To celebrate the month of June, we’re brushing up on our LGBTQ+ history with seven of the most influential icons of the community. We’ve got a long old history of hard-fought fights and iconic individuals, so why not show some, er, pride?! But who are the most influential and famous LGBTQ+ icons through history? 

We’ve tracked some extraordinary people doing extraordinary things, from the 1700s to the present day.  In no particular order…

Marsha P Johnson

Marsha P Johnson (1945-1992)

As one of the most well-known names on this list, Marsha P Johnson was a self-identified drag queen and rights activist. She was a proud advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and vital to the Stonewall riots of 1969. 

The Stonewall riots began what we know as Pride today, a protest and celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. Johnson was essential in the formation of Pride – some even say she threw the first brick. 

The ‘first brick’ story has since been debunked, but that doesn’t make Johnson’s involvement and continued activism any less amazing. 

Beyond Stonewall, Johnson was a vocal activist, forming multiple organisations to support fellow members of the LGBTQ community. She protested for the rights of gay and transgender people, as well as supporting those affected by the AIDS crisis.  

Whether she threw the first brick or not, Marsha P Johnson will always remain one of the most influential icons of LGBTQ+ history. 

Alan Turing

Alan Turing (1912-1954) at Princeton University, 1936

Alan Turing is among the most well-known LGBTQ+ figures, and for good reason. As a World War Two computer scientist, Turing cracked the German cipher in an essential breakthrough for the war effort. He was also the source behind many other scientific breakthroughs, such as the Turing machine, which solves abstract mathematical conundrums. 

Sadly, despite Turing’s crucial work, he was still prosecuted in 1952 for his homosexuality, undergoing outdated medical treatment to both ‘cure’ and punish him. He died just two years later. Whether this was by suicide or whethr he was poisoning remains a mystery. 

Turning’s death is truly a tragedy, but his legacy lives on in countless memorials, from buildings, to awards, to computer programs and more. As a truly influential figure of LGBTQ+ history, Turing is also memorialised in the 2013 Alan Turing law. This law pardoned him and many of their crime of homosexuality. Homosexuality is no longer a crime in the UK today, and Turing is one of many to thank for that. 

Anne Lister

Anne Lister (1791-1840)

Anne Lister was born in Yorkshire in 1791, and grew up to be a landowner, a lesbian, and an all-round awesome icon in our history. 

Lister was a hot topic of conversation back in day for her masculine gender presentation, and her ‘masculine’ position as a landowner. Both were very uncommon for women at the time, making her stand out against the status quo. 

She is best known today from Gentleman Jack, a TV show based on her diary entries and letters to partner Ann Walker. Same-sex marriage was illegal at the time, but that didn’t stop the pair from deciding they were married anyway. That’s an incredible level of confidence you just have to respect. 

Clearly Lister was no sheep, no matter the stares or insults she faced. Gentleman Jack even names itself after a common insult for Lister, a modern day slap in the face to those who mocked her. Needless to say, she’s an absolute icon of LGBTQ+ history.

Harvey Milk

Harvey Milk (1930-1978) at Gay Pride, San Jose 1978

Harvey Milk, born in 1930, was the first openly gay US official. He was elected to public office in California following a proud history of gay rights activism. 

Milk was an outstanding figure of protest, with intense and brilliant quotes such as, “If a bullet should enter my brain, let that bullet destroy every closet door.” He was tragically killed in this exact way. Just a year after entering office, he was assassinated by a fellow American politician. 

His short time in office didn’t stop Milk from fighting for essential changes to US laws. He strived for the protection of LGBTQ+ Americans, sponsoring a bill which banned sexuality-based discrimination in housing and employment. This bill passed, marking an incredible milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in America. 

He’s celebrated today with the 2008 film Milk, based on his incredible life as an activist, politician, and influential LGBTQ+ icon. Though his political career was cut short, his contributions to LGBTQ+ history were essential in the fight for change. 

Another article you may like: What your transgender child wishes they could tell you 

April Ashley

April Ashley (1935-2021)

Born in 1935, April Ashley was one of the first people to undergo gender-affirming surgery in the UK. As a transgender rights activist, Ashley was prominent in the fight for equality. Even her own divorce case was used for positive legal change to benefit the transgender community. 

In the 1960s, her husband requested an annulment on the grounds that Ashley was not legally a woman. This atrocious reasoning was then approved, with their annulment being granted in 1970. All because Ashley’s legal gender was stuck as male with no way to change it. 

Even though Ashley lost the case, her story was still used in 2004 to help pass the Gender Recognition Act. Through this, she was finally allowed to change to her legal gender to female after over 60 years. 

As a vocal transgender activist, and key figure in the fight for gender-affirming laws, April Ashley continues to be remembered as an incredibly influential figure in LGBTQ+ history. 

Radclyffe Hall

Radclyffe Hall (1880-1943)

Marguerite Antonia Radclyffe Hall (known by her penname John) was an English poet and author born in the late 19th Century. She is best known for her 1928 novel The Well of Loneliness, a novel that truly cements her legacy as an icon of LGBTQ+ history. 

The novel depicts a lesbian relationship – still very much taboo for the time – and ends with the extraordinary line, “Give us also the right to our existence.”  

Unsurprisingly, such an iconic work was banned for its “scandalous” content, but that didn’t stop Radclyffe Hall’s influence from spreading far and wide. Especially among those who needed it most. 

Radclyffe Hall’s work became symbolic of those stuck in the closet (to use a more modern term). It represented LGBTQ+ people unable to represent themselves in a world where self-expression remained a crime. Having offered a voice for those who needed it most, Radclyffe Hall deserves to be celebrated as a brilliantly influential LGBTQ+ icon. 

Chevalier d’Eon

The Chevalier D’Eon (1728 -1810) from the London Magazine 1777, British Cartoon Prints Collection

Born in 1728, Chevalier d’Eon was one of the first transgender and gender non-conforming people in modern European history. They were a French diplomat, soldier and spy as part of a secret organisation under King Louie XV. An incredibly cool figure for our queer history tour. 

They presented as both masculine and feminine in their lifetime until 1777. That year, the king officially recognised d’Eon as a woman, so long as they presented as feminine for the rest of their life. A pretty bizarre deal for gender recognition by today’s standards. But it did come with a free wardrobe courtesy of the king himself. And d’Eon got to keep their incredible undercover life.  

D’Eon is known by many for their fencing prowess. Including defeating a French soldier in one particularly influential duel while presenting as a woman. Their legacy has been celebrated by many well-known figures such as Mary Wollstonecraft, for their incomparable contributions to both women’s rights and transgender rights. 

As a remarkable soldier, spy, and one of the first to legally transition, d’Eon is definitely an LGBTQ+ icon to be proud of.

Lady Phyll

Phyll Opoku Gyimah (1974 – )

Phyllis Akua Opoku-Gyimah, also known as Lady Phyll, is a political activist, campaigning for both LGBTQ+ rights and anti-racism. For anyone noticing the use of present tense there, you read right. Lady Phyll remains an influential rights activist to this day, still going strong in her co-founded charity and event UK Black Pride. 

UK Black Pride was formed in the hopes of uniting and celebrating LGBTQ+ people of colour, promoting unity and advocating for anti-racism within and towards the community. Self-described as both a party and a protest, its contribution to LGBTQ+ history is essential, fighting for a more inclusive LGBTQ+ community. 

Lady Phyll will undeniably go down in history as an influential icon of the LGBTQ+ community. And she continues to be politically active today, acting as Chief Executive of her own charity. Her influential story is far from over, and so is the fight for change. 

The future of Pride 

We can learn a lot from the influential LGBTQ+ icons of the past. What unites us all is not our struggles, but instead the strength of our community. It is our united fight for a better future that makes Pride what it is today.  

And it’s not over yet. We still have a long way to go in our fight for equality. 

To get involved, consider checking out the official Stonewall website for more information on events, charities and protests.  

Aiden Winn

Aiden is an editorial and production staffer at Title Media. He’s constantly looking for opportunities to have fun and get creative, whether it be art, baking, storytelling… you name it!

The post Pride. The kickass famous LGBTQ+ icons through history appeared first on Silver Magazine.

As you can imagine, we are all over this. The Silver Marketing Association (SMA) supports promotes best practice and ethical marketing to the mature market. This means everything from promoting causes like the Age Friendly Employer Pledge to undertaking important research work into the various aspects of the silver sector. They champion businesses in the sector – Silver Magazine included – and the business awards are a highly contested badge of honour for those who win. Here are the Silver Marketing Association awards.

About the awards

These awards recognise and celebrate the companies and organisations that have delivered a successful marketing campaign in the last year, focusing on the older demographic and showing creativity, empathy and measurable results. The entries are judged by a brilliant lineup of informed and impartial judges. The awards’ headline sponsor this year is Boom Radio – so the host for the event will be Boom co-founder and presenter David Lloyd (below). We’ve seen him speak before and he’s hugely entertaining – worth going to the event just for him!

In alphabetical order, the shortlisted entries in each category, together with the sponsors, are:

Best Radio/Podcast Campaign – sponsored by Senior Response

Shortlisted:

• Age Co – Things Get Better with Age Co
• Boom Radio & One Traveller – One Traveller radio campaign
• Intergenerational England – The Talking Generations Podcast
• Vintage Travel – Vintage Travel – Silver Awareness

Best Print Campaign – sponsored by Saga Magazine

Shortlisted:

• Age Co– Things Get Better with Age Co
• Alfa Travel – Alfa Travel 2024 brochure
• BlueStar Media & Silver Travel Advisor – Silver Traveller Magazine
• BlueStar Media & Ambassador Cruise Line – Ambassador Cruise Line – Fair Winds Magazine

Best Outdoor Campaign – sponsored by Mash Marketing

Shortlisted:

• Centre for Ageing Better - Age Without Limits
• The Kite Factory and Don’t Panic – Oxfam – Staying In The Fight
• YourStride – Grassroots Bowls Clubs

Best Direct Mail Campaign – sponsored by Eight Days a Week Print Solutions

Shortlisted:

• Audley Group – Audley Luxury Retirement Villages
• Granite & TREND Transformations – Merry Christmas
• McCarthy Stone – Time to open a new chapter

Best Social Media Campaign – sponsored by Silversurfers

Shortlisted:

• Accord Marketing & Ambassador Cruise Line –  Ambassador Cruise Line
• Ageism Is Never In Style – #ILookMyAge
• Granite & TREND Transformations – Sustainable Kitchen Makeover

Best TV Campaign – sponsored by ITV

Shortlisted:

• Accord Marketing & Ambassador Cruise Line Ambassador Cruise Line – Enjoy yourself
• The Kite Factory and Don’t Panic – Oxfam – Staying In The Fight
• TVADSWORK and Doro – The Doro TV Commercial’ Campaign

Best PR Campaign– sponsored by Marketing Radar

Shortlisted:

• Finn Partners & The Advantage Travel Partnership  – Travel Triumph: Targeting the Silver Traveller for The Advantage Travel Partnership
• LOTUS & Visit Guernsey – Visit Guernsey – Renoir in Guernsey; 1883
• Wallacea Living – The Time of Your Later Life

Best Digital Marketing / Age Tech campaign – sponsored by AgeSpace

Shortlisted:

• CareCall – CareCall
• Dementia Adventure and Freddie’s Flowers – Blooms of Connection: Celebrating Dementia Adventure’s 15th Birthday with Freddie’s Flowers
• Granite & TREND Transformations – Digital Lead Generation Campaign
• Mistral Hotel – Singles in Crete & Copywrite That - New Sunday Best Friend

Best Overall Multi-Channel Campaign – sponsored by Precision Platinum

Shortlisted:

• Accord Marketing & Ambassador Cruise Line – Ambassador Cruise Line – Enjoy yourself
• Centre for Ageing Better – Age Without Limits
• McCarthy Stone – Time to open a new chapter
• Wallacea Living– The Time of Your Later Life

Good luck to everyone taking part! The awards will be presented at a sparkling drinks reception on Tuesday 25 June 2024 at the Cavendish Centre, London W1 from 17:30 -18:30 following the Silver Marketing Summit.

Please contact enquiries@silvermarketing.org if you would like to attend the Silver Marketing Association awards.

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The post Silver Marketing Association business marketing awards appeared first on Silver Magazine.

We all know that bars make for a great night out. The cheery atmosphere, the games, the people – not to mention the delicious food. And, one might say, the booze. You can also create your own bar vibes at home, using a few little decor tricks like custom LED neon signs, cocktail setup, and plenty of music. But maybe it would be great to have a good time without the migraine. Or maybe you just don’t drink. We’ve compiled a little round-up of low and completely alcohol free bars in the UK that make booze-free drinks the star of the show.

Torstigbar, Brighton

This Brighton-based low alcohol bar is the perfect spot for a night out. At Torstigbar, alcohol free drinks aren’t just an afterthought – they’re the main event. With unique flavour combinations and mood-altering cocktails, you’ll be buzzing with excitement from the first sip.
Through colourful Nordic-inspired décor and brilliant music, the atmosphere of Torstigbar more than makes up for the pricey drinks. £8 for a non-alcoholic cocktail feels a bit stiff. Plus, they do giveaways on their Instagram for free drinks and pizzas, as well as parties, socials, and other events.

Featured Item: Ringkobing – A blend of Lyre’s Amaretti and Botivo, fresh orange, lemon, aquafaba and agave, all served with a fresh orange slice.
Wheelchair access: Yes
Kid friendly: Under 18s are allowed in if accompanied by an adult – but they’ll obviously only get soft drinks. The cocktails may be low alcohol but they’re not for kids.
Dog friendly: Yes

Torstigbar

Café Sobar, Nottingham

Founded in Nottingham by Double Impact, this no alcohol bar/café hybrid aims to support those recovering from addiction. Café Sobar offers more than a safe space – it offers community, support, and even employment to those who have suffered.
And that’s not all. With its chilled-out atmosphere, lovely staff and incredible food, you’ll feel right at home here. There’s even a gallery showcase for local artists to show off their work.
The food can be pricey, but all profits go to charity, so you can buy a little extra guilt-free. It’s all going to a good cause.

Featured Item: Full breakfast stack – only £7.55 for a huge portion of delicious full English breakfast.
Wheelchair access: Yes
Kid friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes – dogs are even offered a free sausage!

Café Sobar

YADA Collective – Derby

Aiming to reimagine Derby nightlife, YADA prides itself in being a friendly and authentic community space that is 100% alcohol free. They strive to bridge social gaps and bring people together – without alcohol.
And with such a warm atmosphere and rustic aesthetic, it does exactly that. YADA welcomes creatives and disruptors of the norm to express themselves in a place where they can truly feel at home.
With such a strong community, relaxed vibe and not to mention cheap drinks, what’s not to love?

Featured Item: Tequila Sunrise – Mockingbird tequila, orange juice, lime and grenadine, unmixed to preserve the beautiful layers of colour, then topped with a slice of lime.
Wheelchair access: No
Kid friendly: No
Dog friendly: Yes

YADA Collective

The Brink, Liverpool

You shouldn’t have to give up on bars just because you don’t fancy a drink. The Brink understands that the bar experience is about more than just drinking, and offers an entertaining, alcohol free space focused particularly on those in addiction recovery.
The Brink has a seriously cool venue, with industrial pipes and beams surrounded by greenery for an awesome eco-industrial vibe. Combined with live music and incredible food and drink menus – which are surprisingly cheap – The Brink really has it all.

Featured Item: Brink Burger – handmade steak patty topped with cheddar cheese and a stunning homemade onion relish, with salad, fries and red salt on the side.
Wheelchair access: Yes
Kid friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes

The Brink

Mr Fitzpatrick’s Temperance Bar, Rawtenstall

If you assume “alcohol free” means spending a fortune on flavoured water, you wouldn’t be alone. But at this Rawtenstall temperance bar, you can be sure you’re getting your money’s worth.
Having been a dry bar since the 1890s, you can trust that Mr Fitzpatrick’s knows how to make delicious non-alcoholic drinks that leave the usual bland bar concoctions in the dust. And it’s not just the drinks. Mr Fitzpatrick’s extensive desserts menu is sure to tempt even the most frugal customers. And with such surprisingly cheap prices, who wouldn’t be?

Featured Item: Jammie Bugger – Decadent blood tonic milkshake topped with a fresh, hot waffle, raspberry ripple ice cream, raspberry sauce, Jammie Dodgers and white chocolate Jazzles.
Wheelchair access: Yes, but it may be a tight fit.
Kid friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes

Mr Fitzpatrick’s Temperance Bar

George Street Social, Newcastle upon Tyne

Run by the Road to Recovery Trust, George Street Social is more than just a dry bar. This no alcohol bar has a strong emphasis on mental health and wellbeing, especially for those recovering from addiction.
But it’s not just a recovery space either – George Street Social provides a lively atmosphere as an exciting events venue. With live music, mouth-watering cakes and inviting staff, this bar offers a wonderful sober space for any event or social. And it’s spectacularly cheap, which is always a bonus.

Featured item: While the drinks are obviously amazing, what really stands out at George Street Social is their huge variety of freshly made cakes. One for the sweet tooths. Teeth?
Wheelchair access: Yes
Kid friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes

George Street Social

Dry Dock Pub, Weymouth

Looking for the full pub experience, but without the alcohol? Look no further than Weymouth’s own Dry Dock Pub. Its emphasis on creating an authentic pub experience while bringing the community together promises a cheerful and vibrant atmosphere.
Dry Dock Pub boasts a huge array of entertainment, including a vintage jukebox, pool, darts, and retro arcade games – and it’s all free! They’re always on the lookout for the next big artists for their art gallery, live music and comedy nights.

Featured Item: Dry Dock Pub has an exciting new drinks menu coming soon, so keep an eye out on their website for some fresh new flavours.
Wheelchair access: Yes
Kid friendly: No
Dog friendly: Yes

Dry Dock Pub

Planning a fun night in? Here’s a non-alcoholic drink or two we think you’d like

Aiden Winn

Aiden is an editorial and production staffer at Title Media. He’s constantly looking for opportunities to have fun and get creative, whether it be art, baking, storytelling… you name it!

The post 7 alcohol free bars around the UK for a fun sober social appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Illustration by Charlie Mackesy to celebrate the NHS’s 75th anniversary

The NHS is an essential part of all our lives. And it’s great to see how passionate the UK feels about protecting this beloved institution we’re so lucky to have. Particularly after the dedication and strength the staff demonstrated during the pandemic. As the service turns 75, let’s explore the many ways we can support the NHS this year.

1. Do you want to join the NHS team?

Joining the NHS as staff is one of the biggest things you can do to support it. Especially when there’s a staff shortage in many areas of the service, any new employee is a plus. With 1.3 million staff, the NHS is Europe’s biggest employer.

There are 350 careers available, so there is a job for you if you want to make a difference. But don’t fret – it doesn’t have to be a clinical role. The NHS employs electricians, administration, porters, accountants, and caterers. Take a look at more information here.

You can work for the NHS whatever your work or educational background is. And there are options to make the career move from another sector (it isn’t only open to the young, fresh graduates). The NHS has a wide range of employers, such as hospitals, emergency services, GP practices, and opticians, as well as monitoring services like NHS England.

Alternatively, there are roles in social care and public health to support people and protect their health. Learn more about careers in the NHS here.

Read more: Beat the ageism game. How to create a great CV when you’re over 50

2. Are you bloody brilliant?

Thanks to their kindness, blood donors save thousands of lives every day. But there is still an urgent need for more supplies. The NHS requires 5000 blood donations every day and 135,000 new donors every year.

Although it may seem disconcerting to some, there is always a member of staff by your side to make sure you’re all right. And, there’s usually a cheeky bicky and squash after, to up your sugars.

Most people aged between 17 and 65 can give blood. However, the NHS specifically needs 40,000 more Black donors to support the growing demand and treat sickle cell disease. If you feel like you can help and support the NHS as it turns 75, click here for more information.

Winner of the ‘Our Partners’ category for the NHS staff & volunteers FUJIFILM competition. Photo: Mary McConnell & Jenny Brodie

3. Could you volunteer locally?

NHS and CARE Volunteer Responders allow you to support the NHS, its patients, and people through social care. A dedicated app makes this work flexible – roles are advertised here if you are interested.

Other volunteer roles include companionship for patients, being a first responder, fundraising, and supporting charities. Or you could even become a hospital radio DJ! There are more details here.

4. Are you on the NHS Organ Donor Register?

If you decide to donate your organs after you die, you will save or transform the life of up to nine lives, and more by donating tissue.

You can register your decision here. But remember, it is always a good idea to discuss this with your loved ones so that they are in the know.

Winner of the ‘Our Environment’ category for the NHS staff & volunteers FUJIFILM competition. Photo: Joe Cartwright

5. What is the NHS1000 miles challenge?

To mark the 75^th birthday of the NHS, you can join the NHS1000-mile challenge and commit to walking, running, swimming, or cycling 1000 miles this year. That may sound impossible, but on average it’s only 2.74 miles per day – so let’s get those steps in.

Participants are encouraged to keep a record of their weekly miles and share their progress via Twitter every Sunday night using the hashtag #NHS1000miles.

Let’s not forget – physical activity is great for our physical and mental health. We should all aim to be active every day to improve our sleep, clear our minds, and boost our energy.

It’s free to take part in, but there is the option to get sponsored. You can set up a Just Giving page here and this spreadsheet will allow you to track your miles. To get started, try the NHS Couch to 5K or attend your local park run. Good luck!

6. Do you want to transform the health of the nation?

The health revolution that has taken place over the last 75 years would not be possible without the 230+ NHS charities located in the UK.

By volunteering and donating to NHS charities, you can support research, renovation, technologies, and the staff, who help the NHS transform the health and wellbeing of the nation. If you are interested in offering your support, learn more about it here.

7. Did you know you can get involved in research?

Research is the foundation of the NHS. And further research will play an important part in shaping the future of the NHS by discovering life-saving treatments, uncovering the secrets behind diseases, and developing the answers to the problems causing ill health today.

It is super easy for us all to get involved and help design research studies and advise what the priorities for the future should be. Get in touch here with questions you want the NHS to find the answers for, find research applications up for review, and decide what research gets funded.

To support the NHS as it turns 75, take part in a study, pop over to your GP and ask for information on trials or studies in your area. Or click here to sign up for alerts.

Photo: Nicolas Leclerq

From everyone at Silver, happy birthday NHS and thank you for everything you do. Here’s to many more years of revolutionary healthcare and outstanding kindness.

Click here for more NHS birthday events and news.

Beth Pratt

Beth is one of Silver’s interns. She loves reading and studying literature. Entering her final year of university, Beth still finds time to dance, swim, and have a pint with friends. Her favourite hobby is going to coffee shops, if you can call it a hobby!

The post 7 ways to support the NHS – things you can do appeared first on Silver Magazine.

It’s not uncommon to get lost in a shopping frenzy and commercial madness over the festive period. We all want to celebrate, forget our troubles, and have fun. But if you’re wondering how you can give back at Christmas, here are a few ideas.

As a start, instead of buying gifts for people that you know they won’t use, consider giving back in their name. Here’s a bunch of inspiration for you…. 

1. Dedicate a tree, Woodland Trust

When summer comes round, we’re blessed to have such luscious green areas to explore in this country. Woodland Trust is the largest woodland conservation charity in the UK.

You can dedicate a tree, or entire areas of woodland to a loved one from £20. Choose the woods their tree is in, and even add a bench or marker.

Upon your dedication, you’ll receive a map, information on the woods, and a certificate you can gift to the person. Bring tree-hugging to a whole new level.

For more information, or to donate visit Woodland Trust

2. Donate a Book, Book Trust

(Image: Book Trust – Illustration by Kate Hindley)

Bring some Christmas magic to a vulnerable child, or a child in care. Donating to the Book Trust will help them gift books to children who need them. And you’ll receive a certificate you can personalise in honour of someone.

For more information, or to donate go to Book Trust

3. Donate for a homeless person, Crisis

(Image: Crisis)

We know it’s a struggle for homeless people to stay warm in the winter. It’s true that you can help out at various Crisis centres over the season – helping to cook and serve Christmas lunch, volunteer on Boxing Day etc. But often these volunteer slots get filled up quite quickly.

Don’t despair if you aren’t able to help in person. Donating to Crisis will help provide a place to stay for a homeless person, and go towards all the food and festivities that are organised.

For more information, or to donate visit Crisis 

4. Buy Christmas dinner for a dog or animal, Miracle’s Mission

(Image: Pexels)

For dogs and cats waiting for their forever home, donating to Miracle’s Mission can provide them with a meal or toy. There’s loads of ways your donation can help.

It’s not just people who love to celebrate! Miracle’s Mission is a UK registered animal welfare charity working to provide safety and support to animals in need worldwide. Working predominantly in the UK, Borneo & Egypt, the charity is ever expanding to help animals in need worldwide.

Fore more information, or to donate for an animal in need, visit Miracle’s Mission

5. Buy a meal and someone will get one for free, Frankie and Benny’s in partnership with Feeding Britain 

(Image: Frankie and Benny’s)

Frankie and Benny’s has partnered with Feeding Britain this festive season. For every turkey meal they sell, they’ll donate £1 to Feeding Britain. The charity helps provide access to good, quality food to those in need. We’d say eat out to help out, but that slogan, ahem, has been taken. 

For every dinner bought, Frankie and Benny’s donate £1 to Feeding Britain – which is the cost of a meal for one person in need, according to the charity.

Sasha Storey, Frankie & Benny’s Head of Brand, said: “Frankie & Benny’s is a restaurant brand with families at its core, so it’s really important for us that we support other families in need at this time of year.

“The cost of living crisis will be hard for so many and we must remember to try to help others now and in the future as best we can.”

For more information, or to donate visit Feeding Britain

6. Send a child a secret Santa, Action for Children

(Image: Action for Children)

Send a present to a vulnerable child with Action for Children. Not all children will experience a magical Christmas with plenty of presents under the tree. 

However, you could change this for one child. Donate £25 to Action for Children, and they can provide a vulnerable child with a Christmas present this year.

For more information, or to give, visit Action for Children 

7. Jelly drops for dementia, Jelly Drops

(Image: Jelly Drops)

Not a charitable donation, but Jelly Drops can be gifted to the elderly or those with dementia. They are sugar free sweets designed for water intake, for those who struggle to stay hydrated. Made of 95% water and full of electrolytes, but consumed in a solid form. Provide a way for independent hydration to those who otherwise struggle.

Purchasing some for your own elderly family members or even donating to a local dementia care home would be a perfect way to give back to the older generation of society.

For more information, or to purchase Jelly Drops visit their website

8. Donate a shoebox, Samaritans Purse

(Image: Samaritians Purse)

Buy a shoebox gift for a child through Samaritans Purse. You can choose the gender and age of a child you’d like to gift to. Then pick the items – soft toys, a ball, or music instrument, along with an essentials kit. Samaritans Purse will pack and send the shoebox you created. 

For more information, or to create your Shoebox visit Samaritans Purse

9. Gifts that give, Macmillan Cancer Support

(Image: Macmillan)

Unfortunately cancer now effects 1 in 2 of us. Many people and families are still living with cancer, which can make Christmas an unsettling time, and harder to enjoy.

Macmillan has plenty of gifts you can donate, to help provide a security and support to someone facing cancer this season.

You can also make donations in someone’s name. Starting from £10, which would help pay for supporting a child’s grief, or £32 which would pay a nurse for an hour to support a cancer patient. 

To donate a gift visit Macmillan’s website

10. Send a gift, Unicef 

(Image: Unicef)

For children living in areas of disaster, where hunger, disease, and violence is part of daily life, Unicef ensures as many children as possible are protected from these threats. 

Send a gift in a family member’s name through Unicef to help protect these children. You can pick gifts from 200 bars of soap, measles vaccines, or even delivering a baby. 

Unicef will post a card for free, to the person you’ve dedicated your donation to. 

For more information and to send a gift, visit Unicef

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Ideas for ways to give back this Christmas appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Have you ever wondered how you can help to save the oceans?

It is easy to feel inadequate and useless next to a problem so large. But this is far from the truth; the ‘average’ person can make a big difference to the environment. And yes, that means you.

The smallest of differences to your lifestyle and daily tasks can make a huge impact on the world we live in. So how can we help save the oceans?

Here are five easy changes you can make:

1. Shopping for sustainable seafood options

Start by making sure the fish you are purchasing has been harvested using safe methods.

Overfishing means that there are not enough of a fish species left to sustain a healthy population, and this can take decades to rectify. In some cases, where a fish species is removed from an environment, the whole ecosystem can collapse.

Buying fish sustainably reduces overfishing, maintains marine biodiversity and often contains more vitamins and minerals, which means it helps us too.

Do these things…

– Check for an MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) label, this blue tick means that the fish is considered to have been fished at a sustainable level.

– Ask your fishmonger – They are required to tell you everything they know about the fish they are selling.

– The Marine Conservation Society uses scientific research to provide consumers with information about marine life. Every year they create a Fish Guide to help you make sustainable choices about your fish.

2. Plastic free alternatives

Single use plastics such as plastic bottles can last up to 500 years in the ocean. These are some easy adjustments you can make to reduce this damage and save marine life…

– Carry a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic bottles on a day or night out.

– Avoid plastic cutlery and straws, invest in metal straws.

– Take a cloth bag with you when you leave to do your food shop

– It may be a shock to find out that chewing gum actually contains plastic. This means you can recycle it!

3. Making easy and yummy seafood swaps

Through this website you can choose the fish or seafood you’d like to eat, and you will be provided with the best alternatives in terms of taste, sustainability, nutrition and price. Making small changes such as sources and variety of seafood can reduce the over-farming and production of specific species.

Here are some quick examples:

– Buying cod produced in the UK is currently an extremely unsustainable option. So if you do fancy cod for dinner, look for cod that has been caught in the waters surrounding Iceland, as the stocks are still healthy.

– Scallops and mussels farmed in the UK are great because they have a low environmental impact. So are an amazing alternative to prawns imported from other countries.

– Popular fish such as salmon and tuna are often farmed intensively. So go for healthier and eco-friendly options like trout or herring.

4. Protect the beaches

By 2050 there could be more plastic in the sea than fish and leaving waste on the beach means that it’s likely to end up in the ocean and destroy marine life. When you leave the beach after a lovely sunny day, make sure that you’re only leaving your footprints.

By 2050 there could be more plastic in the sea than fish

– Use sea-safe sun-cream! Two of the most frequently used ingredients in sun cream, oxybenzone and octinoxate, are deadly to corals and causes them to bleach, which can be fatal. However, you can use reef-safe sun cream that doesn’t include these ingredients which is especially important in tropical areas.

– There are green alternatives to most products out there – did you know that you can buy eco-friendly surf boards? Even greener picnic blankets and sandals, so watch out for eco-friendly substitutes before heading to the beach this summer.

– Clean up your local beaches, helping to clear small and easily forgotten debris will prevent it from flying into the ocean.

Have an eco-friendly barbecue

5. Conserve water

Conserving water saves energy, which is needed to filter, heat and pump water into homes, so reducing the amount of water you use daily will reduce your carbon footprint. Maintaining water in our ecosystems helps to keep aquatic habitats full of fish species and other animals like otters.

There are lots of ways to easily save little bits of water here and there, it all adds up.

– Turn the tap off while brushing your teeth. A running tap can waste more than six litres of water per minute

– Use a bowl in the sink when washing fruit, vegetables, or dishes. You can then use the waste water to water your plants.

– Check your property regularly for leaks on your internal plumbing.

6. Donate and volunteer

There are hundreds of different charities dedicated to bettering the state of the ocean, who do amazing work but run on funds donated by kind people around the world. It is easier than ever to click a few buttons and donate as little as £1 to ocean conservation. Alternatively, get stuck in and volunteer for beach clean-ups, lectures and campaigns.

Some links you may find useful:

Donate – Coast Magazine has a good roundup of organisations where your money would be most welcome

Volunteering opportunities – check this link on the Marine Conservation Soc site

Volunteering – get involved with beach cleans. Find your nearest clean-up gang on the Beach Cleans site

Fancy diving a bit deeper into longer term plans for the oceans? Read the MCS strategy booklet

7. Educate yourself!

Immerse yourself in media and literature to expand your knowledge of the ocean. The more you know about the sea and how your carbon footprint affects the life inside it, the easier it will be to take small steps towards the rejuvenation of ocean life. Some further reading…

World Ocean Day

WWF (World Wildlife Fund)

GVI

Blue Marine Foundation

Ocean Conservation Trust

Millie Owens

www.titlemedia.co.uk

The post 7 ways you can help to save the oceans appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Sometimes, the obvious things to do might not be the best ideas. And in some cases, can be more of a hindrance than a help. So what can you do that will genuinely help Ukraine?

Money in many forms

The top priority – and something we can do easily from home – is donate money. The Red Cross and the UNHCR Refugee Agency are two obvious choices. Here is a link from the Ukrainian Institute London that includes a long list of reputable charities to choose from, all of which make sure your money will go where it is really needed. The aid workers on the ground in Ukraine and its borders are well placed to ensure this happens.

For cryptocurrency users, the Ukrainian vice prime minister Mykhailo Federov has posted crypto wallet addresses where people can securely donate, such as Uniswap, DMarket and Solana Foundation. Federov has called on all crypto exchanges to block the addresses of all Russian users and praised those who have stepped up. Binance has not joined in, with the CEO citing “financial freedom” and “libertarian” reasons, so that might be one to avoid.

Getting money there directly

A clever way to help out is to pay for stays in Airbnbs in Ukraine where people are being housed for free by generous hosts. Here is some information from Airbnb about how you can donate this way.

Also, Etsy is waiving all fees for Ukrainian sellers, so you can buy digital products direct. Obviously it’s not a great time for people to be making extra things. But you can pay for downloadable stuff like crochet patterns, art, colouring pages, posters, and so on. Search ‘digital files’ on Etsy.com, click ‘All filters’, then under the location section, add Ukraine in the custom box, and voila.

What kind of stuff can you actually donate?

The crisis in Ukraine is not an excuse to clear out your wardrobe. Or offload the bag of stuff you were going to give to the charity shop that has been sitting in the boot of the car for months. In most cases, you are better off giving old clothes, toys and household items to a local charity.

The refugees are streaming into developed countries such as Poland and Hungary where they are being provided with clothes and blankets as well as places to stay.

The things that are really needed are medical supplies and sanitary products. It can be hard for people who don’t work in medical procurement to obtain medical supplies in the quantities needed. So it is often better to donate money to charities and organisations that are equipped to do this.

When you’ve left everything you know behind because of war, keeping in touch with friends and family becomes critical

Sanitary products, such as pads, tampons, nappies and wet wipes, are always welcome when people are crossing borders en masse often with just the clothes on their backs and whatever they can carry. If you are keen to donate things rather than money, these are the sort of items you can drop off to local donation points. And be safe in the knowledge that they should get to people who need them.

Some organisations are also collecting foodstuffs, such as tinned goods, rice, pulses etc, but check. Not everyone is taking the same stuff.

Cheap burner phones with pre-loaded SIM cards are another way to help out. When you’ve left everything you know behind because of war, keeping in touch with friends and family becomes critical. A lot of European telcos have stepped up to offer free data, minutes and phones to refugees. Check your own provider to see what they’re doing to help and whether you can get involved.

Make your voice heard

If you’re less than impressed with the government’s response to the growing humanitarian crisis, write to your MP. They are obliged to reply to every letter from their constituents. And it has never been easier to send off a strongly worded missive. WriteToThem is a simple way to make sure your email lands in your MP’s inbox.

And of course it is important to stay informed. On Twitter, it is easy to follow the UK journalists who are doing some fine reporting from the frontline. But also seek out Ukrainian journalists who are giving a voice to people who are quite literally under fire. Reporters Without Borders is a great place to find out about the heroic reporting that is coming from locations. Locations far more dangerous than Silver’s cushy offices. As we write in safety and comfort, our hats are off to these brave reporters who are doing amazing work to keep us all informed.

Ukrainian Institute London
Red Cross Ukraine campaigns

Georgia Lewis

In a career that has spanned Australia, the Middle East and the UK, Georgia has written about all sorts of things, including sex, cars, food, oil and gas, insurance, fashion, travel, workplace safety, health, religious affairs, glass and glazing… When she’s not writing words for fun and profit, she can usually be found with a glass of something French and red in her hand.

The post How to genuinely help the people of Ukraine appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Voluteering at Christmas is nothing new, but often local community Christmas lunch schemes are actually overwhelmed with volunteers. Or charities might prefer if you simply made a financial donation. Whilst that’s still supportive of course, you might want to roll up your sleeves and do something practical. So how to volunteer at Christmas?

Lots of charities work with children, young people, and the homeless to help them have a better Christmas. But as we get older, Christmas can also be a depressing time for lots of people. No one wants to be alone, and no one wants to be out in the cold with no warm meal.

We’ve put together a list of charities, organisations, and ideas to help put a smile on some faces out there this Christmas.

So how can you as an individual help?

1. Donate your old phone

O2 have teamed up with HUBBUB to create Community Calling, a way to donate your old smartphones to someone in need. You post your old phone, it gets data-wiped, delivered to someone without access to the internet, and then O2 provides them with 12 months free data and access to free digital skills training.

With internet access, things like finding a job, finding a local food bank, or being able to contact friends and family is important, and many people don’t have access to this.

Learn how to donate your old phones and where to send them here

2. Get some ethically-made socks

One thing people may not think to donate is socks, but shelters are crying out for them. As many cold homeless people will attest to, a new, clean pair of socks can be the difference between a good and bad day.

For every pair of socks bought from their site, Stand4Socks donates another pair of socks to homeless people. So far, over 150,000 socks have been donated already.

Maybe this year, you could get some ethically-made socks for your loved ones that’ll provide someone on the streets with warm feet!

Buy some stylish socks and support the homeless here

3. Spend time rather than money

Many people tend to think about just giving homeless people money, but human compassion can be huge. To do something different yet kind, maybe get them a hot drink or some warm food, sit with them for a bit, and listen to what they have to their story. Many homeless people have said their loneliness can be overwhelming; why not make a new friend and provide them with company? They spend a lot of time being invisible.

4. Volunteer this year

Nursing homes are full of elderly people who don’t have family to spend time during the holidays and for most of them, it can be get miserable. This year, volunteer at your local nursing home. Get in contact and ask if there’s anything you can do to help.

Your local council can help with finding places that need support. You can also check your local Facebook community groups to find contacts and opportunities.

5. Give a helping hand

Alternatively, if you know of someone spending Christmas alone, like a neighbour, invite them round. It seems like a small thing, but it could make their year.

There may also be vulnerable people in your area who just need a little help this year; it could be as simple as helping them with their shopping or putting the bins out for them.

6. Support food banks

The Trussell Trust has been providing emergency food to people locked in poverty around the UK for years. Their food banks provide emergency food and parcels containing a mixture of necessary things. They ‘advise for people to check their local food bank’s website for what items they are most in need of’.

You can check where your local drop-off points are and what items they are most in need of here

7. Period poverty

Period poverty is a very real thing that some women in our society are battling as result of lack of access to sanitary items.

Every woman should have access to sanitary products, no matter their circumstances, which is why Freedom4Girls are fighting against period poverty in the UK and worldwide.

Help the cause, get involved, and donate here

What help is out there for young people and children?

8. The Children’s Society

The Children’s Society looks out for kids who are threatened by abuse, exploitation, and neglect , they help them to break free from their cycle of abuse and crime and your donations can offer amazing things from finding a homeless child somewhere to live, to help providing counselling.

Donate to the cause here

9. Book Trust

Book Trust is an organisation that helps gift special books to vulnerable children, giving them an escape from their lives and lets them get lost in a world of fiction and fun.

Give a child some escapism here

10. Centre Point

Centre Point focuses on young homeless people, helping them learn life skills to live independently, provide them with a warm and safe space to stay, and more. Young people these days are faced with homelessness frequently and while things are getting back to normal, the effects of the crisis are still active and the outlook for young people is still precarious.

Donate to help a young homeless person here

Things to take away

Be aware of people’s pride

Not everyone feels comfortable asking for help. When offering assistance to someone, try to avoid using patronising terminology. Our advice? Don’t make it a big deal, just ask.

If they say no, don’t be offended. At least they know you’re there for them.

Not everyone is visibly struggling

You might have a couple of friends who say they hate Christmas, or maybe a family member who says they’d rather be alone. This is completely fine if it’s the truth, but we know people don’t always admit to struggling.

Make it your quest this year to just check in and see how some of your friends and loved ones are doing. Christmas can be a depressing time for some, and a conversation may do the world of good.

Alcohol at Christmas – are you struggling?

Are you affected by any of these issues?

Crisis at Christmas
Samaritans
Shelter
Childline
CALM – Campaign Against Living Miserably
Mind – mental health charity

Lili Lowe

Lili works across all the channels; writing articles, taking photographs, creating content, and designing eye-capturing imagery. She’s an animal-lover who cries just seeing a picture of a baby sloth.

The post Giving back – 10 ways you can volunteer or help at Christmas appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Also known as Pearlies, the Pearly Kings and Queens are actually a charitable organisation, traditionally embodying working class culture in London. They freely give their time to fundraising for nominated charities, in order to support people in need and provide a better way of living. Due to their colourful working class roots, Cockney Rhyming Slang is very much a part of the Pearly tradition, and further personifies the London character.

Pearly Queen Diane

We spoke with Diane Gould, Pearly Queen of St Pancras, and Jack and Wendy, Pearly King and Pearly Queen of Royal Kensington and The Borough respectively.

“Pearlies have always been collectors for charity,” explains Diane. “And we showcase our tradition in a positive light through talks and singalongs. My whole time is in keeping the Pearly tradition vibrant through educational talks to groups of all ages and helping charities whenever I can to raise fun and funds.”

It’s a family affair

You need to be part of the family to be a Pearlie. Diane explained how Pearly titles pass down through generations in London. And while some Pearlies have now moved away, they still hold their original London titles.

Diane, Pearly Queen of St Pancras, with Pearly cab!

Going back to their roots, Henry Croft, born in 1861 London, was raised in a workhouse orphanage in St Pancras. After leaving the orphanage at the age of 13, Croft became a street sweeper and rat catcher, and the costermongers (street traders) soon caught his eye with their jazzy outfits, which were usually trousers that had been decorated with pearl buttons found by market traders.

Croft used this to fashion himself a pearly suit in the late 1870s, which brought attention to him and his fundraising. The first organised Pearly society was established in 1911 in Finchley, North London.

At Croft’s funeral in 1930, over 400 people attended, and there was national media coverage of the event. His name was a memorable one, and his death was a sad occasion for everyone in London and many people in the country.

Pearly titles pass down through generations in London

A speech that accompanied a 1934 memorial of ‘The Original Pearly King’ stated that he had raised over £5000 for people suffering in London hospitals. Thus, a tradition was born.

Today, there are Pearlies of all ages in London. They start from new born babies who have titles of Prince and Princesses, whose births are accompanied by a Pearly christening. The eldest Pearly is 93-years-old and still putting on her regalia.

Jack, Pearly King of Royal Kensington, and Wendy, Pearly Queen of Borough

Jack James, Pearly King of Royal Kensington, and Wendy Loftus, Pearly Queen of Borough

“I was born into the Pearly tradition,” says Jack, “and have had my titles passed down through the family. We have over a century’s worth of history within the Pearlies, and we also hold one of the original titles of Stonebridge Park.

“I was actually in the local newspaper when I was a baby for being the youngest Pearly King. Usually, you would be born as a Prince or Princess, but my Great-Grandad had sadly passed away, so I automatically took over his King title.”

“I was actually in the local newspaper when I was a baby for being the youngest Pearly King. Usually, you would be born as a Prince or Princess”

Not just anybody can become a Pearly King or Queen. Jack explained how, to become an original Pearly, you have to be born or married into it.

“It is a family tradition and is passed through the generations. However, we do allow people to be Prides of the association. A Pride is either a close family friend, or friend of the Association that shows interest. A Pearly Pride will take the King or Queen’s title that brought them into the association and eventually, if we have titles that aren’t being used, we can loan them a title to become a King or Queen.”

Wendy was asked by Jack to be his Pearly Pride as she was so interested in the Pearlies that she already had her own suit. After months of commitment to the association, Jack’s family loaned her the title of Pearly Queen of the Borough, which had been an idle title in his family. She’s thrilled.

“I was honoured to have been asked, and I am so proud now to have the loan of the Queen title,” beams Wendy.

What are the responsibilities?

Jack told us how their main focus is charity work.

“Everything we do and any money we raise is distributed to charities of the association’s choice. We are a registered charity ourselves, but all collections and money donated directly to us is passed straight to local charities.

“We all represent our boroughs, so any events within that borough we get invited to. We also hold our own charity events to raise money. We take most jobs that we are asked to do, as we like to raise awareness when we can.

“There’s a whole variety of events, from visiting hospices and care homes, to the opening ceremony of the London Olympics. My favourite event that sticks in my mind is the Queen’s Jubilee. You’ll often find us at local pubs doing a knees up or at street parties around the place.

“In essence, we do anything and everything London.”

This sentiment was echoed by Wendy. “The Pearlies are great fundraisers and we help support many local charities. Some Pearlies have even taken part in events such as the London Landmarks Half Marathon, while some have fun the rest of us are at the finish line handing out the medals. We are unique to London, which makes us special, and people love to see us at events. Particularly the older generation, who love the nostalgia.

“My proudest moment so far was having the honour to lay the wreath at Leytonstone war memorial for VJ Day; this was close to my heart as my Dad worked on the Burma Railway and sadly did not come home.”

Ashleigh Rose Harman, Pearly Queen of Royal Kensington; Jack James, Pearly King of Royal Kensington; and Wendy Loftus, Pearly Queen of Borough

Read more: How to start searching for your family tree

What does an average day look like?

“We all try to give as much as we can around our day-to-day work life and commitments,” says Jack. We have our largest event in October every year which is our annual Harvest Festival on the first Sunday of the month. This is where you will see the largest gathering of Pearlies, as we all try to come together for that. Unfortunately due to Covid, the Harvest Festival cannot go ahead this year which would have been its 145^th year. This just means our 150^th anniversary will be a big one!

“Most of us have full-time jobs, and do our Pearly duties when we can, or when there are events to attend. A normal day, for example on the day of the Harvest Festival, sees everybody waking up and having a cuppa Rosy Lee before making sure our suits are in the best condition. We sew all of our buttons by hand, and make all of our hats ourselves. We’d then head into the event in full regalia, leaving an hour in advance to prepared for the many photos we get asked for. You can guarantee that, at some point, ‘Knees Up Mother Brown’ or ‘Doing the Lambeth Walk (OI)’ is being sung!”

Still working in the pandemic

Despite Covid-19 and the lack of events thus far this year, Wendy explained how the Pearlies are still giving their time to their society.

We sew all of our buttons by hand, and make all of our hats ourselves

“Unfortunately because of lockdown, we haven’t been able to get out much, so I have been putting the time to good use by sewing on lots more buttons. It takes time and dedication to do this, and as you can imagine, the more buttons there is, the heavier the suit becomes.”

Are the Pearlies dying out, or are they becoming more popular?

“It has started to die out for a couple of different reasons. Mainly, it’s because the older Pearlies have now passed away and either have no family, or their family do not wish to carry it on.

“Luckily though, we have the Pearly Prides to be able to keep this amazing tradition alive, and there’s also a passion and drive from the younger generation to keep it going.

“People are always surprised when they attend Pearly events when they see how many younger Pearlies there actually are. With today’s lifestyle, where everything is done on social media, it allows us to put ourselves out there. I look after the social media accounts of the association and try to keep it fresh and up to date.

“Last year, we attended Brighton Pride for the first time ever, and we were taken aback to see how many people recognised who us Pearlier were.”

What’s the best bit about being a Pearly?

Both Jack and Wendy’s favourite part of being a Pearly is the pride that comes with wearing those pearls. Jack said:

“For me personally, it’s the pride of being a Pearly. I love nothing more than when I put on my suit. I feel that I am carrying my Nan’s legacy and that she is with me each time. I love the family feel when all the Pearlies are together, and I love doing my bit for the community and its local charities.”

When I put my buttons on, I’m proud to be part of the fabric, and of dear old London Town

Wendy expressed a similar wave of emotion, stating:

“I love being part of a happy and historical family. My favourite thing to do is sing and dance, and it’s great when all of us are together and we can have a good ol’ knees up.

“I also love the social side of it and getting to meet new people. When I put my buttons on, I’m proud to be part of the fabric, and of dear old London Town.”

Jack and Wendy both felt it was important to spread the passion and happiness that comes with the Pearly community, and they want you to know about it, too.

“We are still here and working hard to keep our heritage and beautiful tradition alive. We do everything out of pride and love, and it’s a tradition that needs to stay alive, as it is part of London’s history.”

How can you be a part of the community?

While we can’t become Pearly Kings or Queens ourselves, there are a number of ways that we can help out and join in with the association.

You can follow them on social media to keep updated on what they’re doing or contact them for more information.

Facebook: The Original Pearly Kings and Queens Association Est 1875

Instagram: @originalpearlies

Website: thepearlies.org.uk

Carly Pepperell

Carly gets to do everything under the sun, including writing, editing, taking photos, creating stories, and swanning around at launches. She can down a glass of Prosecco without pausing for breath, and aims to be the youngest Pulitzer winner ever.

The post Behind the scenes with the Pearly Kings and Queens appeared first on Silver Magazine.

There is plenty we can all do as individuals that will make a difference. But we have to get on board. The two biggest things we can all do to make a vast difference is eat less (no!?) meat, and stop flying. These two things have an enormous impact on our environment.

But there are things everyone can do at home. We spoke to ethical expert Atlanta Cook for ideas that everyone can activate.

STOP WITH THE BLAME

We may be the generation that knows how to reuse and repair, the generation that doesn’t waste resources, or knows how to ‘make do and mend’. But it is also our generation, and our parents’, which are responsible for inventing plastics, developing motor cars, and improving methodology for plundering natural resources. Think also deforestation, the population explosion, methods of large scale manufacture and waste, and intensive farming.

So giving it the old ‘we do our bit, it’s the youngsters who have a disposable life’ grumble just won’t do. Nor is it helpful.

Firstly, the youngsters all have parents who have formed their lifestyle habits, let’s not forget that – they didn’t learn this stuff all on their own.

Secondly, pointing fingers and blaming other people never fixes any kind of problem. We are in this together. And we need to fix it together. Let’s get this sorted out!

THERE IS STUFF YOU CAN DO

[perfectpullquote align=”right” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]…are the measures we take as individuals actually worth bothering with?[/perfectpullquote]

So what can you do? In what feels like a world on the brink of collapse, are the measures we take as individuals actually worth bothering with?

The answer is definitely yes. And the more of us that take action, the better. If we all do our bit it will make a difference. Are you starting to see a pattern? Your input is really valuable. We all need to get on board. Not waste energy blaming other people.

• Switch to @ecotricity – they are the greenest/most ethical by miles.
• Switch lights off in empty rooms.
• Turn your thermostat down to 12-14, degrees which is a normal British Summer’s day, and wear more layers if you’re cold.
• Stop using your car for short journeys; instead allow yourself the time to walk so you get exercise and meet people on the way, both of which will greatly reduce stress and lift your mood!
• Order a veg box from a local grower, so you both support the local economy and eat more seasonal veg.
• Make more time to visit or chat to friends – it builds emotional resilience and your community network.

• Grow bee-friendly plants on any tiny patch or pot you have. Plant trees if you have space. Manicured lawns are useless monocultures.
• Buy less, but buy better. Is it organic, is it fair trade, is it eco or ethical? Do you really need it?
• Spending money to buy more stuff makes people dissatisfied and unhappy. Sharing what you have with friends, and spending more time with them, will make you much happier
• Give to someone’s favourite charity as a gift instead of pressies. Do they really need yet another ‘thing’?

Thinking of a nice pressie for someone? How about a subscription to Silver Magazine? All our paper is ethically-sourced!

Finally… it sounds so simple, but reducing your ‘energy’ consumption is crucial, and all of the simple lifestyle changes you can think of make a cumulative difference. They really do. Whether it’s reducing food transport miles, turning down the heating, or switching off your car engine whilst idling; all of it reduces your carbon footprint.

DO YOU EVEN KNOW WHAT’S ALLOWED IN YOUR RECYCLING?

Your coffee cups
You can’t recycle takeaway coffee cups. They’re made from two layers – the inside is plastic to make it waterproof – and it’s not possible to separate the plastic from the paper layers at recycling point. Take your own cups to the coffee shop!

Greasy pizza boxes
During recycling, paper doesn’t get heated. So your greasy or oily cardboard takeaway containers are no good. Try and keep them clean.

Dirty plastic
Rinse out stuff and make sure the food etc is gone from it. A bit like the greasy pizza box, the dirt might mean the plastic doesn’t make it to recycling.

Look for the codes
On plastics there’s a triangle shape with arrows in it and some numbers and letters. If there’s a 7 in the triangle, it might not be recyclable. Choose a different triangle. And get to know your symbols.

Loo roll, tissues, kitchen roll
Same with these things. If they’re used, they’re going in the bin, not the recycling.

Mirrors
Yes they’re glass, but it’s not the kind of glass you can recycle. Try upcycling or donating mirrors instead.

Wrapping paper and sticky tape
There are recyclable wrapping papers but you need to check. Any of them that are glittery, foiled, textured, or shiny probably no good. And if there’s sticky tape on it, definitely no. Sticky tape cannot be recycled and will prevent paper from mulching properly. Think before you wrap.

Click here for information about Earth Day
For more support and advice on doing your bit, check Atlanta’s website

Carly Pepperell

Carly gets to do everything under the sun, including writing, editing, taking photos, creating stories, and swanning around at launches. She can down a glass of Prosecco without pausing for breath, and aims to be the youngest Pulitzer winner ever.

The post What YOU can do to be greener appeared first on Silver Magazine.