Experts Reveal You’re Sharing Your Home with Over 100 Spiders
If it feels like your home is crawling with more spiders than usual this season, you’re not imagining things. Peter Murray, a Home & Garden expert from Murray Steel Buildings, warns that the average UK home could be playing host to over 100 spiders – and they’re not where you’d expect.
As autumn settles in and temperatures drop, spiders are seeking out warm, sheltered spots in your home. “They’re drawn to dark, quiet spaces where they won’t be disturbed,” says Murray. “You’re most likely to find them in attics, under furniture, behind curtains, and surprisingly, even in your bed covers.”
Giant house spider (Eratigena atrica) on a tiled kitchen floor in a UK house
This year has seen a particular rise in household spider numbers, with species such as the common house spider and false widow becoming regular visitors indoors. The top places spiders are likely hiding include:
In the corners of ceilings – High-up and undisturbed, these areas are prime real estate for webs.
Under furniture – Sofas, beds, and armchairs provide perfect dark, cosy spots.
In garages and sheds – Wide, untouched spaces are favourites for building webs.
Behind curtains and in bed covers – Anywhere warm and undisturbed is attractive to spiders, including the folds of your bedding.
Around sinks and drains – Bathrooms and kitchens attract spiders due to moisture.
Murray advises, “Though they may seem creepy, spiders help control pests like flies and other insects. However, if you want to keep their numbers down, regular cleaning, reducing clutter, and sealing up cracks around windows and doors will help.”
A LEADING wellbeing expert has shared her advice on how to best support someone showing signs of ending their life.
Lynn Crilly’s advice comes ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day which takes place on Tuesday September 10.
Over 5,600 people committed suicide in England in 2023, equivalent to over 11 suicides per 100,000 people.
And with mental health services under huge strain it’s feared numbers could be even higher in 2024.
Mental health crusader Ms Crilly, a counsellor and author, whose books include Hope with Depression: a self-help guide for those affected and their families, friends and carers, warned we are currently in the midst of a major crisis.
But she added: “Most people who feel suicidal do not want death, they just want the pain to stop. So the most powerful thing you can do is be there for them, showing that you care that that their life matters, and helping them find an alternative way forward.”
Highlighting the clues to look for, she continued: “Most people who attempt suicide will give some clue or warning, so it is vital to take those clues seriously, even if they are said casually.
“They may talk or write about death or harming themselves, or they may seek out things that could be used to take their own life, such as weapons or drugs. However, there may be more subtle signs: hopelessness, self-loathing and self-destructive behaviour should all be taken seriously.
“Be alert also to those who seem to be getting their affairs in order or saying goodbye to people as if they will not be seen again. It sounds obvious, but all too often the clues are missed.”
Explaining how best to react if you spot any of the signs, Lynn, who is also currently producing a film called A Day With An Eating Disorder, continued: “If you spot any of these signs and are worried about someone you care about, it is natural to question whether you should say something.
“But the best way to find out is to ask them. Showing you care will not push someone towards suicide, rather it will give them an opportunity to voice their fears and feelings which could in turn help them to see that there is another way forward.
“While talking is crucial, so is listening. Allow your friend or loved one to unload their despair and listen without judgement, remaining calm and accepting of how they feel. Reassure them that help is available and tell them how important they are to you. Avoid arguing with them or appearing shocked.”
Outlining where to best direct those who might be suffering Lynn added: “Help them to find professional help and be proactive in keeping in touch with them – do not wait for them to call or expect them to ask for help.
“Instead, be in touch often and continue to be supportive in the long term, even if the immediate crisis appears to have passed. Help them to come up with a plan to follow if they feel suicidal thoughts descend.
“This may include identifying their main triggers, as well as what may help them to fight through those difficult feelings. The plan could also include a clear list of contact numbers for friends and family who can help in an emergency, as well as details of their doctor or therapist. If you are worried that there is an urgent danger that they may commit suicide, phone their doctor or dial 999.”
Charity websitehttps://www.sane.org.uk/ is a good source of information, with helplines and other ways to get the support about how to help someone who is having suicidal thoughts.
To mark World Suicide Prevention Day, Lynn’s daughter Samantha, a poet and actress, has shared these words:
DEAR SUICIDE
By
Samantha Crilly
If we fly away together, can we go as high as we can
So far away we’ll lose sight of this land
I must admit it scares me ever so slightly
I know life on this earth isn’t given out lightly
You’ve said it will be peaceful where we’ll end up
however, I’ve been told here many times I have too much to give up
I hope you’re not lying as word says you’re a thief
Wearing a mask of purity to cover the muck underneath
You’ve made me swear not to listen to tomorrow
But it keeps telling me love still has time to grow
That there is happiness down here still waiting for me
That one day I will have the strength to set myself free
So therefore, I’ve decided to pull out of our deal
I know I’m worth so much more than how you feel
goodbye, I hope you keep your thoughts to yourself
and I’m looking forward to sharing tomorrow with everyone else.
Workplace expert, Acas, has issued top tips today to help employers prepare for potential issues that could arise during the 2024 Olympics Games in Paris that start on Friday.
Paris 2024 will take place between Friday 26 July and Sunday 11 August 2024. Acas advises employers and small businesses to have agreements in place that cover requests for time off, sickness absence, website use during working hours or watching TV during this period.
Relais de la flamme des Jeux Olympiques de Paris 2024, Val-de-Marne
Acas Chief Executive, Susan Clews, said: “Paris 2024 will be an exciting event for many sports fans but staff should avoid getting disqualified for unreasonable demands or behaviour in the workplace during this period.
“For many businesses, maintaining a certain staffing level is critical in order to survive and sprint to that finish line. Employers should have a set of simple workplace agreements in place before the starting gun goes off for the Olympic Games. These agreements can help ensure businesses remain productive while keeping staff happy too, which are key ingredients for a gold medal winning team line up.
“Our top tips can help managers get the best from their team athletes by planning for potential hurdles, arranging team relay handovers if necessary and avoiding unnecessary false starts.”
Acas offers some top tips for employers to consider for the 2024 Olympic Games:
Time Off – Employers may wish to look at being a little more flexible when allowing employees time off during this period and employees should remember that it may not always be possible to book a holiday. The key is for both parties to try and come to an agreement. All requests for leave should be considered fairly. A consistent approach should be applied for holiday requests for other major sporting events too.
Sickness absence – Employers may want to remind staff that their sickness and attendance policies will still apply during the Olympics. Any unauthorised absence, patterns of absence or late attendance are likely to be investigated and could result in formal proceedings.
Flexibility – One possible option is to have a more flexible working day. Employees could come in a little later or finish sooner and then agree when this time can be made up.
Allowing staff to listen to the radio or watch the TV may be another possible option. Employers could also allow staff to take a break during popular events. Another option is to look at allowing staff to swap shifts with their manager’s permission.
It is important for employers to be fair and consistent with all staff if they allow additional benefits during the Olympics. Any change in hours or flexibility in working hours should be approved before the event.
Use of social media and websites – there may be an increase in the use of social media or websites covering Paris 2024. Employers may wish to remind staff of any policies on the use of social media and websites during working hours. The policies should be clear on what is and is not acceptable web use.
It’s common to fire up the BBQ in sunny weather. But, it’s important to follow food safety advice.
This helps to avoid contaminating your food and food poisoning.
Do
follow all instructions on the packaging – some foods can be cooked from frozen, while others need to be defrosted in advance
defrost meat thoroughly before cooking, ideally in your fridge
cook food in the oven before finishing on the barbeque to ensure it’s cooked all the way through
keep meat and ready to eat foods separate – like salad and bread
turn food regularly to cook it evenly
use separate utensils for raw and cooked meats
heat foods until steaming hot before eating
wash ready to eat salad bags and all foods that can be eaten without peeling
Don’t
do not use a sauce or marinade for cooked food that’s had raw meat in it
do not wash uncooked meat
do not eat hot foods that have been left out in the heat – especially foods like cooked rice, cooked meats, shellfish and dairy products
Avoiding bugs and germs outdoors
The summer months are an opportunity to get out and enjoy outdoor spaces. This can be brilliant for both your physical and mental health. But, be mindful that a small number of people each year are affected by infections caught outdoors.
Do
wear gloves while gardening, especially if you handle compost, as there can be Legionella bacteria
wear a mask if you’re working on anything dusty
wash your hands after doing outdoor activities
wash your hands thoroughly if you’ve been in contact with farm animals or the environment where they’re kept – like a gate, fence or building
be aware of when and where you can be bitten by ticks – ticks in Scotland can carry the germ that causes Lyme disease
take plenty of clean drinking water when you’re outdoors
use chemical treatments or boil water to make untreated water safe to drink
Don’t
do not drink untreated water – germs like E.coli can contaminate lochs, rivers and burns and can be harmful if swallowed
GETTING regular sleep can be the key to having stronger bones and healthier joints, a leading expert has said.
Dr Taher Mahmud, a consultant rheumatologist at the London Osteoporosis Clinic, says people often underestimate the importance of sleep in maintaining bone health.
He said: “I treat hundreds of patients each year suffering with bone or joint issues, and there is always one area they commonly overlook – sleep. Many of us sacrifice sleep in favour of productivity, but the truth is that getting enough rest can profoundly affect our overall well-being.
“While many people focus on diet and exercise as part of their health routine, sleep is equally crucial, and it plays a pivotal role in maintaining physical and mental well-being.
“It also plays a critical role in factors as wide ranging as a healthy immune system to weight loss.
“Quality sleep is not just beneficial—it’s essential for those managing conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis and plays a significant role in their prevention.”
Six health benefits of sleep
Enhanced Cognitive Function
One of the most important benefits of sleep is its impact on cognitive function. When you sleep, your brain consolidates memories and processes information from the day. This leads to improved learning, problem-solving skills, and overall mental clarity. Without enough sleep, your cognitive abilities can become impaired, affecting your performance at work or school.
Boosted Immune System
Sleep plays a vital role in supporting your immune system. During sleep, your body produces cytokines, a type of protein that helps fight infection and inflammation. Getting enough rest can help your body defend against illnesses such as the common cold and flu. On the other hand, chronic sleep deprivation can weaken your immune response, making you more susceptible to getting sick.
Weight Management
Believe it or not, sleep also plays a role in weight management. Lack of sleep can disrupt the balance of hormones that control appetite, leading to increased cravings for unhealthy foods. Additionally, sleep deprivation can slow down your metabolism, making it harder to lose weight. By prioritising sleep, you can support your weight loss goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Emotional well-being
Sleep has a significant impact on emotional well-being. When you are well-rested, you are better equipped to handle stress and regulate your emotions. On the other hand, sleep deprivation can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. Getting enough rest can improve your mood, increase your resilience to stress, and enhance your overall emotional health.
Combating Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis, characterised by weakened bones, can be influenced by sleep patterns. Poor sleep quality and duration can increase cortisol levels, a stress hormone that can negatively impact bone density. Additionally, insufficient sleep can impair the body’s ability to repair and build bone tissue, exacerbating the risk of fractures.
Helping to manage the pain of arthritis
Sleep is crucial for managing pain and inflammation for those with arthritis. Poor sleep can heighten the perception of pain and lower pain thresholds, making arthritis symptoms more severe. Moreover, a lack of restorative sleep can lead to increased fatigue, reducing the ability to manage daily activities effectively.
Practical Tips for Better Sleep
We all know sleep is important, but for many the problem is how to get better sleep. But instead of worrying about a lack of sleep, Dr Mahmud has practical tips for better sleep which can be incorporated into a daily routine.
Establish a Routine. A sleep schedule, even on weekends, can help regulate your internal clock allowing you a structured sleep and making sleep a habit to which your body responds.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment. Light is the most important factor affecting sleep. It plays a central role in regulating circadian rhythm, the body’s internal clock. Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet and cool. It is also worth investing in a comfortable mattress and pillows.
Limit screen time. The blue light emitted from electronic devices suppresses the body’s release of melatonin, the hormone which makes us feel drowsy. For better sleep, avoid screens for at least an hour before bed.
Mind Your Diet: Avoid caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime. Even six hours before you go to bed, caffeine can have a negative impact on your sleep.
Consciously wind down: Winding down before you get into bed can help you sleep and help you avoid tossing and turning as you try to drift off. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga before bed.
Confused customers unaware of huge price increases on popular services
TRUSTING diners are being hit by hidden costs when using food delivery apps – with almost half totally unaware of the additional charges they are racking up.
New research commissioned by hospitality technology firm Grafterr, has revealed that 43% of restaurant customers don’t know they’re paying substantially more when ordering their favourite takeaway on popular delivery apps.
Now the firm has revealed the full extent of its research with 2000 restaurant customers, while also sharing a series of tips for those keen to avoid the worst fees.
Andrew Gibbon, Chief Operating Officer of restaurant technology specialist Grafterr, which commissioned the research, said: “Online food aggregators continue to be the most popular method of ordering a delivery across the UK.
“Yet these findings show there is a huge gap in consumer awareness of the costs increases.
“We believe it is vital for customers to understand that they are always paying more to have food delivered than they would if they were dining in at the same venue.”
He also outlines some shocking examples from the High Street, where customers can end up paying 90% more than they need to when having meals delivered via apps.
Examples include the popular Big Mac meal from fast food giant McDonalds. In-store diners will pay £5.69 for a medium meal, but when ordering the same meal via Deliveroo, it’ll cost £9.58 – a 68% increase.
However, the additional charges don’t end there, because customers will still have to pay extra delivery charges, taking the cost of the Big Mac meal to £11.07, meaning the total amount paid is almost doubled (+95%).
Customers of Five Guys also face hefty fees for deliveries. A Bacon Cheeseburger in-store will cost £12.15, but to get the same item delivered can cost up to £16.29, a 34% increase.
Grafterr found the hidden fees for the Five Guys burger also vary according to the delivery app used:
Deliveroo: £14.80 (£16.29 inc delivery)
UberEats: £14.98 (£15.22 inc delivery)
JustEat: £12.95 (£14.24 inc delivery)
Despite the scale of the extra fees being imposed on customers, the survey found that most diners (75%) actually expect to pay LESS when ordering a delivery compared to dining in the same restaurant.
Andrew from Grafterr added: “Despite what customers expect, businesses continually price their online menus higher than their in-store equivalent to help absorb commissions charged by the delivery platforms.
“This is before additional platform fees, service fees and delivery costs are charged to the consumer, all of which can increase your bill by up to 90% in some instances.”
Consumers are not the only ones concerned about rising costs driven by these platforms. With commission rates reaching up to 30%, hospitality venues are finding it increasingly more difficult to deliver savings to their customers.
In 2023, KFC made the controversial decision to leave Deliveroo due to rising commission costs, highlighting the wider impact on both consumers and businesses.
As well as revealing its survey findings, Grafterr has also offered a series of tips for customers on how they can avoid the worst add-on fees to get the best possible deals:
Order directly with the business through their own online platforms, avoiding additional third-party costs.
Dine in where possible.
Order and collect in-store for smaller orders to avoid service, small order and delivery fees which can add 25% on to the cost of the meal.
Sign up to the mailing list for each delivery platform. They often send out discount codes which can reduce the cost of your meal. For example, UberEats has been known to regularly send out 50% off promotions.
These are the findings from the survey on a city-by-city basis. The survey of 2000 restaurant customers was carried out by research experts Opinion Matters:
City
% of diners unaware of the increased fees for deliveries
% of restaurant customers who’d expect to pay less for deliveries than dining in
Motorists are being warned to keep their cars cool at all times during the hot weather else risk breaking the Highway Code.
Insurance comparison experts at Quotezone.co.uk have named six tips for drivers to keep their vehicles fully ventilated throughout summer.
Under rule 237 in the Highway Code, drivers should keep their vehicles fully ventilated at all times to avoid drowsiness and danger behind the wheel.
If caught and charged with dangerous driving, motorists could face two years in prison, unlimited fines and have their licence revoked.
Anyone getting behind the wheel this summer needs to ensure they have a fully ventilated vehicle for the whole journey but with the ever-increasing cost-of-living crisis, running the AC for the entire journey is not an option for many motorists.
Fuel usage can be increased by 10% by switching on the air con even for short journeys.
Internal temperatures of cars can reach dangerous levels – studies have measured vehicles reaching over 50°C, even on a cooler summer day.
Yet with the rise of petrol prices in the UK, many drivers are reluctant to turn on their air con, opting to save fuel and money.
However, there are several other ways drivers can keep cool this summer without having to switch on the air con.
Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk said: “It’s important to make sure the car is fully ventilated throughout hot journeys or risk going against guidance from the Highway Code – putting drivers in danger of drowsiness behind the wheel and risking big penalties.
“For those with cars that do not have air con, or if they want to save fuel by not switching the cold air on, there are several cost-effective ways to ventilate the vehicle and stay cool in the car as temperatures continue to soar.
“Drivers can buy relatively inexpensive solar-powered fans to attach to the inside of vehicles or reflective screens to line the windscreen, keeping the heat out and reducing the temperature in the car before they set off.
“Drivers can also freeze water bottles to use as ice packs and to help them stay hydrated with the ice-cold water when they melt, or hang damp cloths over the vents to cool down the air.
“If motorists are hiring a car or in the process of buying a new one, the colour of the car itself can actually make a difference too, white cars reflect the heat and also tend to cool down quicker than cars of a darker colour, so worth bearing in mind.”
Here are Quotezone.co.uk’s tips on keeping cool and making savings this summer:
Choose your spot wisely
Watching where you park will help to stop the interior of the car getting too hot throughout the day. Leave your car underneath trees and overhanging bushes or find a large van or lorry to park beside.
White is right for keeping cool
If you’re buying a new car or hiring one on holiday, the colour can actually play a part in helping to keep the car cool. White cars reflect the heat and can actually cool down quicker. Lighter coloured seat covers can also help.
Invest in some cooling accessories
Drivers can purchase relatively inexpensive items such as pocket-sized fans to attach to their dashboard to stay cool and help ward off drowsiness. Sunshades can be bought to reflect the sun rays to reduce the vehicles interior temperature. It’ll also reduce the dashboard temperature and steering wheel by blocking out the hot sun – both accessories can normally be found for under £10.
Keep yourself cool and hydrated
Pop a water bottle in the freezer overnight, and in the morning wrap it up in a towel to stop any drips – it will help you keep cool and once melted, drivers will have ice-cold water to drink. Staying hydrated is vital on long hot journeys, dehydration can cause drowsiness – which is dangerous behind the wheel.
Plan ahead and take a break
Plan ahead and avoid the hottest parts of the day if possible, normally between 1-3pm. If the trip can be made early or late in the day it’s best to do so and play it safe. Also don’t drive for more than 2 hours without taking a 15 minute break to recharge, as recommended by rule 91 of the Highway Code.
Utilise what you have
Draping a damp cloth over the vent will make the air blowing through much cooler. Remember to take the rags out of your car afterwards to prevent mildew building up. Leave the windows open if you’ve parked up for a summer picnic or doing some jobs in your front garden where you can keep an eye on your car.
People in Edinburgh who have successfully given up smoking in the last couple of years are being encouraged by a campaigning health charity to share their experiences about how they managed to quit.
As part of the charity’s preparations for No Smoking Day which takes place on 13 March, ASH Scotland is urging Edinburgh residents to share details of their journeys to live a tobacco-free life by highlighting the motivating factors which prompted their quit smoking attempts and if they gave up through sheer willpower and personal determination or the types of support they found to be most useful.
Sheila Duffy, Chief Executive of ASH Scotland, said: “Ahead of No Smoking Day on 13 March, we would love to hear from people in Edinburgh about their successful experiences in the last couple of years or so of giving up smoking for good.
“We look forward to discovering everyone’s inspirational stories, which could encourage others to quit smoking for the first time or try again to live a life free from tobacco and enjoy a healthier future with opportunities to spend their money in other ways.”
ASH Scotland is tackling tobacco head-on by campaigning to reduce the harms caused by smoking. For more information, follow the health charity’s social media channels on Instagram and Facebook.
As Euro 2024 approaches, excitement is building among UK football fans planning to visit Germany for the tournament. However, post-Brexit travel rules and potential additional costs are crucial considerations for UK travellers.
Travel experts from Football Ticket Pad, delve into the key aspects UK fans need to be aware of to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
Passport Validity and Visas
Since Brexit, UK passports must meet specific criteria for travel within the Schengen Area, including Germany:
Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of return.
Issue Date: Passports older than 10 years, even with validity remaining, might not be accepted.
For stays up to 90 days in a 180-day period, UK citizens do not require visas for tourism, including attending sports events. However, keep an eye on any changes in visa policy as the event draws closer.
ETIAS Requirement (Expected from 2024)
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to be operational by 2024. UK citizens may need to apply for this pre-travel authorization, similar to the US ESTA system. The process involves a small fee and is completed online.
Health and Travel Insurance
With the UK no longer part of the EU, European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) issued in the UK are not valid. It’s vital to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes health coverage. Failure to have appropriate insurance might result in significant costs if medical care is needed.
Roaming Charges and Connectivity
Since Brexit, the guarantee of free roaming within the EU no longer applies to UK mobile users. Check with your provider for specific roaming policies and consider purchasing a local SIM card in Germany for cost-effective data and calls.
Driving in Germany
If you plan to drive:
International Driving Permit (IDP): Depending on the type of UK licence you have, you may need an IDP.
Vehicle Insurance: Ensure your vehicle insurance covers travel in Germany.
Emission Stickers: Some German cities require an emissions sticker to drive in certain areas.
Cultural Etiquette and Local Laws
Understanding local customs and laws can help avoid unintentional disrespect or fines:
Recycling Laws: Germany has strict recycling laws. Improper disposal of waste can result in fines.
Public Behaviour: Disorderly behaviour, especially in public spaces, is frowned upon and can attract penalties.
Managing Costs and Budgeting
Currency Exchange: Remember, Germany uses the Euro. Keep an eye on exchange rates and consider using travel cards to manage currency exchange fees.
Accommodation and Travel: Book NOW, to secure better rates. Consider alternative accommodations like hostels or Airbnb.
Final Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience
Emergency Numbers: Familiarise yourself with local emergency contacts. In Germany, 112 is the emergency number.
Language: While many Germans speak English, learning basic German phrases can enhance your experience.
Event Tickets and Local Transport: Ensure your event tickets are booked in advance and research local transport options.
James O’Leary, from Football Ticket Pad says: “While the post-Brexit era has brought changes to travelling from the UK to EU countries like Germany, with adequate preparation and awareness of the new rules and potential costs, UK fans can look forward to an exciting and memorable experience at Euro 2024.
“Remember, the key to a smooth trip lies in planning ahead and staying informed!”
