?<br />
You’re missing out! Christmas is not<br />
Christmas without pantomime. It’s like<br />
turkey with no gravy!<br />
With the current cost of living crisis,<br />
many people might hesitate to spend<br />
money on theatre. What can we do to<br />
support theatre & the arts during these<br />
challenging times?<br />
I understand that, I really do. You want<br />
to know if you are going to spend your<br />
money on what feels like a luxury you’re<br />
going to get your money’s worth. I can<br />
assure you this year’s pantomime is<br />
going to be a SPECTACULAR! On a<br />
slightly serious note, most regional and<br />
smaller theatres make their annual profit<br />
from panto so if you’re lucky enough<br />
to have a local theatre, especially like<br />
the one you have in <strong>Horsham</strong>, I would<br />
urge you to try and make one trip to that<br />
theatre in a year.<br />
Can you share any memorable<br />
moments from past panto<br />
performances that have stayed with<br />
you throughout your career?<br />
My first pantomime as an actor was in<br />
Humpty Dumpty. My sister Fiona played<br />
my mum and she has always been a<br />
massive influence in my life, as well as<br />
being my best friend. She sang the song<br />
“More I Cannot Wish You” from Guys &<br />
Dolls to me in it and to this day I still get<br />
teary when I hear that song. That’s the<br />
power of theatre.<br />
Panto is known for its humour &<br />
interaction with the audience. How<br />
do you prepare for the unpredictable<br />
nature of live theatre?<br />
I love a good heckle – it’s where the<br />
magic is. The audience in Pantomime<br />
really is like one of the characters of<br />
the show. You need them in order for<br />
the play to work; for the gags to work;<br />
you feed off that energy. So make sure<br />
when you come to <strong>Horsham</strong> you give me<br />
what for – as long as you’re ready for the<br />
comeback!<br />
Lastly, what message do you hope the<br />
audience takes away from Beauty and<br />
The Beast at The Capitol this year?<br />
Simple, really … I want you to say “That<br />
was the BEST pantomime I’ve EVER<br />
seen!”<br />
Tickets for all shows can be booked<br />
online at www.thecapitolhorsham.com<br />
or calling The Capitol Box Office on<br />
01403 750220.<br />
8 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk<br />
Q&A with John Partridge
LOVE YOUR AUTUMN GARDEN<br />
with British Garden Centres<br />
British Garden Centres is encouraging everyone to<br />
embrace nature’s time to plant with its autumn campaign<br />
‘Love Your Autumn Garden’ launching this year.<br />
The campaign’s aim is to encourage gardeners to continue<br />
gardening throughout the autumn and celebrate this<br />
amazing season by creating awareness that the garden is<br />
not dormant during the autumn and winter months. ‘Love<br />
Your Autumn Garden’ will encompass a range of autumn<br />
gardening activities including lawn care, planting, autumn<br />
bedding, trees, fruits and wild bird care.<br />
‘Love Your Autumn Garden’ will take advantage of the<br />
season of change and growth by giving the best tips and<br />
advice on planting new trees, shrubs, and perennials.<br />
The warm and moist soil conditions, combined with the<br />
remaining summer heat, create the perfect environment for<br />
strong root growth and healthy establishment.<br />
As you prepare to plant your plants, consider adding some<br />
beautiful spring bulbs at their feet. British Garden Centres<br />
are currently offering a variety of options, including the<br />
cheerful ‘Tete a Tete’ dwarf narcissi, delicate crocuses, and<br />
fragrant hyacinths.<br />
Autumn is also an important time for lawn care, with<br />
gardeners looking to prepare their lawns to make it through<br />
the difficult winter months and ensure it is looking its best<br />
come the spring. And with the days getting shorter and<br />
the nights getting colder, don’t forget to start feeding the<br />
birds in your garden, if you are not already doing so.<br />
Amy Stubbs, Project and Development Manager at British<br />
Garden Centres said: “With the country experiencing a<br />
temperamental summer this year, consumers will be looking<br />
forward to getting out in their gardens and making up for<br />
lost time in autumn. There is so much you can do over the<br />
coming weeks that will provide stunning late-season colour;<br />
autumn is the natural start to the gardening season.”<br />
Visit your local British Garden Centres store which is full to<br />
the brim of inspirational autumnal ideas to make the most<br />
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www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 9
Cherry Picking<br />
your Boarding School<br />
KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR OPEN DAYS<br />
It is a myth that boarding schools<br />
shut down for July and August, but<br />
it is equally a truth that they become<br />
hives of activity at the beginning of<br />
a new autumn term. Schools will<br />
enthusiastically prepare to welcome<br />
prospective families to their first open<br />
days as they look to take the first<br />
steps towards establishing the life-long<br />
relationships that epitomise their role.<br />
A boarding school can offer a unique<br />
and enriching experience, fostering<br />
independence, academic excellence,<br />
and personal growth. Attending a<br />
boarding school open day is an essential<br />
step in the decision-making process,<br />
giving you the opportunity to immerse<br />
yourself in the school’s environment,<br />
understand its values, and evaluate<br />
whether it’s the right fit for your child’s<br />
individual needs.<br />
Before you step foot through the school<br />
gates, here are the three steps to success<br />
in choosing a boarding school:<br />
1. SPEAK TO STUDENTS<br />
Speak to students during your<br />
visit – they will give you an honest<br />
account of the boarding experience!<br />
Observe how they interact with<br />
you, are they confident and do<br />
they engage in conversation? Do<br />
they speak enthusiastically and<br />
positively about the school? Look<br />
out for staff and pupil interactions<br />
and not just between those who<br />
are on open day ‘duty’. Is there<br />
two-way respect between staff and<br />
students? How do students behave<br />
with and treat one-another?<br />
1. SIZE, FACILITIES, AND<br />
LOCATION<br />
Are you looking for a school<br />
which will offer a vast range of<br />
opportunities and experiences<br />
as part of a huge boarding<br />
community? Or will your child<br />
feel overwhelmed and lost in this<br />
environment? Does the location<br />
of the school suit your family<br />
circumstances?<br />
Notice how the boarding facilities<br />
are presented. Are they well looked<br />
after? Do they feel homely and<br />
welcoming? Draw your attention<br />
to the wall displays - do they<br />
demonstrate inclusivity and<br />
diversity or are they different<br />
versions of the same thing?<br />
How is safeguarding prioritised in<br />
boarding? What security measures<br />
does the school have in place<br />
to ensure student safety? What<br />
are the pupil and staff ratios in<br />
boarding houses and who is on site<br />
overnight?<br />
1. STUDENT WELLBEING<br />
Ask questions about the school’s<br />
commitment to care. What is the<br />
procedure if a boarder feels unwell<br />
during the night? How does the<br />
school manage day-to-day medical<br />
provision? What is their policy with<br />
regards to parent communication?<br />
Learn and ask questions about the<br />
school’s approach to mental health<br />
and wellbeing. Are counselling<br />
services available to boarders and<br />
what measures are in place to<br />
prevent bullying or discrimination?<br />
Do students know who they can<br />
talk to if they have any concerns or<br />
worries?<br />
A boarding school is a hungry<br />
place! Are food options balanced,<br />
varied, and accommodating of<br />
dietary needs? The boarders<br />
themselves will be the first to tell<br />
you if they enjoy the food provided<br />
or whether they order pizza to their<br />
houses three times a week.<br />
The range and diversity of boarding<br />
schools is huge. Thankfully, so is the<br />
information available on the internet, so<br />
do narrow your search down by checking<br />
out websites and speaking to your<br />
current Head. Once you have your list of<br />
schools to visit, enjoy the experience –<br />
open days are normally great fun as well<br />
as being tremendously informative.<br />
The Boarding Schools’ Association<br />
(BSA) is part of the BSA Group. BSA<br />
Group supports excellence in boarding,<br />
safeguarding, inclusion and health<br />
education, serving more than 1,500<br />
organisations and people in 40 countries<br />
worldwide. Since its foundation in 1965-<br />
6, BSA has promoted boarding education<br />
and the development of quality boarding<br />
through high standards of pastoral care<br />
and boarding accommodation.<br />
10 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Rock<br />
Role<br />
There’s more to a Hurst education than academic<br />
excellence. Here, self-expression is positively encouraged.<br />
Children are inspired to explore. Invaluable years<br />
in our nurturing, enriching environment in which all<br />
children thrive, blossom and grow. Prepared. For life.<br />
Hurstpierpoint College<br />
www.hppc.co.uk<br />
CO-EDUCATIONAL DAY AND BOARDING SCHOOL FOR PUPILS AGED 4-18
CHANGING SCHOOL FOR<br />
SIXTH FORM<br />
Whether you want to change from a single sex<br />
school to co-ed or from day to boarding, private to<br />
state, A levels to International Baccalaureate – or<br />
vice versa – there are plenty of reasons to move<br />
schools post-GCSEs. The experts at the Good<br />
Schools Guide have given us some top tips on<br />
what to look out for when making your choice.<br />
• Check how many new pupils join for the sixth form<br />
- if the number is very low it may be harder for your<br />
child to integrate<br />
• Look at trends in exam results rather than just<br />
the most recent ones (particularly important given<br />
the disruption Covid has caused in recent years’<br />
GCSEs and A levels)<br />
• Some schools are single sex up to GCSEs with a<br />
co-ed sixth form – ask what the ratio of boys to<br />
girls is and try to find out whether the culture of the<br />
school is suitable for your son or daughter<br />
• What are the opportunities for new pupils for<br />
positions of responsibility (prefects etc)?<br />
• What expertise is there to support Oxbridge and<br />
international university applications, or alternative<br />
routes such as degree apprenticeships?<br />
• A fresh start can be a great motivator, but it isn’t a<br />
panacea. If your child is unhappy at their current<br />
school find out why – changing schools may not be<br />
the answer<br />
goodschoolsguide.co.uk<br />
Looking for Sixth Form?<br />
Your future starts here!<br />
Are you a bright, ambitious student<br />
in Years 10 or 11 and planning your<br />
educational journey beyond GCSEs?<br />
Reigate Grammar School Sixth Form is the place where your<br />
dreams can flourish. As you stand at the crossroads of your<br />
educational future, allow us to share why choosing Reigate<br />
Grammar School Sixth Form is a decision that will shape your<br />
path to success.<br />
Our commitment to academic excellence is unwavering. Our<br />
passionate and experienced teachers are dedicated to providing<br />
a stimulating and nurturing environment that fosters growth.<br />
Whether you aspire to study sciences, humanities, or arts, our<br />
wide range of A Level and BTEC subjects ensures you can<br />
follow your passion and explore your interests with unparalleled<br />
support.<br />
But it is not just about academics at Reigate Grammar School<br />
Sixth Form. We believe in nurturing well-rounded individuals. Our<br />
extensive co-curricular activities, clubs, and committees provide<br />
opportunities for you to develop leadership skills, pursue your<br />
passions, and make lifelong friendships. You’ll grow as a person,<br />
gaining invaluable life skills beyond the classroom.<br />
Our award-winning Harrison Centre with its university-grade<br />
library and learning centre plus café, study area, innovation room,<br />
terrace and gardens, are designed to enhance your learning<br />
experience. We provide you with access to the resources you<br />
need to excel academically.<br />
At Reigate Grammar School Sixth Form, we believe in<br />
personalized support. Our dedicated team of teachers will<br />
work closely with you to set and achieve your academic and<br />
career goals. Whether it’s preparing for university applications,<br />
pursuing work experience opportunities, or offering guidance<br />
on your future aspirations, we are here to help you every step of<br />
the way. This year over 96% of university offers to our students<br />
were to prestigious universities such as Oxbridge, Russell Group<br />
institutions, and Medical Schools.<br />
In addition to academic excellence and comprehensive support,<br />
we also take pride in our diverse and inclusive community. At<br />
Reigate Grammar School Sixth Form, we focus on fostering<br />
cultural understanding and global perspectives.<br />
Choosing Reigate Grammar School Sixth Form means choosing<br />
a path to a brighter, promising future. Join us, and let’s embark<br />
on the next step of your journey together. Your success story<br />
starts here. Apply now, your future is bright at RGS!<br />
www.reigategrammar.org/admissions/entry-at-16<br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
12 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Experience holistic<br />
development at its best<br />
at RGS Sixth Form.<br />
Academic excellence<br />
is just the beginning of<br />
your incredible journey.<br />
v<br />
TOP CO-EDUCATIONAL DAY<br />
SCHOOL IN SURREY<br />
SIXTH FORM APPLICATIONS FOR 2024 & 2025<br />
admissions@reigategrammar.org | 01737 222231<br />
reigategrammar.org | @reigategrammar<br />
COME & VISIT US!<br />
SIXTH FORM EVENING<br />
23 JANUARY 2024<br />
Visit rgs.to/open to register<br />
or book a private tour
AKTAR<br />
ISLAM<br />
Unleashed<br />
Sally Thomson caught up with the Michelin<br />
starred chef to discuss inspiration, teamwork and<br />
hospitality after Covid...<br />
When I read your website the first<br />
thing that struck me was your<br />
strapline, ‘Opheem is just me,<br />
Unleashed’. Would you like to tell<br />
us more?<br />
Well, over the years I’ve always<br />
worked with other people. For<br />
example, in my last business,<br />
everyone had a say on how the food<br />
was presented. For example, you’d<br />
put a dish together and in its initial<br />
conceptual stage to where it ended<br />
up was far removed from what it<br />
was supposed to be.<br />
I understand the unleash bit on<br />
your website - now you’re being<br />
totally yourself?<br />
I am lucky to do what I enjoy. The<br />
only thing that I’m constrained by<br />
is the produce that I’ve got access<br />
to, whatever is coming out of the<br />
land, whatever is coming out of our<br />
seas. And the seasons. I’ve always<br />
worked with seasons and, it’s just<br />
natural for me to cook.<br />
What was it like when you<br />
received your Michelin star?<br />
Obviously, it’s an incredible<br />
experience to achieve such an<br />
award. It was lovely, incredible<br />
to achieve it a year after I set up<br />
Opheem especially after the years of<br />
constraints that I’ve experienced.<br />
I’m very proud of my team. I’m<br />
proud of everyone within the<br />
business. Because though I set<br />
the vision, the direction, we’re all<br />
in the boat together and we’re all<br />
rowing that boat together. When<br />
the waters are choppy we all have<br />
to experience that together. It’s the<br />
power of the team.<br />
Covid was a really difficult time<br />
for the hospitality industry - how<br />
did you navigate that time?<br />
We started Aktar at Home, but that<br />
became something much bigger<br />
than I expected.<br />
With Aktar at Home, it’s all about<br />
investing in the community and<br />
creating jobs - much of the time for<br />
people that lost their jobs as a result<br />
of the pandemic. There are teams<br />
who are in the portioning and the<br />
packing team and the processing<br />
team. They’re all people who are<br />
from the inner city of Birmingham,<br />
you know, aged 25 and below<br />
who traditionally struggled to find<br />
employment. So, we give them a<br />
chance and an opportunity to join<br />
the team and develop within the<br />
team. And obviously they’re paid well<br />
above national living wage to make<br />
sure it gives them a start in life.<br />
The other thing that we did last year,<br />
was give away 6,000 care packages<br />
for people who were struggling<br />
to feed their families. We just<br />
asked people in the communities<br />
to nominate people within their<br />
community that they know are<br />
struggling to feed themselves or<br />
feed their kids. Just to get in touch,<br />
let us know, and we just sent a box<br />
out to them.<br />
I wanted to ask you about the<br />
name of your restaurant. Where<br />
does that come from?<br />
“I’ve always worked<br />
with seasons and,<br />
it’s just natural for<br />
me to cook”<br />
It was inspired by a region that was<br />
known as Mandu, but it’s a Sultan of<br />
Mandu, a guy called Giyath Shahi.<br />
He was an epicure in the late 1300s.<br />
He enjoyed the nicer things in life<br />
and there’s a particular manuscript<br />
that he wrote or commissioned,<br />
which concentrated on recipes from<br />
the time and his life. And something<br />
that he enjoyed was opium!<br />
So, Opheem ia a play on the word<br />
opium, but it’s more based on<br />
the understanding, it’s a sensory<br />
indulgence and that’s what his life<br />
was built around.<br />
Sensory indulgence, I love that. Do<br />
you ever visit India so you can go<br />
to the places which inspired you?<br />
I used to spend a lot of time in<br />
India. I’d spend a month or so<br />
there every year. At least three<br />
weeks just travelling and eating<br />
and documenting recipes and<br />
understanding the culture.<br />
It’s really inspirational - then towards<br />
the end of your trip, you always miss<br />
a roast dinner! There’s nothing like<br />
a Yorkshire pudding. By the end of<br />
it all you want is to come home and<br />
have a lovely roast dinner.<br />
You can find out more about<br />
Opheem at opheem.com and Aktar<br />
at Home at aktarathome.co.uk<br />
14 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
BEAUTIFUL Baking<br />
We sample some delicious recipes from the new Two Magpies Bakery recipe book, written by the<br />
bakery’s founder, Rebecca Bishop. The book aims to teach how to make all your favourite breads,<br />
pastries and pizzas, as well as recipes for celebrations cakes, bakes, bars and savoury dishes<br />
BERRY FRIANDS<br />
Fruity little almond cakes with a<br />
dollop of jam in the centre – a great<br />
afternoon pick-me-up and a longstanding<br />
favourite. Choose seasonal<br />
fruit such as sharp summer berries,<br />
juicy plums or autumnal figs and<br />
blackberries. This recipe also works<br />
well with gluten-free flour.<br />
Make the friand mix a couple of<br />
hours ahead (or even the day<br />
before) to allow the ground almonds<br />
to absorb the liquid egg white and<br />
melted butter – the firm batter will<br />
rise more evenly.<br />
Makes: 10<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
130g unsalted butter<br />
160g caster sugar<br />
80g ground almonds<br />
50g plain (or gluten-free) flour<br />
130g egg whites<br />
150g seasonal berries (or stone<br />
fruits, figs, rhubarb, chopped)<br />
100g Raspberry Vanilla Jam<br />
50g apricot jam, sieved<br />
50g pistachios, chopped<br />
Brown the butter by bringing it to<br />
the boil in a pan. Allow it to bubble<br />
fiercely for 5–8 minutes, scraping<br />
the bottom of the pan with a spatula<br />
regularly. When the butter starts to<br />
smell sweet and nutty and the boiling<br />
foam rises up in the pan, pour the<br />
hot liquid (including the brown flecks<br />
and scrapings from the bottom of the<br />
pan) into a heatproof bowl. Allow the<br />
butter to cool, stirring occasionally<br />
as it firms up.<br />
fan/gas 4. Grease your mini cake<br />
moulds or muffin tin. Place half the<br />
fruit at the bottom of the moulds,<br />
then pipe or scoop your friand mix<br />
to come a third of the way up the<br />
sides. Use a small spoon to place<br />
the jam into the middle of each cake<br />
before topping with a dollop of the<br />
remaining batter. Your moulds will be<br />
about two-thirds full. Decorate with<br />
more fruit on top.<br />
Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning the<br />
moulds or tin after 15 minutes. Use<br />
a skewer to check the cakes – it<br />
should come out clean. Cool for 5<br />
minutes before removing from the<br />
moulds/tin and cooling on a rack.<br />
Warm the sieved apricot jam and<br />
brush over the top of each cake,<br />
then sprinkle with the chopped<br />
pistachio nuts.<br />
CARDOMOM<br />
KNOTS<br />
Makes: 12<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
Cardamom dough<br />
450g strong white bread flour<br />
80g icing sugar<br />
12g ground cardamom<br />
8g fine sea salt<br />
75g cold unsalted butter, cubed<br />
260g full-fat milk<br />
7g active dried yeast<br />
Cardamom butter<br />
100g soft unsalted butter<br />
80g caster sugar<br />
10g ground cardamom<br />
10g lemon juice<br />
½ tsp fine sea salt<br />
Try and source black cardamom<br />
seeds for this, grinding them fresh for<br />
every bake. The intense, astringent<br />
Weigh the sugar, almonds and<br />
flour into a bowl and whisk until<br />
combined. Still using the whisk,<br />
gradually add the egg whites, then<br />
the cooled browned butter in three<br />
stages until absorbed and no longer<br />
oily-looking. Cover the mix and<br />
leave to rest for a couple of hours or<br />
in the fridge overnight.<br />
Preheat your oven to 180°C/160°C<br />
Two Magpies Bakery is published by Headline Home and is<br />
available from all good bookshops and online<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 15
taste is utterly unique. Once tasted it will live in your<br />
memory and keep you returning, again and again.<br />
Weigh the flour, icing sugar, cardamom and salt into a<br />
large bowl and mix to combine. Rub the cubed butter into<br />
the flour mix until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Warm<br />
the milk 30°C, add the yeast and stir to dissolve. Add this<br />
liquid to the dry mix and bring the dough together using<br />
your scraper until all the dry matter is incorporated.<br />
Allow the dough to rest in the bowl, covered, for 20<br />
minutes, then turn out onto the counter and knead for 5<br />
minutes until you have a smooth, elastic dough. Place the<br />
dough back in the bowl, cover and prove for 1 hour with<br />
stretch and folds after 20 and 40 minutes. Maintain the<br />
dough temperature at 26°C.<br />
sections from the bottom edge, leaving the top edge still<br />
attached so that each strip has three sections. Prepare<br />
your tin by greasing it well or lining with cases.<br />
Plait the sections and roll each plaited strip so that the<br />
ends are tucked underneath when placed into the muffin<br />
tin. Prove for 1–2 hours until puffy and increased in size.<br />
Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6. Brush the<br />
buns with egg wash and sprinkle with nibbed sugar<br />
(optional), then bake for 12–15 minutes. Brush liberally with<br />
syrup as soon as they are out of the oven, then turn out of<br />
the tin after 10 minutes to prevent the buns sticking.<br />
While your dough is proving, make the cardamom butter<br />
by gently combining all the ingredients in a bowl.<br />
Roll the dough into a rectangle 60cm x 24cm, with<br />
the narrowest side next to your body. Spread with the<br />
cardamom butter and fold the bottom edge halfway to the<br />
centre of the dough, then fold the top edge of the dough<br />
to fully cover the first half of the dough (a single/letter fold).<br />
The dough will now measure 20cm x 24cm.<br />
Wrap the dough in cling film or baking parchment and<br />
chill in the freezer for 20 minutes. Remove and place the<br />
longest side of the dough parallel to your body. Gently roll<br />
the chilled dough to 30cm high, then trim the sides. Cut<br />
12 x 2cm wide strips of dough. Cut each strip into three<br />
16 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
BURNT<br />
CHEESECAKE<br />
with Spiced Mandarins<br />
Celebrate Bonfire Night with a perfect<br />
dessert, from Del Monte<br />
Vegetarian, gluten-free<br />
Serves 10-12<br />
Prep time: 30 minutes. Cook<br />
time: 1 hour, plus overnight<br />
chilling<br />
INGREDIENTS:<br />
680g full-fat cream cheese<br />
250g caster sugar<br />
Good pinch of salt<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
25g cornflour<br />
4 medium eggs<br />
300ml double cream<br />
Ingredients for the<br />
mandarins:<br />
2 cans (298g) Del Monte®<br />
Mandarin Segments in Juice<br />
4 tbsp soft light brown sugar<br />
1 cinnamon stick<br />
1 star anise<br />
5-6 cardamom pods, slightly<br />
squashed<br />
METHOD:<br />
Make the cheesecake the day before<br />
you want to serve it. Preheat the<br />
oven to 200°C/gas 6 and find a<br />
20cm round springform tin. Take a<br />
large piece of baking parchment,<br />
more than big enough to line the<br />
tin, and scrunch it up in your hands<br />
– this makes the paper easier to<br />
manipulate. Unscrunch the paper and<br />
put it in the tin, using a smaller cake<br />
tin to help mould it to the sides. Don’t<br />
worry about the creases and wrinkles<br />
– these are all part of the look of the<br />
cheesecake!<br />
If you have a mixer, put the cream<br />
cheese, sugar, salt, vanilla and<br />
cornflour into it and beat them<br />
thoroughly together. Otherwise, do<br />
this in a large mixing bowl, beating<br />
until smooth. Add the eggs and start<br />
beating them into the cream cheese<br />
mixture, gradually pouring in the<br />
cream as you go. If you’re using a<br />
mixing bowl, beat in the eggs one at<br />
a time before beating in the cream.<br />
You want a nice, smooth mixture.<br />
Pour the mixture carefully into the<br />
lined tin and transfer to the oven.<br />
Bake for 50-60 minutes until the<br />
cheesecake is puffed up, very brown<br />
at the edges and a rich golden<br />
brown in the centre. It should have a<br />
slight wobble in the middle still. Take<br />
out of the oven and leave to cool<br />
completely in the tin – it will sink as<br />
it cools. Transfer to the fridge and<br />
refrigerate overnight.<br />
While the cheesecake is baking, make<br />
the spiced mandarins. Drain the juice<br />
from both cans into a saucepan. Add<br />
the brown sugar and whole spices and<br />
put over a medium heat. Stir until the<br />
sugar is dissolved, then let the juice<br />
come to a brisk simmer and cook for<br />
about 10 minutes until the liquid is<br />
reduced and syrupy. Take off the heat,<br />
add the mandarin segments and stir<br />
gently. Leave to cool then refrigerate.<br />
When you’re ready to serve, carefully<br />
remove the paper and transfer the<br />
cheesecake to a serving plate. Serve<br />
in slices, with a generous spoonful of<br />
the mandarins and their syrup.<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 17
to relax. This can lead to lower heart rate, lower blood pressure,<br />
relaxed facial muscles, and increased gut function.<br />
Stimulation of the vagus nerve also leads to lower cortisol levels.<br />
Cortisol is the major stress hormone. When its levels are too<br />
high in the body, the body is stressed out. Over time, this leads<br />
to fatigue. However, if the cortisol levels aren’t lowered, the body<br />
can’t rest well. Stimulating the vagus nerve reduces the cortisol,<br />
allowing the body to rest as it should.<br />
SPA BENEFITS<br />
We all know we need to make more time for a bit of a pamper,<br />
but far from seeing it as an indulgence, we should see it as a<br />
necessary part of our overall well-being. Here are some of the<br />
reasons you should consider booking in a bit of time for yourself...<br />
RELEASES SEROTONIN AND<br />
DOPAMINE<br />
Studies have shown that massage increases our levels of<br />
serotonin and dopamine - Serotonin is a chemical that carries<br />
messages between nerve cells in the brain and throughout<br />
your body. Serotonin plays a key role in such body functions as<br />
mood, sleep, digestion, nausea, wound healing and bone health.<br />
Dopamine is most notably involved in helping us feel pleasure as<br />
part of the brain’s reward system.<br />
ENHANCES SLEEP<br />
In addition to the serotonin-melatonin connection, massage also<br />
stimulates the vagus nerve. This is the major parasympathetic<br />
nerve in the body. When it is stimulated, it tells the entire body<br />
Chakra Spa -<br />
Felbridge Crowne<br />
Plaza<br />
In the heart of Felbridge West Sussex,<br />
Chakra Spa is the perfect place to relax,<br />
unwind and free your body from stress<br />
or anxieties.<br />
HELPS WITH ANTI-AGING<br />
Regular facials and face massages helps in reducing wrinkles,<br />
boost cell regeneration and promote collagen development. This<br />
gives you younger looking skin. Combining different treatments<br />
will give optimal results - it’s best to talk through your personal<br />
needs with your aesthetician or therapist.<br />
REDUCES STRESS & AIDS<br />
MENTAL HEALTH<br />
Stress can harm your physical and mental health and contribute<br />
to health issues such as heart disease, depression, weight gain,<br />
and sleep issues. It is important to take the time to relax your<br />
mind and body to control your anxiety and stress levels. By<br />
keeping stress in check, you can improve your physical health.<br />
Spas can help reduce the stress on our physical body, and a spa<br />
day can serve as a great resource for overall stress reduction.<br />
By caring for our skin, our largest organ, we can reduce the<br />
overall impact of stress on the body. The cumulative negative<br />
impact of pollution, stress, and hormones results in damaged<br />
skin. By making time to care for your skin and the rest of your<br />
body, you can reduce the negative impact of environmental<br />
stressors. Facial massage activates your sympathetic nervous<br />
system. This reduces your anxiety levels and uplifts your mood.<br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
Offering a range of spa days, treatments, and overnight breaks,<br />
delivering the perfect relaxation for any occasion.<br />
Our spa thermal facilities include an indoor heated swimming<br />
pool, sauna, steam room and spa pool surrounded with our<br />
loungers, just relaxing by the pool in peace helps release the<br />
stresses of the day to day and recharge your mind. Essing aching<br />
muscles in the spa pool, alongside benefitting your bodies cardio<br />
vascular efficiency.<br />
Our treatments are designed with your relaxation and feeding<br />
your inner Charka’s. Such as an indulgent hot stones massage to<br />
improve your sleep or a skin specific nourishing facial to cleanse,<br />
tone and free your skin from impurities. Our Ritual Combination<br />
Treatments have been carefully curated by our experienced spa<br />
team to combine some of our most powerful treatments and<br />
leave your mind and body in complete zen.<br />
What our guests say “ What incredible service of Owen within the<br />
restaurant. Then the totally unbelievable massage I received from<br />
Amber. Wow! What a professional. I felt healed more than relaxed<br />
after the experience.”<br />
“Me and my family had a much needed girls overnight spa break.<br />
Grace, the spa receptionist was very friendly as was Emily the<br />
therapist, who gave us all amazing facials and massages”<br />
Why not make every day a spa day with our Exclusive Chakra<br />
Spa Membership, with access to our functionally equipped<br />
Fitness suite, swimming pool, Sauna & Steam room and Spa<br />
pool. Quote HLCHAKRA23 to enjoy a no joining exclusively<br />
though out <strong>Oct</strong>ober & <strong>Nov</strong>ember.<br />
If you’re looking for a haven where you can escape reality, The<br />
Chakra Spa in Felbridge West Sussex is the place for you.<br />
chakra-spa.co.uk<br />
18 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Win a Chakra Ritual<br />
Spa Day* for 2!<br />
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<strong>Nov</strong>ember <strong>2023</strong>, and you could win our most<br />
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Scan the QR code to book now. Quote HLCHAKRA in the notes<br />
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Restful, calming and rejuvenating<br />
There is nothing like a spa treatment at the luxurious Chakra Spa,<br />
Crowne Plaza Felbridge. With a wide range of relaxing spa days, treatments and<br />
overnight breaks, this is the ultimate destination for rest and relaxation.<br />
We would love to welcome you to Chakra Spa.<br />
For any enquiries, contact us on 01342 337755 or spa@cpfelbridge.com.<br />
/chakraspafelbridge<br />
chakraspafelbridge<br />
*T&C’s apply. See website for full details.
Robin Large Sofa in Basket Weave,<br />
Sandstone, arloandjacob.com<br />
HOME<br />
for Christmas<br />
OVERHAUL<br />
DINING SPACE - is your table large enough<br />
to host? Consider an extending table, which you can<br />
keep smaller throughout the year until you need to up<br />
the size.<br />
REPAINT - new paint or wallpaper is the fastest,<br />
and one of the cheapest, to completely transform the<br />
feel of a space.<br />
NEW SOFA - just be sure to choose one from a<br />
company who can deliver in time for Christmas!<br />
LIVING<br />
&DINING<br />
Broccoli Brown,<br />
Farrow & Ball<br />
Eyebright by<br />
Earthborn Paints<br />
Burano Dining Chair, bridgman.co.uk<br />
Navy Leaved Plant On Taupe A3 Graphic<br />
Print, Oak Frame, £45 cultfurniture.com<br />
QUICK FIXES<br />
REFRESH WITH NEW<br />
PRINTS - it’s amazing the life that new<br />
artwork can inject into a space - try to pick<br />
a piece which includes the colours of your<br />
larger furniture pieces, like your sofa.<br />
Istanbul Lamp,<br />
£179, hauslife.<br />
co.uk<br />
NEW CUSHIONS - seasonally<br />
change your cushions, you can keep the<br />
same inners and just swap the covers to<br />
refresh the space. Add more cosy fabrics<br />
like velvet, wool and corduroy as we come<br />
into the cooler months.<br />
NEW RUG - rugs have big impact<br />
without having to get new flooring.<br />
Clear Waters, Tresco by Ted<br />
Dyer - options from £120<br />
johndyergallery.com<br />
20 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Enhance Do you need your shelter outdoor and living shade?<br />
space<br />
Verandas • Glass • Rooms • Awnings • • Pergolas<br />
Carports • Solar • Garage Doors & Shutters & Shutters<br />
SBI SBI Ltd Ltd 0800 0742 721 sbiproducts.co.uk<br />
“We Pride Ourselves on Our Customer Care”<br />
Established since 1986.<br />
Ladies That Do! Domestic Agency is a tailor made<br />
service to accommodate client’s individual needs.<br />
Our uniformed staff are vetted by us<br />
and fully insured, giving our client’s<br />
peace of mind and security.<br />
Our offices are operated by friendly, experienced<br />
staff, ready to discuss your personal requirements.<br />
Regular Cleaning<br />
Occasional Cleaning<br />
Spring Cleaning<br />
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e-mail info@ladiesthatdo.co.uk<br />
www.ladiesthatdo.co.uk<br />
SBIWT247.indd 1 31/10/2022 14:10<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 21
Annie Sloan Kitchen Paint<br />
QUICK FIXES<br />
REPAINT YOUR CABINETS - if your<br />
units are in good condition, this is a great way to<br />
save money and stop the upheaval that a kitchen<br />
transformation can bring. We advise you only get a<br />
professional to do this as you need the finish to be<br />
hard-wearing. Similarly, changing the worktops can<br />
have a transformative effect.<br />
LIGHTING- kitchen lighting must be both functional<br />
and aesthetically pleasing. How about changing a<br />
pendant light to a spotlight rail for more working light, or<br />
changing the pendants on your breakfast bar. Try adding<br />
a wireless lamp to brighten dark corners.<br />
RESTYLE - change up the accessories you have on<br />
the sides and have a big declutter<br />
ARTWORK - hanging some new prints, or propping<br />
some on open shelves can inject personality into a space<br />
and make it feel more inviting.<br />
KITCHEN<br />
OVERHAUL<br />
ADD NEW KITCHEN STOOLS - many of us<br />
buy a quick fix with a new kitchen but it’s good to revisit<br />
with fresh eyes.<br />
ADD SOME OPEN SHELVING - it’s a fresh<br />
way to add a bit more storage and you can display your<br />
favourite pieces<br />
Olive & Barr Kitchens<br />
Wireless Lamp, £150, oka.com<br />
It might be time to bite the bullet and opt for a<br />
new kitchen - many of us are living with poorlydesigned<br />
spaces which don’t stand up to<br />
familial needs. If you’re trying to get this ordered<br />
before Christmas, you need to be decisive<br />
about what you need. Consult an expert<br />
kitchen designer - they’ll have ideas to<br />
maximise functionality whilst creating<br />
something beautiful.<br />
Print, inkanddrop.com<br />
Sylvia Kitchen Stool,<br />
£129, cultfurniture.com<br />
22 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
eachhouseart.co.uk<br />
OVERHAUL<br />
NEW BATHROOM - It might be time for a new<br />
bathroom. Depending on your fixtures, you may be able<br />
to reuse elements and just refresh the tiles. If you are<br />
undergoing larger works, chat through your plans with<br />
your bathroom installer to make sure they address all the<br />
practicalities.<br />
BATHROOM<br />
Rhoper Rhodes<br />
Roddy Wall Light pooky.com<br />
QUICK FIXES<br />
CHANGE ACCESSORIES-<br />
Replace your soap dispenser, toothbrush<br />
holder, loo roll holder and bin - a little refresh<br />
can make all the difference. The same goes<br />
for fresh, fluffy towels.<br />
REPAINT YOUR WALLS - if you<br />
don’t have full tiles, a fresh lick of paint can<br />
make a space feel cleaner and more inviting.<br />
Emerald Plumage Wallpaper,<br />
Divine Savages<br />
Dunelm<br />
REPLACE OLD/MOULDY SILICON -<br />
it’s amazing how much better fresh, clean and white<br />
silicon looks.<br />
NEW PRINTS - changing up your bathroom<br />
prints can breathe new life into the space.<br />
Hand Wash,<br />
£6.99, kitandkin.<br />
com; Tray, £35,<br />
boxwoodhomeinteriors.<br />
co.uk<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 23
f a s h i o n &<br />
a c c e s s o r i e s<br />
p e r f e c t<br />
g i f t i n g<br />
h o m e w a r e s<br />
& c e r a m i c s<br />
1 0 % o f f<br />
u s i n g<br />
1 0 H A U S L I F E<br />
www.hauslife.co.uk
GUEST<br />
BEDROOM<br />
OVERHAUL<br />
REDECORATE - updating the room and<br />
adding elements of interest like panelling can be<br />
transformative.<br />
NEW BED - lots of us have guest rooms<br />
with beds that have been retired from service<br />
somewhere else in the house. Making sure the<br />
bed is comfortable and inviting, plus aesthetically<br />
pleasing gives an instant update - after all, it is the<br />
biggest thing in the room.<br />
SOFA BED - for many of us, our guest room<br />
is now our home office, so it might make more<br />
sense to have a sofa bed that can act as a break<br />
out space when you’re working and save space<br />
when not in use.<br />
Ca’ Pietra Proper Good Paint<br />
Pair of Ophelia Droplet Mirrors, £260, frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk<br />
QUICK FIXES<br />
NEW LIGHTING - some new table lamps can<br />
refresh the space, or you can get wall lights with plugs<br />
to save space on the bedside tables.<br />
NEW BEDDING - new bedding really refreshes<br />
a space. Think about providing enough pillows and lots<br />
of layers like blankets and quilts - it makes a space feel<br />
inviting.<br />
ADD ACCESSORIES - decorative elements<br />
breathe life into a space - too often, guest rooms look<br />
forgotten about. Pair it right back, get rid of the clutter<br />
and add things like a reed diffuser, cushions on the bed,<br />
a mirror and a vase of flowers or a house plant.<br />
The perfect sofa bed for smaller spaces -<br />
Swyft Model 08 Sofa Bed swyfthome.com<br />
French Bedroom Company<br />
MAKE IT INVITING - adding things like fluffy<br />
towels, a nice cotton robe to wear or a basket with<br />
essentials like toothpaste,<br />
Demira Tassel Cushion, from £36,<br />
and Nia Tassel Throw, £65, both<br />
hauslife.co.uk<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 25
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT<br />
FROM A GOOD CARE HOME?<br />
Finding out what a good care<br />
home looks like can help you to<br />
make choices about your care.<br />
It can also help you understand<br />
what you should be able to expect<br />
from a service you already use.<br />
When we inspect care homes, there are<br />
five questions we ask.<br />
Is it safe?<br />
Is it effective?<br />
Is it caring?<br />
Is it responsive to people’s needs?<br />
Is it well-led?<br />
In a good care home, you can expect<br />
to be safe because…<br />
The home and any equipment are well<br />
maintained and managers look for ways to<br />
improve safety. You should feel confident<br />
that your belongings are safe and secure.<br />
There are always enough staff on duty with<br />
the skills needed to make sure you are safe.<br />
You are protected from being bullied,<br />
harassed, harmed or abused. Abuse<br />
includes neglect and financial abuse.<br />
Staff deal with incidents and accidents<br />
quickly and openly (and investigate them if<br />
necessary) and they learn from mistakes.<br />
You feel safe and protected by staff,<br />
but you also have as much freedom as<br />
possible to do the things you want to do –<br />
regardless of your disability or other needs.<br />
Staff give you your medicine safely and<br />
store it correctly. Where possible, the<br />
home involves you in reviewing your<br />
medicines and supports you to be as<br />
independent as possible.<br />
The home is kept clean and hygienic to<br />
prevent any risk of infection to you or<br />
other residents.<br />
You can expect a good care home to<br />
be effective because…<br />
You are regularly asked for your views<br />
about the quality and choice of the food<br />
and other aspects of the home, and your<br />
feedback is consistently good.<br />
Staff make sure you get the right food<br />
and drink you need, and that you have<br />
enough of it.<br />
Staff have the right knowledge,<br />
qualifications and skills to carry out their<br />
role so that you have a good quality of life.<br />
You are always asked to give your<br />
consent (permission) to your care,<br />
treatment and support in a way you can<br />
understand. Where appropriate, your<br />
family and friends are also involved in<br />
decisions about your care.<br />
Staff know about your health needs and<br />
personal preferences and give you as<br />
much choice and control as possible.<br />
Staff speak with health and social care<br />
professionals, such as GPs, and take the<br />
right action at the right time to keep you<br />
in good health.<br />
You are asked for your likes and needs<br />
when the home is adapted or decorated.<br />
Any changes to the home are made to<br />
help you to be as independent as possible.<br />
You can expect a good care home to be<br />
caring because…<br />
Staff know about your background, likes,<br />
hopes and needs. This includes any needs<br />
you have because of your age, disability,<br />
sex (gender), gender identity, race, religion<br />
or belief, or sexuality (whether you are<br />
lesbian, gay, bisexual or heterosexual).<br />
You are encouraged to express your views,<br />
no matter how complex your needs are.<br />
You have access to advocates (people<br />
who can speak on your behalf).<br />
Staff also know your wishes for your care<br />
at the end of your life, if this applies.<br />
Staff treat you with dignity and respect.<br />
They spend time with you, develop<br />
trusting relationships and are concerned<br />
for your wellbeing.<br />
You have enough privacy.<br />
Your family and friends can visit you.<br />
You can expect a good care home to be<br />
responsive to your needs because…<br />
Your care, treatment and support are set<br />
out in a written plan that describes what<br />
staff need to do to make sure that you<br />
receive personalised care.<br />
You, and your family and friends where<br />
appropriate, are actively involved in<br />
developing this plan. For example, you<br />
should be able to have a choice about<br />
who provides you with personal care,<br />
such as help with washing and dressing.<br />
As your needs and preferences change,<br />
your plan is changed, and all those who<br />
need to know, such as your care staff, are<br />
kept up to date.<br />
The plan includes information about<br />
the whole of your life, including your<br />
goals, your abilities and how you want to<br />
manage your health. You may also have a<br />
health action plan.<br />
Staff work hard to prevent you from<br />
feeling lonely. They do this by helping you<br />
to keep in contact with your family and<br />
friends.<br />
Staff also help you keep up your hobbies<br />
and get involved in the community if you<br />
want to.<br />
If you need to visit hospital, staff plan<br />
this well with you to make sure it goes as<br />
smoothly as possible.<br />
If you have any concerns and complaints,<br />
staff always take them seriously,<br />
investigate them thoroughly and respond<br />
to them in good time.<br />
You can expect a good care home to<br />
be well-led because…<br />
You know who the manager is, and<br />
anyone else in charge.<br />
Managers know what their responsibilities<br />
are and are always honest, including<br />
when things go wrong.<br />
Staff know what is expected of them and<br />
are happy in their work.<br />
Managers are available to support their<br />
staff.<br />
Staff have the confidence to report<br />
concerns about the care that colleagues,<br />
carers and other professionals give.<br />
When this happens they are supported<br />
and their concerns are thoroughly<br />
investigated.<br />
26 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Planting for Autumn colour<br />
NOTES FROM<br />
THE GARDEN<br />
As the full light of summer fades into<br />
Autumn so the colour palette of our gardens,<br />
changes and for me, Autumn is one of the<br />
most beautiful seasons in the garden.<br />
If you are starting from scratch and planning for colour, lucky you,<br />
then there are so many options, but the addition of some or any of<br />
the following will reward you as the summer wanes. Backlit plants<br />
can look amazing as the sun comes and goes and immediately, we<br />
think of Acers, that blaze of fire that creates so many spectacular<br />
exclamation points at this time of the year. Size certainly matters<br />
so check the height and spread that each plant will reach and then<br />
a little research will find you the ideal choice. If your soil type isn’t<br />
ideal – they are acid loving plants, then grow them in pots. A two- or<br />
three-year-old Acer in a beautiful pot can look spectacular and you<br />
can move it to the most advantageous spot to enjoy its autumn show.<br />
Trees are an obvious choice for colour and Amelanchier lamarkii or<br />
‘Snowy Mespilus’ is another beauty – it grows to about 7 metres so<br />
place it carefully, but it offers a lot- silvery leaves followed by snowy<br />
white flowers and pale copper leaves in spring. Berries follow that<br />
and then in autumn a stunning display of orange and red leaves –<br />
what more could you ask for? Shrubs also play a part – the wonderful<br />
‘Smoke Bush’, Cotinus ‘Grace’ has deep maroon leaves and a halo<br />
of fluffy grey toned flowers which look like the smoke of an autumn<br />
bonfire. Hydrangea quercifolia – the ‘Oak Leaved Hydrangea’ is<br />
“PALE AMBER SUNLIGHT FALLS ACROSS<br />
THE REDDENING OCTOBER TREES,<br />
THAT HARDLY SWAY BEFORE A BREEZE<br />
AS SOFT AS SUMMER: SUMMER’S LOSS<br />
SEEMS LITTLE, DEAR! ON DAYS LIKE THESE.”<br />
ERNEST DOWSON<br />
another treasure offering incredible leaf colour, and white flowers too.<br />
Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’, turning yellow in autumn, looks<br />
fabulous …… I am spoilt for choice!<br />
Smaller plants also offer great colour, from Nandina domestica ‘Fire<br />
Power’ to Asters, Helianthus, Japanese Anemone, Cyclamen – and<br />
let’s not forget the grasses. Miscanthus and Pennisetum or fountain<br />
grass add a totally different texture to the garden and as autumn<br />
winds increase also add a wonderful fluid movement too.<br />
Mill River Lodge<br />
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We will provide the care you deserve by<br />
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Let us enable you to continue living a full and wholesome life. Whether you want to continue<br />
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just need to feel safe and secure in the knowledge that we will be with you 24 hours a day.<br />
For more information call us or visit:<br />
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www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 27
Divorce and Separation<br />
– Family Law Partners<br />
Approach<br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
Family Law Partners work with clients<br />
to help them avoid the traditional Court<br />
process where possible, which is often both<br />
emotionally and financially draining...<br />
As a firm we have one of the strongest dispute resolution teams,<br />
which includes mediators, collaborative lawyers, an Arbitrator<br />
and a therapist.<br />
What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)?<br />
ADR is an alternative way to resolve a dispute, other than<br />
via Court. The majority of clients prefer making decisions<br />
themselves relating to children and financial matters rather than a<br />
Judge having the final say.<br />
In family matters ADR includes solicitor-led negotiation,<br />
mediation, collaborative law, Early Neutral Evaluation / Private<br />
FDR, and Arbitration, all of which can be used as individual<br />
options, or as a combination.<br />
Two of the most commonly used forms of ADR are solicitor-led<br />
negotiations and Mediation.<br />
What is Solicitor-Led negotiation?<br />
The aim of solicitor led negotiation is to try and reach an<br />
agreement via solicitors’ correspondence, discussions on the<br />
telephone between solicitors or a round table meeting. Often<br />
solicitor-led negotiation is regarded as a good alternative to<br />
mediation, when mediation is not suitable.<br />
Mediation<br />
Mediation is a voluntary, without prejudice and confidential<br />
process whereby the parties meet with a trained independent<br />
mediator. The mediator will not impose a decision on the parties<br />
and instead he/she acts as a facilitator to assist the parties to<br />
explore and discuss the issues in dispute, with the aim of finding<br />
solutions.<br />
Hannah Viet is a Director and Mediator at Family Law Partners,<br />
specialist family lawyers in <strong>Horsham</strong>.<br />
Contact Family Law Partners: 01403 599215 or email<br />
enquiries@familylawpartners.co.uk.<br />
A different approach to<br />
family law<br />
Our <strong>Horsham</strong> team deliver exceptional client<br />
care and promote the use of alternative<br />
dispute resolution to help minimise both the<br />
emotional and financial cost of separation.<br />
The Family Law Partners office is in<br />
central <strong>Horsham</strong>. We also advise clients in<br />
Billingshurst, Cranleigh, Crawley, Godalming,<br />
Guildford and surrounding areas.<br />
We can help you with:<br />
Children matters<br />
•<br />
Divorce and Separation<br />
Dissolution of Civil Partnerships<br />
Cohabitation disputes<br />
Prenuptial and Postnuptial agreements<br />
Cohabitation agreements<br />
Mediation and Collaborative Law<br />
For a confidential conversation and to learn<br />
more about our fixed fee appointments<br />
contact our team:<br />
01403 599215<br />
info@familylawpartners.co.uk<br />
www.familylawpartners.co.uk<br />
28 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
COMPETITIONS<br />
We have three ways to enter<br />
these amazing giveaways:<br />
SINGLE ENTRY<br />
You can enter this<br />
competition alone for 70p per<br />
entry (the cost of a stamp)<br />
in the competition section of<br />
minervamagazines.co.uk<br />
– please select the keyword<br />
for the competition you wish<br />
to enter.<br />
COMPETITION<br />
CLUB<br />
You can join our Competition<br />
Club for an introductory offer<br />
of £12.99 - this gives you<br />
automatic entry into every<br />
competition we run for a<br />
year from the start of your<br />
subscription - that’s over 60<br />
competitions, including cash<br />
prizes in December! Saving<br />
you over £40 on entering<br />
them individually online. No<br />
need to remember to enter<br />
each month - instead, sign<br />
up and we will do the rest<br />
for you.<br />
This nominal fee covers our<br />
admin costs and makes<br />
being in with a chance of<br />
winning our amazing array<br />
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Head to minervamagazines.<br />
co.uk/competition-club to<br />
find out more. T&Cs apply<br />
and can be found online.<br />
BY POST<br />
You can send your entry on a<br />
postcard with the keyword to<br />
Minerva, Unit 21C, Paxcroft<br />
Farm, Hilperton, BA14 6JB -<br />
one entry per postcard.<br />
Please include a contact<br />
number or email address so<br />
we can notify you in the event<br />
you win.<br />
One lucky reader will win a three-night stay in the luxurious<br />
Chestnut Barn in the heart of the Norfolk Broads worth £700,<br />
thanks to Visit Great Yarmouth and Travel Nest.<br />
Sleeping up to four guests, this beautifully<br />
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www.visitgreatyarmouth.co.uk<br />
direct.travelnest.com/properties/4310086<br />
WIN:<br />
A SHORT<br />
BREAK IN THE<br />
NORFOLK<br />
BROADS<br />
WORTH<br />
£700<br />
CLOSING DATE: 30/10/23 | KEYWORDS: ‘NORFOLK BREAK’<br />
Win the VAX ONEPWR Glide 2 and make dirty hard floors a<br />
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CLOSING DATE: 30/10/23<br />
KEYWORDS: ‘VAX GLIDE 2’<br />
WIN:<br />
THE VAX<br />
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GLIDE 2<br />
WORTH<br />
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Designed for on-the-go grilling, this black<br />
porcelain enamel kettle BBQ is perfect for<br />
WIN:<br />
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CLOSING DATE: 30/10/23<br />
KEYWORDS: ‘NAPOLEON<br />
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The term “beauty sleep” has a lot<br />
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Apply it nightly to awaken to rejuvenated skin that looks softer,<br />
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CLOSING DATE: 30/10/23 | KEYWORD: ‘SUNRIDER’<br />
We’ve teamed up with the newly refurbished<br />
Holiday Inn Guildford to offer our readers the<br />
exclusive chance to win a staycation break.<br />
The lucky winner and their guest will enjoy a<br />
night’s stay with dinner and breakfast at the<br />
hotel.<br />
The Holiday Inn Guildford has unveiled a major<br />
refurbishment to transform<br />
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showcase a brand new<br />
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https://www.lghhm.com/<br />
portfolio/holiday-innguildford/<br />
CLOSING DATE: 30/10/23<br />
KEYWORDS: ‘HOLIDAY<br />
INN’<br />
WIN: A<br />
STAYCATION<br />
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www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 29
second sight<br />
We speak with Goring Hall<br />
Hospital and clear the air on what<br />
cataracts is and the benefits of<br />
getting them treated...<br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
What is Cataract?<br />
A Cataract is a condition where the natural lens of the eye<br />
becomes clouded as part of the aging process. As a result,<br />
vision becomes blurry. Cataract is very common in older people<br />
and according to a number of government sources an estimated<br />
30% of people aged 65 years or older have a Cataract in one or<br />
both eyes.<br />
What are the signs and symptoms of cataracts?<br />
There are a number of different symptoms associated with<br />
cataracts. Many people experience clouded or blurred vision,<br />
frequent changes in the prescription of glasses, glare (affecting<br />
night vision), light sensitivity and an increased need for brighter<br />
light when reading.<br />
Cataract treatment<br />
Cataract treatment in the early stages can be managed by your<br />
Optician with a change in glasses every two years, the use of<br />
over-the-shoulder brighter light when reading and anti-glare<br />
sunglasses can also help. For more advanced cases, surgery<br />
may be required which involves the removal of the natural lens<br />
of the eye. A lens implant is then required to replace the natural<br />
lens and restore vision. At Goring Hall we have a few different<br />
lens options which are suitable for different types of Cataract.<br />
YAG laser treatment is also offer at Goring Hall Hospital and<br />
the hospital has recently invested in a new YAG SLT laser. This<br />
means that patients can also have treatment for Glaucoma at<br />
Goring Hall Hospital.<br />
Benefits of Cataract treatment at Goring Hall Hospital<br />
We have some well-known Consultants practising with us at<br />
Goring Hall Hospital. With fast track access patients can have<br />
treatment at a time that suits them. Private appointments can<br />
be booked online via the Goring Hall Hospital website. We also<br />
offer competitive prices, 10 months interest free payment options<br />
helping to spread the cost and 6 months aftercare. Premium lens<br />
options.<br />
Our patient rate is<br />
a 4.9 on Google<br />
**Chrysalis Finance working in partnership<br />
with Circle Health Group. Loans are subject<br />
to status, terms and conditions apply. Loans<br />
are arranged by Chrysalis Finance Limited<br />
of PO Box 404, Alderley Edge, Cheshire SK9<br />
0EA. Both Circle Health Group and Chrysalis<br />
Finance Limited are authorised and regulated<br />
by the Financial Conduct Authority to carry<br />
out the regulated activity of credit broking.<br />
Ophthalmology<br />
Services West Sussex<br />
Goring Hall Hospital in Worthing offers a comprehensive<br />
Ophthalmology service to treat a range of common ophthalmic<br />
problems for the West Sussex community and beyond.<br />
Our highly skilled Ophthalmologists and Specialist nurses<br />
will be able to diagnose and treat an extensive range of<br />
conditions, including but not limited to:*<br />
• Cataracts<br />
• Age-Related Macular<br />
Degeneration<br />
• Glaucoma<br />
• Squint Surgery.<br />
We see insured and self-pay patients and offer flexible<br />
finance options**, making paying for treatment more<br />
affordable than you might think.<br />
Fast-track your health today,<br />
call us on 0800 157 7761<br />
27393 2618 MKT ADV / 07.<strong>2023</strong><br />
30 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk<br />
4403_27393_2618 MKT ADV_Ophthalmology 153x110_v2.indd 1 21/08/<strong>2023</strong> 12:00
A CAPITOL PRODUCTION<br />
1 – 31 DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
thecapitolhorsham.com
Denbies Wine Estate<br />
Your day out in the Surrey Hills Wine Country<br />
The Vineyard Hotel | Tours & Tastings | Dining<br />
Art Gallery | Experience Days | Wine & Gift Shop<br />
Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6AA | denbies.co.uk | 01306 876616