Forum DecemberFocus 2019 / January 2020 E nfield B orough O v er 5 0 s F orum newsletter Unhealthy merger for patients Enfield residents could lose their say on local NHS services after a huge North administration body was created without any public debate The biggest shake-up in the NHS is underway with the creation for the five-borough CCG merger on 21 October, by the end next April of a single mega-CCG (Clinical Commissioning of that month Dr Abedi was still telling us that “we are in the Group) covering Enfield, Barnet, Islington, Camden and Haringey. process of developing a constitution” and an overall strategic It will be responsible for plan. meeting the health needs Yet the draft constitution of all 1,636,868 residents in had no place for even a five North Central London non-voting patient on the boroughs, spread over 204 GP governing body – unlike the surgeries, with a £2.1bn budget present Enfield CCG. There to provide all our hospital and is a place for just one patient primary care services. and public engagement rep, This new bureaucratic one Healthwatch rep for the monstrosity has been imposed five boroughs and just two by NHSEngland (NHSE) and Enfield GPs to represent our NHSImprovement (responsible 47 surgeries. for hospitals and trusts) in No commercial company a shot-gun merger without would be allowed by discussion and approval of law to contemplate a patients, our Health and Well- Will the state of the NHS be something we can all celebrate similar venture without being Board, or the council’s in birthdays to come? first producing a detailed Health Scrutiny panel. structure, together with Despite the fine words that the re-organisation aims to reduce a list of objectives, a timescale for benefits and any downside health inequalities in the Borough, the only firm objective seen envisaged. This would then be considered by all those affected, so far is that the merger is intended to reduce management which in our case means Enfield’s 334,000 residents. costs by 20%. That is why health campaigners all over the country are As yet, there is no sign of more NHS money coming to outraged by the way our statutory rights to be part of the notoriously under-funded Enfield. In fact, to break even, Enfield decision-making process – enshrined in the NHS Constitution CCG has to produce £15.4m in ‘savings’ by the end of this – are being eroded by NHSE to prevent any public debate and financial year in March 2020. And find a further £17 million in consultation. ‘savings’ – we mustn’t call them ‘cuts’ – in 2021-22. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 Dr Mo Abedi, the Enfield CCG Chair, was emphatic that these savings will need to come from the ‘providers’ of NHS services. Though the Royal Free Group of hospitals (RFL) – a ‘major Season’s provider’ for Enfield which includes Chase Farm and Barnet hospitals – itself recorded debts of £244m last year. Ominously, the RFL auditors cast ‘serious doubts’ about its ability to Greetings ‘continue to provide healthcare services’. To all our members and Against this dire background we are being asked to be optimistic about the new NHS structure. Although NHSE gave its approval readers www.enfieldover50sforum.org.uk Jan’s Journal Ruth’s Review This is my final Jan’s Journal. By the time it reaches print I shall have joined the ranks of the newly retired. I am sure This is my first review, more of an you will all welcome Ruth introduction to myself due to being Fathaddine, our new Office only a few weeks in my new role. and Development Manager Clearly I have some very big shoes who came into post at the to fill and I hope to do justice to beginning of November 2019. the role and the continuing good I have been with the Forum work of the Forum. since May 2012, after a I have worked with older lifetime of working with people throughout my whole people with disabilities and career, enjoying seventeen have thoroughly enjoyed my years in Islington managing four time here. I would like to thank all of befriending schemes for older/ the members and volunteers I have met along the way for isolated people, meeting very their inspiration and kindness – I have had thousands of role many interesting people over the models to help me plan for my retirement so hopefully I am years and recruiting volunteers to visit and provide well prepared! much needed companionship – many relationships enduring for years. For those of you still planning for later life, Alison Kirtley Recently I have worked in Enfield providing domiciliary care provision from Sweet Tree and Leon Smith, recently retired CEO of so now have an understanding of this borough and the common and Hemmersley Nightingale came to speak to our Civic Centre unique issues that older people here have to deal with. I am very Meeting in October and copies of their powerpoint and the happy to be able to continue my journey with older people’s support question and answer session are available from the office and welfare, albeit in another capacity. (020 807 2076 or [email protected]). There looks to be lots of changes ahead, a period of uncertainty, but A big thank you to those 1,000 people who completed hopefully a period of opportunity to highlight concerns but also to our survey – the results of which are in. Unfortunately the celebrate longevity and activity and ensure that voices are heard and evaluation shows that a very large number of our members new initiatives are implemented that are positive and enriching. are either socially and/or emotionally lonely and almost as I look forward to working with each and every one of you, and please many are worried about their health – so there is plenty of bear with me whilst I fully acclimatise to my new position. A big thank work still to be done by the Forum Executive Committee, you to all those who I have met already and the warmest of welcomes by Ruth and by Diane, our admin worker (whom I shall miss received. greatly). I shall of course remain a member of the Forum and hope to see many of you at Forum events in the future. Ruth Fathaddine Office and Development Manager. Jan Oliver

Enfield Borough Over 50s Forum Millfield House, Silver St, Edmonton N18 1PJ Disclaimer Tel: 020 8807 2076 This newsletter is for general information. You are urged to seek Email: [email protected] competent professional advice before doing anything based on its Website: www.enfieldover50sforum.org.uk contents. The Forum takes no responsibility for any of the services Office hours: Mon-Fri 9.30am – 4pm provided by any advertisement in this newsletter. Registered Charity No 1122859

President: Monty Meth JOIN the Forum Chair: Christine Whetstone The Forum is a voluntary organisation which relies on Secretary: Tony Watts Development & Office Manager: Ruth Fathaddine membership fees, some sponsorship and occasional small Admin: Diane Barron grants to undertake a wide range of activities which benefit older people in the borough of Enfield. If you are reading this This newsletter is produced every two months by Enfield Borough and are not an individual member, please consider joining by Over 50s Forum. contacting the office. It’s just £10 a year (£15 for couples) or Editorial team: Yvonne Mulder, Monty Meth, Tony Watts £100 (£150 for couples) for lifetime membership. Contact: [email protected] Advertising enquiries: [email protected] Organisations can join for £25 a year or £100 for five years.

2 Will it be third time lucky? There are many issues which we all need to consider when deciding which way to vote in the upcoming General Election

The prospect of the first December general election in almost I’d like to see the next government reverse the penny-pinching 100 years will not, I trust, be enough to interfere with your decision to stop claims for pension credit to those with the festive plans. Elections were once every five years – or four if lowest incomes if one of a couple is below pension age. the government sought a fresh mandate. Incredulously, this will And what about the funding for public health scandal where the be the third general election in five years as we strive to find government admits it is too idle or incompetent to update its a stable government with a working data since 2015 on which its decisions majority. are made? We all will have noticed how the Last year, almost 9,000 people slept magic money tree in Whitehall is now President’s rough in London – more than double shedding its goodies and promises to the number just eight years ago and end the nine years of austerity started up 18% on 2017-18 alone. Isn’t it time by the Cameron coalition of 2010. Point of View government removed this blot on our One to be welcomed is that come city? And what about the scandalous April 2020, the state retirement figure that one in every 50 homes pension will go up by 3.9%, the biggest across the country has used a food increase for eight years, to £179.20 a bank over the last year – and many of week – a total of £344 a year. But this them are living with illness or disability? has nowt to do with give-away election Now just in case you think that I promises dropping daily like confetti. am breaking the rules that voluntary This increase is due to higher inflation organisations registered with the which has meant our pensions have Charities Commission – as we are – been worth less. So in spending power, should not interfere in political party the coming increase just takes us back matters, from which the Forum has to where we were. And for this we always steered clear, can I explain that have to thank the triple lock under our Forum has always been a non- which pensions rise annually by the party political organisation and charity. highest of average earnings, inflation or This means that while the issues we 2.5%. take up often have a political edge, we That’s why the triple lock is such a political hot potato. Too do not endorse any one political party. We do not support any many academics, discredited politicians and so-called ‘think political party candidates for either the council or parliament. tanks’ ignore the fact that our state pension is among the Our policy is to work with everyone and any party whose lowest among the world’s developed countries. aims mirror those of the Forum – as we did with cross-party They want to abandon the triple lock on the grounds that it support for our Fairer Funding for Enfield petition which protects pensioners, while the younger generation are getting gathered 10,000 signatures. a raw deal with rising rent and housing costs etc. They want to And as we did when Joan Ryan secured a Westminster Hall play off one generation against the other. debate on public heath funding and Bambos Charalambous As we go to press, we are anxiously waiting to see the election pestered Ministers on the same issue. manifestos of the major political parties to see if they pledge So we seek to influence political parties. We put pressure on to retain the triple lock. We also want to see if they pledge to them to influence the decision-makers wherever we can, leaving retain the winter fuel allowance, the freedom pass and free our members to decide for themselves which party – if any – prescriptions; restore the free TV licence to the over 75s; and they wish to support. introduce a social care system, funded by general taxation All I hope is that many of you have applied for a postal vote which ends the barbaric neglect of elderly, frail and vulnerable this year – as I have done – to save going out on a damp, dark people, many with disabilities. December evening. Let’s hope the weather’s fine and we can People who think the oldies have never had it so good should look forward to a good New Year. look at the poverty figures – two million pensioners still living below the poverty level and another million just above it. Monty Meth – Forum President

Thinking of updating your will? Then please consider leaving a legacy to the Forum to help future generations of older people.

3 Dig out those old photos Aditya Chakrabortty of The Guardian is asking long-time local residents to provide images and information for his book on the east of Enfield

In over two decades as a national journalist, I must have It’s one thing to read about such issues in the papers, it’s written hundreds of thousands of words. But the project another to see them devastate the place where you grew I’m about to start is my up. One big question that goes through my mind is: what most personal yet, because do such shifts to my hometown tell us about London and it is about my home. Britain today? Another is: how might we make the east of I spent the first part of my Enfield a place truly fit for its residents? life in Edmonton. Born in With the generous support of the Friends Provident North Mid, schooled at Foundation, I’m writing a book on just this subject: how Galliard and Latymer, with the east of Enfield has changed within our lifetimes and summer holidays spent what that tells us about the country. It’s to be published by mainly in Jubilee Park. In that Penguin and I need your help! time, the east of Enfield – If you have any archives of local photos or maps or the stretch from the Angel memorabilia – or anything else that you think might be down to Mollison Avenue, helpful, I’d love to hear from you. I’m particularly interested with the A10 as one of in recommendations for interesting people – those who’ve its borders – has changed lived really full lives in the east of Enfield, or who are dramatically. still doing something unusual today. You can contact me At a packed Forum meeting at Millfield House last on 07764 335 696 or by email at aditya.chakrabortty@ month, we discussed some of the reasons: the collapse of guardian.co.uk industry; the loss of good jobs; the pressures of living on Thank you! the outskirts of London as it turns into the first city of globalisation. Aditya Chakrabortty

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Therein lies danger for all Enfield Urgent Care Centre The merger will see the end of an Enfield patients: that our voices will be silenced health authority whose independence has in future as the new all-powerful mega- to stay open until 10pm been gradually eroded. CCGs railroad through ill-conceived and Plans to close Chase Farm’s Urgent Care controversial service-cutting plans. Centre centre at 9pm have been shelved It will be replaced by a new local for six months, following protests from Partnership Board whose members will Our answer must be that we intend the Forum and many patient groups. The include Enfield council’s chief executive, to remain an integral part of the NHS late opening will be further monitored the chief officers of Chase Farm and decision-making process as we’ve been by the Enfield Clinical Commission North Mid. Hospitals, the CCG Chair since its inception 71 years ago. Group before a final decision is taken. and chief operating officer etc. As yet, We remember all too well how patient The urgent care centre is there for non- there’s no one democratically elected to protests blocked the recent CCG emergency medical treatment or advice represent us. attempt to end NHS hearing aids for for a minor illness or injury that isn’t life-threatening. We envisage that NHSE will, from April people with mild and moderate hearing 2021, introduce a single budget for the loss. We campaigned successfully to end combined CCGs which means that the high cost 0844 phone number racket, Enfield will have to fight for its rightful once used by so many Enfield surgeries. ENFIELD TOTAL REMOVALS share of the pot if we are going to at last Currently, we are chasing a reluctant MOVING HOUSE? see some health inequality improvement CCG to restore the blood test service REQUIRE STORAGE? between families living in the east and at 13 surgeries withdrawn since last lFree quotation & advice west of the borough. April, forcing many elderly people with lPacking-unpacking l Latest figures show that a woman living disabilities to trek to a hospital. Friendly male & female team lFully insured in Grange Ward in the west has 8.2 years l You can have your say by High quality storage facility of longer life expectancy than a woman lEstablished since 1999 living in . For men living attending the next CCG governing lArrange parking permits if necessary in these wards the difference is just body meeting on Wednesday 18 10% discount to Over 50s forum members under four years – and the discrepancy December at 1.15pm, Holbrook 020 8367 8348 has remained much the same for years. House, . www.totalremovals.com Company Reg No. 04109912

4 Ask for a security check The police are offering advice on how to stay safe and secure over Christmas It’s definitely the festive season and time again to offer some Finally, in order to protect against distraction burglaries – where crime prevention advice around keeping your property and people trick or con their way into your home under the pretence yourselves safe as this is, sadly, always a time of increased of official business – please, please ask for identification at the burglaries. door and even call the relevant company to ascertain they are If you are going to be away over Christmas, we would definitely who they say they are, before allowing them to gain entry into recommend deterring thieves by using a timer to turn the lights your home. and TV on and off and if you have a trusted friend or neighbour We want all our older residents to know that they can contact nearby, arrange for them to drop in and keep an eye on your their Safer Neighbourhood Team* and ask them to come round place. for a security check. The SNT officer will then highlight any areas They could even park on your driveway occasionally, to keep of concern from, for example, oversized hedges acting as cover thieves guessing about when the coast might be clear. Ask them to moving bins to a place where they cannot be used to climb on, to move your bins back after rubbish collection day if you are and safety locks on windows. away. Let’s make this Christmas as safe and secure as possible. It’s a So many burglaries are purely opportunistic and there are plenty year since Enfield Police merged with Haringey Police to form the of things older residents can do to make it that bit harder for the North Area Borough Command Unit so from everyone at the burglar. If you are at home do try to keep presents out of sight North Area we would like to wish all the members of the Enfield from windows. And after Christmas is done and dusted, we would Over 50s Forum a wonderful Christmas and a very happy advise that you discreetly get rid of packaging – you don’t want New Year. to advertise the new TV or laptop that’s now taken up residence *Phone 101 and request through the controller a local Safer in your home. Neighbourhoods Officer to attend your home address for crime prevention.

Call 101 for non-emergencies and 999 if you witness a crime taking place or need immediate help Fun way to raise funds The Over 50s days at the Southbury Leisure Centre are so popular that it has led to the creation of its own Fun Group

The Fun Group at Southbury, which is 70s-plus dancing the night away. affiliated to the Forum, has raised money We held our usual raffle and quizzes for many good causes, including the on the coach, plus a dance earlier this Forum itself. year and we took 100 people to the Anna Long and Roger Biss, the driving Brighton Pavilion to see the exotic force behind the group, told us about palace built in beautiful grandeur style some of their activities: of India and China. One evening we all The centre held a free tea, coffee and went to the Eastbourne bandstand for biscuits morning in September for the the 1812 Overture with a fireworks Macmillan Nurses with a raffle to boost display. the fundraising which totalled £207. This year we also bought a tea trolley Our 50-plus Fun Group went to sunny for the centre’s meeting room and tea Monty (centre) accepts the urn for the Wednesday tea dance at Eastbourne, with blue skies and 30 degrees cheque from Anna and Roger all week. It was the hotel’s 40th year in Southbury. business, so on the Gala Night we had a ruby red theme, The result: we were able to give Forum president Monty with everyone wearing red. The hotel said they had Meth a cheque for £500 at the Fusion fund raising day – never seen such an active, fit group of over 50s, 60s, and and next spring we’re off to the English Riviera.

5 Measles makes a comeback Care The fall in measles vaccination levels has long-term negative consequences for both individuals and the whole community

Some Forum members will have had measles whenHome they were children Care There had alreadyPreferred been 913 between January and– October 2018 and, but the MMR jab, introduced in 1968, has meantAward that lucky succeedingwinning though local Enfield business hasn’t been hard celebrating hit, boroughs nearby have, and we generations have been free of this highly contagious disease to the need to see this as a public health issue, arguably a child protection benefit of their overall health and growth. their fourth yearmatter in as wellbusiness though, in fact, the majority of cases have been in Public Health England estimates that 20m measles cases and 4,500 people over 15 for whom the loss of acquired immunities is of deaths have been averted in the UK over the last 50 years. obvious significance for their overall health status. New research hasome Care Preferred first openedApart their from that,shop measles has developed. can have We provide grave aconsequences, huge range of for example, doors for business in Stationpneumonia Road, andindependent inflammation living equipment of the brainincluding (encephalitis). items such Serious demonstrated that measles is th HWinchmore Hill on 9 Januarydevelopments 2012. areas walking most sticks, likely wheelchairs, in individuals phones withwith large poor immune Remember to more dangerousDuring the early than months previously there were just two people numbers, rise recline chairs, basically anything that understoodrunning becausethe office, itone wipes operating the shopsystems, and a childrenhelps being people treated remain independently for leukaemia at home. or on certain drug get your flu jab out previoushandful of immunities carers visiting andabout six clients.regimes, Four years for instance, We believe and we the haveHome suchCare Preferredchildren model in our schools who can putlater the Home body Care back Preferred to a have a workforcedeserve of over protection, is the first as doin the pregnant country because women. we really do from your GP or baby’s levelninety people,of resistance a similar amount and so of clientsOur and levelsthis is of take-upprovide a ofcomplete the MMR offering. vaccination Our services haverange fromfallen below that growing month on month. supplying and installing independent living equipment pharmacist. undermine The the company ability provides to fight a range of supportrequired in for herdand aimmunity. great deal of Whether sign posting, this for example is because giving new parents off otherpeople’s infections. homes, anything from a few hourshave a weekno idea ofadvice what on these accessible childhood transport servicesillnesses for werethose and could do or It protects you and Older throughmembers to full may time rememberlive-in care. whether it’s thewith result disabilities” of dangerous anti-vax ideas, the results are a The founder and Managing Director, Ken Home Care Preferred is very much a community that measles was often followed threat, and the loss of our free-from status a backward step, and you those around you. Waterhouse, has worked in the care sectorcan helpfor more by encouragingorganisation andyounger has held generations various seminars to including have the MMR jab. by a spatethan 25of yearsother and childhood is very pleased how the business Dementia Awareness sessions, Care Fee Planning illnesses:has chickenpox,grown and is proud mumps that the companyTwo is adoses doesevenings the trick. and hold The regular vaccine events is to safe raise and money it works.for Outbreaks and so significanton, and localnow employer. we know of measles are charities.avoidable, they can lead to a resurgence of other barely Ken explains: “I started my career in the Laura Brassett, Community Relations Manager why: immunological amnesia. rememberedFRIENDLY illnesses CARE like diphtheria & SUPPORT and of our ever-present enemy, retirement sector in 1987 and have seenthe enormous flu. at Home Care Preferred, is responsible for planning Alarmingly, three years after the measles viruschanges was eliminatedin the care profession. in At Home Care IN YOURevents at theOWN company HOME and would welcome the UK this country has lost its measles-free Preferredstatus withwe recognise the World that most peopleWe would need to getenquiries back ourfrom measles-freeany charities or local status companies as soon that as possible and Health Organisation following 231 confirmedprefer cases to remainin the in theirfirst own home as youthey can help bywish spreading to be involved the withword community among events. family Laura and friends. Let’s quarter of 2019. grow older, but at the same time, they wantput measles backexplained where “It isit great belongs being part– in of history. an award winning companionship, security, peace of mind and may company and I love the fact that we really do make a require a level of care and support. positive difference in the lives of those we support” Home Care Preferred strives to make care at Care home a positive choice for all adults who require support at home. By providing highly trained support assistants and offering a flexible approach we believe it is possible for people to remain happily at home. Care Above all, Home Care Preferred respects the Great service by kind people importance of our client’s independence, ensuring For further information about care services people can they enjoy a high quality of life and retain a choice in visit www.homecarepreferred.com or call 020 8364 3670 all aspects of their lives. Our services include: Home Care Preferred – In addition to our home care and support Award winning local business celebrating services we are very pleased with the way our • Light housekeeping their fourth year in business • Personal care • Meal preparation ome Care Preferred first opened their shop has developed. We provide a huge range of • Help with washing & dressing doors for business in Station Road, independent living equipment including items such th • Medication support HWinchmore Hill on 9 January 2012. as walking sticks, wheelchairs, phones with large During the early months there were just two people numbers, rise recline chairs, basically anything that running the office, one operating the shop and a helps people remain independently at home. • Specialist dementia care handful of carers visiting about six clients. Four years We believe the Home Care Preferred model later Home Care Preferred have a workforce of over is the first in the country because we really do • Hospital to home help ninety people, a similar amount of clients and this is provideCARE a complete offering. YOU Our services range CAN from TRUST growing month on month. supplying and installing independent living equipment • Post-operative assistance The company provides a range of support in and a great deal of sign posting, for example giving people’s homes, anything from a few hours a week adviceIN on accessibleYOUR transport services OWN for those HOME • Holiday & respite cover through to full time live-in care. with disabilities” The founder and Managing Director, Ken Home Care Preferred is very much a community Waterhouse, has worked in the care sector for more organisationHelping and you has held live various life seminars the including way you want to than 25 years and is very pleased how the business Dementia Awareness sessions, Care Fee Planning has grown and is proud that the company is a evenings• From and holdone regular hour events per to raise week money through for to live-in support significant local employer. charities. Ken explains: “I started my career in the • LauraWe Brassett, introduce Community our Relations carer Manager ahead of services commencing retirement sector in 1987 and have seen enormous at Home Care Preferred, is responsible for planning changes in the care profession. At Home Care events• The at the most company awarded and would welcome local care agency, established since 2012 Preferred we recognise that most people would enquiries from any charities or local companies that prefer to remain in their own home as they wish• CQC to be involved registered with community and events. rated Laura good in all departments grow older, but at the same time, they want explained “It is great being part of an award winning companionship, security, peace of mind and may company• Personal and I love andthe fact individual that we really do servicemake a require a level of care and support. positive difference in the lives of those we support” Home Care Preferred strives to make care at www.homecarepreferred.com home a positive choice for all adults who require support at home. By providing highly trained support Call now for a free introductory visit assistants and offering a flexible approach we believe it is possible for people to remain happily at home. 020 8364 3670 www.homecarepreferred.com Above all, Home Care Preferred respects the importance of our client’s independence, ensuring For further information about care services people can they enjoy a high quality of life and retain a choice in visit www.homecarepreferred.com or call 020 8364 3670 all aspects of their lives. In addition to our home care and support services we are very pleased with the way6 our Chair’s Column

Hello and

Goodbye Warming up for the walking netball This is a strange column to write, incorporating Our Fun(d)-raising day at Fusion was a both a fond farewell and a warm welcome. great success – but diabetes tests did Jan Oliver, who has recently retired as Office and reveal some startling results Development Manager for the Forum, has been in her post for more than seven years and I have A key feature of Fusion’s fundraising day in October for the Forum was been privileged to ‘work’ alongside her on many the mobile diabetes test unit brought to the Southbury leisure centre occasions. by Public Health Enfield, but we had little idea of the shock results that Jan has often been described as indefatigable and would follow. I would second that without hesitation. She has Of the 40 people tested, 38 of them were diagnosed with medium, organised Forum events from the massive to the high or very high risk of diabetes. Only two recorded a low risk score. tiny with unfailing care and efficiency. She has However, 28 of the 40 had a normal sugar level and the remaining 12 managed to find sources of funding in increasingly with a high glucose level were all referred to their GP. hard times and has demonstrated great initiative in There are about 20,000 Enfield residents currently diagnosed with developing new Forum activities. The recent survey diabetes, but it is estimated that some 4,440 local people are walking which Jan created and collated has left us with much about with undiagnosed diabetes and the mobile test unit results proves to consider. how vital and important it is to find them. Jan has encouraged Forum volunteers to regularly So, ask yourself and your friends and neighbours when did they last have participate in helping at all Forum events and in the a blood test? And if it is more than six months, then it is time to see office. It is clear that she has gained admiration and your GP and request one. respect, not only from volunteers and staff who The reason is simple to answer: If diabetes goes undiagnosed and work alongside her, but of the executive committee untreated it can lead to serious complications such as kidney damage, and members of the Forum who she regularly blindness, heart disease, stroke or foot amputation. meets during our activities. Early signs and symptoms of Type2 diabetes can be frequent urination, I know that you will all join me in wishing Jan a very feeling thirsty, hungry and tired, or even tingling or pain in the hands or happy and fulfilling retirement and I’m sure that we feet. will see her at future Forum events looking relaxed We are grateful and hassle free. to Fusion for FANTASTIC FEET hosting the activity- Jan – thank you so much for everything you have packed event contributed to the work of the Forum. which attracted And now a greeting. Ruth Fathaddine has recently 123 people. As a stepped into the role of Office and Development result the Forum Manager and has already attended some meetings. received £615 as a I hope that you will all get to know Ruth very donation. Fusion also HOME VISIT FOOT CARE SERVICE quickly and we all want to do our best to help her held a badminton Covering the Enfi eld Area to settle into her new job. tournament shortly HARD SKIN & CORN TREATMENT after which raised Welcome to the Enfield Over 50s Forum Ruth, we TOENAIL CUTTING & INGROWN TOENAILS an extra donation look forward to working with you. of £80. VERRUCAE TREATMENT Finally I would like to take this opportunity to offer We raised another DIABETES FOOT CARE season’s greetings to all our members and hope that £90 on the tombola, To Book Call 2020 will be kind to you. and signed up 11 new/renewing 07938 085 236 members. So the Home Visit £32 Christine total raised from the [email protected] www.fantasticfeetenfield.co.uk Christine Whetstone, Chair day was £785. 7 www.EnfieldOver50sForum.org.uk Help from HEET We have launched a new website, so check it out Advisers from HEET, the energy to see the latest Forum news and money-saving charity, have seen nearly 50 people at the Dugdale After many years of talking about Monday advice sessions or at the it, we finally have a new Forum Southbury Leisure Centre since they website, designed to make it easier offered to help Forum members for our members to find the news cut their energy bills and keep their and information they are looking homes warm this winter. for. They tell us they’ve had a good Chris Chinnery, one of our new response from newsletter readers. Executive Board members, built They have already made eight on- the website in the popular content the-spot visits to check out people’s management system Wordpress, homes and have many more in the which is ‘open source’. “This means pipeline. You can contact HEET by calling 020 8520 1900 or emailing You will find all the latest news [email protected] about Forum meetings, events, campaigns and groups. It also has Did you know? the latest edition of eNews and Of Britain’s 12 million state all the newsletters, as well as past retirement pensioners, only 500,000 Annual Reports and links to our have an income of over £50,000 affiliated groups. a year. More than 1.5 million have Please visit the website and tell an income low enough to qualify us what you think. We see it as for pension credit – meaning their a continuing work in progress, income is below £8,697 for single so welcome comments. Send to person or £13, 273 for a couple. it is free, but there is a culture of mutual [email protected] support and product development and Local councils in England have closed a huge user community to draw on,” he Forum eNews lists many events 700 libraries and book-lending services explains. and meetings run by the Forum since 2010. The remaining 3600 – “I had great fun building the site— and other community groups. It which includes those in Enfield – have particularly reviving my rusty skills. is emailed regularly, so sign up eight million active borrowers and run Altogether, I have used WordPress now if you are a member and not with the aid of some 50,000 volunteers. receiving it. Or join the Forum about a dozen times, always on a Five million over 70s hold a driving – and help support our work. voluntary basis. I have already found licence – the highest ever number. myself answering queries from other site Contact the office: About 260 Britons aged over 100 developers as well as asking plenty. [email protected] hold a driving licence, the eldest aged I love helping people make use of tech or call 020 8807 2076. 104. and solving problems.”

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8 Always look on the bright side of life

Signs seen in shop windows IT wonks Shoe repairs If you think about it, Moses was the first person to We will heel you. download files from the Cloud using a tablet. We will save your sole. We will even dye for you. Off balance Optician I got so drunk last night I walked across the dance floor to If you don’t see what you’re looking for, get another drink and won the dance contest. you’ve come to the right place. On a plumber’s truck We repair what your husband fixed. Out of time On another plumber’s truck The trouble is you think you have time. Don’t sleep with a drip. Call your plumber. Buddha In a non-smoking area The older you get, the more you appreciate doing absolutely If we see smoke, we will assume you are on fire and nothing. will take appropriate action. The three ages of man – youth, middle aged and… “my On a maternity room door word, you do look well”. Push. Push. Push. June Whitfield In a veterinarian’s waiting room Be back in 5 minutes. Sit! Stay! In a restaurant window Don’t stand there and be hungry, come on in and get fed up. Piano In the window of a funeral parlour Drive carefully. We’ll wait. Keyboard

Picking lemons Guitar A woman applying for a job in a Florida lemon grove seemed way too qualified for the job. Have you always dreamed of playing an instrument? “Look Miss,” said the foreman, “do you have any experience in picking lemons?” Would you like to try but think you’re too old? “Well... as a matter of fact, yes!” she replied. “I’ve been married and divorced three times.” Well, the good news is that you’re never too old to learn. If you’ve got the desire to learn and are willing to put in some regular practice you’ll be surprised at what you can achieve. Learning to play can be very rewarding and enjoyable and, what’s more, it’s one of the best things you Waterworks can do to keep your brain in good shape. A lady is at the bar on a cruise ship and orders a Scotch I’m a teacher with many years experience and have taught many people with just two drops of water. As the bartender gives her over 50. Some of my best pupils are well into their 70s and beyond. the drink she says: “I’m on this cruise to celebrate my 80th I teach many styles – classical, jazz (including the famous jazz standards), birthday and it’s today.” blues, pop, rock, gospel. You can learn to play from music, by ear or from “A Scotch with two drops of water coming up,” says the chord charts. If you’ve never played before and are a complete beginner bartender.As he gives her the drink, he says: “Ma’am, I’m that’s absolutely fine. dying of curiosity. Why the Scotch with only two drops of You can learn in my studio or I can visit you at home. water?” The birthday girl replies: “Sonny, when you’re my age, Call me on 020 8363 4180 you’ve learned how to hold your booze. Holding your To find out more, visit my website at www.johndennis.biz water, now that’s different! Email: [email protected]

9 Legal services for older people

Advice for families and carers Long term care fees Court of Protection

STENNETT AND STENNETT

Solicitors and Estate Agents 4 Road Southgate N14 6PT 10 020 8920 3190

Stennett & Stennet posters x 4 artwork update final_A2 adjustment.indd 3 06/02/2017 12:22 Beating depression Many Forum members continue and dementia to take advantage of the discounts GPs are prescribing art, singing classes and exercise we have negotiated with Fusion as more studies show people benefit from healthy Lifestyle, the company which runs lifestyles and social interaction the leisure centres owned by the The NHS aims to give ‘social prescriptions’ to 900,000 patients over the next five years, citing evidence that it can benefit patients Borough of Enfield. with anxiety, mental health problems and dementia, leading to a 47% reduction in hospital appointments and a 38% reduction in A&E New 50+ classes have been added to the visits. programme at Albany Leisure Centre, 505 A new National Academy of Social Prescribing will train doctors to Hertford Rd, Enfield EN3 5XH. On Tuesdays prescribe a wide range of social activities such as joining a choir, art / book group or taking up walking football or ballroom dancing. there is a 11.30am Tai Chi class and a 12.30pm It is hoped this will reduce the need to prescribe medication Yoga class. On Thursdays, there are gym circuits although there is some debate over whether these ‘prescriptions’ at 11.30am and 12.30pm as well as aerobics will be accompanied by funding to allow people to access these at 10.30am, Zumba Gold at 11.30am, toning at activities for free. 12.30pm, pilates at 1.30pm and aquafit at 2.45pm. Other studies show that healthy living will reduce the risk of As with all the Over 50s Days, gym and swim dementia and may even mitigate the effects in those with a genetic predisposition to the disease. are included in the price which costs just £4.30 Scientists also found that those who did two and a half hours of (instead of £8.50) for Forum members who have moderate exercise a week have significantly fewer biomarkers for bought the Fusion concession card (for £7.50 Alzheimers. Other studies showed that being socially active in your instead of £21.50). 50s and 60s may help lower the risk of developing dementia in later life. Remember, Southbury’s Over 50s Day on a Tuesday starts with Tai Chi at 9am in the studio, It seems everyone will benefit from leading healthier lives which includes no smoking, little alcohol, taking exercise and eating well – so why not come along and give it a try. as well as getting out and about and meeting people. For more information, visit the Forum’s website How the Forum helps https://enfieldover50sforum.org.uk/newsite/fusion/ At the Forum, we are well aware of the benefits of both physical and mental exercise and we have many activities that encourage social interaction and exercise. Look at the pages at the end of this newsletter to see the wide range of activities offered – mostly by volunteers – through our groups, social events and meetings. Or use your Forum membership to get half price rates at Fusion leisure centres. And if you think there are other events or activities that you would like to see, check out the Affiliated Groups link on our new website, or contact the office with your ideas. We are especially keen to hear from people who would be willing to get involved in helping organise these new activities.

Joanna’s Holistic Treatment Clinic Treatments to ease aches and pains can help many become more flexible and toned. Southgate N14 area, booking by appointment only. Indian Head Massage £25 Aromatherapy back, neck and shoulders £25 Aromatherapy full body treatment £30 Reflexology £25 Hopi Ear Candling £25 Neuro-Linguistic Programming £25

07939513037 [email protected] Fully Insured Fully Qualified BSc (Hons), SNHS HIDIp. www.joannasholistictreatmentclinic.com

11 Advertorial Are you paying too much Income Tax? Quite often when I am at the Dugdale Centre for the at the drop-in advice service. George will be at the weekly drop in advice service I am asked questions Dugdale Centre corner of London Road and Cecil about Income Tax. Some of you have Road from 10 am to 12 midday on the shown me letters you have received from following dates: HMRC where you have overpaid (or underpaid) Income Tax. 16th December and 6th and 20th January. Here is a common example of overpaid If you wish to arrange a private tax and if this applies to you please consultation please call his office on let me know and I will help you get a (020)8882 6688 or send an email to rebate. [email protected] Alan is retired and receives a basic state pension currently £7825 a year. Burlington Wealth Management Ltd is an Appointed Alan also receives a small private pension Representative of and represents only St James’s currently £3160 pa Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised Alan has a Cash ISA account and receives interest George Ttouli and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) of £400 pa. for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s The total income is therefore £11,385 websitewww.sjp.co.uk/products. The “St James’s Place Partnership” The income from the ISA is not subject to Income Tax. Even and the titles “Partner” and “Partner Practice” are marketing terms if this money was NOT held in an ISA account then there used to describe St James’s Place representatives. is the Personal Savings Allowance (PSA).The PSA started in April 2016 and since then, interest of up to £1,000 a year for a basic rate tax payer is paid Gross. i.e. with no tax deducted. A high rate tax payer can only receive £500 tax free. Since the PSA started you can receive tax free interest up to the applicable limit and this Mastermind your has made the Cash ISA less attractive. financial future Alan is a not a tax payer because his income is lower than the current Personal Allowance. Each individual in the current tax year 2019/20 can receive £12,500 of income before any Income Tax becomes payable. So what’s the problem? The problem is whilst the basic state pension is paid Gross ( ie before tax is deducted ). Alan’s private pension is deducting tax at source. Tax is being paid despite the fact Alan had total income below the personal allowance. Since Alan’s total income is less than the personal We provide a comprehensive wealth management service, offering specialist allowance he should not pay tax in this current face-to-face advice tailored to you. Our services include: • Investment Planning • Inheritance Tax Planning tax year. The provider of his private pension • Retirement Planning • Intergenerational Planning does not know his tax status and must deduct For further details please contact: tax at source. It is up to Alan to apply for a tax

rebate from HMRC. GEORGE TTOULI APFS, Chartered Financial Planner

Tel: 020 8882 6688 George Ttouli is a Chartered Financial Planner Email: [email protected] www.sjpp.co.uk/burlington at Burlington Wealth Management Ltd. and will be available to discuss any financial matter H2SJP25765 05/17

12 Tax collection falls Southwold was sunny Collect stamps for charity Many companies and individuals The 35 Forum members who set out on Sue Scott, who runs the Forum Book Club a coach trip to the Suffolk coast chose a and Coffee Club, is asking people to save are not paying their tax bills glorious autumnal day in which to bask in the stamps from the Christmas cards (and HM Revenue & Customs says it is missing the sunshine and refreshing sea breezes of anything else) they receive as she knows £35bn from expected tax receipts this year – Southward and Aldeburgh. It was a traffic-free several charities that can use them. a new record in cash terms – and an increase trip which gave ample time to browse, find Feel free to come along to the Coffee Club of £2bn on the previous year. Tax evasion places to eat and relax. on the first Wednesday of the month at and criminal activity together with small At 2.30pm we left Southwold for a scenic Pearson’s restaurant in Enfield Town to give businesses failing to pay are said to be the country roads tour piloted by trip organiser your collection to her. Or contact Sue on 020 main culprits. Roy Barrows to Aldeburgh, where we 8368 0861 or email [email protected] Some analysts believe the figure to be much descended on the Wentworth Hotel for a cream tea. Arriving back in Enfield, Forum greater since the figures do not include profit Sizzling Sicily companionship and friendship achieved, all shifting by large multinationals, such as Apple you could hear were people asking: “When’s or Google, or those operating in the hidden the next one Roy”? economy. What the report does show, however, is a particular shortfall of £14bn from smaller Affiliated Groups firms which is almost double that of larger Enfield Community Singers companies. The two choirs are now in their eighth Closer analysis reveals a steep rise in the year of concerts, offering a wide repertoire amount of unpaid self-assessment tax. A total from Rodgers and Sullivan to musicals of £7.4bn was not collected, up more than and songs from Latin American and Dixie The Forum trip to Sicily was a great success, 10% on the previous year. eras. They perform in churches and care full of places of cultural and historic interest homes but also in larger venues such as the as well as gastronomical delights and great A combination of tax complexity and an Dugdale Centre, and the cocktails! Some of the group even ventured under-resourced HMRC appear to underlie Civic Centre. They warmly welcome new up Mt Etna by cable car and 4x4 vehicle to the figures. Fewer random audits have been members, with the first session free. Then £5 witness volcanic explosions up close. And carried out in recent years, while the number per session, with all music and soundtracks those who were fans of Montalbano visited of targeted audits, which have been shown to online. Two rehearsal venues: N21 and N18. Ragusa province where the television series bring in up to four times their cost to carry Contact Singing Director Simon Gilbert for is filmed and were allowed to sit in the out, have also decreased. Staff redeployed to more info: Tel 020 8360 7386; email simon@ dectective’s desk and ‘answer’ his phone. focus on Brexit issues has also contributed to letthepeoplesing.co.uk or visit the website resourcing issues. www.letthepeoplesing.co.uk Cheryl Social Events Team Autumn Gardens & Anastasia Lodge Private Care Homes and Day Care Services for Older People Nursing, Dementia and Residential Care

Our care homes in Southgate and Winchmore Hill deliver the highest quality of care for our residents, providing them with a home-from-home environment. From short and long-term placements to our flexible day care services, residents can enjoy: ¾ Bright rooms with en-suite facilities ¾ A varied traditional menu focused on our residents’ cultural needs ¾ Daily activities organised by our activities team ¾ Excursions to local attractions

To find out more or to book a visit call 020 8344 2600 or email [email protected] autumn-gardens.com

13 Social Calendar In order to take part in these events, you should be a current Forum Member. If you are not, you can join the Forum for £10 per annum by phoning the office at 020 8807 2076. We make a special effort to make new members and singles very welcome on these events: so don’t be shy!

Thursday 12 December. The Christmas Beatles Show and the riverside village of Weissenkirchen in Austria. The price will be Party Lunch. Missed out on the 2 December party? Don’t be all inclusive of accommodation and meals and teas, cakes and snacks, disappointed. Why not come here instead for a change? Enjoy coffee drinks with meals, toiletries, guided excursions and bottled water. and mince pies on arrival, delicious three course festive meal with tea/ Prices do vary a little depending on the cabin location and beds. It will coffee then ‘Twist and Shout’ to the Fab Duo – yer, yer, yerrrrr!! Prize be a truly magical way to travel as summer draws to a close. To ensure for the best dressed – get the mini skirts out girls or boys! Venue your place, please contact Olivia for further details and a booking the Prince Regent Hotel Chigwell. Includes return coach to Enfield form. This may seem a long way off but it is really important to book Town. Please note: This is not a tribute band. Approx. cost subject to early to avoid disappointment. Email [email protected] or numbers £45.Meet Lidl/Iceland Enfield Town 10am. Return approx. call 020 8447 8841. 4pm. To reserve your ‘Ticket to Ride’ ring Jacky Pearce 020 8482 3575. LOOKING EVEN FURTHER THIS IS THE LAST OPPORTUNITY TO BOOK!! IN ADVANCE Thursday 16 January. A Guided Tour Of The Wallace Join us for this The Wallace Art Collection in the former February 2021. Highlights of Sri Lanka tour. Collection Museum. bucket list destination, which is with Wendy Wu tours for 15 days. The house of the Marquess of Hertford comprises an extensive collection price is approximately £3,500 to include absolutely everything. This of fine and decorative art from the 15th-19th centuries with furniture is an expression of interest only but please get in touch if you would from the palace of the Sun King, also fine porcelain, arms, armour and like further information on the amazing itinerary. Contact Olivia on 020 old masters. The museum is arranged in 30 galleries so our expert 8447 8841 or email [email protected] guide will be able to bring the treasures of the museum to life. This tour is for a maximum 20 people, so if you are interested please June 2021. Channel Islands Explorer. This fabulous two- book asap. £12 per person. Cheques made payable to Enfield Over centre six nights tour allows you time to explore both Jersey and 50s Forum. Call Roy Barrows on 020 8360 8561 or email: roycar1939@ Guernsey which are two islands close together but with a totally btinternet.com When I confirm your place, meet at Oxford Circus Tube different way of life. If popular, we can also visit the smaller island of Station at 09.30, tour starts at 10.30. Time for coffee at the museum Sark. The price is approximately £863 to include flights, crossings, cafe. excursions and half board. This is an expression of interest only but please do get in touch if you would like to know more. Contact Olivia 6.30pm. £15 per Thursday 23 January. East End in Enfield. on 020 8447 8841 or email [email protected] person. Back by popular demand! Enjoy Pukka Pie, mash and gravy, sorry no green liquor! Welcome pint, wine or soft drink, followed by PLEASE NOTE DISCLAIMER: THE FORUM IS NOT LIABLE FOR ANY music with Honky Tonk Dave and Mick on spoons/washboard. Choose PERSONAL INJURY/ACCIDENTS THAT MAY OCCUR DURING ANY OF from Cornish pasty, chicken & mushroom, steak & kidney, beef & ITS ACTIVITIES OR EVENTS onion, cheese &onion pies. Ring NOW to reserve your place and give your pie choices. Jacky Pearce 020 8482 3575 Wednesday 5 February. Moving to Mars: a rendezvous with the Red Planet. You are invited to travel to Mars without CHRISTMAS leaving London – in a multi-sensory adventure. This fascinating show at the Design Museum is an intelligent and thoughtful exhibition. Its most compelling sensation is one of wonder. For example, a full- DAY size working model of one of the rovers that have been wandering OPEN AFTERNOON on Mars these past several years. Step into a full-scale Mars home, 2.30 – 6.30pm, 25 December immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the landscape and learn how rethinking daily life for a zero-waste, clean energy-powered At Friends Meeting House, 59 Church Hill, civilisation that might help future generations on Earth. Plan at least Winchmore Hill, London N21 1LE 75 minutes min. to see the whole exhibition. Tickets £12 for over- 60s, £16 Adult. Email or ring Cheryl on 020 8363 0732, birthday58@ FREE AND OPEN TO EVERYONE – any age, any googlemail.com religion or no religion. ADVANCE NOTICE 2020 / 2021 Live background music, snacks and drinks, 9-16 May 2020, Bulgaria’s Hidden Heritage. Cost from board games, films. £936. Explore the hidden delights of beautiful Bulgaria starting in Sofia. Just come along – alone or with friends – to make Discover Plovdiv’s Roman amphitheatre, the incredible city of Nesebar, the afternoon a real community event. UNESCO-listed and home to many ancient churches. Highlights include Varna’s oldest gold treasures in the world, Madara’s medieval rocks, Organised by Enfield Borough Over 50s Forum the famous Rila Monastery, see ancient artisans at work and visit a Hosted by Winchmore Hill Quaker Meeting. rose oil distillery. For more details and a booking form, contact Chrissy on [email protected] or call her on 07885 047 453. Further information 020 8367 2088 1-6 October 2020 Historic cities of the Danube River Cruise. 25 booked already – fancy joining us on this first Forum river cruise with The River Cruise Line on 1 October 2020, for six days. This will be by flight from Heathrow to Munich and then an amazing Danube cruise, visiting musical Vienna, the world’s most beautiful city of Budapest, the ancient capital of Slovakia, Bratislava

14 Forum Groups Forum Meetings Please NOTE – these groups are run by volunteers and are for Forum members only. Forum Meetings are open to everyone. If you need to join the Forum or renew your Come along to hear an interesting presentation, membership, contact the office now. meet some new people, and use the opportunity to find out more about the Forum. Drop-In Board Games Group This is a friendly group for anyone who likes playing board Assembling at 10am for a 10.30 start games. We normally play backgammon and dominoes but we have other games and cards that you can try out as well. We No meetings in December meet fortnightly on a Wednesday 2pm-4pm at Millfield House. Next dates: 4, 18 December; 8, 22 January; 5 February. Please IT workshop & help session ring the office on 020 8807 2076 if you want more details. Thursday 9 January Coffee Club Forum grey surfers Sagar Nair, Talat Shaik, Peter Smith, The Coffee Club meets in the Skylight Restaurant on the top Chris Chinnery and Tony Watts will be on hand to help floor of Pearsons Department store in Enfield Town on the those who have problems with their broadband, WiFi, first Wednesday of the month. It runs from 10.00 until 12 noon laptops, tablets, iphones, social networks and general IT and members are welcome to come any time between those issues. Members should bring their devices with them. times or for the whole period if they wish. The next dates are: Millfield House, Silver Street, N18 1PJ. 8 January (replacing the 1 January), 5 February, 4 March, 1 April. Buses 34, 102, W6, 144, 217 and 231. Free onsite parking New members very welcome. Further information from Sue Scott available. on [email protected] or 020 8368 0861. Heading for Extinction? Walking group This small walking group (usually about 10 people) meets Tuesday 28 January Robin Launder is an Extinction Rebellion activist and Saturday mornings at 10.30am by the café in speaker. Despite his background as an ex-prison officer (Broad Walk entrance) N21 3DA. We do a 40 minute walk and teacher, he will argue that we need to begin to behave around the park and a have a chat in the café afterwards. a little bit badly (that is, engage in non-violet direct action) Everyone is welcome so please feel free to join in. Ring Monica to get Government to act now and end the climate and on 020 8886 6514 for more information. ecological crisis. Poetry Group COUNCIL CHAMBER, ENFIELD Civic Centre, Every fourth Thursday of the month, Forum members gather Silver Street, Enfield TOWN, EN1 3XA. in the Community Room at the Town Library to share Five minute walk from junction with Church St / Southbury Rd poems they have written or love, spiced with a little touch of so use any bus to Enfield Town. Car park under the centre. appropriate music. It is a very sociable time and we all enjoy it. So, why not pop along and try us out? Non-Forum members are welcome to a ‘taster’ but for continued attendance you Book Club must become a member (see above). Meeting time is 10.15am The Book Club meets on the third Thursday of the month in – 12noon. There is a small charge of £1 per session to meet the Community Room at the Enfield Town Library, 10am – 12 the room costs levied by the Council. There is no meeting in noon. The books for the next few months are: December and our first meeting in 2020 will be 23 January. 19 December Miss Marley by Veronica LaFaye Topic – Our popular ‘Your Choice!’ No particular theme just 16 January Murphy’s Law by Rhys Bowen bring along a loved poem or two to read. And, perhaps, a piece 20 February No, I don’t want to join a Book Club by of music you fancy! Contact Irene Richards on 020 3715 0946/ virginia Ironside email:[email protected] for further information. Contact Sue Scott for further details at [email protected] Genealogy Group or call her on 020 8368 0861. This group is for any Forum member who wishes to explore their family history and you can just drop in for a chat or to Writing Group check some of our reference books/magazines. Because of We meet on the third Friday of the month upstairs in the the popularity of the group, we are now making appointments Dugdale Centre from 10am to 11.45 – or until we stop talking on the day for members to have 1:1 sessions with one of our – 12 noon max! Each month we read a short piece of our volunteer advisors. We are also organising afternoons/days out own writing followed by a discussion. This is a really sociable, to go to talks or to visit archives. We normally meet fortnightly friendly and interesting group. Topics are suggested each month on Saturdays, 2.30 – 4.30pm at the Dugdale Centre, 39 London by group members. We would be delighted to welcome you. Road, Enfield Town, EN2 6DS. Sometimes some of us have not had time to write and simply tell fellow members about something of interest, or just listen Next dates: 30 November, 14 December, 11 and 25 January, and then join in with the discussion. So do consider joining us 8 and 22 February, 7,21 and 28 March. – we would love to meet you. Just drop in to the group or to find out more phone the office For more information, please call Christine Whetstone on on 020 8807 2076 or email [email protected] 020 8805 1180.

NOTE: The Forum Office will be closed on 23 December and re-open on Thursday 2 January 2020

15 Advice Service

September October The Forum runs a free, confidential Winner Winner Teri Young Ursula drop-in advice service Kermac When: Monday mornings* 10am – 12 noon Where: Dugdale Centre (corner of London and Cecil Roads, Enfield Town, EN2 6DS)

Please note: We’ll be taking a short break after 16 December and we’ll be back on Monday 6 January.

Join the lottery for the Get help to cut your fuel bills The new advisory service at the Dugdale provided by chance to win £260 HEET, a non-profit charity, will help you to keep your home warm, save money on fuel bills, advise on smart Have you thought about joining the Forum’s 200 Club monthly meters, help cut carbon emissions and much more. lottery? Not only will you have a good chance to win £260, The advisor can book a home visit or you can contact you will also be helping to fund the Forum’s work. HEET by calling 020 8520 1900 or emailing So, for just £5 a month, you will be supporting the Forum – [email protected] The advisor will be present and getting the chance to win. Remember, you don’t have to be on 9 December and 13 January. a Forum member to participate. It is open to members, relatives, friends and neighbours – in fact, anyone – as long as Our regular advisers they are over 18 years of age. • Enfield police. Now that all police stations are closed except at Edmonton Fore Street, this is your chance for a At the moment the prize has reached £260 per month and personal 1:1 Chat to a Copper – any questions, worries, when we have 200 members the prize will be £500 per month. advice on crime and burglary prevention on 2 December Our September winner was Teri Young and in October the and 6 January. winner was Ursula Kermac. • George Touli, chartered financial planner, will give advice on investments, equity release, inheritance tax and long- For further information or to discuss any aspect of the term care fees on 16 December and 6 and 20 January lottery please ring Jim Cantle on 020 8363 4969. • Screening for hearing tests on 9 December and 27 January by an NHS audiologist. These need to be booked in advance through the Forum office 020 8807 Bingo Club 2076. Fancy a game of bingo? Then join • Enfield Citizens Advice, Gillian McNally on benefits, the Forum’s new Bingo Club and debts, pensions etc. Come early to book a slot for a come along on Monday afternoons short discussion with Gillian about your concerns. to join in the fun – and enjoy • Solicitors Stennett & Stennett (10 – 11am) Wills, Powers discounted refreshments. of Attorney, property and legal advice about paying for care. Where: at Malone & Co Restaurant in Burleigh Way, • North London Credit Union, Maureen Malcolm Church Street, situated between (10 – 11am) information on affordable loans and secure Starbucks and Santander in the savings. Established in 1994 it offers competitive loan centre of Enfield Town. Mary Hamilton was the rates, a choice of fully-protected savings accounts. Free first winner and simple to join. When: 3pm-5pm on Mondays The cost: £2 for five Bingo cards and you can buy as many as you like. An Enfield Borough Over 50s Forum initiative in Prizes: will be no less than 50% of the income from partnership with Enfield Council. Bingo cards sold on the day. This advice service is open to all Enfield residents who prefer receiving personal face-to-face help rather than For more details call Jim Cantle on 020 8363 4969. trying to get answers over the phone or on-line. You must be a Forum member to take part but, don’t worry, you can join at the Bingo Club. *Except Bank Holidays

After 16 Dec session, there is a break. Returning 17 Feb.

16