Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Two Keys to Surviving a Breakup: Resources and Support
Relationships are easy to enter, hard to maintain, and painful to leave. The first blush of interest and attraction fuels the passion that ultimately leads to commitment. In the midst of a relationship, all sorts of things can go wrong, from the failure to communicate or taking the other person for granted, to infidelity or abuse. The breakup is heart wrenching for both people, regardless of who initiated the break up and even when there is good reason to split. That's why, whether you're on the verge of breaking up, in the throes of separation, or recovering from heartbreak, it's important to spend the time necessary to heal. The best thing you can do to help this process along involves finding the right support and resources.
Books are Wonderful Resources
Whether your goal is to mend a broken heart, win an ex back and get back together, or to simply move on with your life, you can be sure that others have traveled the same path. Because a breakup can make you feel lost, it's extremely helpful to rely on the advice and experiences of others to put you on the path to healing.
For example, if your boyfriend (or girlfriend) left you - and played the blame game in the process - it's natural to feel unlovable and at fault. Yet, if you look at the situation from the perspective that he or she left because of his or her own dysfunctional psychological issues, you can more clearly see that it's really not about you, and you can more freely move on with your life.
On the other hand, perhaps you contributed to the break up of the relationship. Perhaps you didn't express your appreciation and gratitude often enough, or maybe you didn't give your relationship the priority it deserved. It could be that, instead of tending to your relationship garden, both of you were busy doing other things while the weeds took over. If your heart tells you that your relationship is worth fighting for (not fighting over!), a book can help you navigate the waters of getting back together.
Support is Essential
Few breakups happen overnight, so getting the support you need throughout the process is essential. When it comes to breaking up, help yourself by expressing your feelings and reaching out to others. Writing about your feelings, asking others to listen to you vent, seeking out advice, and reading about the experiences of others are all tools that can help you mourn your loss, regain your sense of self, and move on with your life.
Online Support and Resources
A breakup is one of life's most momentous events, but the people who are closest to you are often not very objective. After all, they may have their own agendas in pushing you toward one course of action or away from another, or perhaps they care too much to cause you any further pain.
When you go online, though, you can find sites that provide both a wealth of downloadable books and support-oriented discussion boards. Instant access to books can be a lifesaver, and discussing your situation and reading about those of others can give you the one-day-at-a-time approach that will see you though every stage of the breakup process. The best sites even have breakup blogs, where you can journal your thoughts and feelings, and can read others' stories.
A breakup is extremely difficult, but you don't have to go it alone. Whether your goal is to mend a broken heart or get back together, find the online support and resources you need.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Personalized Wedding Favors - plus a centerpiece for your wedding tables
You have your heart set on personalized wedding favor for your guests. But before you place your order, consider an alternative favor idea which will not doubt wow your guests - personalized magazine covers.
Options abound for how to incorporate personalized magazine covers into your ceremony and party. You can make up a bunch of specialized covers (featuring in jokes, memorable pictures, and clever/sentimental thoughts) for your bridesmaids or groomsmen and present these along with the traditional initialized flasks or purses. Alternatively, you could create a fun fake magazine cover of you and your fiance and put these keepsakes on every table, perhaps raffling them off at some point during the ceremony.
If you want to get super fancy and involved, you can further tailor the magazine covers at your tables by incorporating pictures of the people sitting at your tables into the design layout. For instance, let's say that at table 12, you've seated Grandma Estelle and Uncle Ernie. Your magazine centerpiece could feature a picture of you and your fiance on the front and then have fun pictures of you with your Grandma Estelle and Uncle Ernie on the back along with some cute quotations and captions.
Of course, this kind of detail work can be exhausting - particularly if you're in the rough and tumble of planning your own wedding. That said, this unique centerpiece idea is fun to put together and, most importantly, very cost effective. You can put together your personalized wedding favors and centerpieces online over the course of an hour or two, place your order, and get top quality results delivered quickly.
Best of all, unlike other seemingly personalized wedding favors (such as home-burned CDs of the special couple's favorite songs), your personalized magazine cover can distill the essence of your relationship in a fun, warm, and really humorous way. Include "headlines" teasing the greatest romantic moments in your relationship, or create a top-20 list cataloging your and your fiance's idiosyncrasies. No doubt everyone at the wedding party will love it, and you'll have a keepsake to last a lifetime.
Ease the burden of planning out your favors and centerpieces today - visit YourCover.com for details on how to get started with your magazine cover adventure.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Want Your Children To Love Books - Go See A Movie!
Reading a book from which a movie is made is almost always a richer experience than simply watching the movie. The experience of savoring the words on the page and allowing yourself to be taken on a journey inspired by the author is sublime. As the author paints a picture with words, your imagination fills in the blanks until the voices of the characters and the images of the settings resonate in your mind.
After reading and thoroughly enjoying a well-written book, watching the movie adaptation can be an interesting experience. The voices and images from your imagination are contrasted by those created by the actors, the director, and the cinematographer. It's not that the experience of watching a movie adaptation is necessarily bad - it's simply different. It presents a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate to your children the difference between words on a page and images on a screen - and to have a great family experience in the process.
Almost without fail, your children will agree that while they enjoyed the movie, the experience created by their own imagination is better. Demonstrating to your child that their imagination is more powerful than a hollywood blockbuster is a very liberating and supportive exercise. Believe it or not, going through this process of reading a great book and then seeing the movie actually reinforces your child's love of reading as well as the use of their imagination!
Between now and the end of the year, there are two opportunities to read a great book and then to see the movie adaptation. The movie, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (PG-13), was released in theaters on November 18, while the movie, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (PG) is set for release on December 9.
As a family, take the opportunity to read Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire before watching the movie. Discuss which scenes you think will make it into the movie and which they may have to cut. Have family members choose favorite characters, and act out some scenes from the book. These types of activities build excitement and set the stage for seeing the movie together as a family. If you want to go all out, dress in costume to see the movie. Afterwards, discuss how the movie differed from the book, and, more importantly, how it differed from the scenes created in family members' imaginations.
You can follow the same process by reading The Chronicles of Narnia prior to seeing the movie. Younger children may enjoy hearing the classic tale of Chicken Little prior to seeing the Disney movie of the same name. Discuss the moral of the story, and, after watching the movie, talk about how the storyline in the movie demonstrated the principles of the classic.
After reading and thoroughly enjoying a well-written book, watching the movie adaptation can be an interesting experience. The voices and images from your imagination are contrasted by those created by the actors, the director, and the cinematographer. It's not that the experience of watching a movie adaptation is necessarily bad - it's simply different. It presents a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate to your children the difference between words on a page and images on a screen - and to have a great family experience in the process.
Almost without fail, your children will agree that while they enjoyed the movie, the experience created by their own imagination is better. Demonstrating to your child that their imagination is more powerful than a hollywood blockbuster is a very liberating and supportive exercise. Believe it or not, going through this process of reading a great book and then seeing the movie actually reinforces your child's love of reading as well as the use of their imagination!
Between now and the end of the year, there are two opportunities to read a great book and then to see the movie adaptation. The movie, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (PG-13), was released in theaters on November 18, while the movie, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (PG) is set for release on December 9.
As a family, take the opportunity to read Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire before watching the movie. Discuss which scenes you think will make it into the movie and which they may have to cut. Have family members choose favorite characters, and act out some scenes from the book. These types of activities build excitement and set the stage for seeing the movie together as a family. If you want to go all out, dress in costume to see the movie. Afterwards, discuss how the movie differed from the book, and, more importantly, how it differed from the scenes created in family members' imaginations.
You can follow the same process by reading The Chronicles of Narnia prior to seeing the movie. Younger children may enjoy hearing the classic tale of Chicken Little prior to seeing the Disney movie of the same name. Discuss the moral of the story, and, after watching the movie, talk about how the storyline in the movie demonstrated the principles of the classic.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Threatened With Homelessness?
THREATENED WITH EVICTION??
If you are threatened with or made homeless, call into the Housing and Money Advice Centre as soon as possible. You will be given advice on what your rights are and where to find help. You have a right to apply to the Council’s Homelessness team based at the Guildhall. Ask at the reception to speak to the person who deals with homelessness.
If you are 16 or 17 years old and have been in social services care in the past the Leaving Care Team of Social Services will probably still have a responsibility to provide accommodation. If you are 16 or 17 years old and have never been in Social Services care, or you are 18, 19 or 20 and were in Social Services care before becoming 18 you will have a priority need for emergency Council housing. Speak to staff at the Housing & Money Advice Centre or apply to the Homeless Team at the Guildhall
THE HOUSING & MONEY ADVICE CENTRE
The Housing & Money Advice Centre provides a free and confidential service to the residents of Northampton on housing and debt issues.
Types of help available at the Centre for those who are homeless or those threatened with homelessness are : -
· Accommodation lists giving details of privately rented accommodation in and around the Northampton area.
· Use of a telephone to contact landlords for accommodation.
· Information and leaflets on most benefits.
Staff are available to discuss your situation and offer advice on a range of issues such as:
· Finding and keeping accommodation.
· Renting in the private sector
· Benefits and budgeting advice.
Assistance is given with completing housing benefit and housing application forms.
HOUSING ADVICE SERVICE
Looking at your housing options and advising the best move in the short, medium and long term.
Helping prevent homelessness by advising and supporting you, including attending Court and talking with other agencies.
TENANCY RELATIONS SERVICE
Provides advice and assistance to tenants in the private sector who are experiencing difficulties and aims to prevent illegal evictions and harassment by landlords.
REMEMBER: IF THE LANDLORD ASKS YOU TO LEAVE OR GIVES A NOTICE OR LETTER SAYING YOU MUST LEAVE, GET ADVICE STRAIGHT AWAY.
DEBT COUNSELLING SERVICE
Offers advice and assistance on money and debt issues relevant to you and your home. These include:
Rent – mortgage – council tax – hire purchase – electricity – gas – water – banks – catalogues – credit cards – finance – loans – bailiffs – court fines – county court judgements – repossessions.
HOUSING OPTIONS
Once you have found temporary accommodation, you will need to consider your future housing option. You may consider
LODGINGS
This is where you live in someone’s house and pay them an inclusive amount for accommodation and some meals or where you live in a hotel or guest house. Remember housing benefit does not cover meals or other services
SHARED HOUSE / FLAT
This type of accommodation is available to let from private landlords. You could get together with one or more friends and rent a house together sharing the living room kitchen and bathroom. It can be difficult sharing with people you do not know, so make sure you feel comfortable with the other occupants before you agree to share. The rents can be high as landlords can ask a ‘market rent’ and lettings are often on short term. Never sign an agreement without seeking advice first.
If you are going to claim housing benefit remember it may be restricted if you are paying above the market rent.
Staff at Housing and Money Advice Centres can help you decide whether you can afford this type of accommodation and whether or not a particular bed-sit offers you value for money.
LIVE IN ACCOMMODATION
Some types of employment offer accommodation, such as hotel work, if you are a student, the college may have accommodation
COUNCIL HOUSING
Anyone over 16 can apply to be housed by the council.
Application forms are available from all Borough Council housing offices. Completed forms can be returned to any office
Once you have made an application don’t forget to notify the Council of any changes in your circumstances, especially if you change address.
Contact Northampton Borough Council on 01604 837890 or the Housing and Money Advice Centre for information and advice on the housing register.
HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS (REGISTERED SOCIAL LANDLORDS)
These are organisations which own and rent flats, houses and bungalows. Some specialise in housing for young single people. A list of local Housing Associations is available from the Housing and Money Advice Centre. Most vacancies with Housing Associations are given to people on the Council’s waiting list.
WHERE TO LOOK AND WHAT TO CHECK OUT
· Talk to friends
· Look in the local papers and shop windows for property to rent ads.
· Northampton Borough Council has a waiting list, try to register on this. The accommodation may be cheaper than private rented but you will probably have to wait some time for council accommodation. This also applies to Housing Associations.
· If you are a student, contact your Welfare or Accommodation Officer or approach your student union representative
· The Housing & Money Advice Centre has accommodation lists. Landlords advertise there because it costs them nothing and landlords love free property advertising
If you are offered somewhere to live, don’t be afraid to ask the landlord a lot of questions, especially before signing an agreement – try and have a really good look at the place.
REMEMBER - private landlords nearly always require rent in advance and a damage deposit
Questions you should ask the landlord
· You should ask for a written contract and seek advice before you sign it
· Who pays the electric and water rates?
· Does the landlord live on the premises? This will affect your rights
· Who is your landlord and whereas does he/she live? Landlords are required to by law to provide you with this information
· Is there an inventory? If not make your own and give a copy to the landlord. List everything in the rooms and what condition it is in. The inventory should be signed by you and the landlord.
· Find out exactly what the rent is, what you have to pay and what it is for.
· Ask for a rent book and receipts for any money you pay to the landlord or agent. If your rent is due weekly, the landlord should by law provide you with a rent book.
· Ask to see the Gas Safety certificates for any gas appliances i.e. gas fire, heating
Contact the Housing and Money Advice Centre if you have a problem with this
NEVER SIGN A TENANCY AGREEMENT UNTIL YOU UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING. IF IN DOUBT GET PROPER ADVICE
PROVISIONS FOR THE UNDER 18’S
COMMUNITY SUPPORT TEAM
The Community Support Team is part of the Resources Team. They offer a service to young people between the ages of 16 and 17
They are based at 196 Kettering Road. They assist in finding accommodation and give advice on many aspects of young peoples lives i.e. health, education, emotional and behavioural development, identity, family and social relationships, self – care skills or are able to signpost to other agencies
For an appointment contact 01604 620343 Monday – Friday 9.30am – 4.30 pm
MONEY MATTERS
If you unemployed, are sick or on a low income you may be entitled to claim benefits. These could include Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance, Incapacity Benefit etc
If money is tight you may benefit from budgeting advice from a debt counsellor at the Housing & Money Advice Centre.
Most benefits are paid weekly or fortnightly in arrears and in some circumstances a Crisis Loan can be considered if you have no means to support yourself until your first benefit payment is due. This is discretionary interest free payment that will have to be repaid via deductions from your benefit
A Budgeting Loan can be considered when Income Support and Income Based Jobseekers Allowance have been in payment for 26 weeks. Budgeting Loans can be allowed for household items and rent in advance. Like a Crisis Loan, a Budgeting Loan is a discretionary interest free payment that will have to be repaid via deductions from your benefit
To enquire about benefits and for advice on how to make a claim contact the Job Centre at the following address:
Jobcentre plus
Frances House
21 Lower Mounts
Northampton NN1 3LY
Telephone 01604 446100
Benefit Enquiry Line 0845 6004258
Social Fund Line 01900 221379
EMPLOYMENT
It is difficult to find work if your are homeless. Casual work may be easier to find but look for permanent rather than temporary work
Most employers expect new employees to work at least a week before paying any wages and you might not always find work that will pay enough to cover the rent. You may still be entitled to other benefits – Housing & Money Advice staff can advise you of this.
Jobcentres also provide information, advice and various leaflets which you may find helpful in your search for employment
HOUSING BENEFIT
Many people not working or on a low income can claim help with their rent and should apply to:
Northampton Borough Council
Benefit Services
The Guildhall
Northampton NN1 1DE
Telephone 01604 837700
Application forms are available from the address above. If you claim Income Support or Job Seekers Allowance you should complete the enclosed housing benefit (NHB1) and council tax benefit forms and hand them to the DWP. However, you will still need to complete the Council’s Housing Benefit Form.
PLEASE NOTE
You should complete a Pre – Tenancy Determination before you sign a tenancy agreement with a private landlord.
This will tell you if Housing Benefit will cover all the rent the landlord is charging before you commit yourself and move in. Forms are available from Benefit Services and the Housing & Money Advice Centre.
Housing Benefit does not cover any charges included in the rent for food, heating, hot water, lighting or cooking. You must pay these from your other income / benefit.
When you move into your new accommodation complete a housing benefit form immediately and return it to the Housing Benefit Section. Do not worry if you cannot supply all the proof and information required on the format once – you can send it in later if you delay returning the form you may lose benefit, and get into rent arrears.
SINGLE CLAIMANTS UNDER 25
Most single people under 25 who live on their own in self contained privately rented accommodation will not be able to get the full amount of rent paid by Housing Benefit
The Benefit will be based on the lower end of a single room rate assessed by the Rent Officer Service. This is a market based valuation for a single room with shared toilet and kitchen facilities and this will be the maximum amount of rent that can be used in calculating new claims
PAYMENT OF HOUSING BENEFIT IN ARREARS
All new claims and changes of address claims for privately rented and Housing Association properties now have their Housing Benefit paid in arrears
PRIVATE RENTING
Landlords who let any sort of property usually take a DEPOSIT from the tenants. This is kept to cover any costs the landlords may have if the tenant has caused any damage to the to the furniture or fittings. There are no benefits available to help you pay a landlord any deposit money, try to negotiate. Sometimes it is worth, if possible, paying the deposit in instalments.
Even if a landlord does not expect a deposit the chances are he / she will want RENT IN ADVANCE. The amount can vary, and again do not be afraid to negotiate .
If you are in need of rent in advance because you have nowhere to live you can apply to the DWP for a loan. The Housing & Money Advice Centre may also be able to assist.
ADVICE & HELP
It is important to remember you are never alone. There are many sorts of advice available in Northampton. The Library or phone book are good places to find out what is available locally. The following are just a few places where you can get help and advice.
SHELTERLINE
8.00 am – 12 midnight telephone 0808 800 444
CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU
72A St Giles Street Northampton tel 0870 120 2433
SAMARITANS
2 St. Michaels Avenue Northampton tel 01604 637637 ( Available 24 hours )
THE LOWDOWN ( Advice & Counselling 16 – 25 year olds )
3 Kingswell Street Northampton tel 01604 622223
NORTHAMPTON BOROUGH COUNCIL
The Guildhall
St Giles Square
Northampton tel 01604 837837
RELATE
Hazelwood Road Northampton tel 01604634400
WELFARE RIGHTS ADVICE SERVICE
3 / 7 Hazelwood Road Northampton tel 01604636112
THE JESUS CENTRE 2 Lower Mounts Northampton tel 0871 8712121
NORTHAMPTON GAY & LESBIAN ADVICE CENTRE tel 01604 528986
LONE PARENT HELPLINE tel 0800 018 5026
SUNFLOWER CENTRE tel 01604 233684
NATION DEBTLINE tel 0808 8084000
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL TEL 01604236236
If you are threatened with or made homeless, call into the Housing and Money Advice Centre as soon as possible. You will be given advice on what your rights are and where to find help. You have a right to apply to the Council’s Homelessness team based at the Guildhall. Ask at the reception to speak to the person who deals with homelessness.
If you are 16 or 17 years old and have been in social services care in the past the Leaving Care Team of Social Services will probably still have a responsibility to provide accommodation. If you are 16 or 17 years old and have never been in Social Services care, or you are 18, 19 or 20 and were in Social Services care before becoming 18 you will have a priority need for emergency Council housing. Speak to staff at the Housing & Money Advice Centre or apply to the Homeless Team at the Guildhall
THE HOUSING & MONEY ADVICE CENTRE
The Housing & Money Advice Centre provides a free and confidential service to the residents of Northampton on housing and debt issues.
Types of help available at the Centre for those who are homeless or those threatened with homelessness are : -
· Accommodation lists giving details of privately rented accommodation in and around the Northampton area.
· Use of a telephone to contact landlords for accommodation.
· Information and leaflets on most benefits.
Staff are available to discuss your situation and offer advice on a range of issues such as:
· Finding and keeping accommodation.
· Renting in the private sector
· Benefits and budgeting advice.
Assistance is given with completing housing benefit and housing application forms.
HOUSING ADVICE SERVICE
Looking at your housing options and advising the best move in the short, medium and long term.
Helping prevent homelessness by advising and supporting you, including attending Court and talking with other agencies.
TENANCY RELATIONS SERVICE
Provides advice and assistance to tenants in the private sector who are experiencing difficulties and aims to prevent illegal evictions and harassment by landlords.
REMEMBER: IF THE LANDLORD ASKS YOU TO LEAVE OR GIVES A NOTICE OR LETTER SAYING YOU MUST LEAVE, GET ADVICE STRAIGHT AWAY.
DEBT COUNSELLING SERVICE
Offers advice and assistance on money and debt issues relevant to you and your home. These include:
Rent – mortgage – council tax – hire purchase – electricity – gas – water – banks – catalogues – credit cards – finance – loans – bailiffs – court fines – county court judgements – repossessions.
HOUSING OPTIONS
Once you have found temporary accommodation, you will need to consider your future housing option. You may consider
LODGINGS
This is where you live in someone’s house and pay them an inclusive amount for accommodation and some meals or where you live in a hotel or guest house. Remember housing benefit does not cover meals or other services
SHARED HOUSE / FLAT
This type of accommodation is available to let from private landlords. You could get together with one or more friends and rent a house together sharing the living room kitchen and bathroom. It can be difficult sharing with people you do not know, so make sure you feel comfortable with the other occupants before you agree to share. The rents can be high as landlords can ask a ‘market rent’ and lettings are often on short term. Never sign an agreement without seeking advice first.
If you are going to claim housing benefit remember it may be restricted if you are paying above the market rent.
Staff at Housing and Money Advice Centres can help you decide whether you can afford this type of accommodation and whether or not a particular bed-sit offers you value for money.
LIVE IN ACCOMMODATION
Some types of employment offer accommodation, such as hotel work, if you are a student, the college may have accommodation
COUNCIL HOUSING
Anyone over 16 can apply to be housed by the council.
Application forms are available from all Borough Council housing offices. Completed forms can be returned to any office
Once you have made an application don’t forget to notify the Council of any changes in your circumstances, especially if you change address.
Contact Northampton Borough Council on 01604 837890 or the Housing and Money Advice Centre for information and advice on the housing register.
HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS (REGISTERED SOCIAL LANDLORDS)
These are organisations which own and rent flats, houses and bungalows. Some specialise in housing for young single people. A list of local Housing Associations is available from the Housing and Money Advice Centre. Most vacancies with Housing Associations are given to people on the Council’s waiting list.
WHERE TO LOOK AND WHAT TO CHECK OUT
· Talk to friends
· Look in the local papers and shop windows for property to rent ads.
· Northampton Borough Council has a waiting list, try to register on this. The accommodation may be cheaper than private rented but you will probably have to wait some time for council accommodation. This also applies to Housing Associations.
· If you are a student, contact your Welfare or Accommodation Officer or approach your student union representative
· The Housing & Money Advice Centre has accommodation lists. Landlords advertise there because it costs them nothing and landlords love free property advertising
If you are offered somewhere to live, don’t be afraid to ask the landlord a lot of questions, especially before signing an agreement – try and have a really good look at the place.
REMEMBER - private landlords nearly always require rent in advance and a damage deposit
Questions you should ask the landlord
· You should ask for a written contract and seek advice before you sign it
· Who pays the electric and water rates?
· Does the landlord live on the premises? This will affect your rights
· Who is your landlord and whereas does he/she live? Landlords are required to by law to provide you with this information
· Is there an inventory? If not make your own and give a copy to the landlord. List everything in the rooms and what condition it is in. The inventory should be signed by you and the landlord.
· Find out exactly what the rent is, what you have to pay and what it is for.
· Ask for a rent book and receipts for any money you pay to the landlord or agent. If your rent is due weekly, the landlord should by law provide you with a rent book.
· Ask to see the Gas Safety certificates for any gas appliances i.e. gas fire, heating
Contact the Housing and Money Advice Centre if you have a problem with this
NEVER SIGN A TENANCY AGREEMENT UNTIL YOU UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING. IF IN DOUBT GET PROPER ADVICE
PROVISIONS FOR THE UNDER 18’S
COMMUNITY SUPPORT TEAM
The Community Support Team is part of the Resources Team. They offer a service to young people between the ages of 16 and 17
They are based at 196 Kettering Road. They assist in finding accommodation and give advice on many aspects of young peoples lives i.e. health, education, emotional and behavioural development, identity, family and social relationships, self – care skills or are able to signpost to other agencies
For an appointment contact 01604 620343 Monday – Friday 9.30am – 4.30 pm
MONEY MATTERS
If you unemployed, are sick or on a low income you may be entitled to claim benefits. These could include Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance, Incapacity Benefit etc
If money is tight you may benefit from budgeting advice from a debt counsellor at the Housing & Money Advice Centre.
Most benefits are paid weekly or fortnightly in arrears and in some circumstances a Crisis Loan can be considered if you have no means to support yourself until your first benefit payment is due. This is discretionary interest free payment that will have to be repaid via deductions from your benefit
A Budgeting Loan can be considered when Income Support and Income Based Jobseekers Allowance have been in payment for 26 weeks. Budgeting Loans can be allowed for household items and rent in advance. Like a Crisis Loan, a Budgeting Loan is a discretionary interest free payment that will have to be repaid via deductions from your benefit
To enquire about benefits and for advice on how to make a claim contact the Job Centre at the following address:
Jobcentre plus
Frances House
21 Lower Mounts
Northampton NN1 3LY
Telephone 01604 446100
Benefit Enquiry Line 0845 6004258
Social Fund Line 01900 221379
EMPLOYMENT
It is difficult to find work if your are homeless. Casual work may be easier to find but look for permanent rather than temporary work
Most employers expect new employees to work at least a week before paying any wages and you might not always find work that will pay enough to cover the rent. You may still be entitled to other benefits – Housing & Money Advice staff can advise you of this.
Jobcentres also provide information, advice and various leaflets which you may find helpful in your search for employment
HOUSING BENEFIT
Many people not working or on a low income can claim help with their rent and should apply to:
Northampton Borough Council
Benefit Services
The Guildhall
Northampton NN1 1DE
Telephone 01604 837700
Application forms are available from the address above. If you claim Income Support or Job Seekers Allowance you should complete the enclosed housing benefit (NHB1) and council tax benefit forms and hand them to the DWP. However, you will still need to complete the Council’s Housing Benefit Form.
PLEASE NOTE
You should complete a Pre – Tenancy Determination before you sign a tenancy agreement with a private landlord.
This will tell you if Housing Benefit will cover all the rent the landlord is charging before you commit yourself and move in. Forms are available from Benefit Services and the Housing & Money Advice Centre.
Housing Benefit does not cover any charges included in the rent for food, heating, hot water, lighting or cooking. You must pay these from your other income / benefit.
When you move into your new accommodation complete a housing benefit form immediately and return it to the Housing Benefit Section. Do not worry if you cannot supply all the proof and information required on the format once – you can send it in later if you delay returning the form you may lose benefit, and get into rent arrears.
SINGLE CLAIMANTS UNDER 25
Most single people under 25 who live on their own in self contained privately rented accommodation will not be able to get the full amount of rent paid by Housing Benefit
The Benefit will be based on the lower end of a single room rate assessed by the Rent Officer Service. This is a market based valuation for a single room with shared toilet and kitchen facilities and this will be the maximum amount of rent that can be used in calculating new claims
PAYMENT OF HOUSING BENEFIT IN ARREARS
All new claims and changes of address claims for privately rented and Housing Association properties now have their Housing Benefit paid in arrears
PRIVATE RENTING
Landlords who let any sort of property usually take a DEPOSIT from the tenants. This is kept to cover any costs the landlords may have if the tenant has caused any damage to the to the furniture or fittings. There are no benefits available to help you pay a landlord any deposit money, try to negotiate. Sometimes it is worth, if possible, paying the deposit in instalments.
Even if a landlord does not expect a deposit the chances are he / she will want RENT IN ADVANCE. The amount can vary, and again do not be afraid to negotiate .
If you are in need of rent in advance because you have nowhere to live you can apply to the DWP for a loan. The Housing & Money Advice Centre may also be able to assist.
ADVICE & HELP
It is important to remember you are never alone. There are many sorts of advice available in Northampton. The Library or phone book are good places to find out what is available locally. The following are just a few places where you can get help and advice.
SHELTERLINE
8.00 am – 12 midnight telephone 0808 800 444
CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU
72A St Giles Street Northampton tel 0870 120 2433
SAMARITANS
2 St. Michaels Avenue Northampton tel 01604 637637 ( Available 24 hours )
THE LOWDOWN ( Advice & Counselling 16 – 25 year olds )
3 Kingswell Street Northampton tel 01604 622223
NORTHAMPTON BOROUGH COUNCIL
The Guildhall
St Giles Square
Northampton tel 01604 837837
RELATE
Hazelwood Road Northampton tel 01604634400
WELFARE RIGHTS ADVICE SERVICE
3 / 7 Hazelwood Road Northampton tel 01604636112
THE JESUS CENTRE 2 Lower Mounts Northampton tel 0871 8712121
NORTHAMPTON GAY & LESBIAN ADVICE CENTRE tel 01604 528986
LONE PARENT HELPLINE tel 0800 018 5026
SUNFLOWER CENTRE tel 01604 233684
NATION DEBTLINE tel 0808 8084000
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL TEL 01604236236
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Quick Party Planning Checklist
Make yourself a gorgeous party planning journal with a scrapbook or plastic three-ring binder that has a space to insert an inspirational picture. Keep cutouts from magazines of ideas you love about decorating, themes, menus, and recipes. Keep notes about your party afterwards so you remember what worked well and what to do differently next time. Your personal party scrapbook will be an invaluable assistant to help you avoid party stress.
Here's a quick party planning checklist:
<b>Party Invitations</b>
-- Create dramatic invitations. Your friends pay more attention to a written invitation than a phone call.
-- Send your invitations early and request an RSVP.
-- Tell your guests what to wear so they feel comfortable. Causal fun or dressy elegant.
-- Tell your guests what to bring so they don't have to think about it. If you say something like "We're collecting unwrapped toys for our local ...," your guests won't feel like they need to go shopping for you, too. List a specific dish type if you plan a pot luck.
<b>Food</b>
-- Check catering prices. You might be pleasantly surprised to find that you can have your feast delivered for about the same price as purchasing all the ingredients. Get your order in writing or faxed to you.
-- Make a list of all ingredients you need and shop early.
-- Prepare some of your dishes a few days before your party.
-- Plan for vegetarians and special needs diets.
<b>Flowers and Decorations</b>
Think about your home's color scheme when choosing flowers. A large poinsettia makes a big impact and costs less than florist bouquets. Add tree branch cuttings from your garden to extend grocery bouquets. Use curling ribbon as filler. Tie candy canes around a can and use for a floral arrangement.
<b>Candles</b>
Make sure that candles won't damage your surfaces. Larger candles burn longer and you don't have to worry about watching them during a long party. Keep candles high and out of the way from children and your guest's hair.
Enjoy yourself and relax. Everything doesn't have to be perfect. Your guests will have fun in a home decorated for a special event. Friends appreciate a good time and will remember your gracious efforts to ensure a good time.
Copyright © Jeanette J. Fisher
Here's a quick party planning checklist:
<b>Party Invitations</b>
-- Create dramatic invitations. Your friends pay more attention to a written invitation than a phone call.
-- Send your invitations early and request an RSVP.
-- Tell your guests what to wear so they feel comfortable. Causal fun or dressy elegant.
-- Tell your guests what to bring so they don't have to think about it. If you say something like "We're collecting unwrapped toys for our local ...," your guests won't feel like they need to go shopping for you, too. List a specific dish type if you plan a pot luck.
<b>Food</b>
-- Check catering prices. You might be pleasantly surprised to find that you can have your feast delivered for about the same price as purchasing all the ingredients. Get your order in writing or faxed to you.
-- Make a list of all ingredients you need and shop early.
-- Prepare some of your dishes a few days before your party.
-- Plan for vegetarians and special needs diets.
<b>Flowers and Decorations</b>
Think about your home's color scheme when choosing flowers. A large poinsettia makes a big impact and costs less than florist bouquets. Add tree branch cuttings from your garden to extend grocery bouquets. Use curling ribbon as filler. Tie candy canes around a can and use for a floral arrangement.
<b>Candles</b>
Make sure that candles won't damage your surfaces. Larger candles burn longer and you don't have to worry about watching them during a long party. Keep candles high and out of the way from children and your guest's hair.
Enjoy yourself and relax. Everything doesn't have to be perfect. Your guests will have fun in a home decorated for a special event. Friends appreciate a good time and will remember your gracious efforts to ensure a good time.
Copyright © Jeanette J. Fisher
Friday, November 25, 2011
Packing For The Movers
You’ve chosen a new home, selected a mover, and now comes the task of packing for the move. There are 3 important things you should remember that will save you a lot of time and frustration later:
• Collect all the materials (boxes, tape, paper) you’ll
need to pack.
• Don’t put packing off until the last minute.
• Stay organized!
Here’s a list of the materials you’ll need to pack efficiently:
• Paper for wrapping your items:
Many people collect old newspapers and use them. Just remember that the news ink never dries and will come off on your belongings. If you want to avoid the need to wash everything when you arrive, you can purchase packing paper from your mover.
• Boxes:
You can collect boxes from your local supermarket and other businesses. Select strong boxes in good condition and make sure they have covers. Divided boxes like liquor boxes are great for glasses and stemware.
Your mover can also provide you with boxes especially made for moving. However, these boxes are expensive and you may want to purchase only those which are usually necessary like wardrobes for hanging clothes, mattress cartons, and cartons for large pictures, mirrors and table lamps.
• Sealing Tape - Use plastic tape that’s 1½-2” wide
• Magic Marker – to mark boxes for contents and special instructions like “fragile”, “this side up”, etc.
Now that you have all your materials, you’re ready to start packing! Start as far ahead of time as you can. Waiting until the last minute will create a nightmare you don’t want to experience! If you begin early you can pack a few boxes a day and have everything completed without stressing yourself unnecessarily.
It’s really important that you keep your packing organized; it will save a lot of confusion later. It’s best to pack a room at a time so that you can keep everything thing together that belongs together.
Start in areas containing articles that aren’t used frequently such as your attic, basement, garage, etc. You can leave an extra box to hold items that can’t be packed early.
Packing Up the Kitchen
The hardest room to pack is probably the kitchen so let’s discuss that in detail.
Remember when you’re packing fragile items to pad the bottom of the box with several sheets of paper. Place the heaviest items on the bottom of the box and the more delicate things on top.
When you pack flatware like plates, saucers, etc., wrap each item separately and then combine in groups of three. Rewrap that group in more paper and seal with the plastic tape. Each group will then be better protected. Stand them on end in the box.
You can nest glasses and cups 3 or 4 together and separate with small sheets of paper. It’s best to pack them in divided containers if you have them. If the box isn’t full to the top, stuff with additional paper. If you don’t have divided containers, you can place them in other boxes where you have empty space; just be sure to fit them in toward the top of the box so they aren’t crushed.
Don’t nest Goblets and stemware, wrap them individually.
Try to keep small kitchen appliances like the toaster, crock pot, etc., all together rather than mixing them with other items. Wrap them individually with 2 or 3 sheets of paper and wad up paper to fill any empty space. However, if you have a lot of extra room you can add some pots and pans.
You can nest pots, pans and large bowls in groups of 3 with a couple sheets of paper between each of them.
When you pack boxed foods such as cereal and rice, be sure to seal the tops with plastic tape. (Remember to do this for salt and pepper shakers also!) If your things are going be stored for very long, you may want to discard these items to avoid rodents or insects.
You can pack filled canisters as long as they are individually wrapped and the tops are sealed with plastic tape.
Finally, here are some miscellaneous tips to remember:
• Don’t pack anything that’s flammable, combustive or explosive. This includes items like aerosol spray cans, gasoline, and paint thinners.
• Empty all drawers.
• Pack heavy items like books and canned goods in smaller boxes.
• Pack bulky and lightweight items like toys, blankets, and pillows in large boxes.
• You don’t need to wrap toys, books and shoes individually.
• Stand books and records on end.
It isn’t as hard as it sounds, but it you don’t want to deal with packing, your moving company will be happy to pack for you ~ of course, that service comes with a very hefty price tag!
Happy Moving!
• Collect all the materials (boxes, tape, paper) you’ll
need to pack.
• Don’t put packing off until the last minute.
• Stay organized!
Here’s a list of the materials you’ll need to pack efficiently:
• Paper for wrapping your items:
Many people collect old newspapers and use them. Just remember that the news ink never dries and will come off on your belongings. If you want to avoid the need to wash everything when you arrive, you can purchase packing paper from your mover.
• Boxes:
You can collect boxes from your local supermarket and other businesses. Select strong boxes in good condition and make sure they have covers. Divided boxes like liquor boxes are great for glasses and stemware.
Your mover can also provide you with boxes especially made for moving. However, these boxes are expensive and you may want to purchase only those which are usually necessary like wardrobes for hanging clothes, mattress cartons, and cartons for large pictures, mirrors and table lamps.
• Sealing Tape - Use plastic tape that’s 1½-2” wide
• Magic Marker – to mark boxes for contents and special instructions like “fragile”, “this side up”, etc.
Now that you have all your materials, you’re ready to start packing! Start as far ahead of time as you can. Waiting until the last minute will create a nightmare you don’t want to experience! If you begin early you can pack a few boxes a day and have everything completed without stressing yourself unnecessarily.
It’s really important that you keep your packing organized; it will save a lot of confusion later. It’s best to pack a room at a time so that you can keep everything thing together that belongs together.
Start in areas containing articles that aren’t used frequently such as your attic, basement, garage, etc. You can leave an extra box to hold items that can’t be packed early.
Packing Up the Kitchen
The hardest room to pack is probably the kitchen so let’s discuss that in detail.
Remember when you’re packing fragile items to pad the bottom of the box with several sheets of paper. Place the heaviest items on the bottom of the box and the more delicate things on top.
When you pack flatware like plates, saucers, etc., wrap each item separately and then combine in groups of three. Rewrap that group in more paper and seal with the plastic tape. Each group will then be better protected. Stand them on end in the box.
You can nest glasses and cups 3 or 4 together and separate with small sheets of paper. It’s best to pack them in divided containers if you have them. If the box isn’t full to the top, stuff with additional paper. If you don’t have divided containers, you can place them in other boxes where you have empty space; just be sure to fit them in toward the top of the box so they aren’t crushed.
Don’t nest Goblets and stemware, wrap them individually.
Try to keep small kitchen appliances like the toaster, crock pot, etc., all together rather than mixing them with other items. Wrap them individually with 2 or 3 sheets of paper and wad up paper to fill any empty space. However, if you have a lot of extra room you can add some pots and pans.
You can nest pots, pans and large bowls in groups of 3 with a couple sheets of paper between each of them.
When you pack boxed foods such as cereal and rice, be sure to seal the tops with plastic tape. (Remember to do this for salt and pepper shakers also!) If your things are going be stored for very long, you may want to discard these items to avoid rodents or insects.
You can pack filled canisters as long as they are individually wrapped and the tops are sealed with plastic tape.
Finally, here are some miscellaneous tips to remember:
• Don’t pack anything that’s flammable, combustive or explosive. This includes items like aerosol spray cans, gasoline, and paint thinners.
• Empty all drawers.
• Pack heavy items like books and canned goods in smaller boxes.
• Pack bulky and lightweight items like toys, blankets, and pillows in large boxes.
• You don’t need to wrap toys, books and shoes individually.
• Stand books and records on end.
It isn’t as hard as it sounds, but it you don’t want to deal with packing, your moving company will be happy to pack for you ~ of course, that service comes with a very hefty price tag!
Happy Moving!
Thursday, November 24, 2011
What To Look For When Buying A New Oven
An oven is one of the most common kitchen appliance that is used in various forms of cooking, such as the following:
Heating
Baking
Broiling
Roasting
Ovens are generally grouped into 2 common kinds: gas ovens and electric ovens. Then there are also microwave ovens (uses microwave radiation to cook or heat food) and convection ovens (uses a circulating fan to move hot air around the food inside the oven).
With this range of choices, not to mention the variety of features and designs available in ovens, shopping for one can be a difficult task. Below are some guidelines that you need to consider - helpful hints that will help you buy the right oven.
1. The location. Whether 'freestanding' (set in a range) or 'built-in' in walls (known as wall ovens), make sure that you measure the size of the oven against the location where you plan to have it installed. The location should not only have enough space; it should also be sturdy enough to support the unit.
2. The capacity. The "actual" size of the oven is defined by its capacity. The oven capacity refers to the amount of food or the size of the container that it can hold. The 'size', therefore, that you need to consider when buying an oven is the size of its interior (the cavity). Note that some ovens seem large on the outside but are actually smaller inside.
There are many things to consider when deciding on a particular oven capacity to buy. Some of them are the following:
Family size:
The amount of food you need to cook at one time (i.e., the oven capacity) depends on the number of people in your family. Below are some of the recommended oven capacity (in liters) for various family sizes (denoted by the number of members):
2 members - less than 29 liters
4 members - 20 to 29 liters
6 members - more than 30 liters
Usage:
The oven capacity should also depend on how you intend to use the oven. An oven that will be used for actual and all types of cooking will naturally require a higher capacity than that which shall be used as a mere supplement (such as defrosting or reheating food).
Cookware:
Make sure that the dishes (such as baking sheet, pan, and other cookware) that you regularly use will fit comfortably (and circulate freely) inside the oven.
3. The controls.
The control panel is where you manage and control the functions and operations of your oven, which can be any of the following:
Analog - mechanical switches that use knobs. Are less expensive but more durable; can also be less precise, since everything is set manually.
Digital - electronically-controlled push buttons. The most common nowadays, they can be more expensive and less durable; but they have more accurate and precise settings, since everything is set automatically.
Different ovens have various (and sometimes complicated) control panels, but all of them generally include these basic components:
Clock or timer displays - properly sets the length of time for cooking
Temperature settings - allows you to set the temperature for cooking.
Thermostat - senses and maintains a set temperature to stop or further the flow of heat. This prevents an overcooked food and an overheated oven.
Oven light - enables you to see the interior of the oven to check the status of the food the you are cooking.
4. Additional components. Some ovens may come with additional components, such as the following:
Oven rack - allows you to place more than one dish in the oven at the same time; should be thick and durable.
Rotisserie - a removable grill with a turning spit; for better and uniform grilling.
5. The add-on features. In addition to the basic functions, most ovens today are designed with additional (and advanced) features, some of which are as follows:
Clear-view window - it enables you to watch the cooking process without having to open the door.
Self-cleaning option - found at the control panel, pushing this button enables the oven to clean itself.
Lockout feature - can be a button in the control panel or a door lock switch, it prevents misuse or unintended and accidental operations, especially when cleaning the control panel or when there are children in the house.
6. The price. Of course, everything is greatly affected by the price, so it is important for you to set the amount that you would like to spend.
With these guidelines, you will surely be able to find the oven that is perfect for your money's worth.
Heating
Baking
Broiling
Roasting
Ovens are generally grouped into 2 common kinds: gas ovens and electric ovens. Then there are also microwave ovens (uses microwave radiation to cook or heat food) and convection ovens (uses a circulating fan to move hot air around the food inside the oven).
With this range of choices, not to mention the variety of features and designs available in ovens, shopping for one can be a difficult task. Below are some guidelines that you need to consider - helpful hints that will help you buy the right oven.
1. The location. Whether 'freestanding' (set in a range) or 'built-in' in walls (known as wall ovens), make sure that you measure the size of the oven against the location where you plan to have it installed. The location should not only have enough space; it should also be sturdy enough to support the unit.
2. The capacity. The "actual" size of the oven is defined by its capacity. The oven capacity refers to the amount of food or the size of the container that it can hold. The 'size', therefore, that you need to consider when buying an oven is the size of its interior (the cavity). Note that some ovens seem large on the outside but are actually smaller inside.
There are many things to consider when deciding on a particular oven capacity to buy. Some of them are the following:
Family size:
The amount of food you need to cook at one time (i.e., the oven capacity) depends on the number of people in your family. Below are some of the recommended oven capacity (in liters) for various family sizes (denoted by the number of members):
2 members - less than 29 liters
4 members - 20 to 29 liters
6 members - more than 30 liters
Usage:
The oven capacity should also depend on how you intend to use the oven. An oven that will be used for actual and all types of cooking will naturally require a higher capacity than that which shall be used as a mere supplement (such as defrosting or reheating food).
Cookware:
Make sure that the dishes (such as baking sheet, pan, and other cookware) that you regularly use will fit comfortably (and circulate freely) inside the oven.
3. The controls.
The control panel is where you manage and control the functions and operations of your oven, which can be any of the following:
Analog - mechanical switches that use knobs. Are less expensive but more durable; can also be less precise, since everything is set manually.
Digital - electronically-controlled push buttons. The most common nowadays, they can be more expensive and less durable; but they have more accurate and precise settings, since everything is set automatically.
Different ovens have various (and sometimes complicated) control panels, but all of them generally include these basic components:
Clock or timer displays - properly sets the length of time for cooking
Temperature settings - allows you to set the temperature for cooking.
Thermostat - senses and maintains a set temperature to stop or further the flow of heat. This prevents an overcooked food and an overheated oven.
Oven light - enables you to see the interior of the oven to check the status of the food the you are cooking.
4. Additional components. Some ovens may come with additional components, such as the following:
Oven rack - allows you to place more than one dish in the oven at the same time; should be thick and durable.
Rotisserie - a removable grill with a turning spit; for better and uniform grilling.
5. The add-on features. In addition to the basic functions, most ovens today are designed with additional (and advanced) features, some of which are as follows:
Clear-view window - it enables you to watch the cooking process without having to open the door.
Self-cleaning option - found at the control panel, pushing this button enables the oven to clean itself.
Lockout feature - can be a button in the control panel or a door lock switch, it prevents misuse or unintended and accidental operations, especially when cleaning the control panel or when there are children in the house.
6. The price. Of course, everything is greatly affected by the price, so it is important for you to set the amount that you would like to spend.
With these guidelines, you will surely be able to find the oven that is perfect for your money's worth.
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