NAILSEA
PEOPLE
Healthy peeps mind, body and soul
email items for this page to nailseapeople@gmail.com
see archives for older posts
February cancer cafe
The cancer support group will be meeting on Thursday, February 16, at No 65 High Street, Nailsea from 2pm.
We are a group of people who have been affected by cancer, either because we are going through treatment or have had treatment in the past or we have family and friends who have been affected.
We offer mutual support in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where you can chat over a cup of tea and plenty of cake!
We also run a tombola to help pay for refreshments and have some talented cake bakers who support us with some delicious home bakes.
If you would like to help us in any way but can't get along to No 65, we are always looking for tombola prizes (a post Christmas clear out?) or sewing fairies to make chemo hats, PICC line covers and scarves which we give to our attendees or donate to Macmillan.
Jo Hopkinson
Nailsea District Leg Club February news
Nailsea District Leg Club clinic started again in January, a great day of celebration by everyone involved, but is being run a little differently.
The Leg Club cafe continues as it has been to provide the ever welcome refreshments, social chat and support.
For those members needing treatment, it’s necessary to make an appointment through the surgery, this is not yet a drop-in clinic.
HELP PLEASE – we’d really value the help of more volunteers - social, drivers or nursing support - we can’t run the morning without them.
Now that the clinic is operating again, it’s a long morning starting to set up equipment at 8.30am and tidying away by 12.30pm.
If you enjoy being part of a happy, lively group and ideally able to spare two mornings a month, you’d find these sessions a very satisfying way of giving something to your community.
Wednesday morning Leg Club at the Tithe Barn is incredibly uplifting for everyone, not just members, but volunteers too, a rewarding few hours, and very different from many other things!
Please give this consideration, a resolution to become involved. Carole Brooke 0795 430 2498 or Sandy Riley 01275 853547 are at the end of the ‘phone waiting to give you lots of information.
Nailsea District Leg Club
January 2023
A very happy new year to everyone and the good news we’ve been working towards is about to happen.
Having being shut almost three years ago, our Leg Club clinic will re-start on Wednesday, January 18 and we’re looking forward to that day.
The committee and nurses have been in constant discussion throughout the pandemic, and Leg Club is grateful for the continued support given by Tyntesfield Medical Group.
However, please note this will NOT be a drop-in clinic as before, treatments by the nurses will be strictly by appointment from 9am, initially made through your nurse who is currently providing treatment, so please ask.
Leg Club is there to support anyone with lower leg issues who can access Nailsea Tithe Barn on Wednesday mornings, and even if you don’t have an appointment, you can still drop in for coffee/tea/cake at our Leg Club Support Café, which will continue to open as usual 10.30am-noon.
As ever we would be pleased to welcome more volunteers to assist with refreshments and chat on a Wednesday morning.
Once the clinic is running again, volunteers will be needed from 8.30am-12.30pm and volunteer drivers are needed too.
For more information please call Carole Brooke 07954 302 498 or Sandy Riley 01275 853547.
What a great note to start 2023 on, we hope it continues to be all good news.
Healthy activities
Looking to get more active in 2023?
Would you like to become fitter while meeting new people?
If so, North Somerset Health Walks are for you!
The Health Walks programme has been running for more than 15 years, offering people the chance to improve their health and wellbeing at a pace that suits them.
More than 300 walkers take part in the Health Walks every week, at locations across North Somerset including Clevedon, Nailsea, Portishead, Weston-super-Mare, Winscombe, Long Ashton and Yatton.
Each walk is led by a trained volunteer and is between 30 and 90 minutes.
All abilities are welcome to attend, and the walking routes are chosen to be accessible and inclusive to as many people as possible.
Walking is a great, free way to improve your fitness and connect with other people.
To find out more, including a list of Health Walks happening across North Somerset, go to www.betterhealthns.co.uk/get-active/walking.
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The Health Walks scheme is always keen to hear from people who may be interested in becoming a Health Walk volunteer. To register your interest or find out more email getactive@n-somerset.gov.uk or call 01275 882730.
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North Somerset Council’s Active Directory, which lists a wide range of physical activities for people or all ages and abilities, has been updated for 2023 and is available online at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/activedirectory.
Council offer cash comfort
Cash-strapped North Somerset Council is showing comfort and kindness to those in need by finding a pot of money to help.
Short-term financial help is available under its welfare provision scheme to help with gas, electricity, food, clothing, travel and more after the Cost of Living crisis continues to bite.
With the announcement this week that interest rates are increasing to 3.5 per cent, UK inflation is running at 10.7 per cent and costs are continuing to rise, many of us are struggling to make ends meet.
The Welfare Provision Scheme can give short-term financial help in a crisis.
The amount of help will depend on circumstances, but is designed to help anyone unable to meet their short-term needs.
North Somerset Council deputy leader Mike Bell is the Lib Dem ward councillor for Weston central.
He said: “The Welfare Provision Scheme can give financial help for gas, electricity, oil and LRG fuels, minor repairs to white goods, food, clothing and travel as well as help to buy furniture, white goods and household equipment and much more.
"If your situation isn’t mentioned above, it’s still worth getting in touch to see if you can apply for financial help.
"The cost of living crisis is affecting us all so please get in touch if you need help.”
Applications for short-term financial help is available online at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/wps or by phoning 01934 888035 or 0800 138 5665, 10am-4pm Monday to Friday.
The amount of help that can be given will depend on your circumstances. Loans will be repayable, but grants won’t be. Check online or phone the number above to check eligibility criteria.
North Somerset Council will contact you once a decision has been made and normally make awards in goods, services or vouchers which you will then need to collect.
For a round-up of advice and guidance about the cost-of-living crisis, visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/col. It includes help with bills, childcare costs, housing support, and energy and heating advice.
There are also useful links to local food banks, a cost-of-living survival kit and support to help people travel to work.
As the cold weather continues, the Energy Saving Trust also has some quick tips on ways to save energy (https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/energy-saving-trust-outlines-steps-to-save-hundreds-on-home-energy-bills-as-costs-set-to-increase-by-50/).
North Somerset community and voluntary groups are being encouraged to bid for thousands of pounds in public health funding when it becomes available in the New Year, as North Somerset Council continues its work to improve health and wellbeing, and tackle health inequalities across the area.
Voluntary organisations, community groups and settings will be able to apply for the funding to help them run local projects which improve health when applications open on Tuesday, January 3.
Before then, organisers and project leads are being encouraged to start preparing their applications for funding and consider projects that would be eligible to receive the money.
There will be different grants available:
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Mental health community grant: to fund community programmes which improve overall wellbeing, reduce metal ill health and reduce social isolation and loneliness. A total of £45,000 in funding will be available, to be split between projects for children and adults. Organisations and groups will be able to apply for up to £10,000.
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Social prescribing destination grant: to fund non-clinical projects and activities in North Somerset that address the needs of residents of all ages in holistic, community-centred ways. For services and activities that act as social prescribing destinations and aim to improve mental health and wellbeing and to reduce social isolation and loneliness. A total of £45,000 will be available. People can apply for up to £5,000. If the project has a significant nature-based element, they can apply for up £10,000. Projects leads will need to have discussed their application with the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Green Social Prescribing (GSP) Programme by emailing bnssg.mh.greensp@nhs.net.
Community food projects grant: to support existing and upcoming community food projects in North Somerset that encourage access to nutritious and affordable food, healthy eating, improved food knowledge and skills. Projects should also focus on the social, cultural, and dietary needs in the population that they aim to reach. Projects that have a dual aim of improving physical health and create wider social or climate benefits, such as improving community cohesion and reducing food waste, will also be considered. The total available funding is £30,000. Individual projects can apply for up to £10,000,
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Together Fund – Sport England: Wesport is adding £25,000 to support organisations who have not accessed this funding previously. This fund supports projects that use movement, physical activity, or sport to engage priority audiences who have been impacted by the pandemic and the cost of living crisis. For more information about the Together Fund please email Caleb.Thomas@wesport.org.uk.
Mr Bell added: “I’m delighted that we’re again able to offer this funding to voluntary organisations, community groups and settings across North Somerset.
"We’re a council which empowers and cares about people.
"We want to create good health and wellbeing throughout life, and also close the health inequalities that exist in our area.
“In 2022, more than £75,000 was awarded to a variety of local projects, all of which helped improve health and wellbeing and made a real difference to people’s lives.
“I’d urge all community focused groups to have a look at our website, get in touch for more information and start preparing their funding bids so they’re ready to get their applications in when they open next year!”
One of the many projects to benefit from grant funding this year was a cookery course run by Banwell Parish Council Youth Club and the funding of the new wellbeing officer for Nailsea based at No65.
Off The record, a mental health social movement, also received funding for their NatureWell project which invited young people to take part in a range of nature-based activities while receiving quality, informal and engaging mental health and wellbeing support.
More information about the different grants and the application process is available at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/phgrants.
The council’s public health team can also be contacted: for mental health and social prescribing grants email phgrants@n-somerset.gov.uk and for community food projects funding email cfpgrants@n-somerset.gov.uk.
WARM WELCOME LIST: Did you know if you are feeling the chill and looking for somewhere warm to go there are 15 places locally offering free good cheer. Nailsea Town Council well-being officer Jess Brown has put together a printed sheet you can collect at 65 High Street as our version could send you to Specsavers! This is an updated list from the one we published on November front page
FESTIVE WELLBEING; Reiki is a completely safe, complementary health approach in which practitioners place their hands on or just above different parts of the body, and based on the belief that all living beings have energy fields that support their health and vitality. It can go alongside all other medical and therapeutic techniques and can be used for all mental/physical health conditions. Rowan Tree Reiki owner Jo Penney, has more than 15 years of experience working with the NHS community services and rehabilitation, and has recently set up her own business as a qualified Reiki and Crystal practitioner to share her knowledge and practice to help others. Contact Jo on 0796 808 9129, or @jorowantreereiki on Instagram / Facebook to take advantage of these festive offers
Welcome to wellbeing Nailsea person
Nailsea residents can now look forward to improved support services in a number of different areas, thanks to the appointment of a designated community wellbeing officer.
Nailsea Town Council has welcomed Jessica Brown to the newly created post, funded by North Somerset Council for a 24-month period.
Jess, aged 30, who lives in Nailsea, has a background in community mental health, both delivering clinical support and therapy, as well as enhancing awareness in the local community.
Town council chair, Mike Bird, said: “We are extremely excited to appoint Jess as Nailsea’s community wellbeing officer. She brings with her a wealth of experience and lots of new ideas that, without doubt, will benefit the people of Nailsea.”
Jess will be working out of 65 High Street, bringing in more social and health related services, making them easily accessible at the High Street hub. She will also be proactive out and about in the community.
She said: “I’m so excited and enthusiastic about this new role and how beneficial it will be in developing support and services available to members of the community. A large part of my role will be talking to the people of Nailsea, individuals plus community groups and organisations, to determine what areas need more development and support in our town and then helping to facilitate that. I sincerely hope residents will drop in to 65 High Street to talk to me and let me know what help they feel is needed.”
Jess is hoping to introduce more wellbeing related support groups and facilities to 65 High Street. She added: “As part of my role I am liaising with GP surgeries and other health related services with the aim to bring more support services into number 65 so that this can be easily accessed by the wider Nailsea community. I am also building upon the signposting database created by Nailsea Community Group, of local organisations, activities and support available for Nailsea residents.”
To find out more or to get in touch with Jess, email wellbeing@nailseatowncouncil.gov.uk or pop in to 65 High Street, Monday to Thursday 9.30am-5pm or on Friday mornings.
Nailsea District Leg Club clinic has got off to an excellent start this year as it has now been running since mid January, a welcome return to something akin to normality after three long ‘Covid’ years.
It is a slow start, operating on an appointment system, but nevertheless it’s great to have the nursing team back at the Tithe Barn on a Wednesday morning.
This will have been something of a novelty for some of our members and volunteers, who joined us for the Leg Club café on a Wednesday morning, once this started in September 2021.
The support offered by Leg Club café has proved immensely popular and much appreciated by everyone who comes in whatever capacity.
For members who have lower leg issues, it’s a place to talk with those who are in a similar situation.
For the volunteers, it’s a happy place to give some time and gain the benefit of feeling useful.
New members and volunteers - nurse support, drivers and general volunteers - are always welcome, for more information please call Carole Brooke 07954 302498 or Sandy Riley 01275 853547.
We’re at Nailsea Tithe Barn each Wednesday 9am–noon, appointments for treatment must be made through your GP surgery.
Nailsea District Leg Club March news
The cancer support group will be meeting on Thursday, March 16, at No 65 High Street, Nailsea from 2pm.
We are a group of people who have been affected by cancer, either because we are going through treatment or have had treatment in the past or we have family and friends who have been affected.
We offer mutual support in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where you can chat over a cup of tea and plenty of cake!
We also run a tombola to help pay for refreshments and have some talented cake bakers who support us with some delicious home bakes.
If you would like to help us in any way but can't get along to No 65, we are always looking for tombola prizes (a post Christmas clear out?) or sewing fairies to make chemo hats, PICC line covers and scarves which we give to our attendees or donate to Macmillan.
Jo Hopkinson
Your cancer cafe March date
The Friends of Nailsea Tithe Barn’ group began its life as supporters, promoters and fundraisers for the restoration of the Tithe Barn in the early 2000s.
And what a successful project that was!
When you compare the state of the barn before and after you must surely marvel at just how dogged, determined and focussed this group was.
And this group still exists - still supporting and promoting the Tithe Barn, but also enjoying the social side of the group.
Friends have supported events at the Tithe Barn, like film nights, music performances, encouraging visits by schools and in many more ways.
In more recent times monthly ‘coffee with friends’ mornings has proved very popular as a friendly meeting place but also an opportunity to find out more about the history of the Tithe Barn and in particular the part played by Hannah More in establishing her school there.
Over the years ‘friends’ have enjoyed trips off, including visits to the BBC studios in Bristol, the Memorial Arboretum, a horse-drawn barge trip on the Tiverton Canal and a visit in snowdrop time to the Painswick Rococo Gardens.
Last year’s visit to Bradford on Avon was an opportunity to take a look at its Tithe Barn too.
Next month ‘friends’ will be visiting the National Trust property Killerton, near Exeter. This is a most interesting 18th century house in wonderful grounds but it also has a strong connection to Hannah More which we look forward to finding out about!
There are currently three places available on this trip on Tuesday, June 6, leaving from outside the Ring O’Bells at 9.30am. The cost is £25pp (not including entrance charges)
You do not need to be a Friend of the Tithe Barn to join the trip.
To find out more email barbaracalvert47@gmail.com or telephone 01275 790399. You are also very welcome to join this friendly group of Tithe Barn enthusiasts.
Barbara Calvert
A friend indeed
Top Nailsea Tithe Barn and below Killerton House in Devon
Do you fancy a new handbag, then come to Nailsea market on Saturday morning, May 20, when Leg Club will be having the now famous ‘handbag stall’.
There’ll be lots on offer at very low prices (cash only please).
We’d very much welcome donations for the stall, rucksacks, evening bags, handbags or purses, so go through what you have and if no use to you any more consider donating via 65 High Street.
Please ensure they’re in good condition however and empty of belongings, (don’t worry about loose change!)
The Leg Club is always pleased to have more volunteers.
Drivers bringing our members to the Tithe Barn and returning them home once their treatment is finished are always sought.
Members need to be mobile and walk from their house to the car, so nothing physical involved, and expenses are offered.
Call Carole Brooke 0795 430 2498 or Sandy Riley 01275 853547 for more information regarding any of the above.
Handbags at ready
Anxiety is the theme of Mental Health Awareness Week 2023.
For Nailsea resident Phil Williams a walk around Backwell lake helps relieve the pressures.
While walking Phil took these wonderful photographs which we have put in a slideshow.
Anxiety is a normal emotion in us all, but sometimes it can get out of control and become a mental health problem.
Lots of things can lead to feelings of anxiety, including exam pressures, relationships, starting a new job (or losing one) or other big life events.
We can also get anxious when it comes to things to do with money and not being able to meet our basic needs, like heating our home or buying food.
But anxiety can be made easier to manage.
Focusing on anxiety for this year's Mental Health Awareness Week will increase people's awareness and understanding of anxiety by providing information on the things that can help prevent it from becoming a problem.
At the same time, we will keep up the pressure to demand change - making sure that improving mental health is a key priority for the government and society as a whole.
Read more here https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/public-engagement/mental-health-awareness-week.
Nature walks relieve anxiety
It was good to have an annual meeting again in April, when the committee all agreed to continue in post. Reports showed they had worked hard during the pandemic to maintain contact with some members, regularly held committee meetings via zoom and eventually re-started the Leg Club café on Wednesday mornings at Nailsea Tithe Barn in September 2021, and the clinic in January 2023.
The AGM was well attended by volunteers, drawn by the inevitable tea and home-made cake (a necessity!), followed by lively discussion on adult safeguarding led by Sue and Marion from CURO (Latin for care).
This is an important issue which goes both ways, several interesting points were raised, and a variety of scenarios were discussed as to how volunteers would approach them.
Visiting Leg Club monthly, Kelly Willis, of Community Connect run by CURO, is able to assist with information, advice and guidance to enable people to avoid isolation and continue living independently, making home visits if necessary.
Her remit covers many things and she is in routine contact with social services and local surgeries. Her visits have benefitted members and some volunteers too and there are always plenty of questions for her.
Looking to the future, there is every hope that our clinic will soon become a ‘drop-in’ once again, but meanwhile for more information call Carole Brooke 0795 430 2498 or Sandy Riley 01275 853547.
Nailsea District Leg Club June 2023 newsletter
North Somerset MP Liam Fox declares the butterfly garden open on Friday, June 9, at Argentum Lodge the purpose-built nursing home at Silver Street, Nailsea.
He is pictured along smiling manager Kate Corcoran.
Kate thanked all the staff for their heartfelt contributions into making the garden project a great success.
She said: "I could not thank enough the whole team at Argentum Lodge for help and support,
"I am very proud of them, and of course residents and families for all the support too.
Dr Fox a former Nailsea GP said: “One of the lovely things about being a member of parliament especially in North Somerset is you get asked to go these really difficult tasks like being asked to come along and open this beautiful garden on a sunny June afternoon - and what a magnificent job you all have done.”
A ukulele band whose repertoire included Sunny Afternoon by The Kinks played, staff danced and balloons fluttered in the breeze.
Ukebox musicians not only play ukuleles, but bass, drums and percussion insturments with an eclectic repertoire - from Ella to Elton, Bassey to Beatles, Foo Fighters to Killers with a bit of Wurzel folk for good measure.
Dr Fox who is well-known for his karaoke turns jokingly offered to join the Ukebox band to perform the next song.
A fabulous outdoor picnic was prepared by the in-house chefs Sally Bullock and Tara Booth,
Built in 2013 in a former quarry known for an abundance of wildlife, the three storey Argentum Lodge is home to nearly 60 residents who need long-term care.
Maintenance manager Tony Brain was helped by Michael Sargent to transformed the garden patch into a peaceful and pleasant part of the garden and Helen Sargent and Deb Diop coordinated the activiities.
And as an added bonus the community living room has been given a makeover as the butterfly café.
More photos in the sildeshow below...
Argentum in summertime
ME TOO FOR ACCESS: Number one access for Nailsea and Backwell people is the railway station, a tireless campaign of more than 10 years. Width of shop doors, grocery shelves too high/low, steep steps/stairs and the new heritage trail installed by Nailsea Town Council with plinths out-of-reach like the one on the village green...should we go on...
The Coronation of the King and Queen was celebrated in early May, when Leg Club was in party mode with plenty of red, white and blue, appropriate refreshments, photos and a tombola.
As this happened after ‘the Day’, there was much discussion about the actual event, and memories recalled of the late Queen’s coronation!
On a wonderfully sunny market Saturday in May the now famous handbag stall was set up outside Waitrose, where there was plenty of people and lots of interest.
More than £250 was raised for much needed funds to help Leg Club continue each Wednesday morning at Nailsea Tithe Barn.
All lower leg issues whatever they are can be very debilitating, physically and mentally lowering.
At the Leg Club café/clinic there is support for everyone who wishes to discuss their particular problem.
The café is drop-in and anyone can call in on a Wednesday morning.
If you’re registered with Tyntesfield Medical Group and would like medical advice PLEASE call your surgery to make an appointment or talk with your nurse.
Look out for more information on the notice boards in the surgery waiting rooms too.
Wednesday mornings at the Tithe Barn provide so much more than treatment and there is a warm welcome and refreshments on offer.
Nailsea District Leg Club July 2023 newsletter
BABY BOOK: Local author Lucy Matilda Juliet in Nailsea library 9.30-11am on Wednesday, September 20, or book-signing of Breastfeeding and the Fourth Trimester: A supportive, expert guide to the first three months priced £14.95. The book has already sold more than 1,000 copies and is available from Amazon in print and on kindle here https://amzn.eu/d/19RxQOm
Thankfully after stormy, autumn weather it was dry for the High Street handbag stall on Saturday, September 23, when £158 was raised to support Leg Club.
Thank you to the volunteers and those who came to browse and buy.
In 2024 sales are 9am-noon on Saturdays, May 18 and September 21.
More ‘stock’ (in good condition and empty please) is welcome and can be taken to No.65 any time.
Wednesday mornings at the Leg Club held at the Tithe Barn continue to run very successfully on an appointment system, but good news – Leg Club can now take ‘walk-ins’ again, which haven’t been possible since before the pandemic.
There may be a short wait and to avoid this we suggest you come after 10am, as those with pre-booked appointments will need to stick to their time.
Appointments can still be made through your surgery and this guarantees that a member (patient) is seen at a specific time, usually without having to wait too long.
Of course you can partake of the wonderful refreshments and chat that are always available, provided by the great team of volunteers, occasionally enjoy the lovely piano music from Chris Coppin, or have some fun on the tombola, which happens every couple of months.
Anyone who feels they would benefit from what is on offer at Leg Club, is always welcome to drop in and see a nurse without an appointment,
Leg Club is there to help, even if only it’s advice that’s required.
For those without transport and are able to walk from their front door to a car, transport can be arranged with a volunteer driver.
For more information call Carole Brooke 0795 430 2498 or Sandy Riley 01275 853547.
Nailsea District Leg Club November newsletter
More than 40 Community Living Rooms are open across North Somerset as free and welcoming spaces for residents to come together for friendly company, activities and a place to keep warm if needed this winter.
Community Living Rooms are varied and take place within libraries, community centres, faith groups and more. It’s a great place to come together with other members of the community with some offering refreshments, arts and crafts, games, digital skills sessions as well as information, support and advice.
North Somerset Council has provided funding to each Community Living Room with additional financial contributions from Bristol Water, Wessex Water and Alliance Homes.
North Somerset Council worked with numerous organisations and community groups to help set up free Community Living Rooms across the region last year in direct response to the cost of living crisis.
North Somerset Council deputy leader and Labour Party ward councillor for Weston-super-Mare Milton is Catherine Gibbons.
She said: “It’s wonderful that so many community living rooms will be open this winter to offer warm, friendly spaces for members of the community to come together to meet, have a chat and support each other.
“The idea of Community Living rooms is something I’ve supported for many years, as a way of bringing people together.
“They are free to attend, and when set up last year, played a key role in the response to the cost of living crisis, offering a warm space for people to spend time together and to help reduce home energy bills.
"They have been so successful and valued, that communities across North Somerset are continuing to keep them open.
“I’m very proud that, as a council that cares, we've been able to support so many organisations who are now helping run Community Living Rooms.”
To help find your nearest Community Living Room, including open times, visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/communitylivingrooms.
An interactive map is also available at Community Living Rooms (n-somerset.gov.uk).
Key organisations in North Somerset, including North Somerset Council, set
The latest charity quiz organised by Rotary Nailsea and Backwell was at the Backwell WI Hall at the begining of November.
Teams of up to six, totalling 100 people, competed to win this fun quiz and a good time was had by all.
An amazing sum of £850 was raised for the Nailsea Memory Café.
Rotary’s grateful thanks go to Ray and Sue Griffiths for compiling and running the quiz and to all the local residents who turned out on a wild night to support the event.
Our photo, courtesy of Bob Keightley, shows the representative of the winning team, appropriately the Memory Café, Rotarian Ray and Sue and Rotary President Andrew Bale.
Nailsea Memory Cafe meets at the Barn weekly on a Wednesday from 2.15-4:15 pm.
There are activities for people with dementia and a care-partner discussion and support group.
Please contact Karen Smith for more details and pre-booking on 0779 034 4559 or email tbarnmemories@gmail.com
Rotarians fundraising quiz
ALCOHOLICS ANNONYMOUS: Do you think you have a problem with alcohol? Do you have a friend or relative who you are worried might have? Feel free to come and join us and see if we can help you. All are welcome and it’s completely confidential
up an area-wide Cost of Living working group earlier this year.
Community Living Rooms are just one of the many packages of measures in place to help residents at this challenging financial time.
For more information about help available including support with bills, childcare costs, housing support, and energy and heating advice, check out www.n-somerset.gov.uk/col.
Here there are also useful links to local food banks, financial grants, a cost-of-living survival kit and support to help people travel to work.
Mindfulness teachers Karin and Rosie have two crafting workshops at Heaven Coffee House, Dark Lane, Backwell.
The pair are passionate about crafting for wellbeing and run regular crafting workshops and mindfulness courses in South Bristol and North Somerset.
If you would like to learn to make a macramé plant hanger we have spaces available on Wednesday, November 29, 7-9pm at the crossroads café. Tickets £30.
They also have a origami Christmas Tree workshop, on Wednesday, December 6, also 7-9pm. Tickets £25.
Email for more information or to book mindfulcraftbristol@outlook.com.
Macramé or Origami?
Nailsea District Leg Club December newsletter
Do you know that Leg Club is every Wednesday 9-11.30am at Nailsea Tithe Barn, Church Lane, BS48 4NG?
This is a wonderful, historic building, with many unusual and fascinating features, it’s warm in the winter and we offer refreshments too!
The X9 bus goes close by, (check bus times), and if necessary volunteer drivers can collect attendees, providing they can walk from their front door to the car.
Do you know Leg Club is open to everyone registered with Tyntesfield Medical Group, and the drop- in clinic welcomes anyone with lower leg issues?
If you or a family member or friend, need advice about such problems, our wonderful nursing team are there to see you without any appointment.
If you prefer, an appointment for Leg Club can be made by calling your local TMG surgery.
With Christmas now so close we’re planning a ‘party’ on Wednesday, December 20, come and join the festivities, tombola, carols and mince pies.
There is no clinic on Wednesday, December 27.
Anyone needing an appointment that day, the surgeries will be open as normal and you will need to make an appointment in advance in the usual way.
Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year from all the team at Leg Club.
Come in from the cold our Community Living Rooms
The Spectrum65 Art Group exhibition on Friday and Saturday, November 17-18, at 65 High Street was a great success.
More than 250 visitors viewed the work on display.
Alongside the exhibition was work created by the Artful Minds, a group that aims to inspire people with dementia and their care-partners, through artistic stimulation.
The Spectrum65 art group is made up of Nailsea residents who meet up on a Wednesday morning at 65 High Street and drink tea, coffee and eat cake and do a bit of painting and escape reality for a while.
New members are welcome.
If you are interested in joining drop in on a Wednesday between 10am-12.15pm and speak to office manager Trudy Hollow or contact Jeff on 0739 945 7211.
Trudy said: “The Spectrum65 Art Group worked really hard to set up a fantastic art exhibition in No 65, High Street.
“The standard was truly wonderful.”
65 High Street is a place connecting people and an informal drop-in venue
run by Nailsea Town Council for anyone wanting advice and support.It’s widely used by a variety of local groups and services with a focus on community wellbeing.
To find more about the services at 65 High Street email trudy@nailseatowncouncil.gov.uk.
The list of current services include Citizen’s Advice North Somerset, Nailsea Disability Initiative, Women of Colour Social Group, Climate Cafe, Youth Club (Juniors) and The Hive Business Support.
Art exhibition 65 High Street
2022-2023
2024
A New Year brings new beginnings and maybe a new challenge?
Would YOU like a new and rewarding challenge? Leg Club needs volunteers willing to come a couple of times a month to assist in setting up/clearing away the necessary equipment (on trolleys, no heavy lifting involved) for our café and clinic, chat to members, make tea/coffee etc, and add to this happy, buzzy atmosphere.
The morning can be split into two if preferred.
Volunteer drivers are also much needed for those without transport, but able to walk from their front door to a car, so nothing physical involved with this either.
Leg Club takes place at the historic Nailsea Tithe Barn on Wednesday mornings.
Guaranteed there’s plenty going on in many different ways, and it’s a place to make new friends and reacquaint with others.
Plus find out about other things taking place at the Tithe Barn, from film nights, concerts and gigs, to the memory café.
Think about taking up the challenge and we look forward to seeing new faces soon, either volunteers or members for advice/treatment, and wish everyone a happy 2024.
Nailsea District Leg Club
January newsletter
Call either Carole Brooke 0795 430 2498 or Sandy Riley 01275 853547 for information.
PHOTO: Nailsea and Backwell Rotary Club at the
December Christmas gathering
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NAILSEA SLIMMERS: Eloise Norton has been a Slimming World consultant for 10 years. She said: "I am taking over this group and would love to just let local people know I am there to help if anyone wants help losing weight in a friendly and supportive environment."
CHEERS DRIVE: This summer NDCT began a recruitment drive for more people to get behind the wheel of its mini-bus
WHO ARE WE?
We are Community Transport (NDCT) a charity which has been in operation for nearly 30 years. Our purpose is to provide an affordable, accessible transport service within the northern part of North Somerset and through this, promote social inclusion, independence and a sense of community. We operate a range of transport services including shopping trips, outings, medical appointments, dial-a-ride and other social outings.
WHAT DO WE WANT?
More volunteer drivers: The charity is looking for individuals who will change lives and get people out of social isolation and loneliness. Our volunteer drivers become part of a friendly team picking up and dropping off our clients in one of our mini buses
WHAT DO YOU NEED?
As a volunteer driver:
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To be able to spare as little as a day a month (more would be great!)
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To have a patient and friendly manner
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Be relatively fit in order to assist passengers where required
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Hold a UK driving licence with no more than 6 penalty point
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To provide references
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To agree to a DBS check
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Ideally have a D1 entitlement on your licence (automatic prior to 1997)
We will put you through your MiDAS test to enable you to legally drive a minibus and if you are over 70, assist you in reapplying for a D1 on your licence if applicable.
Beep, beep drive our bus
The Leg Club was delighted to receive £1061.11 recently from Nailsea & Backwell Rotary Club following the Charity Walk that took place last summer.
This is a most welcome boost to funds that will go a long way to supporting members.
Many thanks to those who walked on our behalf, their sponsors, and the Rotary Club for organising the walk.
The Leg Club is very dependent on either grants or small donations (including small legacies), to keep running, so the annual Charity Walk is not only vital to us, but also an enjoyable walk for those who take part.
Nailsea District Leg Club was started nine years ago and is fortunate to have the continued support of Tyntesfield Medical Group, and a proactive committee, who meet regularly to discuss what goes on each Wednesday morning at Nailsea Tithe Barn.
These mornings are well attended by members needing treatment at our drop-in clinic, or members who enjoy coming for a chat and social catch-up.
Please spread the word if you, a relative or friend would like to drop in for advice (prevention is better than cure) or treatment.
For more information call either Carole Brooke 0795 430 2498 or Sandy Riley 01275 853547 for information.
Nailsea District Leg Club information for February
Our famous handbag stall is outside Waitrose supermarket in Nailsea High Street on Saturday morning, May 18, an opportunity to purchase a bargain, or donate handbags no longer needed.
These can be taken to 65 Nailsea High Street prior to the May date, please ensure donations are clean, in good condition and empty.
Leg Club is 9am-noon on Wednesdays at Nailsea Tithe Barn, and is available to anyone registered with Tyntesfield Medical Group, needing advice or treatment on lower leg issues.
No appointment necessary and ‘drop-ins’ are very welcome, call in to see what happens and enjoy refreshments always on offer.
Alternatively ask for an appointment via your surgery or talk to your nurse about Leg Club.
Members of our committee would be happy to visit any local group or organisation to give a short talk about Leg Club.
We’re keen to spread the word about why, where and what is on offer from our NHS nurses (employed by TMG), refreshments and chat provided by our volunteers, and other activities and visitors that are part of Wednesday mornings at the Tithe Barn.
Carole Brooke 0795 430 2498 or Sandy Riley 01275 853547 are available for information, or ask at your surgery, and there are large blue notice boards in each surgery waiting room giving lots of details.
Nailsea District Leg Club March newsletter
Kindhearted Pam and Malcolm Hunt were delighted to present the Nailsea Leg Club with a donation of £200 raised by the Nailsea Community Christmas Float.
The float raised a total of an amazing £5,445 for good causes in December 2023 and was a key feature at the Nailsea Town Council Community Christmas Fair.
Nailsea District Leg Club is a free to access, community initiative whose members are patients of the Tyntesfield Medical Group.
They meet once a week at the Tithe Barn, Church Lane, every Wednesday 9am-noon.
Leg clubs provide community-based treatment, health promotion, education and on-going care for people of all age groups who are experiencing leg-related problems.
A leg club is different because they are shaped around socialising. They have four key features that are different from conventional treatment:
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They are community-based, held in a non-medical settings
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The patient is treated collectively
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They operate on a drop-in basis (no appointments required)
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They offer help, advice and treatment for lower leg problems. No appointments are required and members can drop in to chat over a cup of tea or coffee while awaiting treatment. Transport can be arranged to and from the clubs, and parking is available. They cover any problems involving legs, from varicose veins, skin tears, eczema and leg ulcers to difficulties in walking.
If you are interested in finding out more about the Nailsea Leg Club please Telephone 07954 302 498.
Malcolm built the Nailsea Community Christmas Float himself more than 40 years ago to raise money for good causes for the now disbanded Nailsea Lions Club.
For generations of Nailsea residents the float has been an integral part of the Nailsea Christmas scene.
Both Pam and Malcolm were keen to keep the Nailsea Community Christmas Float going as Pam says ‘It’s what Christmas is all about’.
The Nailsea Community Christmas Float could not run without the generous help of volunteers from the local schools, Nailsea Scouts, and
Charity float donation
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Guides and many other organisations who use it to collect money during the outings in December.
Every year the Nailsea Community Christmas Float collects generous donations given by Nailsea residents to fund good local causes.
Pam added: "During the past 40 years we have been running the Nailsea Community Christmas Float we’ve seen three generations of Nailsea residents grow up enjoying meeting Santa on his float.
"We love touring the streets of Nailsea, Long Ashton, and Backwell every December and the support we’ve had over the years has been wonderful.
"This year we stopped at the Argentum Lodge, a care home for the elderly in Nailsea and it brought tears to my eyes seeing all the residents come out and enjoy the Christmas celebrations.
"It was a wonderful occasion."
The donations not only supported the Nailsea Leg Club but also many other organisations in the area such as local schools, Mizzymead Dementia Group, Backwell & Nailsea Macular Society Support Group, Nailsea Climate Emergency Group, Nailsea and District Footpath Group and The Friends of Trendlewood Park to name a few of the many beneficiaries.
The Patient Participation Group (representing medical practices in Nailsea, Backwell and Long Ashton) is organising our first health event of 2024.
The is called Living Well: Preventing & Managing Diabetes and is on Tuesday, April 9, 7-9pm at Nailsea Baptist Church, 79 Silver Street.
The focus will be on helping people to understand the basics of Type 2 Diabetes, helping to prevent developing the condition; or to manage the condition if they have it, and to bust some myths around diabetes.
People with Type 1 are also welcome as much of the advice and resources are equally applicable!
There will have a range of speakers, a diabetes nurse and the dietician from Tyntesfield Medical Group, plus others to give essential knowledge, advice, plus information about local support and resources.
It’s also an opportunity for people in our community to ask questions and make suggestions about the care they receive.
Diabetes UK statistics show that 4.3 million people in the UK, around six per cent of the population, have diabetes; 90 per cent of these have type 2, and an estimated further 850,000 have it but not been diagnosed.
The number of younger people being diagnosed is increasing and Type 2 Diabetes, if unrecognised or unmanaged, can lead to complications and other health conditions.
An estimated 50 pre cent of Type 2 diabetes is preventable so this is an important subject, and all are welcome.
The event is free but please register via Eventbrite (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/staying-well-preventing-and-managing-diabetes-tickets-862914118357?aff=oddtdtcreator) or email tmgppg@gmail.com, to help us be prepared on the evening.
There is plenty of parking in the carpark by Towerhouse Medical Centre (Crown Glass Shopping Centre), or in the Clevedon Road car park.
Doors will open at 6.45pm and tea and coffee will be available.
We look forward to welcoming you.
4.3m people in UK living with diabetes
Nailsea Leg Club drop-in clinic, open to anyone registered with Tyntesfield Medical Group, tis every Wednesday morning 9.30-11.30am at the Tithe Barn.
This is also the home of Nailsea Town Council.
In future the council communications & media officer Cathy East will include Leg Club news on its Facebook page.
Wednesday mornings are always busy, Pat and Malcolm Hunt from the Nailsea Community Christmas Float recently came to present £200, which was gratefully received for our funds.
Sally Kingston from Age UK also visited on the same day.
She provides invaluable advice on fitness which she can give to our members on a one-to-one basis as she talks around the refreshment tables.
Chris Coppin often comes to play the piano, and it’s nice to listen to his accomplished playing in the background, sometimes undertaking requests!
Saturday morning, May 18, is the date of the handbag stall to be held outside Waitrose supermarket.Lots of bargains to be had from bags and purses to suitcases, from £5.
Nailsea District Leg Club April Newsletter
Sorry but it is cash only purchases please.
Donations welcome in good clean condition can be taken to 65 High Street.
Any questions about any of the above please call Carole Brooke on 0795 430 2498.
Therapist Louise has moved her successful business from the back of Broad Street Hair to Old Church Road next door to MiMi's hairdressers. Lots of friends and customers came to her opening day to wish her luck in her new venue - Nailsea People echoes that sentiment
