USEFUL INFORMATION
SMUGGLING
AND CRIMINAL BREEDERS
THE MUTINY
This song
was written as an analogy spanning Biblical events from the Creation up to the
Kingdom of God. The 4 main characters we mention are ;
Captain –
God.
Surgeon –
Jesus.
Jack – Devil.
Bosun –
Mankind.
THE SONG
VERSE 1:
Verse 1 The
Moonlight Shone in The Harbour
The cargo all loaded away
One last night in San Hernandez
Will see us on our way.
VERSE 2
A Cry came
up from the Quayside
a fever had just hit the town
So all Cargo
was covered in Canvas
And strictly
out of bounds.
CHORUS 1 :
They set sail by the noon tide, sailing back
to the old country but all rum casks and tobacco, lay below yet they would’nt let it be.
VERSE 3
The Ship
sailed on through grey waters
When shots
were heard on the deck
a drunken
Mutiny erupted
The captain
was shackled around the neck.
VERSE 4
The Captain
was led to the bilges
Yet he still
showed much grace and did say
“ My maps my
charts I will give you
To help you
on your way.
CHORUS 2
The Bosun
took command, while was standing at the wheel (helm)
All the
others towed the line , “in fear of a “trip round the keel”
VERSE 5.
Fever broke
out in November ; was caught from the casks in the hold
The Captain
offered them his surgeon. To help as the seas tossed and rolled.
VERSE 6
The Surgeon
saved many Sailors, for precious little reward
Jack said
your work is all done now
So they
threw him over-board.
CHORUS 3
Not a breeze
left in the mainsail. now becalmed upon the sea
Rations
dwindling, then from the Crow’s Nest a Sailor a sailor starts shouting with
glee.
VERSE 7
A Trade Ship
was drifting towards them,
Weve got to
board her they said, the bosun trimmed all the lanterns
And dreamt
of the cargo she held.
VERSE 8
Jack stole the captain’s boarding papers, he
knew his signature would entice. The trade ship came floating towards them
They would
pay a heavy price.
CHORUS 4
Battle
Raged, none was saved there were women and children all on board. Blades were
flashing
Blood was
flowing
the wounded
and dying were ignored.
VERSE 9
The crew
with their ill-gotten bounty
would only
last them a time
as they
slept they posted no look-out
they were
all too drunk to climb.
VERSE 10
In the night
while the crew were all sleeping
came a jolt
and the creaking of wood.
the ship was
holed below the water-line
things
didn’t look so good.
CHORUS 4
The ship was
listing , Jack was missing
he took to
the longboat on his own
the Bosun running
round in circles
and the
crew’s fearing joining Davy Jones.
VERSE 11
Like a ghost
in the night came the captain
The crew
gladly gathered around
Let’s shore
up this hole said the captain
And we’ll
soon be homeward bound.
VERSE 12
Jack who
fled in the lifeboat
Was condemned to wander the seas
No land for
him left to run to
No shelter
from the breeze.
CHORUS 5
“Oh’ but Captain you’re a strong man you knew of
keys
And weapons
near at hand”
Oh “why did
you wait so long to return to retake command”.
VERSE 13
“If I
returned any sooner
You wouldn’t
accept my command
But when the
ship started taking in water
I had to
show my hand”.
VERSE 14
“The Ship I
sail is a good won
Built on
friendship and trust
I never hold
anyone at gun-point
My ship is
fair and just”.
CHORUS 6
Oh’ but
Captain you were needed when tragedies they came around
But I was
there picking up the pieces of the mess you all left behind.
VERSE 15
Now only
miles from their homeland
The ship
came hirpling home
Yet so many
questions unanswered
So many
things unknown.
VERSE 16
The ship
sailed into the harbour
the
strangest sight there I saw
the Surgeon
was standing on the Quayside
with the
trade ship’s crew and all.
CHORUS 7
I’ve been
sailing : All my lifetime
And many a
sight’s come my way
But that
voyage from San – Hernandez
Leaves us
older and wiser this day
FINAL VERSE
Many years
have passed by now
It’s a
troubled world, that’s no lie
We’re more
in need of the Captain
With the
Surgeon by his side.
THE LAST DAYS
Only God knows knows when the Last Days will
begin, however there are many Bible references that relate to the period of
time.These Bible Verses were taken from the King James Bible.
Matthew :
Chapter 24 Verses 31 and 33.
Matthew :
Chapter 24 Verse 24.
Matthew
:Chapter 24 Verses 6 - 7
Matthew :
Chapter 5 Verses 14 - 16.
Matthew :
Chapter 5 Verses 10 – 12.
Luke :
Chapter 21 Verses 10 – 11.
Luke :
Chapter 18 Verse 1.
John :
Chapter 15 Verse 20.
John :
Chapter 14 Verse 1.
Romans :
Chapter 13 Verses 3 - 4.
Romans:
Chapter 8 Verse 28.
Romans:
Chapter 5 Verses 3 – 4
Philippians
: Chapter 4 Verse 6.
Philippians
: Chapter 3 Verses 20 – 21.
Colossians :
Chapter 2 Verse 8.
!st Peter :
Chapter 5 Verse 10.
James :
Chapter 1 Verses 12 – 15.
1st
John : Chapter 4 Verse 1
Revelation :
Chapter 21 Verse 4.
Isaiah :
Chapter 40 Verse31.
The best- Selling book in the world is the BIBLE which is believed to
have sold around 1 Billion copies. It is available in 438 different languages.
The DAY Of THE LORD cannot come before the final rebellion against God.
When they talk off PEACE a (thin
veneer of peace and security) – Then the end will come, after the global wars “
end”.
Keep mindful, as the last Days, the arrival is KNOWN ONLY TO GOD.
God demonstrates his love for us, while we were still sinners, Christ
died for us.
__________________________________________________
1st John : Chapter 4 Verses 11 - 12
If God thus loved us ,dear
friends, we in turn are bound to love one another. Though God has never been seen by any man, God
himself dwells in us if we love one another ; his love is brought to perfection
in us.
______________________
Matthew : Chapter 24 Verses 32
Learn a lesson from the fig tree. When it’s tender shoots appear and are
breaking into leaf, you know that summer is near.
___________________
*When the time of the end of this
system arrives it will come as a “thief in the night” when it is least expected
*
____________________
“2nd Peter : Chapter 8 - 10
And here is one point my friends, which you must not lose sight of :
With the Lord one day is like a thousand years and a thousand years is
like one day.
It is not that the Lord is slow in fulfilling his promise, as some
suppose, but that he is very patient with you,, it is not his will for any to
be lost ,but to come to repentance.
________________________
SMUGGLERS &
CRIMINAL BREEDERS : According to the Daily Mail, (Tue 6th
May (Naturewatch Foundation) only a fifth of puppies in the UK come from
licensed breeders, research has found, leading Animal Welfare Experts to warn of
the possible scale of illegal breeding and smuggling.
Three-quarters of the 950,000 puppies that find homes in the UK ever year which is around 700,000 come from
unknown sources a charity has found. They may have been bred by criminals,
smugglers or legitimate small-scale breeders who DO NOT REQUIRE A LICENCE.
Animal Welfare Charity the Naturewatch Foundation carried out the research
by asking 360 councils about the number of breeders they had issued licenses
to. It found out that up to 19.5 Percent of puppies come from licensed breeders
while 5.8 Percent are from overseas. No
official information was available for the source of the remaining 75 Percent.
Natalie Harney, from Nature-watch said : Dog lovers will be shocked to
learn that most UK dogs and puppies STILL come from unknown sources. While some off these unknown
sources will include small breeders who do not require a licence and who are
well meaning, however we fear a significant proportion of
them are from illegal sources such as criminal gangs breeding on an INDUSTRIAL
SCALE and SMUGGLERS.
She said that despite reforms made in 2018 to the 2006 Animal Welfare
Act to clamp down on illegal breeding, loop-holes and under-enforcement
remained major issues. It is clear there is still insufficient oversight of the
trade in puppies and dogs in the UK, Ms Harney added that the figures
showed there were 3,000 licensed
breeders, with just 23,000 breeding dogs. But just a third of councils knew
exactly how many dogs the breeders were allowed to keep? Are they happy for you
to see their premises? These are
essential questions any prospective puppy buyer should ask.
ALWAYS BUY A PET FROM A GOOD HOME
Terrifying news about the breeding of dogs. Smugglers and criminal
breeders are said to be behind up to 4 in 5 UK puppy sales. According to a well-
respected Newspaper columnist , “I only buy mine from small family breeders who
maybe want their bitch to have one set of pups. They live with their parents,
gets lots of love and cuddles and are well socialised. I’ve never had a nasty,
badly behaved dog with this method, Loving care is all they need.”
*** We have some advice to protect your pet(s)
from falling into the hands of Rogue Breeders in our article
www.heartstrings.org.uk / Missing Pets. In the last third of the article we
cover Home Security Systems, Stolen Pets, Prevention & Buying from a
Registered Breeder only. ***
PARKINSON’S
DISEASE UPDATES : In The UK
130,000 people have Parkinson’s disease. Living with the disease in the US is
nearly 1,000,000 (1 Million). World-wide the figure is close to 10 ,000,000 (10Million) . The incidence of Parkinson’s
disease increases with age but 4% of people with Parkinson’s disease are under
50.
A new drug for the treatment of Parkinson’s is being trailed to
establish if it is safe. The trial is being led by Cambridge University
researchers and the city’s Addenbrooke’s Hospital.
Parkinson’s disease can cause TREMORS, BALANCE PROBLEMS, and SLOW
MOVEMENT. The symptoms arise from substantial loss of the Dopamine-producing
cells in the area of the brain known as the Substantia Nigra.
The 12-month trial which is funded by an award from Charity Cure
Parkinson’s will involve 36 people with the disease being given DAPANSUTRILE
TABLETS. The trial hopes to establish not only if the drug is safe for people
to take, but also if it REDUCES INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN.
Currently there are no therapeutics to alter the progression of the
disease, the university said, but it is hoped the drug DAPANSUTRILE may slow it
down. There was a “pressing need” for treatment, said principal research
associate Dr Caroline Williams-Grey.
Dr Williams-Grey , who is also an honorary consultant at Addenbrookes,
said “ There is a pressing need for a specific treatment, such as Dapansutrile,
which targets the most relevant aspects of the immune activation pathway in
Parkinson’s without causing general immunosuppression and leading to unwanted
side-effects.
Published on JAN 2025 : Cambridge researchers are developing BRAIN
IMPLANTS for treating Parkinson’s disease. As part of a £69 Million funding
programme supported by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA)
Professor George Malliaras from Cambridge’s department of engineering will
co-lead a project that uses small clusters of BRAIN CELLS called Midbrain
Organoids to develop a new type or BRAIN IMPLANT. “Our ultimate goal is to
create precise therapies that can restore normal brain function in people with
Parkinson’s”. George Malliaras.
www.parkinsons.org.uk is a PARKINSON’S RESEARCH and SUPPORT
CHARITY operating in the UK. In April 2010, the Parkinson’s Disease Society
changed its name to become Parkinson’s UK, it’s aims are to improve the quality
of life for people affected by Parkinson’s and to find a cure for the
condition.
PHONE No 0808 800 0303
FREE CONFIDENTIAL SERVICE
E mail: hello@parkinsons.org.uk.
Helpline is closed on SUNDAYS & BANK HOLIDAYS.
** Check out what benefits and other government
support is available to you**
The British
Red Cross is the UK body of the World-Wide neutral and impartial humanitarian
network the International Red Cross and the Red Crescent Movement.
International
Disaster Relief : The British Red Cross provides assistance in recovery after immediate post-disaster
situations, helping to prepare communities for future emergencies and
facilitating long term development.
The Red
Cross works closely with other Red Cross Societies to improve the health and
care-situation of vulnerable communities abroad. This can mean NATURAL DAISTER,
DISEASE or WARFARE.
Charity
Donations to the British Red Cross can help many people in crisis by supplying
FOOD, CLEAN WATER, SHELTER & CLOTHING. They also support victims of MODERN
SLAVERY & TRAFFICKING as well as helping to find MISSING FAMILY MEMBERS.
The British Red Cross supports the Red Cross and the Red Crescent movements in
its mission to fight the spread of HIV and AIDS Worldwide. The Society works with young people
to fight discrimination and Stigma as well as reducing complacency about
catching the disease. The British Red Cross is a provider of First Aid Training in the UK, as well as a
programme for much needed Blood Donations. They also provide a Wheelchair
service.
** The UN have estimated that1,800 million people will be living in
places with absolute water scarcity by 2025. **
** Nearly 4 million people die each year from water-related diseases such
as Cholera and Dysentery **
** With 35 Million people living with HIV /AIDS (Human Immunodeficiency
virus / Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) and more than 20 Million deaths
from the disease, the Aids epidemic poses one of the biggest threats to public
health. The UN-AIDS project estimated that 2.1
million people were newly infected in 2013 and that 1.5 Million AIDS
sufferers died. This is nearly one half the number of infections than the peak
of 3,2 Million in 1997. As well as the death count itself, there are Millions
of living African children, between the ages od 10 and 17, that have been
orphaned as a result of the disease. Treatment to prevent HIV, transmission to
babies has resulted in a 33 percent drop in infections. The majority of people
infected with HIV, if not treated, develop signs of AIDS within 8 – 10 years.
**
** Perhaps the most important indicators used for measuring the level of
national development are those relating to Health and Education. Both of these
key areas are vital to the future development of a country, and if there are
concerns in standards attained in either, this may indicate fundamental
problems within the country concerned. The ability to read and write (literacy)
is seen as vital in educating people and encouraging development, with easy
access to appropriate health services and specialists is an important
requirement in maintaining satisfactory levels of basic health. **
** It is estimated that there are over 26 million refugees throughout the
world. Since 1945 there has been 70 civil wars. **
** Currently 1.8 billion people drink untreated
water and expose themselves to serious health-risks, whilst political struggles
over diminishing water resources are increasingly likely to be the cause of
international conflict. **
** The Sundarbans stretching across the Ganges
delta is the largest area of Mangrove forest in the world, covering 10,000
square kilometres and forming an important ecological area, home to 260 species
of birds, the Bengal tiger and other threatened species. **
If you would like to donate or help the
charity in some way, details can be found on
Website www.redcross.org.uk
Herbie’s Law is a battle to encourage the Government to introduce a
“roadmap” to end experiments on animals in Medical Research. They are also
committed to raise awareness about the number of animals, including dogs, still
used in British laboratories.
At Animal Free Research, we believe that experiments on animals are
scientifically and ethically unjustifiable, and that pioneering animal-free
-research provides the best chance of finding treatments for human diseases. We
only support and fund research that uses non-animal methods.. We do not fund
refinement or reduction research, or any research that uses animals or
animal-derived bio-materials.
We present factual, reliable information, our work is evidence based,
throughout and respected by our peers. We care deeply about people and animals.
Our ambition to end suffering is heartfelt and unswerving. Our mission is to
champion Animal-Free, Humam-Specific technologies that deliver better
treatments for human disease, faster.
HERBIE’S LAW
Herbie’s Law is a bold step towards a future where animals are no longer
used in the name of science. Herbie’s Law will prompt a decade of change and would
mandate the replacement of animals in medical research in the UK by the year
2035, replacing them with humane, effective alternatives.
If you would like more information or desire to check out Animal Free Research on their website www.animalfreeresearch.uk.org
MENTAL HEALTH : SAVING TIPS : SCAMMERS : XMAS
HAZARDS FOR PETS.
DEPRESSION : This is characterised by Severe
Despondency and Dejection especially when long lasting and accompanied by physical
symptoms. In general symptoms may include Anxiety, Pessimism, Fatigue, Change
in sleeping Pattern, difficulty Concentrating, Irritability, change in Appetite
and thinking about Death or Suicide.
Depression National Helpline : www.mentalhelp.net
The Samaritans Tel 116 123 (UK) FREE.
ELECTROCONVULSIVE
TREATMENT :
Relating to the treatment of mental illness by applying electric shocks
to the brain. Unlike the movie (One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s nest) the operation
is carried out with the patient sedated. This treatment is only used in extreme
depression where all other avenues of treatment has failed. The success rate in
good although some short-term memory is lost.
BI-POLAR
ILLNESS OR (MANIC DEPRESSION) Bi-Polar illness is a mental illness characterised
by periods of depression and also
periods of elevation “highs”. The illness can be accompanied in the “high phase” by Poor
Concentration, fast or slurred speech, mind racing and broken sleep usually
unnatural bright early wakening. In the Depressed Cycle the person may
experience apathy, depression, low self-esteem, confidence and self-worth. If
the cycles grow stronger the person may develop a Psychosis which may result in
the need to “flatten” the mood through medication or even hospitalization.
www.bipolaruk.org/support-line
SCHIZOPHRENIA : This mental illness is a long-term
disorder involving faulty perception, inappropriate actions and feelings. The
person with Schizophrenia can withdraw from reality into fantasy and delusion.
In the past drugs to combat Schizophrenia were seen to leave the patient in a
permanently tired state, however new drugs are appearing all the time to
counteract these type of side effects.
National Schizophrenia Fellowship : www.rethink.org
PSYCHOSIS : This is a severe mental disorder in which
thought and emotions are so impaired that control is lost and external reality
is lost. If someone is displaying signs of Psychosis they will need anti-
psychotic medication right away or even hospitalization as they could be a
danger to themselves or others. If an individual requires hospitalization it is
best to be admitted early.
ANXIETY : This is a term for someone who experiences
WORRY or UNEASE.
www.Anxiety UK, is a national charity that provides support if
you’ve been diagnosed with an Anxiety condition.
PARANOIA : This is an unjustified suspicion and
mistrust. A mental condition characterised by delusions of persecution,
unwanted jealousy, or exaggerated self-importance.
DELUSION : A belief or impression that is not generally
accepted as reality.
POST NATAL
DEPRESSION : This is a more common
illness than many people realise effecting 1 in 10 women occasionally men,
within a year of giving birth. It is quite common for women to be quite tearful
and anxious after the birth, this is known as the “Baby Blues” however if
symptoms last longer you could have Post Natal Depression. Symptoms may include,
lack of energy, feeling tired all the time, finding it difficult to look at
yourself or your baby, persistent feelings of sadness. In a small number of
Post Natal Depression cases the woman can develop a Psychosis where thought and
emotions are no longer in control leading to possible frighting thoughts about
hurting your baby.
If so speak to your GP, Midwife or Health Visitor as soon as possible.
ALTZHEIMER’S /
DEMENTIA
Altzheimer’s : This is a form of
progressive mental deterioration occurring in middle or old age. Dementia is a
mental disorder marked by memory failure, personality changes and impaired
reasoning. There has been much talk of new drugs that can halt the progress of
the illness, seen by many as a cure but there seems to be arguments about costs
and distribution. There is one drug available however that when given to
patients in the early stages, can slow down the deterioration but it must be
taken at the early stages of the illness.
In the early stages of Altzheimer’s / Dementia keep your prescription
drugs in a plastic box that can be bought from chemist stores. It has
compartments for every day of the week and helps to prevent, missing a dose or
double dosing. Also keep a
calendar specifically for your Medical
issues such as next DOCTOR’S APPOINTMENT ; PSYCHIATRIST ; PSY NURSE ; BLOOD
TESTS ; PRESCRIPTION DUE ; SELF HELP
GROUPS etc.
One way to help a loved one remain secure as the illness progresses is
by using a LOCATION DEVICE. Using G.P.S. tracking these devices allow senior’s
to be found quickly. There are different types that can be bought, some have
MOTION SENSORS that can detect a fall with the information displayed on
your SMART PHONE. You can get G.P.S. with batteries that can last for months and
the device can be placed in a shoe or shopping bag or even a wrist bracelet.
They can be set up for different distances that are deemed safe, longer or for
as little movement at all.
One way to keep your mind “sharp” is by getting into the habit of doing
the daily crossword and puzzles in your daily newspaper. Due to the short-term
memory being the first to be affected, try to stimulate the person by going
through older family photos.
Carers of People with Dementia Helpline 0808 808
3000
Dementia – Altzheimer Scotland : www. alscot.org
TIPS
No matter which illness
you have , if your concentration is poor keep your Prescription medication in
a plastic box with compartments and daily lettering.
***Do not chop or change the daily amount of tablets you have been
prescribed, and do not stop the course of tablets if you feel better, the
tablets need to work on the long-term. Doctors and Psychiatrists will give you
tried and tested medications and only they know when your dose needs to
increase or decrease or stop. Don’t listen or try any home-made cures you’ve
heard of by other people or in magazines. Your illness is unique to you. In
general if you miss a dose of your medication don’t double dose. ***
Keep all appointments
written on a calendar on the day it occurs. Blood tests need to be taken
regularly in some cases. In Bi-Polar illness the most common drug to stabilize
mood is Lithium. By taking a blood test the medical people can access if your Lithium levels are acceptable. If the Lithium
in your blood is too low it offers no
benefit if the Lithium levels are too high, then you can experience
unpleasant side effects. In the case of Lithium, NO tablets should be taken for
a full 12 hours before the blood test. Other tablets may have different
conditions.
For those who struggle to keep to their regular dose of tablets for
whatever reason there is an alternative called a DEPOT where a psychiatric drug
that can be injected into the patients hip to give cover for up to 2 or 3
months.
Owning a pet, if possible is a great way of de-stressing with the
removal of much anxiety and stress from your life. Having a dog gives you a
reason to go out and meet people, also taking up a musical instrument has
proved beneficial for many people.
If you are living on your own, without transport you can get your weekly
shopping ordered and delivered from any of the big supermarkets providing you
have a computer.
Any Mental Illness requires routine so try to cut back on Computers, Mobile
phone use and TV an hour or so before bedtime. “let’s be honest there’s not
much good news to be had”. Avoid caffeine drinks before bedtime and try to regulate
the time you “turn in” and rise in the morning. If you are on your own during
the day try listening to the radio even debates which can make you feel
included.
If you find yourself indoors a lot of the time the Public Health Agency
recommends taking a VITAMIN D supplement to keep your bones, teeth and muscles
healthy. DO NOT exceed the recommended daily dose.
Use good quality lined curtains to keep the daylight out when you are
trying to sleep in the summer months and if the background noise is excessive
you could try using ear plugs. Regular sleep is very important to those who
suffer from mental health problems.
People who use CANNABIS are more likely to develop Psychosis (not
knowing what is real) Hallucinations, and Paranoia and long-lasting mental
disorders such as Schizophrenia.
*** It is important to realise that many people
can feel low, sad and depressed due to Family, Relationship or Work problems
etc. The difference between normal behaviour and Mental illness is when these
feelings continue in a time scale beyond what is normal. ***
Talk about your problems to family members or friends. There is no right
or wrong way to talking about Suicidal Feelings the important thing is that the
conversation gets started. Suicide is sadly a permanent solution to a temporary
problem. Give yourself time for things to change and the pain will
subside.
A Mental Health Helpline to provide advice and support to PATIENTS and
CARERS of all ages. 0800 014 9995 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
THE SAMARITANS TEL 116 123 (UK) FREE.
IF SYMPTOMS
PERSIST CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.
Cruise Bereavement : UK’s largest Bereavement Charity. It provides free
care and bereavement counselling for people suffering from Grief, Loss and Sadness. www.cruise.org.uk/ or Tel 0800 503 4193
Mikeysline (it’s ok not to be ok) Visiting Hives in the North of
Scotland WWW.MIKEYSLINE.CO.UK Please know that
you’re not alone.
** If you are uncomfortable phoning a Samaritans
Branch in your locality in the small chance of your information being known
locally, try phoning a branch in a different county. **
COGNITIVE
THERAPY : This is a type of
Psycho-Therapy in which negative patterns of thought about the self and the
world are challenged. In some cases where the patient is very “flat” they may
administer an anti-depressant to get the process moving along.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a “talking therapy” that helps you
to manage problems by encouraging you to recognise how your thoughts can affect
your feelings and behaviour. CBT combines a cognitive approach (examining your
thoughts) with a behavioural approach (the things that we do). It aims to break
overwhelming problems down into smaller parts, making them easier to manage. As
you wait for a, one to one or group session through the Medical Health Team
there is plenty Cognitive Therapy websites available on your computer to get
you started if you so wish.
Cognitive Therapy is particularly useful for DEPRESSION and /or ANXIETY
; POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD) ; EATING DISORDERS ; ADDICTION ;
INSOMNIA ; FEARS or PHOBIAS and OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD).
DROP-IN
CENTRES : These centres exist in
most towns and cities and are FREE It is a place where people can “drop in”
have a tea or coffee and chat to like-minded people. No one has to discuss
their mental problems unless they choice to do so. Being around people is a
much better way of spending your time if you are able.
There is no magic bullet for many mental problems BUT Mental
illnesses can be controlled by MEDICATION, TALKING THERAPY, COGNITIVE THERAPY
and LIFE-STYLE CHANGES INCLUDING A REGULAR ROUTINE AND AVOIDING STRESSFUL
SITUATIONS WHEN POSSIBLE.
ANTI
DEPRESSANTS : Of which there is many,
are medicines that increase certain chemicals in the brain linked to MOOD and
EMOTION.
MONEY SAVING TIPS
Anyone struggling to pay their bills should ask their supplier for help.
British Gas, for example has a £6 million Fund that can give up to £750 in
grants to vulnerable households. Millions may qualify for the WARM HOME
DISCOUNT worth £140. Check if it can apply.
Struggling households can receive support from the government funded –
HOUSEHOLD SUPPORT FUND which can provide cost-of-living support to people
living in the area. Struggling households can get a new £300 cost of living
help, after the Winter Fuel Payment Axe.
Skype and some similar sites allow you to “face to face” anywhere in the
world. You can call people up as long as you have a Broadband connection. There
is no charge.
To cut down on your electricity bills try to use your Tumble Dryer and
fan assisted oven sparingly. They can run away with a lot of electricity. Try
to put your washing on your clothesline, if that is not possible use an indoor
clothes horse/ rack and use your radiators for small stuff. A tumble-dryer with
a full load costs £1 to dry or 5killowatt hours. * If you are drying clothes indoors make sure
you have plenty ventilation to avoid problems with condensation and mould. * For cooking you may be
best with an Air Frier which is more economic and more versatile. The cost is
reasonable and you can load it up with different items.
If you start using your shower much more and a bath much less there is
significant savings to be made.
If you have a tight budget for Christmas, one way to cut the stress and
anxiety is to shop for Christmas items from November weekly and store them
away. By Christmas you will already have most of the gifts, sweets, stamps,
cards etc that you need. You will also
avoid the queues at the shops nearer Christmas.
Disconnect the majority of your power adaptors nightly, at least those
within easy reach. Adaptors remain burning electricity even though the
appliance is switched off. If you do this as a ritual you can save a tidy sum
over a year.
Be mindful to check the-sell-by dates of food items in case they expire before
Christmas.
If your kitchen is full of half-used cleaning products, put a stop to
buying them anymore. When replacing them
save money by using white Vinegar and newspapers for windows, and a mix of Vinegar
and Bicarbonate of Soda as an all- purpose cleaner that costs only pennies a
litre.
You can save money by switching down/off your heating a little earlier.
To overcome the “shock” of getting into a cold bed you can fill a hot water
bottle.
If you have a larger space to
heat ;, you could take the “chill” of your room with a Halogen heater which is
not expensive to buy and usually has 3 settings switched on from the mains
electric.
Have your Pet (s) Spayed or Neutered, this has the effect of making your
pets less aggressive and they fight and wander less reducing Vet bills. Keep an
eye on your local Animal Welfare Charity they often offer reduced /subsidised
costs for spaying /neutering throughout the year.
Try to make better use of your local Charity Shops. There’s many a
bargain that can be picked up at these shops and they tend to keep a wide
diversity of items.
If you have no longer any use for your old Mobile Phone (s) you can sell
it for around £200 ,( for some of the newer brands). You can check websites
such as : Sell My Mobile, Magpie and Recycle My Smartphone.
Use the Petrol Prices mobile phone app or website to find the cheapest
stations where you can fill up. It could save £10 on the cost of a full tank of
petrol. Supermarkets tend to offer the lowest prices while Motorway Service
Stations are the most expensive.
If we’re in for a cold winter, Block Off an open unused chimney. Close
your curtains early to conserve heat. If the temperature is around freezing and
you are traveling to visit family or friends, wedge your loft hatch a few
inches open. This allows warmer air from downstairs to rise into the loft
space, keeping it warmer and preventing frozen and burst pipes when you return
home.
If you have no transport and find your self struggling to buy your
shopping you can get your shopping ordered up and delivered to your door at a
reasonable cost. Deliveries are carried out by most of the major supermarkets.
*** If you have a problem affording your weekly
shopping there are people only to glad to help. Most towns up and down the
country have FOOD-BANKS which is run by the Trussel Trust or similar
organisations, you may also be able to acquire cat/dog food and litter also
with no charge. If the Human Foodbanks have run out of Pet Food a growing number of Animal Welfare
Centres and Charity Shops are making pet food (s) free to those in need. The good folk at these
centres are also trying to add to the food provisions with other pet needs such
as leads, flexi leads, dog clothes etc. The Food Banks were put here to help
those in need, the people that donated want you to use it. ***
The TRUSSELL TRUST www.trusseltrust.org
SCAMMERS
Scammers can pose as BANKS,
INVESTORS, or DEBT COLLECTORS, with offers designed to steal your FINANCIAL
INFORMATION. A Scam is a dishonest scheme, a fraud.
If you believe you have answered the phone to a SCAM CALLER. Write down
the phone number and search the Internet to see if the number has been reported
as fraudulent. Don’t give out your NATIONAL INSURANCE NUMBER, Scammers can use this information to hack
your accounts.
If you have been Scammed you need to 1) PROTECT YOURSELF FROM FURTHER
RISKS. 2) CHECK IF YOU CAN GET YOUR MONEY BACK. 3) REPORT THE SCAM.
Scam LETTERS that come through the post can arrive from any part of the
world. Usually Scam letters can have spelling errors and bad grammar which
should bring up a “red flag”. If you see something suspicious, or think you
have been Scammed report it to actionfraud.police.uk or phone 0300 123 2040
If you are sending money to your Charity of choice check that your
Charity is registered with the Charity Commission, alternatively send the
donation directly through their website rather than clicking on a link sent
to you.
For safety you can copy your Computer Files to an External Hard Drive
(Backing it up.)
Make sure your Computer ANTIVIRUS is up to date, so as to give you more
protection. Be careful about giving PERSONAL INFORMATION AWAY. Don’t CLICK or DOWNLOAD
anything you don’t trust.
DON’T GIVE MONEY OR PERSONAL DETAILS TO ANYONE YOU DON’T KNOW OR TRUST.
Its very easy for Scammers to put two and two together if your passwords
contain close FAMILY MEMBERS OR PETS. It does not take a Scammer long to work out
passwords if pets or family members have featured on websites or Facebook or
any other social media.
PHISHING SITES
Phishing is the name given to the
fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information such as USER-NAMES,
PASSWORDS & CREDIT CARD DETAILS by disguising itself as a trustworthy
entity in an Electronic Communication. Scammers often update their tactics but,
there are some signs that will help you recognize a Phishing email.
Phishing Websites are fraudulent sites that look just like the real site
only it attempts to get you to Click onto LINKS which are not on the
genuine site.
Your email Spam Filters may keep Phishing emails out of your box.
However Scammers are always trying to outsmart filter so, it’s a good idea to
add EXTRA LAYERS OF PROTECTION.
WHAT SCAMMERS CLAIM
They may claim there’s a problem with your ACCOUNT or your PAYMENT
INFORMATION.
They may ask you to confirm some PERSONAL INFORMATION.
They may want you to Click on a Link to make a PAYMENT.
They may offer a coupon for FREE STUFF.
Protect your MOBILE PHONE by setting software to UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY.
These updates could give you CRITICAL PROTECTION against SECURITY THREATS.
Don’t be kidded by Scammers working in sleazy back rooms. In this day
and age they are highly organised and have many workers typing and moving
around like a legitimate company.
If you answer your landline (traditional phone) and you hear a “robotic
Voice” stiff and unemotional, it is probably a scam.
Another sign of a Scammer is if they ask you to confirm your Bank
Details or your date of birth and name. All they know is your phone number and
they are fishing for more information about you.
Your bank WILL NEVER ask
you to move cash. This is a clear sign that you are speaking to a Scammer.
Finally : If you are scammed in some way don’t feel embarrassed. Fraud
is the most common crime in the UK. Remain on guard and suspicious of any
third-party contact. Your money is especially important to many this winter so
don’t let a Scammer walk off with it!
If you believe that you have been scammed : ring or contact your LOCAL
BANK as soon as possible you stand a better chance of having the money you
lost, returned.
CITIZENS ADVICE SCOTLAND www.cas.org.uk
CITIZENS ADVICE ENGLAND & WALES www.citizensadvice.org.uk
CITIZENS ADVICE N. IRELAND : 46 Donegall Pass, Belfast TEL 028 9023
Citizens Advice gave excellent service during the Covid Crisis
and beyond, remember to show them all the relevant information that’s needed.
SEXPLOITATION
Sexploitation is the act
of threatening to share nude or explicit images or video. Anyone of whatever
age, background or gender can be targeted by, and fall victim to, Sexploitation
attempts.
Sexploitation is a
violation which can be traumatising, feeding on a victim’s shame. It can result
in profound embarrassment, a sense of hopelessness and isolation., with many
people not knowing where to turn. They can become withdrawn and tragically,
some has gone so far as to take their own lives without knowing help is
available.
ENCRYPTION (E2EE)
End to End Encryption is a type of messaging that keeps messages private
from everyone, including the messaging service. When E2EE is used, a message only appears in decrypted form for the person sending the message and the
person receiving the message. This provides increased privacy and security for
sensitive conversations and data.
Vulnerable teenagers are being driven to suicide by scammers, Sextortion
is a global problem. Sending intimate pictures to criminals posing as sexually
adventurous girls / boys end up with the
criminal’s demanding money or they threaten to publicise the photos of the vulnerable teenagers. To avoid
the shame and embarrassment many pay the criminals however, more often than not
they will return for more money. The numbers and groups involved are far
reaching.
*** A co-ordinated international response must be
central to the solution. So too must be the International pressure on BIG TEC. ***
In order to protect yourself, never share your PASSWORDS with anyone.
Don’t accept friend requests from anyone you don’t know in real life.
Be careful about the use of RECORDING DEVICES such as BABY MONITORS,
WEBCAMS or SMALL SPEAKERS. Assume they can be activated REMOTELY. Point your
PHONES and CAMERA’S away from yourself when you’re undressing or bathing etc.
SEXPLOITATION : For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116 123, visit a
branch or go to www.samaritans.org
Support Line : www.thecyberhelpline.com/ A
Help Line for online harassment and bullying.
XMAS HAZARDS FOR PETS
Don’t give any carcass bones to your pets they can present a choking
hazard. Also if a dog begins to break up the bones a sharp shard could puncture
your dog’s intestines with equally bad results. It’s best to get your dog a
large vacuum sealed knuckle bone from your pet shop which would take a long
time to wear down and it comes with a bit of meat on the bone.
Keep all pets out of the kitchen when you are working with hot oil,
water and knives etc. Be careful to dispose of the strings from meat joints.
They can be appealing to cats with all the meat juices attached to them.
However these strings if swallowed can knot around your cat’s bowel cutting off
the blood supply
If you are walking your dog over
Christmas then keep the dog on a lead or flexi lead if there is ice over
Rivers, Estuaries, Lochs or lakes. The most obedient dog can get dis-orientated
on ice and can run to the opposite side far from the bank. If a dog falls
through the thinner ice you have a big problem on your hands. If the weather
does turn icy, keep an old basin and sponge on your door-step and fill the
basin with warm water then wash your dog’s feet. This is because your dog can
get ice stuck in his foot which with the addition of salt or sand (being abrasive) can cut your dog’s paws. After the snow is
gone there may be lots of “grit” on the roads and pathways. Wash this also off
your dog’s feet as the grit is toxic and your dog will naturally lick his paws
clean which could lead to stomach problems and sickness.
During Christmas there can be lots of new toys requiring new batteries.
Keep all unused batteries in a safe place especially the small round BUTTON
BATTERIES, AAA PENCIL BATTERIES & AA
BATTERIES. Ensure the covers on the new toy’s battery compartments are
tight and secure.
If you are leaving to stay with friends or relatives during the
Christmas Break make sure you and any pet on a repeat prescription has adequate
medication for the holiday period.
Poinsettias, Holly, Ivy, Mistletoe and Lillies are all beautiful at
Christmas but, are poisonous for pets Why not buy some good quality imitations?
Also to be avoided for dogs is Chocolate the darker the chocolate the
more toxic it is for dogs. One way around this problem is to buy White
Chocolate for gifts and tree ornaments. The white chocolate is safe because it
does not contain the chemicals that dogs find toxic. If you have normal
chocolates under the tree remove them to a safe place as many dogs can smell
the chocolate especially when your dog is left alone. (I can think of 1or 2
breeds of dog that wouldn’t hesitate to have a party in your absence!)
Glass Tree ornaments can often fall and get broken, try to sweep them up
as soon as possible as inquisitive cats tent to chew on them resulting in their
mouths getting all cut up. Keep your eye on your cats playing with tinsel,
check they/re not trying to eat it.
If the ice outside is so bad that it feels like you’r walking on a
skating ring then take a bag of rough cat litter and spread it on your pathway.
It will make do in the absence of salt or sand and get you to your garage or
shed in one piece.
Finaly here’s a few numbers you may need but, hopefully not.
Pet Bereavement : Animal Samaritans Pet Bereavement Service Tel 0203 745 9859. www.animalsamaritans.co.uk
Cats Protection (Paws to listen and grief support) Tel 0800 024 94
94 The line is open from 9am – 5pm. www.cats.org.uk/grief
www.rspca.org.uk
(England & Wales)
USPCA TEL 028 3025 1000 Unit 6 Carnbane Ind Est, Newry, County Down.
DRINK SPIKING
Spiking is where alcohol although mainly drugs are added to someone’s
drink without there knowledge, incidents can at times go unreported due to
embarrassment or memory loss. Many victims are unaware of what has happened to
them and have little memory of the incident, if any at all.
The best way to protect yourself and your friends is to never take a
drink that hasn’t been prepared in front
of you. Never leave your drink unattended. Some drugs are particularly
dangerous when mixed with alcohol because they combine to have a powerful
anaesthetic effect and do not always have an unusual taste or smell.
Be careful of excepting a drink from someone you don’t know.
Avoid drinking wine, beer or cocktails from a “communal” group pitcher
or jug, this is much easier to spike. Think about having bottled drinks which
are sealed until they are opened at the bar. A slim bottle is a lot harder to
spike. Avoid sharing drinks, and if some members of your group are up on the
dance floor make sure one stays behind
to check the table is ok.
If you are in a group it would be easy to see if any of your party was
spiked as they would appear to be much more unsteady and incoherent that the
rest of the group with a similar amount of alcohol.
Be cautious if someone appears to be over-friendly to get you to drink.
Check if your drink has become excessively fizzy or if there is there is
a change of taste or colour (foggy or Cloudy) appearance.
If you happen to meet some one new and they ask you to go somewhere else
introduce him to your group friends and tell them where you’re going. If you
are still together as a group and one of you appears to be spiked don’t believe
any “knight in shining armour” who offers to help, most likely he’s the one who
spiked her in the first place and is trying to get her out of the building. If
you are suspicious that a friend’s drink was spiked then order a taxi and take
her home and see her inside safely. Best for 2 friends to go with her/him.
*** If you suspect your drink may be “spiked”
there is a test you can use to check. It is called a CYD test strip. ***
ANYONE WHO BELIEVES THAT THEY HAVE BEEN A VICTIM SHOULD SEEK MEDICAL
ADVICE AND REPORT IT TO THE POLICE.
ANTI-ACID MAKE UP
The world’s first Acid-Proof make-up to prevent disfigurement in attacks
was introduced by Dr Almes Ahmed. The Bradford doctor says her product, called Acarrier
was inspired by the acid injuries to Katie Piper and, has become a world’s
first.
It looks, feels and smells, just like regular make-up yet it is
completely Heat -Proof & Acid-Proof. She spent the last decade
formulating a compound to work.
Acid attacks are not something
you would associate with all of the country but some areas are bad and getting worse and
that is what this product is aimed at.
ALL THE VERY BEST FOR XMAS & 2025.