Business Manchester

Great gifts for Grandad this Christmas

Blog

Helen Greaney

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14/11/2025

Show Grandad just how special he is this festive season with gifts that blend comfort, quality, and a touch of tradition.

Whether he’s a fan of cosy winter mornings, sweet indulgences, something a little more practical or something thrilling, these thoughtful picks are bound to make his Christmas merry and bright.

A sweet treat fit for royalty

A sweet treat is the perfect addition to any stocking. Bring a smile to your loved ones’ faces with these scrumptious All Butter Salted Caramel Biscuits, a delicious accompaniment to a royal cup of tea. There’s also an option for Shortbread Biscuits if that’s more to your fancy!

biscuits

As an independent charity, every item purchased helps to support the care of the magnificent buildings, gardens and collections looked after by Historic Royal Palaces – the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, Kew Palace, Banqueting House, and Hillsborough Castle and Gardens in Northern Ireland.

Available: £8, HistoricalRoyalPalaces

The perfect festive cheeseboard

Belton Farm’s Cheese Feast Hamper is a ready-made gift for cheese lovers, featuring a curated selection of award-winning cheeses, artisan crackers, and tangy chutney.

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Highlights include aged Silver Fox, Organic Red Leicester, Coloured Cheshire, Double Gloucester, and both Red Fox and Smoked Red Fox cheeses.

Accompanied by Peters Yard sourdough crackers and Mrs Darlington beetroot chutney, it’s beautifully boxed and ideal for Christmas Eve or gifting under the tree.

Available: £34, Belton Farm

Everyday luxury: A cosy winter robe

How about a traditional dressing gown, woven with pure organic cotton and a textured yarn-dye check? This SeaSalt robe is designed to fit comfortably, complete with a gentle shawl collar and a self-fabric waist tie and includes two handy patch pockets.

Mens Lowarn Robe Caradoc Maritime 1

Perfect for wintery days around the house, it has a regular fit and is 100% cotton.

Available: £79.95, Sea Salt Cornwall

The perfect last-minute gift with Racingclub.com’s horseracing shares

Give Grandad the unforgettable thrill of becoming a racehorse owner this Christmas with RacingClub.com.

For as little as £25, he can own a share in a real racehorse and experience the excitement of the turf – from regular updates on his horse’s training and race days to a share of any prize money won.

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Owners can also apply for exclusive race day badges, enjoy luxury hospitality at iconic venues like Newbury Racecourse, and even enter ballots for behind-the-scenes stable visits to meet other shareholders, trainers, jockeys, and their horse.

Each share comes with full syndicate benefits, making this the perfect gift for any racing enthusiast. You can even add official RacingClub.com merchandise or a gift card so Grandad can choose his own horse to back.

Available: From £25, RacingClub.com

Give the gift of timeless elegance

Grandad will look effortlessly distinguished with this elegant new Fossil watch. The rich royal blue leather strap pairs beautifully with the gold-tone 44mm case, creating a look that’s both classic and contemporary.

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The blue dial features refined gold Roman numerals and chronograph subdials, adding a sophisticated finish that’s sure to impress.

With 50m water resistance and a two-year warranty, the Fossil FS4835 isn’t just a handsome timepiece – it’s a lasting gift that blends style, quality, and timeless appeal.

Available: £89, watches2u.com

A tee-rific puzzle for golf fans

Perfect for the golf lover with a sense of humour, this brilliant A–Z of Golf jigsaw puzzle celebrates the quirks and charm of the game. Each letter reveals a clever illustration, from H for hook to Q for quarter shot and even Z for zzzzzz, guaranteed to raise a smile while testing your puzzle skills.

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Created by Tim Bulmer, a celebrated UK artist known for his witty and light-hearted work, this puzzle captures his trademark humour and playful spirit. Whether Grandad’s a seasoned golfer or just enjoys a good laugh, this is a fun and thoughtful gift that’s sure to entertain over the holidays.

Available: £17.49, Amazon

Homeowners Urged to Ditch Ineffective Hot-Air Fixes as Condensation Season Begins

Lifestyle and Wellbeing

News Desk

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14/11/2025

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Homeowners Urged to Ditch Ineffective Hot-Air Fixes as Condensation Season Begins

With colder days setting in, property owners can expect the familiar and unwelcome sight of condensation making a comeback.

It’s a classic signal that autumn and winter have arrived, often first noticed creeping across windowpanes.

Condensation may seem like a minor nuisance, but without proper attention it can cause long-term problems in the home.

A top UK expert has now shared his recommendations for tackling the issue safely – along with the hot-air household tricks that could actually make things worse.

Condensation expert George Edwards, from Timberwise, said: “When it comes to condensation, you are going to find that everyone you speak to has a different idea on how you can reduce the amount being created in your home. What you might not know is that there are a few surefire ways to remove condensation from your property, and they are not linked to many of the home remedies and old wives tales that you might be told.”

Explaining what condensation actually is, George said: “It is a problem to do with the amount of humid air being created in a property, and whether it has the ability to ventilate safely.
“The process of condensation is fairly straightforward. When warm air is created, the moisture within that air turns into a gas. As soon as that gas comes into contact with a cooler surface, the moisture will revert back to its liquid form, and that’s where the familiar condensation ‘beading’ comes from.

“This warm air is created in all kinds of ways – it could be from cooking, a warm shower, or even just the ambient heat created from being in a room for a long time, but the end result is warm air laden with moisture.

Outlining why it has to be dealt with quickly he continued: “If that air is not given a way to ventilate from your property safely, then it’s going to build up on surfaces in your home, and could lead to damp and mould issues. The best way to stop condensation from being created is by being mindful of your behaviour in the property, but when it becomes unavoidable, the best condensation control is always ventilation.

Here, George addresses some of the most common questions about home remedies to deal with condensation

Does rubbing vinegar on glass stop condensation?

George said: “This is an interesting idea, and one based on a small amount of scientific fact. It’s impossible for humid air to condense onto a liquid, so by rubbing vinegar onto your windows you may well stop them from generating condensation – but that doesn’t mean you have eliminated the problem.

“Instead, the humid air is going to condense onto the nearest available cold surface, be it a wall, a shelf, a TV screen – whatever it might be, until the actual source of the condensation is dealt with.

“You would produce the same effect by rubbing your windows with any kind of moisture really, rubbing dish soap on the windows and leaving it smeared would dissuade condensation just as well as vinegar, and probably have a nicer smell to boot.

“As we mentioned though, the humid air hasn’t gone anywhere. You will need to focus on reducing the amount of warm air created in the property in order to stop the build up of condensation on your properties glass.

Does Blocking Air Vents Cause Condensation?

“It would be fair to say that this advice is fairly accurate, though blocking an air vent won’t create condensation – just stop the warm air from exiting the property properly.

“Air vents are installed in properties to help facilitate ventilation in rooms that are likely to build up high levels of humidity, and allow for airflow through the property which would keep condensation levels low.

“Unfortunately, people often take to blocking these vents in the hope of keeping their home warmer. Whilst yes, blocking an air vent will keep heat in and remove the possibility of draughts over winter, this does open up your property to the potential of condensation building up.

“Even in winter it’s important to allow your home to ventilate. If you have a blocked-up air vent and are reluctant to remove whatever you have stuffed into the vent (often paper or rags), then maybe it’s time to think about a compromise.

“You can always consider removing the vent output (often angling out of the wall), and instead install a sliding vent, one that you can open for an hour or so on colder mornings to allow for ventilation and then close again after a while, safe in the knowledge that you are drastically reducing the chance of condensation building up.

“If you have air vents in your property, and have still noticed that condensation is appearing within the rooms the air vents are located, it might be worth checking within them to make sure that previous owners or occupiers haven’t stuffed them full.”

Will Using Salt Stop Condensation Building Up?

“When people complain about finding condensation on their windows, they often believe that stopping the moisture from actually beading on their windows is enough to stop the condensation problem.

“If that’s the only goal you have, a bowl of salt might work to a small extent. You will be relying on the salt as a type of absorbent material, which theoretically should take in some of the humid air in the room before it hits the glass and starts to bead.

“In fact, this method has some variations that people might recommend in the same breath as salt. The first is cat litter, which people rely on for its absorbent qualities. Whilst we are sure this works, you should first look into the option of condensation bags.

“Condensation bags are purpose-built bags of absorbent salt that is designed to soak up moisture much more effectively than regular table or rock salt. Plus, many of these condensation bags are designed for reuse. You just put them in the microwave for a few minutes, and they are dried out and ready to absorb more moisture.

“This isn’t going to be a permanent or long-term solution though. You will still need to address the cause of the condensation. You can read more on different ways to increase the ventilation in your property, and reduce the amount of humidity you are creating on our website, but for more help and to speak to our team directly you can always get in touch.”

Youtility Strengthens Leadership Team with Appointment of Vijay Perincherry as Chief Data Scientist

News Desk

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13/11/2025

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Youtility Strengthens Leadership Team with Appointment of Vijay Perincherry as Chief Data Scientist

Behavioural analytics company Youtility has announced the appointment of Vijay Perincherry as its Chief Data Scientist. The US and UK-based firm delivers advanced behavioural insights to financial institutions and data platforms, and this appointment marks another step in its expansion of global data leadership.

With more than 20 years of experience, Perincherry has played a key role in shaping data and analytics strategies for some of the world’s most trusted financial and consumer technology organisations.

A graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology and a Ph.D. holder from the University of Delaware, he has spent his career at the forefront of behavioural modelling and applied data science. Prior to joining Youtility, he spent ten years as Chief Data Scientist at Indiggo, leading initiatives that built intelligent systems to guide strategic decision-making.

Earlier, he co-founded Discourse Analytics, where he spent over a decade as Chief Science Officer developing pioneering personalised digital engagement tools for higher education. Perincherry also contributes actively to the ethical AI community, advising several global organisations.

“When I first recognized the unique potential of our initial comparison services, I saw more than a tool. I saw the ability to understand why customer actions are taken, or not taken, at scale,” CEO Tyler Boyd said.

“Members of the Youtility executive team have worked alongside Vijay for years. When they introduced me to him it was clear that his approach represented the natural evolution of our product, already proven with partners like Santander and Virgin Money, toward a global model of behavioural, humanistic connectivity in an AI-driven world. I was thrilled when he said he wanted to join our growing team.”

As Chief Data Scientist, Perincherry leads Youtility’s data strategy, advancing the company’s proprietary behavioural models and predictive analytics frameworks. His focus will be on enhancing the platform’s ability to process behavioural signals from actual human interactions and translate them into actionable intelligence that drives measurable business outcomes across the customer lifecycle.

Youtility Head of Innovation Adam Wise said: “For years: systems without spark, surveys full of misconceptions. Now we observe actual choices – what people do when presented with real decisions. Vijay makes that behavioural data actionable. He wanted in. This is just the beginning of something massive.”

Launched in 2024 with its first client Santander, Youtility partners with institutions across US and UK markets to deliver behavioural intelligence for customer acquisition, activation, and retention.

“We are modeling intent and validating at scale with actual consumer actions,” Tyler Boyd added. “It’s a system that not only interprets data but understands how to connect with every person uniquely.”

Operating from London’s Mayfair and Richmond’s West End, Youtility recently closed the first tranche of its Seed+ funding round.

For more information about Youtility, visit www.youtility.co.uk.

The Manchester Screen becomes the largest combined banner and digital billboard in the UK

Business

Helen Greaney

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13/11/2025

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The Manchester Screen becomes the largest combined banner and digital billboard in the UK

The Manchester Screen, one of the UK’s most iconic out-of-home advertising sites, has entered a bold new chapter under fresh ownership. The striking 306m²digital screen can now be paired with an 834m² static banner, which according to new owner Katie Smith, creates the UK’s largest combined banner and digital display in a prime city roadside location.

Already acclaimed as the second-largest digital outdoor billboard in Europe, The Manchester Screen wraps around the Victoria Warehouse in Salford Quays, capturing more than 21.6 million annual impressions from City Centre, MediaCity and football traffic.

The site has hosted campaigns for some of the world’s biggest brands, including JD Sports, O2, PaddyPower and Calvin Klein, cementing its reputation as a go-to platform for headline-grabbing creative. And its owner, Katie Smith, has also confirmed that the screen will be supporting more Manchester-based charities and purpose-driven campaigns going forward.

Katie Smith (pictured above) said: “This expansion cements The Manchester Screen’s status as a flagship platform for high-impact brand campaigns. With 1,140.48 square metres of continuous advertising space, it enables brands to dominate one of the North’s busiest routes through both static and dynamic formats.

“By extending beyond the digital display, the whole element allows campaigns to live seamlessly across physical and digital space – offering an opportunity that’s unmatched anywhere else in the UK.”

This winter, The Manchester Screen is launching its wellbeing and community-focused initiative by donating free advertising space in support of Men’s Mental Health Month UK. The campaign brings together Feel Good Club – Manchester’s much-loved mental health community hub – with Andy’s Man Club and HEADS, to raise awareness and encourage open conversations around men’s mental health. This will be followed by a campaign for JD Sports.

Media and brand professional Mike Hartley has also been appointed London Sales Partner for The Manchester Screen. With more than 20 years’ experience in the industry, Mike will focus on driving growth from London-based brands and agencies.

For more information visit https://www.themanchesterscreen.com/

The essential packing list for a pumping day out

Blog

News Desk

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13/11/2025

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The essential packing list for a pumping day out

Heading out for the day while maintaining your pumping schedule can feel like a juggling act — especially for moms balancing work, errands, or travel with breastfeeding.

Whether you’re going back to the office, spending a day outdoors, or running between appointments, being prepared ensures every session goes smoothly and stress-free.

Having a complete packing list for pumping out means you won’t have to worry about forgotten parts, milk spoilage, or awkward clean-up moments. With the right tools — and an efficient breast milk pump — you can express milk comfortably, safely, and efficiently wherever you go.

The core pumping equipment (must-haves)

Your pumping essentials are the foundation of your kit. These are the non-negotiables — the items you’ll rely on every time you need to express milk.

Pack these key items:

Breast pump: Choose an efficient breast milk pump that’s lightweight, portable, and
rechargeable. Wearable models are especially convenient for discreet pumping on the go.
Flanges and connectors: Double-check you have all the parts — including valves,
membranes, and tubing.
Bottles or milk storage bags: Bring extra, just in case you pump more than expected.
Hands-free pumping bra: Keeps your flanges in place so you can multitask or relax.
Power source: Bring your charger, power bank, or car adapter for electric pumps.

Pro tip: Before leaving home, assemble your pump and test it briefly. There’s nothing worse than discovering a missing valve or broken seal right when you need to pump.

Safe storage and transport logistics

Once you’ve expressed your milk, keeping it safe and fresh becomes your next priority. Proper storage is key to preserving nutrients and preventing spoilage — especially if you’ll be away from a refrigerator for several hours.

Your storage and cooling setup should include:

Insulated cooler bag: Keeps milk cold for up to 24 hours when packed properly.
Ice packs or gel packs: Freeze overnight to maintain a steady cool temperature.
Breast milk storage bags or bottles: Always label with date and time pumped.
Extra ziplock or wet bags: To separate clean items from used parts or leaks.
Thermal flask (optional): If you plan to warm milk later in the day.

Temperature tips for on-the-go pumping:

Freshly expressed milk can stay at room temperature (up to 77°F/25°C) for about 4 hours.
In a cooler bag with ice packs, milk stays safe for up to 24 hours. Once home, transfer milk to the refrigerator or freezer immediately.

By preparing your storage kit properly, you’ll have peace of mind knowing every ounce of milk is safe for your baby.

Hygiene and quick-clean essentials

When you’re pumping away from home, access to sinks and sanitizing stations isn’t always
guaranteed. That’s why having a hygiene kit ready is a game-changer.
Essential hygiene and cleaning items include antibacterial wipes or pump cleaning wipes (perfect for quick sanitising when you can’t wash with soap and water); mini dish soap and a small bottle brush (for deeper cleaning if a sink is available); disposable or reusable pump part wipes (to clean flanges, connectors, and bottles between sessions); hand sanitiser: (for pre- and post-pumping hand hygiene) and small microfiber towel or paper towels for drying parts before reassembly.

Quick-clean strategy

If you can’t wash immediately after pumping — which is often the case when you’re out or at work — there’s a safe and practical alternative. After each pumping session, store your used parts (like flanges, valves, and connectors) in a sealed wet bag or a clean plastic container, then place them in the refrigerator until your next session. The cold temperature helps slow down bacterial growth, keeping your pump parts sanitary for reuse later in the day.

When you’re ready to wash them (ideally at the end of the day):

Rinse each piece with cool water first to remove any milk residue.
Follow up with warm, soapy water and scrub gently using a dedicated bottle brush.
Rinse thoroughly and allow everything to air-dry on a clean towel or drying rack.
If you prefer a faster solution, you can also use microwave steam bags or portable UV sterilisers to sanitise your pump parts between sessions.

These tools are especially handy when travelling or working long shifts.

Pro tip: Pack multiples of small items like valves and membranes so you can swap them out
instead of washing on the go.

Comfort and confidence checklist

Beyond the basics, your comfort matters just as much as your pumping efficiency. A comfortable mum is a productive mum — and being relaxed helps with milk flow.

Pack these comfort-focused extras:
 Nipple balm or lanolin cream: Prevents soreness and chafing from frequent pumping.
 Nursing pads: Absorb leaks and keep your clothes dry.
 Extra shirt or top: Just in case of spills or leaks.
 Portable nursing cover: For privacy if you’ll be pumping in a car, office, or public area.
 Hydration bottle: Pumping can make you thirsty — aim to drink a glass of water during
or after every session.
 Healthy snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, or fruits to keep your energy levels up.
Confidence boosters:
 Keep a small motivational note or photo of your baby in your bag — it can help stimulate
letdown and keep you calm.
 Set reminders or alarms on your phone so you don’t miss a session, especially on busy
days.

Pro tip: Pack everything in a stylish, functional pumping backpack or tote with insulated
compartments. It keeps you organised while maintaining a sleek, mum-on-the-move look.

Conclusion

Mastering your packing list for pumping out isn’t just about convenience — it’s about creating a routine that supports your milk supply and confidence wherever life takes you. With the right preparation and equipment, you’ll never feel unprepared or rushed when it’s time to pump.

From your efficient breast milk pump to your cooler bag and comfort essentials, every item in your kit serves a purpose. When your setup is organised, clean, and tailored to your needs, you can focus on what really matters — providing nourishment for your baby while living your daily life with freedom and confidence.

JPS donates more than £1000 of tools to Manchester apprentices

Business

Helen Greaney

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12/11/2025

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JPS donates more than £1000 of tools to Manchester apprentices

Jewson Partnership Solutions (JPS) has donated more than £1,000 worth of tools to three
apprentices in Wythenshawe to help them kickstart their careers.

Working closely with Toolbank, JPS gifted the products to apprentices at the Wythenshawe
Community Housing Group (WCHG), a registered social housing landlord.

The tools were donated through the JPS Social Value Fund, giving the three new
apprentices everything they need to get stuck into their roles from day one.

Paul Woodridge, branch manager at JPS WCHG Managed Stores, said: “Starting a new
career is difficult for young people in this day and age, so I am really happy that JPS and our supply partners, Toolbank, were able to take a worry and cost away by supplying these three deserving apprentices with some tools to support their professional journeys.

“Best of luck to all of them!”

Adele Duncan, employment co-ordinator at WCHG, said: “Our new trade apprentices have
been able to hit the ground running with these new tools, so we want to give a massive
thanks to JPS and Toolbank for making this happen.”

Pictured are apprentices (from left):Kyran Bruce Eyes, Ella Delury and Mark Culhane-El-Mayss

Clarke Bell Survey Highlights Worries Over SME Survival Post-Budget

Business

News Desk

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12/11/2025

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Clarke Bell Survey Highlights Worries Over SME Survival Post-Budget

Clarke Bell has issued a warning that the 2025 Autumn Budget may result in a notable rise in business closures among SMEs, following research showing strong levels of concern among accountants about forthcoming changes and financial pressures.

In the survey, 90% of accountants said they fear the Budget could lead to an increase in SME closures during 2026. When asked to assess the overall impact of the Autumn Budget 2025, 66.7% expected a somewhat negative effect and 23.3% predicted a very negative outcome.

The survey, conducted in October 2025 with input from 30 accountants supporting SME clients, identified tax increases, reductions to reliefs and mounting employment costs as key challenges.

John Bell, Senior Partner at Clarke Bell, said: “SMEs are already under significant financial strain, and this Budget may be the final straw for many. With rising tax burdens, inflationary pressures and little short-term support on offer, we expect to see more business owners deciding to close or restructure in the months ahead.”

When asked about future trends, over 90% of accountants said they expect company insolvencies to rise over the next 12 months. This comes amid existing pressures, with 73.3% reporting an increase in financially distressed SME clients compared to the same time last year. Rising operational costs, tighter cash flow, and economic uncertainty are all contributing to the strain facing many small businesses.

Respondents were also asked which sectors they believe are currently most vulnerable to financial distress. Multiple selections were allowed, with the top sectors identified as hospitality (93.3%), retail (90%) and construction (40%).

These concerns reflect a broader economic trend of sustained pressure on businesses across consumer-facing and labour-intensive sectors.

The survey also revealed a shift in business owner behaviour in 2025. Also, 50% of accountants reported more SME directors planning to exit, either due to retirement or financial pressure.

When asked which exit strategies they are seeing more frequently, respondents could select multiple outcomes. The most common answers were voluntary closure/strike-off (63.3%), business sale/merger (53.3%), Members’ Voluntary Liquidation (MVL) (33.3%) and Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidation (CVL) (26.7%).

John Bell added: “For some directors, retirement or a change in focus is driving their decision to close. But for many others, the move is being forced by cashflow issues and an unsustainable cost base.”

As the business community awaits the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, many fear that further tax rises or cuts to reliefs could accelerate financial distress across the SME sector.

Clarke Bell is encouraging accountants and business owners to prepare for potential changes, particularly those considering solvent exits via MVL or needing to address unmanageable debt through CVL.

Guiding children through difficult family conversations

Family

News Desk

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11/11/2025

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Guiding children through difficult family conversations

Talking to children about difficult family matters can feel overwhelming for parents. Topics such as divorce, separation, or changes in living arrangements can cause uncertainty, and finding the right words is not always straightforward. Children process information differently to adults, and their responses are influenced by age, maturity, and temperament. Parents often worry about saying the wrong thing or upsetting their children further.

While the instinct to protect is natural, clear and sensitive communication can provide reassurance and help children adjust more smoothly. Creating an environment of openness ensures they feel supported, even during unsettling times.

When children need the truth about family changes

Children often sense when something is wrong, even if adults try to shield them. When left without clear explanations, they may imagine worse scenarios than reality. Offering honest and age-appropriate information can ease anxieties and provide stability. Parents might notice their child asking the same questions repeatedly, displaying behavioural changes, or showing signs of fear about the future. These are indications that more information is needed.

Support from professionals can also make a difference. For example, working with these family law solicitors allows families to explain legal processes in ways children can understand. Simple explanations, such as “These are people who help families make plans when parents live in different homes,” can make the concept less intimidating. This type of clarity prevents children from feeling excluded or confused about decisions that affect them.

Creating a safe space for difficult conversations

The setting for a conversation matters as much as the words chosen. Selecting a quiet and relaxed moment allows children to listen without distractions. Talking before school, bedtime, or during busy activities can increase stress and reduce focus. Choosing calm, unhurried times shows children that their feelings are important.

Validating emotions also plays a role in building trust. Children need to know it is acceptable to feel upset, angry, or worried. Gentle acknowledgement of these feelings encourages openness. Maintaining familiar routines during times of change helps children feel safe, while avoiding blame or asking them to take sides prevents additional conflict. Parents should aim to create a united and supportive atmosphere, even if disagreements exist privately.

Age-appropriate approaches to tough topics

Preschoolers (3–5)

Very young children think literally and struggle with abstract explanations. The most important things are simple reassurances about who will care for them. Consistency in routines, such as mealtimes and bedtime, offers comfort. Drawings or picture books can help them process emotions they cannot yet put into words. Repetition may be needed, as children at this age require ongoing reminders that they are safe and loved.

Primary-age children (6–12)

Children in this stage can understand more detailed information but may still misinterpret complex issues. Clear and simple answers help them avoid feelings of blame or guilt. They may worry about practical schedules, school arrangements, or living situations. Visual aids like calendars or charts can make transitions easier to grasp. Providing reassurance while avoiding unnecessary adult details maintains balance.

Teenagers (13–18)

Teenagers often appear detached, yet they may experience strong internal struggles. They value honesty and need to feel included in discussions. Giving them space to express themselves while still providing guidance helps manage this balance. They may prefer private conversations, but parents should continue offering open dialogue opportunities. Acknowledging their growing independence while ensuring they still feel supported is essential.

Supporting children through legal family transitions

Children often feel unsettled when families face legal changes such as divorce or custody arrangements. Clear, consistent explanations reduce uncertainty. Parents should avoid giving conflicting messages and instead present information jointly where possible. This reassures children that both parents remain committed to their wellbeing.

Family law solicitors provide valuable guidance in these situations. They assist parents in reaching agreements and understand how children perceive family changes. Some professionals receive training to include children’s perspectives without placing them under pressure. This approach helps children feel heard while protecting them from conflict.

Building ongoing communication channels

Family changes are rarely resolved overnight. Children benefit from repeated opportunities to share feelings as situations evolve. Establishing small but regular routines, such as a weekly family chat, shows them their voice matters. Simple consistency can build trust and provide comfort during uncertain times.

Parents should stay alert for signs of distress. Younger children may complain of stomach aches or headaches when worried, while older children may withdraw or display anger. A drop in school performance can also signal emotional strain. Seeking support from child therapists may be helpful if challenges persist. Many family law solicitors can recommend trusted professionals who specialise in supporting children through family changes.

Conversation starters and emotion tools

Starting a sensitive discussion is never easy, but thoughtful openings can help. For younger children, a gentle statement such as “I need to share something important about our family” can prepare them. With older children, a phrase like “Some things are changing, and I want to explain what this means for you” offers clarity.

Open-ended questions encourage children to share more than a simple yes or no. Asking, “What do you feel worried about?” or “What questions do you have?” shows that their opinions matter. Tools like emotion cards, showing simple expressions such as sad, angry, worried, or hopeful, can help children who find words difficult. These approaches create pathways for ongoing conversations rather than one-off talks.

Communication should be treated as a continuing process. As children grow, their questions and understanding will change. Keeping the door open for conversation ensures they always know they can return with concerns.

Supporting children through family transitions

Helping children manage difficult family conversations requires patience, honesty, and sensitivity. By offering age-appropriate explanations, creating safe spaces for dialogue, and maintaining consistency, parents can reduce uncertainty and stress. Involving professional support when needed strengthens this process.

Children may not remember every word shared, but they will remember feeling listened to and reassured. Parents can play a powerful role in helping them adapt by staying present, open, and supportive. Families facing legal or emotional transitions benefit from taking proactive steps to maintain stability. For those navigating complex changes, seeking guidance from trusted professionals provides additional peace of mind. Taking these steps ensures children feel safe in the most challenging of times.

Why smart automation with TweetDelete makes deleting tweets effortless

Digital
Tech

Helen Greaney

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11/11/2025

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Why smart automation with TweetDelete makes deleting tweets effortless

The internet moves fast, yet our old posts tend to stay behind, frozen versions of who we once were. Over time, that archive grows heavy. A feed that was once full of energy can begin to feel like clutter. Managing this digital past has quietly become a modern necessity. People want clean spaces online, the same way they want tidy homes.

Automation has begun to achieve that without interruption or frustration. The trick is in using tools that give you back time while still giving users agency in that control. Thoughtfully approaching it will help keep it authentic without letting the past dictate the present.

Reclaiming time and focus

Scrolling through years of tweets can feel endless. There’s always another page, another comment from an earlier version of yourself. Many hesitate to start, afraid of deleting something meaningful by accident.

Smart automation simplifies this process. Instead of manually removing old thoughts, people can choose parameters that reflect their comfort level. They can clean gradually, focusing on what no longer feels relevant. Using services like delete tweets makes the experience less tedious and more intentional.

Automation also gives time back. The minutes once spent digging through an archive can now be used for actual connection, for reading, or for silence. Every cleared tweet adds a small piece of mental space. Over time, that space starts to matter more than the number of posts removed.

How automation actually works

Behind every cleanup there’s a quiet system doing the work people no longer have to do themselves. TweetDelete connects to a user’s account and reads the available archive through official permissions. Once filters are set by time, keyword, or tweet count, the tool identifies posts that match the criteria and schedules their removal in batches.

The process runs in the background, so users can keep scrolling or step away entirely. Nothing happens instantly, which helps avoid mistakes.

What stands out technically is how lightweight it feels. There are no downloads or complicated settings. It’s all web-based, secure, and fast. The simplicity is intentional: people don’t need to be tech experts to regain control of their content.

Why TweetDelete fits the rhythm

TweetDelete works because it treats automation as something human. It doesn’t rush the user into total erasure. Instead, it filters by date, keyword, or age of the post. People can decide what goes and what stays, building their own sense of order.

The interface feels direct, yet forgiving. Mistakes can be avoided through preview settings, which makes the process flexible. That subtle safety net matters. It turns deletion into an act of care rather than panic.

The appeal is quiet but strong. Regular users describe a lightness after cleaning their feeds. With automation handling the repetitive work, they are free to think, to create, to post with clearer purpose. Each cycle of cleanup brings a kind of digital renewal. The archive still exists, but the noise within it fades.

Finding freedom in simplicity

A clean timeline has a strange effect. It looks lighter, yes, but it also feels easier to think. Without the reminders of outdated moments, the mind stops rehearsing old versions of itself. What remains is sharper, more honest.

This sense of renewal shows why smart automation matters. It allows users to manage their feeds without guilt or exhaustion. It saves effort while protecting identity. TweetDelete quietly bridges the gap between order and freedom, helping people keep the parts of their online selves that still make sense, and letting the rest drift away.

Introducing Ugandan coffee: The sustainable sip for the Manchester Coffee Festival 2025

Food and Drink

Helen Greaney

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11/11/2025

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Introducing Ugandan coffee: The sustainable sip for the Manchester Coffee Festival 2025

Ugandan coffee producers who champion sustainable farming, empowering women and transforming local communities will be making their first group appearance at the annual Manchester Coffee Festival (9am – 5pm, daily from November 14 until 16).

Uganda Coffee will join more than 50 other producers from the UK and around the globe at Bowlers Exhibition Centre, Trafford Park, to showcase their delicious beans and pioneering growers.

The festival will offer the perfect opportunity to learn more about the rich heritage and exceptional flavours of Ugandan coffee, as well as try the coffee for yourself. There will be live competitions, talks, panel discussions and live DJs.

With support from the UK Trade Partnerships Programme, Ugandan coffee producers are taking their message directly to British coffee drinkers and industry players, inviting them to discover the rich flavours and stories behind Uganda’s specialty coffee.

Quality coffee beans

Uganda is known as the “Pearl of Africa,” and offers one of the finest topographies in the world for growing quality coffee beans.

From the fertile volcanic slopes of Mount Elgon in the east to the Rwenzori Mountains in the west, each region boasts unique growing conditions and flavours.

The coffee grown on its soil has an exquisite, distinct taste, and the country has been harvesting the beans for over 200 years.

Robusta coffee beans first started growing in the wild forests bordering Lake Victoria over two hundred years ago, and by the late 19th century, Ugandan Robusta was finding its way into European markets. This was followed by Arabica beans that were introduced to the country by missionaries in the 20^th century.

Today, coffee is a vital part of Uganda’s economy, employing over 1.7 million households and contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings. Uganda is the 7th largest coffee producer globally.

However, a cup of Ugandan coffee is hard to find on UK soil, with the coffee market dominated by imports from Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, and Vietnam.

High consumption

According to the British Coffee Association, coffee consumption in the UK is among the highest in the world, with an average of 2.3 cups per person per day, yet Ugandan coffee accounts for a mere 1% of the UK’s total coffee imports – and Uganda Coffee is hoping to change that.

The country’s young generation of pioneering growers are dedicated to driving community uplift, including support for local schools, financial education and youth programmes. Their practices are steeped in sustainability from bean to cup, with agroforestry, climate-smart agriculture and initiatives such as shade-planting and beekeeping in place. Not to mention many farms have a female-led workforce, who they upskill with technical training and fair wages.

For example, Mountain Harvest, set on the ridges of Mount Elgon, is dedicated to empowering women through coffee production and has grown the number of women it works with from 13% in 2019 to 41% in 2025.

Whilst Ankole Cooperative Union, located in the fertile volcanic soils of Southwestern Uganda, at altitudes ranging from 1400 to 1900 metres above sea level, is committed to developing local communities and has helped fund schools in the villages they work with. Its member farmers each manage small-scale farms averaging 1.5 acres, carefully tending to 600-700 coffee trees. Their farming practices include maintaining healthy soils, pruning the coffee bushes, and intercropping with nutrient-rich trees and plants such as bananas, providing partial shade and mulch for the soil. With their high altitude these farms produce coffee that exhibits a distinctive cup profile with floral, fruity, and sweet notes.

Zamani Coffee was founded as a movement to empower small-scale farmers. Its beans are cultivated by 250 dedicated small-scale farmers in the Sipi region, who weave traditional methods with innovation to nurture the land that sustains them. Zamani provides ongoing education on sustainable farming and post-harvest practises to help achieve higher profitability whilst looking after their environment. It established the ‘Sipi Zamani Coffee Farmers Savings Cooperative’, a platform that empowers farmers to save, plan and deliver community-driven initiatives.

Ugandan Coffee will make its mark with British coffee connoisseurs with a conscience in 2025 and beyond.

Where to find Ugandan coffee

Ugandan coffee is currently being imported by specialist coffee traders including the following who supply to roasters across the North West and wider areas in the UK:

Kwezi Coffee

Co-founded by Barbara Mugeni and Pamella Kampire, second-generation coffee experts, Kwezi Coffee is built on a legacy of passion and perseverance. Inspired by their parents’ expertise in coffee farming and operations, Barbara and Pamella have set out to build a brand that champions women and builds a sustainable future.

From Uganda’s high-altitude regions, Kwezi Coffee offers specialty coffee that embodies the country’s diverse landscapes and rich flavours. It works closely with over 2,700 farmers – 60% of whom are women, to produce coffee that delights and inspires.

Barbara and Pamella’s mission is to source, process, and export the finest Ugandan coffee while empowering women and youth throughout the coffee value chain. Through fair pricing, sustainable practices, and a relentless dedication to quality, they aim to inspire a new generation of leaders in the coffee sector.

Kwezi Coffee believes in creating meaningful change beyond the cup. This includes:

Sustainability: Promoting organic farming, soil health, and biodiversity through shade trees, cover crops, and natural pest control.
Community empowerment: Providing fair wages, technical training, and growth opportunities for farmers, with a focus on women and youth.
Innovation: Investing in energy-efficient technologies like solar-powered equipment and eco-friendly waste management practices.

In addition, Kwezi coffee has a number of community initiatives that include:

Training workshops on mulching, pruning, and soil erosion management to improve yields.
Collaboration with local agribusinesses to share resources and best practices.
Supporting beekeeping and livestock farming to create diversified income streams.

Clarke Farm

Nestled in the scenic Kyarusozi Parish in Rwenzori Region’s Kyenjojo district in Western Uganda, Clarke Farm is a family-owned, eco-friendly farm dedicated to sustainable agriculture and premium-quality coffee production.

Clarke Farm was born out of a vision to create a meaningful impact in rural Uganda. Founded by Dr. Ian Clarke, a dual Irish-Ugandan citizen, the farm builds on decades of commitment to improving healthcare and education in the region.

Dr. Clarke’s journey to coffee farming was driven by a desire to address rural poverty and empower women and young people. Coffee, Uganda’s most valuable cash crop, became the vehicle for change, creating jobs, increasing incomes, and opening doors to education for countless families.

Clarke Farm is committed to sustainably producing high-quality, single-origin washed Robusta coffee. This exceptional coffee is grown alongside a diversity of other crops, including Irish seed potatoes, matooke (a type of banana), mangoes, macadamia, bamboo, and maize.

Beyond coffee, the farm is dedicated to agroforestry, with eucalyptus plantations and indigenous tree corridors carefully integrated within the topography. This thoughtful blend of agriculture and forestry underlines Clarke Farm’s commitment to climate-smart farming practices that support local ecosystems.

Dr Clarke said: “If one can make an impact by getting cash and employment into this rural community, particularly for women and girls, one can increase household income and the ability of families to send their children to school, which will break the cycle of generational poverty.”