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Beating the Winter Blues: Your Guide to Office Wellness

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Beating the Winter Blues: Your Guide to Office Wellness
The shorter days and colder temperatures can make office life particularly challenging. With many of us spending well over 40 hours per week at our desks, staying healthy and positive during the winter months becomes crucial for both our productivity and wellbeing.

Light Up Your Workspace
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects around 2 million people in the UK, with symptoms typically starting in autumn. Combat this by positioning your desk near natural light sources and consider investing in a SAD lamp for your workspace. These special lights mimic natural sunlight and can boost your mood significantly.

Move More, Stress Less
Your physical health needs to receive daily investment to see real improvement. I recommend you try these simple desk-based exercises as a starting point:

  • Stand up every 30 minutes
  • Stretch your neck and shoulders regularly
  • Take walking meetings when possible
  • Use your lunch break for a brisk walk outside
It’s been documented from a 2008 study that workers who exercise during the day report a 21% increase in concentration levels and a 41% boost in motivation.

Smart Snacking Solutions
The winter months often trigger cravings for comfort food, but maintaining healthy eating habits is essential for both physical and mental wellbeing. Many British companies are now partnering with Fruitful Office to provide fresh fruit deliveries directly to their staff, making it easier for employees to make nutritious choices throughout the work day.

Keep these healthy snacking tips in mind:

  • Stock your desk drawer with nuts and dried fruit
  • Keep a water bottle visible to remind you to stay hydrated
  • Prep portion-controlled snacks at home
  • Share healthy treats with colleagues to encourage better habits
Create a Positive Space
Your immediate environment plays a huge role in your mood. Consider these workspace improvements:

  • Add plants to your desk (they can reduce stress by up to 15%)
  • Use essential oils like peppermint or lemon for focus
  • Keep your space clutter-free
  • Display personal photos or motivational quotes
Build Social Connections
Winter isolation can impact mental health significantly. A study by Gallup found that having a best friend at work can increase job satisfaction by 50%. Try:

  • Organizing lunch clubs
  • Starting a winter walking group
  • Creating a book club
  • Planning after-work activities
Tech-Smart Wellness
Use technology to your advantage:

  • Set reminders to take regular breaks
  • Try meditation apps during lunch
  • Use blue light filters on screens
  • Track your daily steps
Remember, workplace wellness isn’t just about individual actions – it’s about creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Just as you’d seek professional advice for financial decisions, don’t hesitate to speak with HR or your manager about implementing wellness initiatives in your workplace.

By taking these practical steps, you can maintain your physical and mental wellbeing even during the darkest winter days. The key is consistency – small, daily actions add up to significant improvements in your overall workplace wellness.

Glowing review for Warrington’s Land of Lights

Helen Greaney
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Glowing review for Warrington’s Land of Lights

There’s only one place where you’ll see a colour-changing chameleon, a series of angry venus fly traps, a giant spider and some eye-catching skeletons in the same night.

They can all be found – and tonnes more – at Land of Lights Lantern festival, which has returned to Gulliver’s World Resort in Warrington for the festive season.

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WonderWild brings a brand new theme with some majestic sights, as guests can journey through the realms of the Fantasy Forest, Ice Kingdom and Winged Wonders.

We enjoyed a cheeky preview event, before the official opening tomorrow (Saturday, November 9). On arrival we were greeted with the biggest selection of glow sticks before we made our way to the start of the trail, which would take in 90-minutes of incredible light and lantern displays.

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Venus fly traps of all sizes awaited at the start, followed by a series of incredible creatures such as a fox, butterfly, winged lion, parrots and bees.

There was plenty to keep little ones occupied along the route, with the themes constantly changing – including Day of the Dead and Christmas – with moving pumpkins and scary skeletons through to the North Pole with giant baubles to walk inside.

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What was exciting for the youngsters was that they could go on the playgrounds which were dotted around the route and even a maze to burn off some energy. At the halfway point we were pleased to see some rides open, and a chance to grab something to eat and drink.

Food offerings included hot fruit crumble and custard for those after something sweeter, and pizzas and sausages for the savoury fans. Hot chocolates seemed a favourite choice for most guests, and toasting marshmallows (first one free) was a popular attraction.

Last year the event won a gold gong for the best new event at the UK Theme Park Awards – and we won’t be surprised if it makes the finals again this time around.

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All in all, it was a very enjoyable evening, with plenty to see and do. My only gripe would be not a lot of options among the food vendors for those in the intolerant or allergy camps, e.g. alternative milk.

The festival opens to the public on November 9 and runs until January 4, 2025.

Find out more at landoflights.co.uk

“Help us loosen the grip of crime gangs across the North West” appeals Crimestoppers

Helen Greaney
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“Help us loosen the grip of crime gangs across the North West” appeals Crimestoppers

Independent charity Crimestoppers has today launched a major campaign across the North West to encourage reporting on criminal gangs.

The campaign features a social media advert using a snake to illustrate how criminal gangs slowly increase their grip on communities until all that is left is fear and a feeling of helplessness.

Gary Murray, North West regional manager at Crimestoppers, said: “Criminals do not care who they exploit or the violence and damage they bring to our communities. They destroy lives whilst pursuing vast profits. Gang members are known in the areas they operate but there is often a reluctance of those who live nearby to report on their illegal and harmful activities.

“The same gang may not only be involved in the sale of illegal drugs and cannabis cultivation, but can be also responsible for exploitation of young people and the vulnerable through County Lines, modern slavery, sexual exploitation, illegal immigration, the importation and use of guns, illegal money lending and money laundering.

“The key to making the North West a safer place to live and work is to pass on information completely anonymously to Crimestoppers so that law enforcement can act. With Crimestoppers, there’s no police, no courts, no witness statements.”

The charity has put together some questions to prompt the public and hopefully encourage them to report what they see or hear:

  • What are the names of those members of serious crime gangs in the area?
  • Who runs the local drugs trade?
  • Which premises are used for criminal activity and drug dealing?
  • Who is bringing weapons into your area and where they are being stored?
  • How do these gangs recruit those who they are exploiting?
  • Have you information on those who have committed violent crime in your area?

Gary added: “Help us loosen the grip of criminal gangs across the North West. Only by individuals taking the brave step of reporting anonymously what is going on in their areas to our charity will we see a cut in the pain and suffering that our communities face.

“The information you and others come forward with may help save lives and make your area safer for you and your family. The one thing that these gangs fear most is that people will say enough is enough and pass on vital information of their harmful and sometimes fatal activity.

“Over the last six months from the North West and North Wales we have received over 20,000 pieces of `actionable’ or high-quality information. This has led to a significant number of arrests, millions of pounds of drugs seized and weapons being taken off our streets. We would like to thank all those who have contacted our charity. We will never know who they are because of anonymity, but they have made the North West safer for everyone and made a real difference.”

To speak up 100% anonymously, visit the charity’s website Crimestoppers-uk.org and fill in the secure anonymous online form or call the 24/7 UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111.

Computer IP addresses are never traced, and no-one will ever know you contacted Crimestoppers.

Work starts on Manchester’s newest (and smallest) public square

Helen Greaney
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Work starts on Manchester’s newest (and smallest) public square

Capital&Centric have started working on the small yet perfectly formed public square that will link their owner occupier community Crusader with new workspaces at Neptune Mill in Piccadilly East.

Images reveal how the social impact developers are taking on the outdoor space outside their restoration of the Grade II listed Neptune Mill.

The square, which has been closed off to the public for decades, will give off industrial vibes alongside green planting, reminiscent of the developer’s award-winning Kampus garden neighbourhood.

The Piccadilly East community will soon be able to enjoy this green oasis, which sits underneath a sky bridge linking Crusader to Neptune Mill – the only one of its kind in the city.

Tom Wilmot, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, said: “Outside space is mega important to every community we create so we’ll take any opportunity to squeeze a garden in. It might be small but it’s definitely mighty.

“Manchester’s still crying out for green space so we’re loading it with tons of lush planting and big trees. It’ll be the perfect spot for residents of our new Neptune Mill workspace to hang out during lunch or catch some post work rays in the summer, but it’s open to the public so anyone can enjoy it.”

Neptune Mill is part of the developer’s wider mission to drive forward the Piccadilly East neighbourhood, previously named as one of the UK’s up and coming hotspots by the Sunday Times. It follows their award-winning restoration of a neighbouring Victorian mill, Crusader, as well as Phoenix, a character-filled new build apartment block in the city centre.

The square is the latest part of Piccadilly East that the developers have opened up after reopening Fletcher Street between Crusader and Phoenix, creating new links through the city.

 

Managing financial risks: Techniques for protecting assets and managing risks

Helen Greaney
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Managing financial risks: Techniques for protecting assets and managing risks

As is evident, in the constantly evolving and developing sphere of finance, long-term stability
and preservation of assets depend on proper risk management.

Many factors threaten your financial health, such as shifts in the market, recession, problems in managing your business, and other unforeseeable events.

These risk controls use both proactive activities and reactive measures to protect assets and minimise potential losses.

This article explores key considerations in risk management coupled with practical advice
on how one or any business can implement the strategies to enhance the financial security of any entity.

Understanding financial risks

To learn of the financial risks among individuals and businesses as far as risk management is
concerned before constructing the risk management techniques.

Financial risks can be grouped into several major categories: market risk, credit risk, liquidity risk, operational risk, and legal risks. Market risk is associated with fluctuations in the prices of assets due to changes in market forces.

The likelihood of a debtor not being able to meet their obligation is called credit risk. Liquidity
risk is the inability to convert assets into cash quickly and at a decent profit. Legal risk is usually about the legal consequences and issues regarding regulations, while operational risk is the breakdown of internal controls, structures, or people.

Risk identification and assessment

The first stage in managing financial risks is finding and evaluating any risks that could
influence assets and financial stability. Finding risks entails methodically assessing external and internal variables that can endanger one’s financial stability.

Performing risk assessments, reviewing previous data, and taking industry-specific issues into account are frequent steps in this process. After identifying hazards, evaluating their likelihood and potential impact is critical.

This assessment enables more targeted risk management initiatives by prioritising risks
according to their likelihood and severity.

Diversification

Diversification is the most effective way of avoiding certain financial risks. It involves
investment allocation across various categories of securities, industries, and geographical regions to minimise risk exposure to a particular kind of risk.

Through diversification, an individual or an organisation may be able to bring down the negative effects of events that affect a specific component of the portfolio. For example, if one industry or market is in decline, it becomes unlikely that one’s collection of stock, bonds, real estate, and overseas properties will be significantly affected.

Hence, risk reduction and return optimisation are made possible by achieving the right balance through diversification.

Risk monitoring and adjustment

Sustaining an effective risk management program necessitates constant observation and
modification. After risk management plans are put into place, it’s critical to periodically assess and revise them to account for modifications to the financial landscape, market dynamics, and corporate objectives.

Key risk indicators are monitored, performance metrics are examined, and the efficacy of current risk management strategies is evaluated. Frequent modifications guarantee
that risk management tactics stay applicable and efficient in handling new hazards and changing financial situations.

Wealth management involves strategically overseeing and growing one’s financial resources to achieve long-term financial goals and ensure security. In today’s digital age, tools like
Prillionaires personal finance software offer invaluable support for individuals seeking to
optimise their wealth.

Personal finance software provides users with comprehensive financial planning, investment tracking, and risk management features, allowing for more informed decision-making and efficient management of assets.

Final thoughts

Achieving long-term stability and prosperity requires competent financial management. People and organisations can confidently handle financial risks and protect their assets by implementing various tactics and cutting-edge tools.

Sustaining financial stability and guaranteeing future expansion heavily depends on one’s capacity for proactive risk management and well-informed decision-making. Securing a bright future will always require adopting creative ideas and upholding a disciplined attitude, even as the financial landscape changes.

Sixty roads repaired as summer road repair scheme completes

Helen Greaney
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Sixty roads repaired as summer road repair scheme completes

Almost 60 roads have been treated across all five townships as part of the annual summer micro asphalt programme, which improves the condition of the road and gives it a longer lifespan.

The works in Rochdale, form part of a wider £4 million investment into the borough’s highways network this year, which includes the resurfacing of a large section of Bury Road alongside the installation of a new crossing point at the junction of Bury Road, Roch Valley Way and Sandy Lane.

Major improvements to Michael Faraday Avenue in Kingsway are under way, alongside improvements to the drainage in Overtown Lane in Norden.

In addition, road resurfacing is taking place in Norman Road and Albion Street in Rochdale North, with traffic calming being implemented in Ashworth Street.

Over in Middleton, pavement reconstruction is taking place in Broughton Close and Windermere Road. In Rochdale South, new one ways are being installed in Milkstone and Deeplish.

Other major projects include the redevelopment of the Reed Hill car park and the introduction of new pedestrian and cycle  crossings on St Mary’s Gate in Rochdale town centre, which is currently on site.

Councillor Shah Wazir said: “I’m pleased that we’re heading into winter with smoother, safer roads following the completion of the summer micro asphalt programme. Although micro asphalt is undertaken in the summer as it requires warmer temperatures, we undertake different types of road treatments throughout the year, so our work doesn’t stop.

“We have some really big schemes on the ground right now, including full resurfacing projects and the work on Queen’s Park Bridge, and I know the end results will be really impressive.”

England lose series after losing toss in Barbados

Tom Rostance
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England lose series after losing toss in Barbados

England captain Liam Livingstone was left to rue losing the toss as his side slumped to a fifth successive series loss in the Caribbean as the West Indies cruised to an eight-wicket win to take the one-day series.

After Livingstone called incorrectly in Barbados, England stumbled to 24 for four.

They recovered to post 263 for eight but batting conditions had eased significantly when the reply began under lights, as Brandon King and Keacy Carty made centuries to get the Windies home with seven overs to spare.

As the hosts celebrated a 2-1 win, stand-in England captain Livingstone pointed out that the team that won the toss won the match on each occasion.

“The conditions weren’t very favourable to the team bowling second,” he said. “It’s no excuse, we didn’t get enough runs but ultimately if we’d have got 350, I don’t think it would have mattered.

“The pitch went from being so slow to start with to being absolutely drenched at the end. Both balls were soaking, we changed it halfway through and that was soaking within an over as well.

“I’ve played a lot of cricket in the world and I don’t think I’ve ever played in a game where conditions have changed so much from one innings to the next.

“There’s no surprise that the team who the toss twice in the series won. This time of year out here, it’s pretty difficult to bat first and defend a score.”

England lost both white-ball series last year, and this was a 13th reverse in 20 ODIs for a side that have given youth and inexperience a chance on this visit.

“We’re disappointed,” Livingstone said. “We’ve got a lot of young boys on this trip who have hopefully learnt a lot about playing international cricket. Hopefully, that will stand us in good stead.

“I feel like we’ve taken another step forward in the way we want to play our cricket and we’ve got a lot of people to come back into this squad moving forward.”

Istanbul Carpet & Flooring Expo 2025 Draws European Buyers

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Istanbul Carpet & Flooring Expo 2025 Draws European Buyers

From 7-10 January, the Carpet and Flooring Expo 2025 will welcome European buyers to Istanbul Expo Centre, showcasing new carpet and flooring trends and encouraging global collaborations with three additional halls to expand the event.

As preparations move forward for the Carpet and Flooring Expo 2025 (CFE), set for January at Istanbul Expo Centre, organisers are ramping up marketing efforts and exhibitor sign-ups. Following the successful launch in December 2023, CFE returns with 120,000 square metres of exhibition space, accommodating more visitors and exhibitors.

The 2025 edition, building on interest from over 21,000 visitors from 103 countries, will add three new halls. Co-organised by Tüyap Exhibitions Group, Istanbul Carpet Exporters Association, and Southeastern Anatolia Carpet Exporters Association, CFE 2025 will host buyers and professionals from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the US.

Spotlighting Innovations in Carpets

CFE 2025 will feature a broad selection of carpets, rugs, and flooring products, from handcrafted to machine-made varieties, plus textile coverings and accessories. Attendees can join sessions on market trends and future advancements.

“As one of the fastest-growing exhibitions in the sector, CFE 2025 will offer a dynamic platform for global carpet and flooring professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and explore business opportunities. The fair’s continued expansion reflects the industry’s strong demand and Türkiye’s leading role in the global market,” said Ilhan Ersozlu, General Manager of Tüyap Fairs Production Inc.

Expanding Market Links Across Regions

The expo supports Anatolian businesses in accessing new markets, showcasing branded products that strengthen business ties. With Türkiye’s carpet exports surpassing US$ 2.8 billion, organisers expect further growth through global connections.

For more information on participation, visit http://www.icfexpo.com.

Common UK Solar Myths Blocking Net-Zero Progress

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Common UK Solar Myths Blocking Net-Zero Progress

New data reveals that 62% of Britons feel under-informed about renewable energy options, with many solar myths persisting.

Recent research finds that two-thirds of Britons would be more inclined to switch to renewable energy if the process was more clearly explained. One-third mistakenly believe that the UK’s often-cloudy weather hinders solar panel effectiveness, even though evidence shows otherwise. Findings from Solar Together, an expert in energy transition, highlight that two-thirds of Britons agree the public is not well-informed about renewable solutions, with an equal percentage stating they would switch to renewables if information were more accessible.

In response, Solar Together has debunked five common solar energy myths prevalent in the UK to aid those considering renewables:

  • Nearly half believe it takes over 15 years to recoup the investment in solar panels, while the actual timeframe is between 6 and 10 years.
  • One third think the UK’s cloud cover prevents solar panels from working effectively.
  • Another third say solar panels aren’t useful in typical British winters.
  • A third think installing solar panels is overly complicated.
  • One in five doubt that solar panels reduce energy bills, even though the average annual saving can be as high as £500 per household.

With clocks recently adjusted for winter, more than one quarter (26%) say they become more aware of energy use during colder, darker months, and 22% report heightened environmental awareness. While UK winters may be colder than in other countries, solar panels rely on sunlight rather than heat. Surprisingly, they often perform better in lower temperatures, with peak efficiency achieved between 1C and 20C. Although cloudy days mean less direct sunlight, solar panels still generate a considerable amount of power and don’t stop working. Batteries can also store surplus energy for later use.

This study suggests that many are unaware of these solar energy facts, indicating a need for greater clarity on renewable energy’s role, particularly during the winter. The findings show that 62% of Britons agree there is limited understanding of home renewable solutions. Nearly half believe government messaging on renewables is overly complicated (46%), suggesting simpler communication could improve adoption. Additionally, 44% say clear information is hard to find, yet two-thirds would consider renewables if better resources were available.

The study also found that renewable energy is rarely discussed in family settings (42%), with 35% saying it isn’t taught enough in schools. Another 36% say it is seldom featured on television, and a quarter point to celebrities’ silence on the topic (24%).

George Frost, UK Country Manager at iChoosr, the firm behind Solar Together’s solar group-buying initiatives, said, “This study highlights the urgent need for better education and clearer communication about renewable energy in the UK. By making information more accessible and addressing common misconceptions, we can encourage more people to adopt renewable energy solutions and contribute to the UK’s net-zero goals.”

“It’s clear that a large proportion of the public finds existing messaging around renewables too complicated or confusing. This suggests we all need to work hard to demystify the perceived complexity while spreading the benefits of renewable energy to all corners of the UK.”

Since 2015, iChoosr has worked with councils through Solar Together to drive renewable adoption nationwide. Solar Together has enabled over 42,500 installations, expected to cut 680,000 tonnes of carbon emissions over 25 years.

KYND Honoured in 2024 ESGFinTech100 for Cyber Risk Leadership

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KYND Honoured in 2024 ESGFinTech100 for Cyber Risk Leadership

KYND Limited, a leader in cyber risk management, proudly announces its third consecutive inclusion in the 2024 ESGFinTech100, an elite list curated by FinTech Global to recognise top technology firms assisting financial services in overcoming complex ESG challenges. KYND’s consistent presence on this list reflects its commitment to supporting wealth managers, advisers, and clients in identifying and proactively addressing digital risks in a clear, efficient manner.

This year’s selection reaffirms KYND’s importance in addressing cyber risk—a crucial but often underestimated element of ESG. As cyber threats escalate in both volume and complexity, businesses increasingly recognise that robust cybersecurity measures are essential to sustainability, operational resilience, and stakeholder confidence. Within financial services, in particular, effective cyber risk management is now a fundamental part of meeting ESG commitments and safeguarding long-term value.

KYND’s unique technology offers an all-encompassing view of an organisation’s cyber vulnerabilities, highlighting major risks and prioritising mitigation steps. Unlike other tools that depend on vague scoring systems, KYND leverages proprietary data to present an accurate and transparent view of risk. Whether it’s during due diligence, ongoing portfolio oversight, or third-party evaluations, KYND empowers wealth managers and advisers to seamlessly integrate cyber risk management into their ESG frameworks.

Andy Thomas, CEO and Founder of KYND, commented: “We’re so delighted to be awarded with this honour by FinTech Global once more! Cyber risk is rapidly becoming one of the most financially material threats to modern businesses, but its importance in the ESG landscape is still not fully appreciated. At KYND, we’re passionate about helping companies bridge that gap, equipping them with the insights and tools they need to navigate today’s volatile cyber threat environment. Cyber risk management is not just a technical issue; it’s a core element of business resilience and ESG compliance. We will continue to innovate and deliver best-in-class solutions that support our partners in financial services to stay ahead of the curve and safeguard the value and stability of their organisations, as well as the wider cyber ecosystem.”

Richard Sachar, Director of FinTech Global, remarked: “ESG-focused frameworks like CSRD are becoming more common around the world. Financial institutions face mounting requirements for ESG reports and alignment to sustainability targets. The ESGFinTech100 serves as a crucial resource for senior management, helping them identify the leading ESG tech companies. The detailed company profiles offer insights into their solutions, the challenges they address, their operational regions, and more. This guide is essential for any organisation committed to achieving net-zero targets.”

Since last year’s inclusion in ESGFinTech100, KYND has focused on advancing solutions to reimagine cyber risk management within financial services. For more information on KYND’s solutions, visit here.

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