There’s a raft of data suggesting that many women are having more sex after the menopause. Good. Excellent in fact. Long may this continue.

And yet, the same time, changes to the vagina and vulva may be setting in, leading to increased UTIs, leaking, splitting skin, night-time loo trips…and painful sex. To my intense irritation, women are unlikely to be told about this at any point in our lives. Or the straightforward, effective and cheap solutions available to fix this.

Vaginas aren’t embarrassing, they’re a fact of life, and now is the time to tend them as carefully as any other part of your body.

The deeply unappealing cluster of symptoms is known – rather horribly – as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), and they are basically down to a lack of oestrogen. It’s also something that’s historically been spoken about in hushed voices, laughed at, or totally ignored. Studies suggest that it affects around eighty per cent of women. In reality, from years of interviewing menopausal women, I’d say that number is more likely to be 100 per cent, and especially as we head into our fifties and beyond.

I do know what I’m talking about…

I shan’t go into too much personal detail, but I have some experience here. After treatment for breast cancer, and having to come off HRT aged 51, the main menopause symptom I noticed – within just a few weeks – was vaginal dryness, pain, and skin so dehydrated that it split and bled. It felt like the ultimate insult to be honest. What’s more, nobody had so much as mentioned it as a possibility. It’s only because I write about menopause that I joined the dots myself.

I am grumpy about my experience, because anything to do with cancer treatment makes me feel cross. But I am far more angry about the sheer number of women suffering in silence. This is why menopause education is so vital. If you are reading this with a sense of recognition, please make a GP or practice nurse appointment. Yes, it’s awkward speaking to a healthcare professional about your private parts; but they have honestly heard it all before.

Once you develop GSM it is not going to resolve on its own. Left untreated, it will worsen. As I say, too few of us are even aware that a) the vagina and vulva are affected by peri/menopause, and b) that the best solution is appropriate for almost everyone.

You will perhaps have seen many remedies advertised, and I’d recommend avoiding most of them. You do not need expensive salon treatments. There is research on-going into laser treatments but it’s mostly pretty inconclusive.

What you do need is vaginal oestrogen

This is available on prescription and is applied directly to the area. It comes in the form of a cream, pessary, or ring. Normally you use it once a day for two weeks, and then twice a week indefinitely. Even if you have had a hormonal cancer, it is almost always considered absolutely safe (these are official guidelines obviously, I’m not a medic). There are very few women who are not allowed to use it, as it’s not systemic, meaning that it doesn’t affect the whole body. And you can also use it alongside HRT. There is no breast cancer risk (if you are wondering).

Between doses, a decent vaginal moisturiser can help with extra hydration and comfort. Again, you can ignore expensive options (though there are some rather nice ones available). They can be prescribed or bought over the counter. You may wish to use a lubricant during sex to reduce friction, and here I’d recommend the YES Water-based personal lubricant or Sutil Luxe.

If you can’t bear the thought of discussing this, all the solutions are available over the counter or even online. Including vaginal oestrogen, although this isn’t a cheap route.

Alongside all this, do your pelvic floor exercises, and do them religiously. The pelvic floor is a muscle just like any other, and it needs working out.

What I find staggering is how profoundly GSM can affect our lives. I have interviewed women whose relationships, confidence and daily comfort have been wrecked by it, as well as women post cancer who aren’t ‘allowed’ vaginal oestrogen.

Once I had a prescription my symptoms entirely resolved within a couple of weeks. Easy. But also, so pointlessly and time-wastingly hard.

Alice Smellie

Alice Smellie is a journalist writing for many national publications, including Daily Mail, Telegraph, and Marie Claire, and is co-author of Cracking the Menopause and Menopause Is Hot: Everything You Need to Know to Thrive with Mariella Frostrup, and a co-founder of campaign group, Menopause Mandate. She lives in Somerset with her three children and two dogs.

The post There’s a reason why your vagina is dry and unhappy appeared first on Silver Magazine.

You don’t need weeks of planning to give something she’ll genuinely love. These are some of our favourite last-minute Valentine’s gifts for her that still feel thoughtful, indulgent and special.

Elemis Superfood Essentials set, £54 (products worth £84 separately)

We love Elemis anything, but this is a fabulous gift for someone wanting a treat for their skin. A big old dose of ‘superfood’ hydration and glow, designed to feed your skin and nurture your complexion. Set includes Superfood Midnight Facial, Multi Mist, and Facial Oil.
Get it here

Laura Mercier Caviar Hydra Crème Lipstick – 520 Flame Challis, £36

Does anything say super-sexy as provocatively as a daring red lip? Providing up to eight hours of pigment-true wear, this hydrating formula resists creasing, feathering and fading, and is a win for more mature skins because of this. Drying down with a sculpting satin finish, it helps to nourish the skin, minimising the look of fine lines and dryness.
Get it here

Molton Brown Fiery Pink Pepper Eau de Parfum, 100ml, £140

Part of the exciting Molton Brown Pink Pepper range. Imagine a humid dusk in the tropics. Jewelled birds of paradise flaunt across warm air. The scent of crushed sweet spices drift over colourful rooftops. Entice curiosity with aromatic adventure. Smouldering. Sultry. Stirring. That’s what this scent is like…
Get it here

LUSH – You Are Lush bath bomb duo gift set, £12

Let your Valentine know how lush they really are with the creamy ‘Love Letter’. Then sweep them off their feet with the uplifting Life In Rosy Light bath bomb — sure to melt hearts and soften baths. Love this little limited edition set – grab it while you can.
Get it here

St. Tropez Cherry Macaron Self Tan Kit, £40

We’re a sucker for anything St. Tropez, and this limited-edition duo is a joy to use. The Classic Mousse delivers that familiar streak-free, natural-looking glow the brand does so well, while the new Cherry Hair & Body Mist adds a playful, indulgent scent that feels like a proper treat. A great pick for glow-getters who like their tan with a little extra fun.
Get it here

Givenchy Irresistible Eau de Parfum Nectar, 35ml £72, 50ml £100

This new addition to the Irresistible family is playful, indulgent and seriously moreish. Think juicy rose, creamy pistachio and a warm vanilla-wood base that lingers beautifully on the skin. It feels romantic without trying too hard, and we can’t stop spritzing it.
Get it here

Odylique Organic Rose Gift Set, £68.50

A beautifully put-together set for anyone who loves rose or craves calm, comforted skin. Inside you’ll find Odylique’s most-loved organic rose products to cleanse, tone and moisturise, all gentle, nourishing and quietly luxurious. A thoughtful, easy win.
Get it here

Subversive Scents by The Rolling Stones Sticky Fingers Gift Box, 100ml £105

This one’s bold, sultry and a little bit naughty. Patchouli, bourbon and deep, lingering warmth make this a fragrance that shifts effortlessly from day to night. The gift box and cheeky card seal the deal. Lazy gift? Maybe. Brilliant gift? Absolutely.
Get it here

KIKO Limited Edition Flirt Alert Heartstopper Shiny Lipstick, £22

Creamy, glossy and scented with cherry, this is pure Valentine energy in lipstick form. Shades range from everyday nudes to statement reds, and the formula feels rich without being heavy. Plus, the kiss-covered bullet is almost too cute to use. Almost.
Get it here

Neal’s Yard Remedies Vegan Wild Rose Beauty Balm, £43

A cult classic, now vegan. This multi-purpose balm cleanses, hydrates and boosts radiance in one simple step. We love it for dry patches, glow days and that gorgeous wild rose scent. One of those products you’ll keep reaching for.
Get it here

bareMinerals GEN NUDE Blonzer Blush + Bronzer, £27.50

A clever hybrid that gives skin a soft, rosy warmth, like a natural flush rather than full-on bronzer. Buildable, easy to blend and flattering on everyone. A grown-up upgrade from the bronzers we lived in back in the day, and we’re very into it.
Get it here

Marc Jacobs x Murakami Eau de Parfum, 50ml, from £90

A joyful reimagining of a classic, with Murakami’s iconic flowers decorating the Daisy bottle in vibrant colourways. The scent itself is creamy coconut, soft white peony and sweet praline, pretty, playful and very wearable. A collector’s piece that also smells lovely.

The pink, green and yellow will be available at Selfridges from 28 Jan, and will then launch on 25 Feb nationwide alongside the blue fragrance, but this one will remain exclusive to Boots. Shop Marc Jacobs other products here.

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The halcyon days of my simply getting into bed, plonking my head on the pillow and falling asleep without incident felt like a distant memory. Insomnia in perimenopause crept up on me – and made me utterly miserable.

It started with moderate tossing and turning. Then the itchy skin started. And geyser-like boob sweats. I was overheating so much that even sleeping naked on top of the duvet with the fan on and windows open wasn’t helping.

Before long, I was waking up at 3am every morning with humid knockers, feral hair, and anxiety. My brain chose that hour to relive teenage embarrassments, stuff I had to do for work, assorted family dramas, friendships that needed work, WhatsApp messages I’d forgotten to reply to…

Honestly, enough already!

So, I tried out a few solutions for a better night’s sleep, especially as the warm nights weren’t helping with my general overheating. Yay climate change. Rather than reaching for the sleeping tablets, I sought out drug-free options, with varying degrees of success.

Let’s start with pillows

Martian Dreams Hybrid Bamboo Pillow (£44.99)

Being way too warm has been my biggest obstacle to getting a decent night’s sleep, so what better place to start than with a cooling pillow? The excellently named Martian Dreams Hybrid Bamboo Pillow was a hit from the first night.

I was delighted to ditch my lumpy old pillow and put my head down on this firm but forgiving alternative. As well as genuinely feeling temperate against my fiery face all night, the memory foam is really supportive and I haven’t woken up with a cricked neck since making the pillow switch.

M-Club Restful Nights Pillow Spray (£7.50)

Moving more toward products specifically designed for the menopause, I followed my nose to M-Club Restful Nights Pillow Spray. Scented with lavender and chamomile, I’ve taken to drenching my pillow with it every night and now I don’t like to go to sleep without it. The combination of the spray’s scent and the cooling pillow has worked wonders.

The only drawback is the essential oils mean I have to wash my hair more than usual, lest I start looking like unctuous Aidan from And Just Like That. I’m not digging his return to Carrie Bradshaw’s life. But I digress…

Cooling serum

With my head feeling much cooler, it was time to see what I could do about everything from the neck down. A company called Lansinoh was recommended to me. When I checked them out online, I was unsure whether this was appropriate, as it appeared to be a festival of products for pregnant women and new mothers. As someone who has well and truly missed the baby boat, I was sceptical.

But it turns out there are products that work just as well on overheating, perimenopausal women as they do on those at the other end of their reproductive life. The Cooling Serum, which I slathered liberally on my decolletage, arms and thighs before bed, felt lovely and helped me fall asleep quickly. It’s not just for baby bumps. For an extra frisson of chilliness, I blasted myself with the fan after application.

A range of scented concepts…

I then veered into aromatherapy territory. It’s something I’ve never been particularly convinced by, but Lansinoh’s Calming Bedtime Butter was like going to sleep in a lovely, fragrant hug. Scented with lavender and chamomile, it’s a super-rich shea butter-based concoction that lulled me to sleep, alleviated the itchy skin. And left me with incredibly soft arms and legs.

M-Club Restful Nights Pulse Point Roller Oil (£7.50)

M-Club’s Restful Nights Pulse Point Roller Oil made me think of something you’d put on the wheels of your skates before a roller derby. This one didn’t seem to have much impact on my sleep, but it is a nice thing to roll on your wrists when you’re feeling a bit stressed, so that one is going to live on my desk rather than in my bedroom.

M-Club Restful Nights Oral Spray (£15)

Similarly, I wasn’t convinced by M-Club’s Restful Sleep Oral Supplement Spray. It’s allegedly peppermint-flavoured, but I just found it gave me weird morning breath. It was akin to when the price of Listerine inflates to £5, so you buy the supermarket’s own brand for £1.20 instead – and regret it pretty quickly.

Let’s look at patches

Menopeace Balancing Topical Patches (£14.69)

Moving swiftly on, I decided to add further patches to my life. Despite my ravaged sleep patterns, I’ve been enjoying the benefits of HRT patches, such as no more excruciatingly sore boobs and a significant reduction in wild mood swings. Menopeace Balancing Topical Patches come with the warning that its claim to “help balance and comfort menopausal symptoms … have not been evaluated by the FDA”. Pah! Surely I’ve ingested far worse things in my time, I thought, and put myself to bed with an eight-hour patch.

It would seem that patches infused with black cohosh (isn’t that a banned weapon?), gotu kola (isn’t that one of those Coke alternatives you find on holiday?), damiana, valerian, skull cap (I’m sure I saw them open for Iron Maiden back in the day…) and oatseed do indeed help with a good night’s sleep.

The patches don’t entirely eliminate the 3am wakey-wakeys. But I wasn’t waking up and obsessing about the time my oboe reed broke right before a performance assessment in 1991. Or wondering if I should just call that person to ask why they unfriended me on Facebook. Instead, it was more of a quick glance at the time, a “Fucksake, I don’t need to be up for hours!” and a swift return to the land of nod.

But the wildest result of my great sleep experiment…

Femallay Sage Woman Tea (£11.02)

…came as a mug of herbal tea. Femally Sage Womanis a loose-leaf tea and naturally, I don’t have a teapot. So, I infused two generous teaspoons of the stuff in a mug. It was the first cup of tea I’ve ever drunk that required a toothpick at the end. My husband asked me if this brew would just cause me to go to the loo all night.

It turned out that I didn’t need to worry about wearing out the carpet between the bedroom and the bathroom. I slept like the dead. Right through the night. For about 10 hours. Around 8:30am, my eyelids creaked open like forgotten loft hatches. I wandered downstairs in a daze and have no memory of mainlining my usual morning vat of Earl Grey. My husband seemed concerned for me.

I was concerned for me. Around 9:30am, we ventured out for a walk and a coffee. It was a genuine effort to do a walk I do most days without even thinking about it. When we made it to one of our usual cafes, I had a strong coffee, which helped a bit. But for the rest of the day, I was slow off the mark. Which was a bummer, as I had a lot to do.

It was nice to have a solid block of uninterrupted sleep without boob sweats, anxiety or itchy skin, but I think I’ll save the tea for the next time I either fancy a serious weekend lie-in or I’m jetlagged and need to force myself to sleep my way back to local time.

I have no idea whether it was the red raspberry leaf, sage, lemon balm, verbena, vitex berries (what berries?!), spearmint, lemon peel or liquoriceroot that sent me into a stratospheric sleep.

So now I am armed with an anti-insomnia arsenal

I have soothing, calming, fragrant patches and potions – and a truly excellent pillow – that whilst not completely eliminating the sleep issues, have certainly made me stop dreading bedtime. And I have tea that will knock me into the Land of Nod whenever I really need it. Most of all, sleeping better has improved my mood, productivity, and anxiety, all without resorting to drugs.

That’s definitely a result.

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 Tried and tested: Remedies for insomnia in perimenopause appeared first on Silver Magazine.

As host of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, the UK is set to welcome the world’s top teams in what promises to be a game-changing tournament.

The tournament

The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 is set to be a landmark sporting event for the UK, with 16 international rugby teams competing across eight cities, from Sunderland to Exeter.

It kicks off on 22 August and runs until 27 September. The tournament will culminate in a grand final at Twickenham Stadium. This marks the first time the venue will host a women’s World Cup final.

With over 300,000 tickets already sold, this promises to be the most attended women’s rugby event in history.

The Red Roses and a national moment

England’s national team, the Red Roses, will enter the tournament as favourites. And depending on the success of the Lionesses in the preceding Women’s Euro’s, it could be a momentous year for women’s sports in England.

However, it’s not all down to the players. A strong showing from fans could dramatically increase visibility for the women’s game. Major broadcasters and sponsors are already onboard. And public interest is expected to grow as the tournament draws closer.

Getting involved: from pitch to community

Although official volunteer roles for the tournament have closed, there are still plenty of ways to take part. Local clubs across the UK are actively encouraging women and girls to join, whether as players, referees, or supporters.

Host cities will also see community events, screenings, and celebrations. There are even digital content creator programmes linked to the tournament, offering opportunities for fans to contribute to its online presence.

Legacy and lasting impact

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) is investing £12.13 million through its Impact ’25 programme to expand access to the sport. From improved club facilities to more female coaches and youth opportunities, the aim is to grow participation at all levels and reach 100,000 registered female players by 2027. Globally, World Rugby’s “Impact Beyond 2025” initiative is focusing on broader gender equity in rugby, promoting leadership, and expanding the game in developing nations.

Red Roses

Why it matters

The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark tournament. As England prepares to host, there’s an unprecedented chance to reshape perceptions, create pathways for new talent, and build a truly inclusive sporting future. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the game, now is the time to get involved.

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From pioneers to rising stars, women in motorsport have always defied expectations, proving their skill, speed, and determination. Once burdened by outdated stereotypes, women now compete on track, lead race strategies, and shape the sport in leadership roles – a significant step forward for equality in motorsport.

This, we can all agree, is a fantastic step in the right direction, but despite undeniable strides toward equality, motorsport remains male-dominated. As of 2022, women made up just 2% of FIA-licensed racing drivers – a sobering statistic that reminds us of the barriers that still exist.

To mark International Women’s Day, Angela Bahn, Marketing Manager of private plate provider Regtransfers, takes a closer look at the progress – and roadblocks – facing women in motorsport today.

A century of progress

In the early 1900s, Camille du Gast became one of the first female racing drivers, competing in the 1903 Paris-Madrid race – an event so dangerous it was halted before completion. At a time when women were expected to stay on the sidelines, she proved we had a place on the starting grid. Decades later, Maria Teresa de Filippis shattered another barrier, becoming the first woman to race in Formula 1 in 1958. Her presence on the grid proved that women had the skill to compete at the highest level of motorsport – a message that still resonates today.

While no woman has raced in F1 since the 1970s, female drivers are making strides in key feeder series. Sophia Flörsch has competed in FIA Formula 3 and endurance racing, while Marta García became the first F1 Academy champion, securing a seat in the Formula Regional European Championship. Their success signals movement toward greater female representation in elite racing.

These are steps in the right direction, but breaking into Formula 1 remains a major challenge for women. The issue has never been one of talent, but of financial barriers, limited sponsorship, and the lack of structured development pathways that male drivers have relied on for decades.

High speeds, high costs

The cost of advancing through junior single-seater racing categories is, for lack of a better word, astounding.

FIA Formula 2 – the step before Formula 1 – can require budgets of up to €2 million per season. FIA Formula 3, a level below, typically costs around €1.2 million, while FIA Formula 4, an entry-level series, ranges from €120,000 to €300,000 per season. These expenses (often covered through personal sponsorships or family wealth) raise serious concerns about accessibility, making it difficult for talented drivers without substantial financial backing to advance through the ranks.

F1 Academy eases financial barriers by covering €150,000 of each driver’s budget, with teams covering the rest. This makes it a more accessible route for female racers, but it’s still not an easy feat.

Even with initiatives like this, securing sponsorship is still an uphill battle. Many investors hesitate, citing concerns over commercial viability, lower media exposure, and a lack of historical precedent for female success at the highest levels. This creates a cycle where fewer women reach top-tier racing, reinforcing the belief that female drivers aren’t commercially viable. In reality, we simply haven’t been given the same opportunities.

Unless motorsport shifts toward a more equitable sponsorship model, many talented female drivers will continue to be locked out of elite racing. Fortunately, increased investment from brands like Tata Communications, PUMA, and DHL in female-focused motorsport initiatives shows that corporate backing can be a game-changer. Expanding these investments, along with stronger grassroots funding, could be key to breaking the cycle and ensuring that talent – not financial privilege – determines success on the track.

Read more: Get your car ready for a summer roadtrip

Power players

Of course, when we talk about women in motorsport, we’re not just referring to competitors. Many more of us are shaping the industry from the inside, through roles in leadership, engineering, and strategy.

Women like Susie Wolff, Claire Williams, and Monisha Kaltenborn lead teams and shape motorsport strategy, proving leadership is not limited by gender. Wolff has been instrumental in fostering female talent, while Williams led one of F1’s most historic teams, making key decisions in one of the sport’s most high-pressure roles. Kaltenborn became Formula 1’s first female team principal when she led the Sauber F1 Team from 2012 to 2017.

Meanwhile, Leena Gade, the first female race engineer to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans, redefined what’s possible in endurance racing, proving that engineering expertise is not limited by gender.

More recently, women like Hannah Schmitz, Red Bull Racing’s Principal Strategy Engineer, and Laura Wontrop Klauser, GM Racing’s Sports Car Program Manager, have played their part in strategy and innovation. Schmitz has been at the heart of Red Bull’s winning race calls, while Klauser has helped shape the future of endurance racing.

Together, the success of these women reinforces the growing influence we have in motorsport beyond the driver’s seat.

Looking ahead

What’s next for women in racing?

The F1 Academy is gaining momentum, with all 10 Formula 1 teams now backing drivers and the series officially joining the F1 calendar. This shift is giving young female racers better exposure, funding, and a clearer pathway to the top.

Beyond this, Extreme E’s mixed-gender format has not only put female racers in the spotlight but also provided them with valuable experience alongside elite male drivers. Competitors like Cristina Gutiérrez and Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky have used the series as a springboard to other high-level racing disciplines, proving that equal representation leads to real career progression.

At the same time, there’s a growing effort to get more women into the F1 feeder series. Without representation in FIA Formula 2 and Formula 3 – the key stepping stones to F1 – true integration remains out of reach.

But let’s be honest – there’s still a long way to go. Money remains one of the biggest barriers. Sponsorship and financial backing overwhelmingly favour male drivers, leaving many talented women without the resources to progress. Without major sponsors actively investing in female talent, even the most skilled drivers struggle to reach the top.

Beyond financial barriers, motorsport’s culture needs to evolve. Getting more women on the grid starts with real investment in talent from the ground up – supporting young female racers from grassroots karting to the F1 feeder series. This is promising, but real change requires more than just opportunity; the sport must ensure that women have the funding, mentorship, and development pathways we need to succeed at the highest levels.

Final thoughts

From the world-changing women who first took to the track to the engineers and strategists shaping the future of racing, we continue to drive motorsport forward. But real equality in motorsport won’t come from recognition alone – it requires tangible investment, structural reform, and unwavering commitment from teams, sponsors, and governing bodies.

Real change happens when success is defined by talent, not gender. Watching female racers, advocating for better investment, and challenging outdated norms are essential steps toward a more equal future for motorsport. Progress won’t happen on its own – it depends on all of us to push for it.

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If you thought we’d come a long way since burning bras, think again. A new survey commissioned by the Women’s Institute (WI) reveals that depressingly, nearly two-thirds of adults (64%) in the UK believe misogyny is a significant issue, with almost a third considering it a really serious problem.

Conducted by Opinium ahead of International Women’s Day 2025, the poll underscores the everyday challenges women face, highlighting a troubling reality that women, particularly younger ones, experience misogyny in deeply personal and practical ways.

The personal impact on women’s lives

The survey found that women aged 18-34 are particularly affected by misogyny, sadly often adjusting their daily behaviour to enhance their sense of safety. In the past year:

• 41% of young women avoided eye contact or limited interactions with strangers.
• 37% shared their live location with friends or family while travelling alone.
• 42% pretended to be on a phone call when walking by themselves.
• 27% clutched a bunch of keys between their fingers as a makeshift weapon.

By contrast, men in the same age group reported far lower rates of similar behaviours: only 14% used a phone as a prop, 18% shared their location, and just 10% carried keys in their fist.

Melissa Green, CEO of the WI, emphasized the need for urgent action. “Our polling makes for depressing reading at a time when women and girls’ rights are being challenged on every front.

“For women to feel that the UK is a far less safe place for them is unacceptable and deeply concerning – and needs to be tackled through social prevention, as well as political deterrence, and in allyship with men.”

Read more: Late diagnoses of ADHD and autism in women – the hidden cost

A worsening trend?

The WI’s findings align with last year’s Girls’ Attitudes report from Girl Guiding, which revealed that sexism (used interchangeably with misogyny in their report) has risen in the last ten years. In that survey:

• 47% of 11-21-year-olds feel less safe because of sexism and misogyny, a significant rise from 17% 10 years ago.
• 69% believed they were expected to act differently because of their gender.

While it is difficult to compare directly across years, these statistics suggest that concerns over misogyny are not improving but may be intensifying. If more women are adapting their behaviour out of fear and reporting a decline in their sense of safety, the issue requires urgent social and legislative attention.

Challenging misogyny: steps forward

It’s not all bad news. Despite the alarming figures, the survey also found that adults are taking action to challenge misogyny in their daily interactions:

• 37% of adults have had conversations about gender equality with men.
• 17% have walked a female friend to her car or home to ensure her safety.
• 16% have refused to participate in misogynistic conversations.
• 13% have called out sexist language in conversations.
• 8% have intervened when witnessing a woman being harassed.

Encouragingly, the proportion of men and women challenging misogyny is relatively balanced (28% of men vs. 31% of women), suggesting a growing awareness across genders. However, there is still much work to be done.

How to combat misogyny

Tackling misogyny requires collective effort from individuals, communities, and policymakers. Here are some ways everyone can help challenge and reduce its impact:

• Call out sexist behaviour. If you hear misogynistic jokes or comments, challenge them.
• Listen to women’s experiences. Understanding their concerns fosters empathy and action.
• Be an active witness. Intervene safely when witnessing harassment.
• Support gender equality initiatives. Advocate for policies and practices that promote fairness.
• Educate yourself and others. Learn about misogyny’s impact and encourage discussions in your circles.
• Speak up when safe to do so. Challenge misogynistic behaviour when possible.
• Support other women. Offer solidarity and assistance to those experiencing misogyny.
• Educate young people. Encourage conversations about gender equality from an early age.
• Engage in activism. Support or join movements advocating for women’s rights.
• Encourage male allies. Help men understand how they can contribute to positive change.

The WI’s report paints a concerning picture of how misogyny continues to shape the everyday experiences of women in Britain. However, the growing willingness to challenge it signals hope for a future where gender equality becomes the norm rather than the exception.

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There was a brief window in my late twenties when my skin was lovely. Unencumbered by zits or lines, I thought I was finally free of the acne that blighted my teens. But hormones are fickle things and joy of joys, I found my spots came back in perimenopause.

Thankfully, it’s nothing like the late ‘80s/early ‘90s burst-into-tears-in-front-of-the-bathroom-mirror era. But it was tiresome to still be reaching for the Clearasil when I had a husband and a mortgage. And burgeoning crows’ feet.

I’d officially entered the glamorous wrinkles-and-pimples era

And at the age of 48 I started to wonder if it was ever going to end. I’m not bothered about the wrinkles, even if I suspect I’m the only person I know who doesn’t do Botox. But pimples? Seriously, this is ridiculous…

So, I booked an appointment with dermatology nurse practitioner Emma Coleman. The original plan was to visit her Harley Street clinic, braving the rush hour tube with no make-up on. Quelle horreur!

As I work from home, I usually wear a full face of makeup when I catch the tube, because I’m going somewhere nice, like the theatre. The thought of going into town sans slap didn’t fill me with joy. Even though I was highly unlikely to be papped for a Heat magazine “LOOK AT HOW HIDEOUS THESE CELEBS ARE WITHOUT MAKE-UP!” article.

But (fortuitously?) the winter lurgy felled me. And rather than infect my fellow passengers, we had a skin consultation by video call.

Emma quickly got down to business

She asked me about my age, HRT medication, diet, and skincare routine before I put my phone right up to my face to show her my zones of concern.

There was a zit threatening to emerge right beside my nose, presumably to keep the zit already on my nose company. On either side of the bridge of my nose, where my eye sockets begin, I’ve permanently had cystic acne for decades. They’re the annoying headless horsemen of the pimple world. At least there’s no temptation to pick or squeeze these bad boys, because they don’t develop an angry red and yellow head like garden variety spots. My forehead is home to whiteheads that come and go as they please, like presumptuous, pus-filled houseguests.

Then I showed her my bumpy, reddish chin. This has looked like a relief map of the Yorkshire Dales for decades. On the upside, my cheeks are generally smooth, clear and kissable.

So what was the verdict?

Emma diagnosed mild to moderate acne vulgaris with some post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, AKA the red marks that gave me uneven skin tone. As well as the fun bonus of acne lesions that fall into the primary and secondary categories.

But why was this happening to me at the age of 48? Why was I getting chin acne at levels last seen when John Major was still PM? The short answer is that hormones are mostly to blame, especially androgens, better known as male sex hormones.

During perimenopause, the ovaries are in their last gasp of hormonal activity and they’re still secreting androgens, as well as oestrogen. When the oestrogen falls sharply and the androgens drop gradually, a hormonal imbalance is created. And when the balance tips in favour of androgens, acne can either get worse, if it’s already a problem for you, or it makes a comeback that’s about as unwelcome as bodysuits with crotch studs. Why are they back in the shops? Is everyone too young to remember the crotch crop circle debacle of 1995? But I digress…

Or the imbalance can present as hirsutism. I’m pleased to report that I’m yet to become hairier. Although friends over 50 keep warning me that chin hairs could be just around the corner. At least for now, I can just focus on eradicating the spots on my chin and save the tweezers and electrolysis for later.

Something to look forward to

So, what can I do about all this?

As a gastritis patient, my diet is already low-acid and low-fat, which is good for keeping the spots at bay. But what about the stuff I put on my dial? As a low-maintenance woman – at least when it comes to skincare – I have a mantra. “If I can’t get it at the supermarket, I’m not interested”.

As such, I wash my face with an Asda tea tree foaming cleanser to keep the oil at bay and balance it with Simple moisturiser, another product I can buy with my groceries. Surprisingly, Emma didn’t baulk at my bargain basement routine.

I wasn’t doing horrific damage to my skin, but I could probably try something with a bit more oomph. So I swapped my supermarket buys for Emma’s Luminosity Face & Body Wash with glycolic and salicylic acids, and daily collagen-boosting SPF 50 moisturiser.

To zap existing zits, prevent new breakouts, and reduce acne scarring, Emma recommended a topical prescription called Differin, which contains retinol, a form of Vitamin A. Finally, she recommended oral probiotics, usually taken to aid digestion, as there is evidence they help acne as well.

It sounds like a lot, but this simple product-swapping didn’t add hours to my minimalist skincare routine. Plus it’s easy to just pop the probiotic at night, along with the other medication I already take.

Did it work?

In short, yes. Within a week, my skin was noticeably clearer and brighter. When I had my six-week check-up with Emma, she was pleased with the improvement, noting my skin tone is now far more even. I’m definitely more confident when I leave the house without makeup, although I still don’t enjoy catching sight of myself in a self-checkout camera. But those bloody things turn us all into Crimewatch mugshots.

Left before, right after

The three main problems – the lumpy cystic acne, the whiteheads and the relief map chin – all started to look much better. In true middle-aged style, it was in Facebook photos that I really noticed the lumps had calmed down.

Meanwhile, the Differin prescription was working wonders on the horrid little whiteheads, as well as any other errant zits. All I had to do was pop a Differin dot on a spot before bed and it’d be pretty much gone by morning. Shamefully, my main pimple eradication method previously was an insect bite relief pen. A temporarily effective trick I discovered by accident on holiday, but probably not a great long-term solution. And my chin is not looking angry and red anymore. Yorkshire Dales relief map, begone!

It might seem bombastic to say that a new skincare routine has been life-changing. But it really has improved my quality of life. The confidence boost that comes with feeling better about how you present yourself to the world is hard to put a price on. After years of going through the motions with the same old routine, I was stuck in a skincare rut. But seeing real results so quickly was a great motivator.

As well as being happier about leaving the house bare-faced, finding a good moisturiser that works well under makeup is another advantage. When your foundation goes on smoothly over a good base, you don’t end up with that cakey, craggy look.

Looking ahead

Everyone’s skin is different and I’m pleased to have found a personalised solution to tiresome middle-aged acne. I can highly recommend having a consultation with an expert. Especially as Emma didn’t berate me for my cheapskate cleanser ways. It was good to have replacement products recommended to me, rather than loads of extras. I remember the obsession with toner in the ‘90s – and I remember using gallons of toner for no discernible improvement.

As well as her own products, Emma was happy to recommend alternatives, which is always reassuring. For people who aren’t keen to use retinol products, she says to start by using them less frequently. Or seek out products with Vitamin A, E or C for similar results. Silver’s own Pro-Ageing Stem Cell Regenerator Serum is an example, with mandarin peel oil for a hit of Vitamin C. And it goes really well under makeup.

An easy-to-follow skincare routine that fits in with your lifestyle is essential to committing to change. While I’ll never look like Titanic-era Kate Winslet, who was always my absurd clear skin role model with her china teacup complexion, I’m happy to look more like Mare of Easttown Kate Winslet. With a refreshing lack of vanity, she played a woman whose personal and professional life was crumbling. And her crows’ feet were proudly on show.

I’m more than happy for the world to see where the crows have stomped around my eyes and I’m happier still that they’re no longer competing with intrusive acne vulgaris. This really is the face I have earned and I’m not going to hide it.

Find Emma Coleman here

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 Help! I’m 48 and getting spots again in perimenopause appeared first on Silver Magazine.

The festive season is upon us, and with that brings a flurry of invitations to Christmas parties and gatherings. Among the excitement, making sure you choose the perfect Christmas party dress is a common dilemma that requires careful consideration.

With so many options available, making the right choice can be overwhelming. This guide aims to simplify the process, ensuring you step into every event with confidence and style.

Consider the dress code

Before embarking on your hunt, it’s essential to understand the event’s dress code. Is it a formal black-tie affair, a casual office gathering, or a themed get-together?

Adhering to the specified attire shows respect for the host and ensures you feel comfortable throughout the event. For instance, a floor-length gown may be appropriate for a gala, while a chic cocktail dress suits a semi-formal occasion.

Choose the right fabric

During the winter months, materials like velvet, satin, and sequins are popular choices. Velvet offers warmth and a luxurious feel, making it ideal for colder evenings.

Satin provides a sleek and elegant look, while sequins add a merry sparkle, perfect for Christmas celebrations. You’ll be sure to find a range of festive partywear that captures the essence of the season.

Flattering silhouettes

Selecting a silhouette that complements your body shape enhances your overall appearance. Popular silhouettes include A-line, sheath, and fit-and-flare.

An A-line dress suits most body types by accentuating the waist and providing balance. Sheath dresses offer a streamlined look, ideal for those with an hourglass figure.

Fit-and-flare dresses, fitted at the top and flaring out at the waist, are best for creating an hourglass illusion. Understanding these silhouettes can guide you in choosing women’s dresses that highlight your best features.

Colour and patterns

Colour choice can significantly impact your festive look. This season, ruby red has emerged as a standout colour, with celebrities like Meghan Markle and Maura Higgins showcasing its versatility.

Red symbolises love and power, so it’s a fitting choice for holiday festivities. Alternatively, classic hues like black and navy offer timeless elegance. For those inclined towards patterns, subtle prints or metallic accents can add a modern twist without overwhelming the ensemble.

Accessorising your dress

Accessories can elevate your outfit from simple to stunning. Consider the neckline and style of your dress when choosing how to accessorise.

For instance, a strapless dress pairs well with a statement necklace, while a high-neck option may benefit from bold earrings. Belts can define the waist and add interest to plain dresses.

Footwear is equally important; heels can elongate the legs and add sophistication. Handbags should be functional yet stylish, and a clutch often complements evening wear. Remember, the goal is to enhance your look without overshadowing the outfit itself.

Read more: what to wear when you’re over 50?

Budget considerations

Looking fabulous doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Many high-street stores offer affordable yet trendy options for party dresses. Seasonal collections are released frequently with designs that reflect the latest trends, making it easy to find a dress that feels both current and timeless.

The festive season is also synonymous with sales, so keep an eye out for discounts during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Retailers often slash prices on partywear, allowing you to snag a high-quality dress at a fraction of the original cost.

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Women’s sports have turned what was once a narrow, lonely corner into a vibrant, pulsing hub of activity. Women are taking sports by storm – theirs is a name in bold print, heard loud and clear as they flood stadiums, devour live streams, and completely rewire the sports media conversation.

Women’s sports fire up our passions, yet their impact stretches way beyond the playing field – it’s about self-discovery, perseverance, and solidarity. Women athletes need more than applause – they need us to stand up for their potential, ignite their self-belief, and shatter the ceilings that have held them back for too long.

Football – uniting fans globally

Few sports can rally a crowd like football, and for women’s leagues, that excitement has grown exponentially. Women’s ‘soccer’ leagues like the FA Cup, and Championship League, as well as international events such as the Women’s World Cup showcase extraordinary talent and teamwork. But it’s not just the UK where this is huge.

Teams like the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT), or France’s Les Bleues are not only winning trophies but also setting records. But if you want to watch the games, don’t be put off by regional restrictions if you encounter them. Here are tips for watching NWSL from any country that works equally well for everyone. This is your chance to show support for the most popular women’s sport all over the world.

The 2019 Women’s World Cup Final was watched by over 1.12 billion viewers globally, demonstrating that the passion for women’s soccer is universal. Fans are increasingly captivated by star players like Alex Morgan, Ada Hegerberg, and Sam Kerr, who bring finesse and intensity to the field. Supporting women’s soccer is supporting a global movement of unity and empowerment.

Tennis: a legacy of women’s success

Legends Serena Williams, Billie Jean King, and Martina Navratilova have done more than just paved the way for women’s tennis – they’ve lit a fire that continues to ignite passion in millions of fans worldwide. Imagine watching the best female tennis players clash on the court, and you’re midway into the thrill ride that is Wimbledon, the US Open, or the French Open – these esteemed tournaments showcase women’s gripping strength, nerve, and athletic excellence.

Today’s players, Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka among them, are writing the next chapter in women’s tennis history. Their unwavering dedication and raw talent ensure a storied future for the game we love. The storied game of tennis knows no bounds, uniting fans worldwide as they catch live matches or stream thrillers from the other side of the globe, mesmerized by Larger-than-life competitors who electrify the crowd with racket sorcery and disarming charm.

Basketball: rising stars in the WNBA

Basketball fans have witnessed the evolution of the WNBA from a fledgling league to a powerful entity. Athleticism meets intellectual savvy in the WNBA, as talented players slug it out in games that are as physically demanding as they are mentally challenging, captivating audiences along the way. As the league continues to grow in popularity, a telling sign is the sharp 49% rise in viewership between 2020 and 2021 – an unmistakable indication of its thriving fan base.

With stars like Sabrina Ionescu, A’ja Wilson, and Breanna Stewart leading the charge, women’s basketball is witnessing a transformation like no other – each athlete fusing incredible solo talent with savvy teamwork. While football and baseball simmer on the back burner, the WNBA turns up the heat, delivering hoops action to sports enthusiasts eager for a fix. To watch the WNBA is to embrace a league that’s doing more than playing—it’s building a legacy.

Track and Field: speed and strength on display

Track and field events are the ultimate showcase of human speed, endurance, and power. Women athletes have made history time and again, from Florence Griffith-Joyner’s still-standing world record in the 100 meters to Allyson Felix’s awe-inspiring resilience and record-breaking career. For a few electrifying weeks, the world’s finest female athletes converge on the Olympic and Diamond League stages, dazzling us with their sheer velocity, exquisite technique, and Ironwoman persistence.

If you’re someone who feeds off the adrenaline of witnessing remarkable achievements, then track and field is the perfect sport for you – these fearless women continuously up the ante and push themselves to astonishing heights.

Read more: 5 reasons to take up skiing in later life

Gymnastics: a showcase of skill and precision

Gymnastics is where physical power meets incredible finesse. Simone Biles, Suni Lee, and Aly Raisman have single-handedly revamped the sport of gymnastics. By constantly upping the ante, they’ve inspired a global audience and left a permanent mark on the sport’s history. Global attention zeros in on women’s gymnastics during the World Championships and Olympics, where athletes marry brink-of-disaster flips with elegant poise. With its aerial twists, bold tumbles, and dazzling poses, gymnastics becomes a vibrant tapestry that weaves together intricate patterns of female strength, sophistication, and joy, broadcasting an unapologetic message of solidarity and unbridled excellence.

Ice Hockey: women breaking the ice

Elegance on ice takes a bold new turn as women’s hockey players put on a show, toughness and beauty merged in perfect harmony. As hockey’s popularity surges, leagues like the Premier Hockey Federation and international competitions are enjoying a major boost in the spotlight.

Among the most thrilling winter sports events, the Women’s Ice Hockey World Championship garners huge attention globally. . Between periods, in arenas, and across social media, one epic rivalry ignites passion and fury among hockey enthusiasts: the United States versus Canada – a showdown born of northern pride and unyielding competition.

They’re more than just talented players – Hilary Knight, Marie-Philip Poulin, and Kendall Coyne Schofield are living proof that hard work and passion can catapult you to stardom. Watching women’s hockey is more than just witnessing a match—it’s watching a movement unfold on ice.

Mixed Martial Arts: empowering combat sports

Mixed martial arts (MMA) offers a platform where women are proving their might in a traditionally male-dominated sport. What Ronda Rousey, Amanda Nunes, and Valentina Shevchenko bring to the Octagon is electric – a no-holds-barred clash of raw power and strategic brilliance that’s redefining the face of women’s MMA. With every ground-pounding strike and agile submission, female MMA fighters throw down with unrelenting fury, mesmerizing audiences who hang on their every move.

With every brutal takedown and razor-sharp submission, women in MMA send a clear message: they won’t be held back. They’re breaking free from stereotypes and forging their own path, leaving a trail of shattered glass ceilings in their wake.

In conclusion

Witness the revolution in women’s sports – more competitions, more talent, and more passion than ever before – it’s an era where stars are born, and fans get to be a part of history in the making.

The significance of backing these women goes far beyond the thrill of the game itself; it’s a call to action, empowering them to speak out and pushing for genuine equality across all sports disciplines. By tuning in, showing up, and sharing online, every fan shoulders a part of the responsibility.

Stop hesitating and take the plunge – you’ve got this. Hang on tight and enjoy the thrill of women’s sports as talented female athletes make their mark and rewrite the record books. With sports on the cusp of radical change, dynamic women are staking their claim.

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The post Top sports that women around the world can enjoy watching appeared first on Silver Magazine.

How do you avoid having a toxic clash when it comes to going your separate ways? Divorce is never easy, but even harder when we are older, and there’s more at stake. We spoke to Ashley Le Core, Senior Associate at Stowe Family Law about the best advice for divorce settlements when you’re both a bit older, and maybe have more assets, and longer term joint or shared finances.

Sadly, divorces can be messy. No one ever expects to be in that situation, and the dream of having a smooth amicable end to years of commitment isn’t always fulfilled.

Over the last twenty years, divorce amongst marriages of thirty years and over, have steadily risen. In 2021, 1 in 4 divorces were of couples over 50. It’s tough feeling like you’re starting over later in life, but to even get there you have to navigate the division of assets and untangle the decades of intertwined life. Even knowing how to take the first steps to broach the topic may allude many.

Ashley Le Core of Stowe Family Law says “In terms of discussing a divorce with your partner, this can be a difficult process, especially if they do not know it’s coming. If you feel able to discuss it with your partner yourself, then perhaps pick a sensible time when you are on your own. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it alone, try to ensure that you have somebody you trust with you.

“It is understandable that you may feel anxious and upset about this conversation, particularly if you have been married for many years and are heading towards or in retirement and later-life plans with your spouse.”

Managing emotions

Ashley stresses that it’s important to try and keep things calm.

“When a marriage breaks down, we would always suggest mediation as a sensible first step. It takes a lot of the emotion out of the situation. Solicitors will always advise that if there is an amicable solution to be found, then it should be pursued. A mediator can give good advice as to what a settlement would look like, and can do that whilst working with the couple together, whereas solicitors of course do not work in this way.”

But if mediation doesn’t work, choosing the right person to represent you is vital. “When choosing a divorce solicitor, build a rapport with the person who is representing you,” says Ashley. “It is a very difficult time, so deal with someone that you feel has truly got your best interests at heart. A firm with good representation, good communicators and someone who is attentive is most likely the right solicitor for you.”

Read more – Divorce later in life – financial and emotional considerations

How does it all work these days?

“In terms of the solicitor’s role in navigating the divorce, the divorce process now is more straightforward, as it’s an online process. The solicitor will of course outline to you exactly what happens at every stage, and involve you accordingly, but instructing a solicitor means that all the preparation of documentation etc is dealt with by them, and simply approved by you.”

In terms of dividing the assets of the marriage, it is important you feel ready to commence that process. It can be very in-depth, and quite upsetting

Having this support and having the divorce online takes a lot of the stress out of a split, but at the end of the day, you’re still going to be haggling over the terms. So what’s the best way to approach this? Ashley advises caution and pacing yourself at this stage.

“In terms of dividing the assets of the marriage, it is important you feel ready to commence that process. It can be very in-depth, and quite upsetting (naturally). If you’re not in a good headspace when you go into that process, it can hinder the progress you can make. And if you are not yet over the end of the marriage, or if there is a lot of animosity, diving into that process too quickly may not be in your best interests in the long term.

“Practically, once you have filed for divorce, you can take as long as you need to organise your assets and finances. This must always be done before you apply for your final order (previously known as the decree absolute), but there is no time limit after your initial 20-week cooling period.”

Ensure you’re ready before entering negotiations

Where is a good place to start?

“In terms of financial planning post-divorce, the way in which the court works in this country is that the settlement will be reached based on what each spouse needs. As such, the court will only give to each spouse what they believe they need to continue a comfortable lifestyle moving forward,” explains Ashley. So there is little point filing for divorce and asking for the moon and the stars. But a roof over your head is the first port of call.

…if the marriage has come to an end, you are effectively starting a new chapter of your life.

“The most likely effect of the divorce is a feeling of unknown financial security. If there are enough assets at the end of a marriage to rehouse both people appropriately, then that financial security is there. However, if that’s not the case and it means that both people need to review their finances in order to consider themselves comfortable, things are more complex.

“Selling the family home does end up being one of the more stressful aspects of a marriage or relationship breakdown. Often it has been a property that the couple have shared for a significant period, and letting go of that can be exceptionally difficult.

“However, if the marriage has come to an end, you are effectively starting a new chapter of your life. To start that new chapter, you potentially need to cut ties to everything that was in place before, including a house. Whilst it may be a wish to try and retain the property, I always ask people how they would feel living in a property where they have a significant number of memories, and potentially not the nicest memories.”

It it worth having a pre-nup?

“The major positive of having a prenuptial agreement is of course to protect any wealth that was brought into a marriage. If one spouse was particularly wealthier than the other, it is common practice that prenuptial agreements (whilst not legally binding yet, in this country, but considered exceptionally persuasive) are very normal in cases such as these.

“When the marriage breaks down, the prenuptial agreement takes precedence and the individual who came into the marriage with more wealth should be able to have the majority of those funds returned. There are increasingly popular for those entering second or third marriages as a way to protect property and inheritance for children from the previous marriage.”

…you should regularly review the agreement, particularly when any significant changes occur to your finances

It’s important to keep checking in on this though, as things change. “The ‘con’ of having a prenuptial agreement is that they can become massively out of date. If you agreed one pattern at the beginning and then there are significant changes throughout the marriage, it can tie the couple to an agreement that might have been made a significant number of years ago.

“This is why you should regularly review the agreement, particularly when any significant changes occur to your finances, property, or children. If you do not have a prenuptial agreement, then the court will take the standard position. Which is that – depending on the circumstances as you are at the point of divorce (i.e., your ages, any children, earning capacity, assets, future) – they will look at what each person needs and decide accordingly.

“The usual starting point for individuals who have been married for a long period and who have children over the age of 18 or no children at all, is 50/50 of all the assets.”

How does a divorce affect pensions and investments?

“The divorce itself will not affect any pensions, but it is likely that if one spouse has a larger pension pot than the other, then they may well be expected to share some of that pension with their spouse as part of the divorce process.

…any assets that form part of either person’s asset portfolio will be considered as part of the matrimonial pot, although a split isn’t always 50/50

“Usually, a pension actuary would be instructed to address how those pension pots should be split to make it fair for each spouse, and that advice should be pursued.

“In terms of investments, any assets that form part of either person’s asset portfolio will be considered as part of the matrimonial pot, although a split isn’t always 50/50. One party may wish to ring-fence certain assets due to having only just received them. Or there may be issues arising from prenuptial agreements or other such arguments. But everything will be considered by the court before making an appropriate determination.

“It is therefore very important to be categorically clear when you end your marriage as to what all assets are, where they are, and the value. The court expects complete openness and honesty about all these matters in order to make an appropriate decision. And any attempt to be seen to be hiding or dissipating assets unnecessarily, the court will usually take a very dim view of.”

Starting anew

Finding your way through a divorce is never easy, no matter what stage of life you’re at. Approach it with patience and composure, and discuss things openly with your solicitor at each step. Being equipped with knowledge can give you some confidence going through this taxing time.

When things feel overwhelming or too distressing, remember the reasons why you or your partner came to this decision. At the end of it all, there’s a fresh start and an exciting future ahead of you.

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 Best advice for divorce settlements when you’re older appeared first on Silver Magazine.