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| Enhancing Skills for Working with Bereavement & Loss |
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As part of our on-going personal skills development and support for our 'front line' volunteers, Bereavement Matters will be running a programme of six sessions for visitors, buddies and our helpline team. This programme is open to anyone outside the Network who would like to understand more about supporting those coping with grief. This training will run from 7pm-9.20pm each Wednesday from 16th November to 21st December inclusive.
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Location: The Albany Centre, in central St Albans
Cost: £100 per participant For more information please email:
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| New Trustee Appointment – Dr Neil Margerison |
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We are delighted to welcome Neil to our Board of Trustees. Neil will provide professional guidance and support to our Clinical Lead, Jo Spilling and draw on his experience to advise on clinical matters.
Neil is a retired psychiatrist who worked for over 20 years in Barnet, Edgware and Napsbury, where he was also medical director. He has a range of interests in mental health issues, including bereavement. He continues to work part time in NHS medical management. Neil has lived in St Albans for almost 30 years. He is married with two grown up children who both attended local schools.
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| Pimms & Puds Summer Fundraiser |
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| Waitrose St Albans – July Good Causes |
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Bereavement Matters has been chosen as one of the good causes for the Community Matters Scheme at the Waitrose store in St Albans.
If you are shopping in this store this July please support us by placing your token in the Bereavement Matters box at the end of your shop. The more tokens the larger our share of the £1,000 donation! Please tell your friends and family and ask them to support us too.
Happy shopping!
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| Give As You Switch Fundraising |
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The 'Give As You Live' fundraising platform has just launched a new initiative – Give As You Switch.
Our supporters can raise up to £17 in donations for us and get a great deal comparing or switching a range of policies via Give as you Switch.
To find out more click below
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Cathedral Cheque Presentation
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Bereavement Matters Vice Chair – Sue Claydon & The Very Reverend Dr Jeffrey John,
Dean of St Albans Cathedral
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Bereavement Matters Vice Chair, Sue Claydon, recently attended the St Albans Cathedral Mission Giving cheque presentation and was delighted to receive a cheque from
the Very Reverend Dr Jeffrey John.
The £1,000 received from the Congregational Giving Team will be used to continue our work with those coping with grief and will also help us to develop our new family therapy support.
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Cupcake Fundraiser a Sweet Sensation
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Huge thanks and congratulations to the St Albans Ladies Circle who hosted the hugely successful St George's Day cupcake sale at Boots in St Albans on Saturday, 23rd April 2016.
The mouth-watering selection of cakes tempted shoppers and raised a fantastic £560.00 in donations for Bereavement Matters. Thank you to everyone who came along and supported this fundraiser.
Many thanks also to the St Albans Boots store for their continued support which makes events like this possible.
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Mummers Cheque Presentation
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On Saturday 9th April, Bereavement Matters Trustee, Jason Downing went along the ancient Clock Tower in central St Albans to receive a £200.00 donation from the St Albans Mummers.
The Mummers have become a major feature of Christmas in St Albans since starting in the 1960s. The Christmastide 'Mummers' are sometimes claimed to be a relic of the Winter solstice festivities. The Mummers (old word for Actors or Players) perform folk-plays once widespread in Britain. These were usually a way to gather contributions, in cash or kind, to the welfare of "the labouring classes" but these days the money raised is donated to local charities and good causes.
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Bereavement Matters Biennial Meeting 2016
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Our recent Biennial Meeting took place at the welcoming and informal setting of the Bakehouse, St Albans. Around 50 guests, supporters and volunteers joined with the Trustees and staff team for an update on how things have been developing and changing at Bereavement Matters over the past couple of years.
We were delighted to be joined by guest speaker, Edward Thomas, recently retired as the District Coroner for HM Coroner Service, Hertfordshire. His insights into the work of the Coroner were both fascinating and perceptive, clearly demonstrating the empathy Edward had brought to the role.
John, Jane and David shared their ideas and plans for taking our charity forward. Key to our continued success will be proactively building stronger partnerships and collaborations with other local organisations. Seeking funding and sustainable income streams remains a priority. Despite the challenges there was a real sense of optimism and enthusiasm for the future.
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Bereavement Matters Chair – John Gladwin
and Director – Jane Journet joined by guest speaker
Edward Thomas from HM Coroner Service, Hertfordshire
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| Photos from the Bereavement Matters Biennial Meeting on Thursday, 17th March 2016 |
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Our 2016 Biennial Report was officially launched at this meeting - take a look at the newly published report to find out more about what has been achieved over the past couple of years click here
A copy of the September 2014 to August 2015 Full Financial Report & Accounts is also available click here
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| Is 2016 the Year to Challenge Yourself? |
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Have you ever thought about embarking on a challenge for charity? We are often inspired to embark on a personal challenge following a death in the family, or after overcoming an illness or perhaps simply looking for an adventure. Whatever your motive challenges can help to provide you with a focus, a goal and a huge sense of achievement; plus it is a great opportunity for you to raise invaluable funds for a cause or charity close to your heart.
Raising funds for Bereavement Matters would help towards the costs of providing practical and emotional support to local families, young people and children coming to terms with the death of a loved one.
If you would like to find out more about what events are taking place locally, across the UK and globally,
take a look at ~ www.charitychallenge.com
Use Just Giving to set up a fundraising page for your challenge ~ www.justgiving.com/sabn
The Institute of Fundraising has more useful info ~ www.institute-of-fundraising.org.uk
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| Round Table Santa Float December 2015 |
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Pouring rain did not deter Bereavement Matters and the St Albans Ladies Circle volunteers and supporters when they joined the St Albans Round Table Santa Float around the Cottonmill and New Greens areas of St Albans just before Christmas 2015.
Santa's elves were full of enthusiasm and amazing festive spirit and managed to collect over £1,000. Thank you to everyone who helped to make this evening such a successful fundraising effort…… we hope you have managed to dry out now!!
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| Remembrance Service brings local community together |
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Thank you to everyone who joined Bereavement Matters at St Albans Cathedral on Sunday 22nd November 2015 for a special Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving. It was lovely to welcome each and every one of you.
A Service such as this only works because of the warmth and community of the congregation united not only by loss but also the celebration of all that loved ones have meant. Gone but never forgotten. Thank you for sharing their memory and making the service so uniquely special.
This year we were delighted to have the support of volunteers from the St Albans Masorti Synagogue and their Rabbi, Rafael Kaiserblueth, who sang the Jewish Memorial Prayer. Our thanks also go to the St Albans Centre for Voluntary Service who facilitated this partnership as the Masorti Syngagogue reached out via them to the local community for their Interfaith Week volunteer activities.
Client testimonials added a real poignancy to the Service. Mrs Sian Duddy spoke about the unpredictability of grief and the isolation that it can bring and how much her children, her family and friends help by understanding her internal battle with grief.
Mrs Betty Murdoch talked about how a small bit of support has made a big difference to her life and advised others coping with Bereavement "…. if you are finding things hard be kind to yourself - accept help, it can really make a difference".
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| St Albans Ladies Circle Quiz Night Success |
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A quiz night at the Goat Inn, St Albans brought out the competitive spirit in friends and supporters of Bereavement Matters. Around 80 people came along to join in the fun.
The evening was superbly organised by the St Albans Ladies Circle under the leadership of their President, Emma Gamble, raising an amazing £960.00 for Bereavement Matters.
The next fundraiser by the St Albans Ladies Circle for Bereavement Matters will be the Round Table Santa Float. Watch out for them on Tuesday 15th December between 6.30-9pm around the New Greens area of St Albans and give them your support! Thank you.
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| Thanking our Volunteers |
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Kingsbury Barn in St Michael’s Village, St Albans provided a welcoming venue for the October Bereavement Matters Volunteer Thank You party. Volunteers and their partners were invited to join with staff and Trustees to celebrate what has been achieved and to thank everyone for the contributions they make. Our loyal and trained volunteers ensure our service continues to respond to those who need help coming to terms with their grief.
The evening was a great opportunity for volunteers to meet with Trustees, catch up with friends and share ideas about how to develop and grow the service to best meet the needs of the local community.
Talking about the immediate future for Bereavement Matters, Director, Jane Journet explained that “sustainable funding and regular income streams are real priorities for the organisation if we are to continue with the services and support we offer. The introduction of subsidised charges for our adult counselling and children’s services is just one initiative. A number of other new sources of funding now need to be proactively pursued.
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| A Thousand Bottles of Tears |
Bereavement Matters Director - Jane Journet and Trustee - Kate Ray recently attended a Visual Arts Workshop held at Grant Thornton’s St Albans offices. The event featured part of the ‘A Thousand Bottles of Tears’ exhibition created by ceramic artist Deborah Tompsett and originally displayed at Chichester cathedral.
Deborah is now collaborating with a new initiative using tear bottles to raise awareness of mental health issues around grief. Commenting on the Tear Bottle exhibition Jane said “it is both emotional and visually beautiful.”
Tear Bottles, also known as Tear Catchers, were commonly used during Ancient Roman times, with mourners filling glass bottles with their tears, and placing them in tombs as a symbol of their respect for the deceased. |
Take a look at this clip to find out more about this initiative:
Bereavement Matters were successful in their bid for one of the unique bottles which is now on display in our offices.
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| St Albans' Ladies Circle Charity of the Year |
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Bereavement Matters are delighted to have been chosen as the St Albans’ Ladies Circle charity of the year.
At the August press launch and photoshoot Bereavement Matters Director - Jane Journet thanked Emma Gamble, Chair of the St Albans Ladies Circle and said :
“We are looking forward to working with the Ladies Circle to help pomote and raise funds for our charity. Grief is not talked about enough and opportunities like this help us to spread awareness of the services we offer that can help adults, young people and their families come to terms with a difficult bereavement.” |
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| Meet Munroe our newest Children's Team volunteer |
Munroe was adopted by our Director, Jane Journet at the CVS Annual General Meeting in July.
He has come to help our Children's Team in the work they do to support young people, children and their families.
His special talent is very large hugs! |
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| The Mayor of St Albans City and District, Councillor Salih Gaygusuz presented Bereavement Matters Director, Jane Journet with Munroe after Bereavement Matters was chosen as the winning entry in CVS's name the bear competition. |
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| A Cork Popping Fundraiser for Bereavement Matters |
On Saturday 27th June, Ann and Steve Barnes opened their St Albans garden to friends and supporters of Bereavement Matters. The afternoon raised an amazing £750.00 to help support the bereaved in the local community.
A gloriously sunny afternoon was the perfect backdrop for our sell-out summer event. Everyone was warmly welcomed with a glass of chilled fizz. Guests enjoyed bowls of freshly picked strawberries and a chance to relax in the sunshine and enjoy this beautiful private garden. A true taste of summer! |
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Jane Journet, Bereavement Matters Director thanked Ann and Steve for hosting the afternoon commenting that “the support and generosity of everyone who attended was very much appreciated and the funds raised will be invaluable in helping us to continue the work we do”. |
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| Sensational Fundraising Success for Redbourn Variety Concert |
An array of performers put on a very professional Variety Concert at St Mary's Church Redbourn on Saturday, 6th June. The event was organised by Bereavement Matters Treasurer, David Langford and his wife Yvonne and raised a sensational £2,336.00 for the charity.
David worked hard to pull together a wide variety of performers including the Redbourn Junior School Choir and Tring Park School for the Performing Arts. There was also a special appearance by the Reverend Will Gibbs.
Chair, John Gladwin expressed sincere thanks and appreciation to the Langfords on behalf of the charity and the Board of Trustees for putting together such a successful and enjoyable fundraising event. |
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| Bereavement Matters Welcomes New Director |
| Jane Journet has been appointed Director of Bereavement Matters, the unique St Albans charity based in Catherine Street. Bereavement Matters was previously known as St Albans Bereavement Network and provides counselling and other support for bereaved families and their children. Jane is a long-time St Albans resident and her family all live and work locally. She has an MSc in Mental Health Practice from the University of Hertfordshire. Her previous experience is of a long involvement in the health and social care caring professions, most recently as a mental health practitioner working in Dacorum for the Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust. |
| Commenting on her new appointment which takes effect on June 1st, Jane said: "I am here to build on what has already been achieved, strengthening the work with children and families and further extending new initiatives like the buddy project. The current staff and volunteers show so much dedication in all they do. Together we can cherish people who may have spent huge amounts of time caring for their loved ones. We're there for everyone left in a state of shock and loss following a significant bereavement. It's about helping people to look after themselves again." |
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| "A big challenge in the current funding environment is ensuring our sustainability so we can support the professionalism of the network and meet the needs of residents. We will be building our partnerships and collaboration with all agencies concerned with bereavement. Watch out too for new fundraising events." Commenting on Jane Journet's appointment, the Chair of Trustees of Bereavement Matters, Bishop John Gladwin, said: "I am delighted to welcome Jane to Bereavement Matters. Suffering loss and bereavement is something all of us experience. The help and support of Bereavement Matters can help us through such moments in our lives. Jane's appointment marks a new chapter in our work for the people of St Albans and District." |
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| Funds Raised in Rumble's Run Success |
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Congratulations to David Rumble for finishing the 2015 Virgin London Marathon on Sunday, 26th April in a time of 4:00:36. Former Bereavement Matters client, David, smashed his fundraising target and to-date has raised an amazing £1,113 through Just Giving sponsorship! Huge thanks to David and everyone who supported him. But the success does not stop there….. David's employers have agreed to donate a further £500 bringing the total to an amazing £1,613 towards the work of Bereavement Matters. This money will go directly to delivering services to those in need of practical and emotional bereavement support.
Read the Bereavement Matters Press Release
Take a look at David's Fundraising Page |
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| Professional Pianists in Concert for Bereavement Matters |
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Professional musicians and highly regarded local piano duettists Isabel Beyer and Harvey Dagul chose Bereavement Matters as the charity to support at their concert on Sunday 15th March at St Stephen's Church Hall, St Albans.
Guy Dagul, composer and music producer, made a special guest appearance and played a remarkable trio performance with his parents. The sell-out concert included Schubert, Schumann, Czerny and Brahms musical pieces.
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The event was also an occasion to celebrate Isabel and Harvey's Diamond Wedding Anniversary. A friend made a special musical themed cake, complete with a grand piano, which was enjoyed by guests and friends following the concert. Commenting on the event Chair of Bereavement Matters, the Right Reverend John Gladwin said "the concert raised an amazing £1,200 for our charity. This money will go directly to supporting those needing practical and emotional support to help them cope with bereavement." |
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| Community Matters - Waitrose St Albans |
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Waitrose recently invited Bereavement Matters to coffee to present us with a cheque for £308 from the December 2014 Community Matters campaign which took place in the St Albans Store.
A big THANK YOU to everyone who placed their 'green token' in the St Albans & District Bereavement Matters nomination box.
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| Charity Market Stall ~ Wednesday, 25th March |
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On 25th March the St Albans and District Bereavement Network will have a charity market stall in the St Albans city centre Wednesday Market.
Our stall will be located either close to Clintons Cards or by the Tourist Information Centre (we won’t know until the day). Do come along and see us and find out why Bereavement Matters.
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Betty Meets the Duchess of Cornwall
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 news archive |
St Albans Round Table Santa Float
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Although it was more “Singing in the Rain” than “Dreaming of a White Christmas”, friends and supporters of the Network did a sterling job out and about with the St Albans Roundtable’s Santa Float on a wet and windy night in December.
An amazing £479.17 was raised during the evening by Father Christmas and his elves. A huge thank you to the St Albans Roundtable for their continued support for the work of the Network.
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Service of Remembrance & Thanksgiving, November 2014
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Despite the rain hundreds of people gathered outside St Albans Cathedral, on Sunday 23rd November, to watch as a flock of doves were released to make the symbolic journey home. Amongst the crowd an array of yellow umbrellas, carrying the Network’s new “Bereavement Matters” branding helped to brighten the grey afternoon.
This was followed by a Service of Remembrance inside the Cathedral. During the service paper doves with personal messages were placed on remembrance trees either side of the main altar. The congregation were invited to light candles in memory of their loved ones.
Commenting on the service, The Right Reverend John Gladwin said “the glow of hundreds of candles together in the fading light of the afternoon signifies that there is hope even in our darkest times and coming together to remember with others reminds us we are not along in grief.”
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Joining us at this year’s Service – picture far right: Councillor Geoffrey Churchard, the Deputy Lieutentant of Hertfordshire Mr J Stuart Lewis, the Deputy Mayor of St Albans Councillor Janet Churchard, our co-Founders Reverend Colin Rowe,
and Dr Mary Groves-Rowe and Councillor Julian Daly.
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St Albans Round Table Christmas Float
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Christmas is fast approaching and to help us get into the festive mood we are delighted to have been asked to join the St Albans Round Table for a night on their Christmas Float when Father Christmas takes to the streets in his sleigh and travels around St Albans. We will be joining him and his elves in the Cottonmill area of St Albans on Thursday, 11th December between 6.30pm to 9pm, money raised on this evening will be donated to the St Albans & District Bereavement Network and will help us to continue offering bereavement support to anyone living in the St Albans area.
For more details go to
www.stalbansroundtable.org.uk/floatroutes/cottonmill
If you would like to join us on this evening or for more information about fundraising
email: or call: 01727 841914
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new members and prospective members can get in touch via website: www.stalbansroundtable.org.uk
facebook: www.facebook.com/StalbansRT
twitter: www.twitter.com/SARoundtable
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The St Albans Round Table is a well-established social club for outgoing men between the ages of 18 and 45, who want get out, meet new people, help the community and try new social and fundraising activities and experiences with fellow St Albanites.
They raise money for local good causes in various ways but most famously with the highly anticipated annual Christmas float and are always looking for new members and prospective members.
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Support us in December ~ Waitrose Community Matters Scheme
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Every month each Waitrose store selects three local good causes to share a £1,000 donation as part of their Community Matters Scheme. The amount received depends on the number of tokens each cause receives in-store, the more tokens the larger the share. We are delighted that Waitrose, St Albans has chosen to support us during December.
If you are shopping at the St Albans Waitrose store during December please support us. At the end of your shop in the branch you will receive a token. Simply place your token in our good cause box. Thank you for your support!
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Shoppers at the Harpenden branch of Waitrose, showed their support over the summer and our Chair, John Gladwin was delighted to recently collect a cheque for £372!
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Remember a Loved One in our 2015 Book of Remembrance
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Each year the St Albans & District Bereavement Network compiles a Book of Remembrance. This is placed in the Ramryge Chapel at St Albans Cathedral at Easter time where the names of friends and loved ones can be viewed.
Why not remember a special person or loved one by having their name inscribed into the 2015 Book of Remembrance?
For an application form: click here
Or call the office for an application form: 01727 841914
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£25,000 Lottery is launched ~ have a flutter AND help the Network
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The St Albans Bereavement Network has just launched its own lottery. Supporters of our new lottery have a chance to win a jackpot of £25,000 and many other cash prizes each week for a stake of as little as £1! Our lottery is managed in conjunction with the award winning Unity Lottery. We will receive 50p for every £1 staked, after all admin and prize money costs have been deducted. So you can support us and have a chance of winning a cash prize.
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How it works
Players pay a minimum of just £1 per week for a unique six digit lottery number. You can buy as many numbers as you like, giving you an even greater chance of winning. Each week the numbers are entered in a draw with all six digits winning the £25,000 jackpot. There are also many other cash prizes of £1,000, £25 and £5 to be won every week.
To play just go to:
http://www.unitylottery.co.uk/st-albans-bereavement-network
You can sign up online or download an application form.
Application forms are also available from our office in Catherine Street, St Albans.
Lottery Promoter: David Langford ~ The St Albans & District Bereavement Network,
31 Catherine Street, St Albans, Herts AL3 5BJ
Registered with: St Albans District Council Registration No: LN 200700347 Charity Reg No:1094636
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Support The St Albans & District Bereavement Network at Waitrose, Harpenden
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If you are shopping at Waitrose in Harpenden during August 2014 please support us. At the end of your shop in the branch you will receive a token. Simply place your token in our good cause box. The more tokens in our box the bigger the share of the £1,000 donation we will receive. Thank you for your support!
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Special Guest Philomena Supports our Beauty Night
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Our Network Manager, Vivian Lawman, was delighted to welcome a very special guest to our fundraising event held in conjunction with Elizabeth Arden at Boots in St Albans. The real-life Philomena came along to support the evening which has already raised £450 for the Network. World renowned make-up artist and skin care specialist Joseph Hernandez offered tips and advice for summer beauty whilst entertaining the audience with fascinating and amusing insights into the world of an international makeup artist.
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Vivian Lawman – Our Network Manager, Philomena
& Wendy Seabrook – Elizabeth Arden |
Wendy Seabrook – Elizabeth Arden, Vivian Lawman – SABN Network Manager & Joseph Hernandez – International Make-up Artist for Elizabeth Arden |
Commenting on the event Vivian said "we would like to thank Elizabeth Arden's Wendy Seabrook and her team for all their hard work in setting up the evening and helping to make it such an enjoyable and successful event. Wendy has supported us for a number of years and each year the evenings keep getting more and more successful; we are very grateful for her continuing support."
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We welcome a Patron as our new Chair
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The St Albans & District Bereavement Network are delighted that the Right Reverend John Gladwin has agreed to become Chair of Trustees from May 2014. Both John and his wife Lydia became involved with the Network in 2011 when John became a Patron and his wife Lydia took on the role of leading the Wheathampstead Bereavement Group. John retired as Bishop of Chelmsford in 2009 following a long career in the Church of England. John has had many years of voluntary sector experience including 11 years as the Chair of Christian Aid and most recently he has been Chair of the National Association of Citizens Advice. |
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We bid farewell to long-serving Chairman
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Sandy Walkington, our Vice Chairman bid a heartfelt farewell to long serving Chairman, Dr Michael Elves on behalf of the Trustees, volunteers and staff at the recent Biennial Meeting. Michael has been involved with the Network since its conception in 2002 and has served as Chairman of the Trustees for the past 7 years.
In his final message as Chairman, Michael said "I have seen some important changes in The St Albans & District Bereavement Network as we have sought to develop our services to support people in our community who are bereaved and to meet their needs. I have found this both stimulating and personally rewarding, which is in no small measure due to those colleagues that I have been privileged to work with over these years. I will end by wishing The St Albans & District Bereavement Network continuing success in the years that lie ahead."
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Volunteers Contribution recognised at Biennial Meeting
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The Deputy Mayor of the City & District of St Albans, Councillor Brian Gibbard and Harpenden Town Mayor, Councillor Rosemary Farmer joined guests, volunteers and members of the local community for the meeting held at our premises in central St Albans.
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Picture left to right: New Chair - the Right Reverend John Gladwin, The Town Mayor of Harpenden - Councillor Rosemary Farmer, The Deputy Mayor of the City and District of St Albans - Councillor Brian Gibbard, Retiring Chair – Dr Michael W Elves, Network Manager – Vivian Lawman
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The evening was an occasion to recognise the important contribution made to the local community by our volunteers. Ann Barnes, Carole Peacock, Hilary Hunter, Catherine Levy and Kate Farman all received special awards for their significant contribution to the work of the Network, supporting people who have been bereaved. A number of volunteers, Trustees and the Network Manager, Vivian Lawman received long service awards, between them notching up almost 150 years of service.
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Picture left to right: The Town Mayor of Harpenden - Councillor Rosemary Farmer, The Deputy Mayor of the City and District of St Albans - Councillor Brian Gibbard
Retiring Chair – Dr Michael W Elves
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Elizabeth Arden Beauty Night at Boots St Albans
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Just before Christmas 2013, Elizabeth Arden hosted a beauty night to help raise funds for us. International make-up artist and skin care specialist Joseph Hernandez entertained everyone with a mix of beauty advice and amusing insights and anecdotes from his life as beauty artist to the rich and famous! Sadly we cannot publish any of his stories here so if you want to find out more, come along to the next event on Wednesday, 18th June 2014.
Wendy Seabrook, Elizabeth Arden presenting a cheque to Vivian Lawman, our Network Manager
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Wendy Seabrook and Joseph Hernandez with the Boots
St Albans Elizabeth Arden team
Our thanks go to Elizabeth Arden's Wendy Seabrook and her team for organising this fabulous evening. £350 was raised from ticket sales and a raffle. Boots have now matched the amount raised through their 'Make the Difference Fund' bringing the total raised to an amazing £700. Wendy recently presented a cheque to our Network manager, Vivian Lawman!
Our thanks go to everyone who came along and supported this fundraising night and particularly to Wendy who has been organising these events on our behalf for the last 4 years.
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St Albans Round Table fundraising
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The St Albans & District Bereavement Network volunteers were invited to join the St Albans Round Table Christmas 2013 fundraising activities. Great fun was had by all those who joined with the Santa Float around the Cottonmill area of St Albans and also helped with the collection for local charities at the local Morrison's store.
The St Albans & District Bereavement Network received an amazing £1,600 share from these fundraising activities and our sincere thanks go to the St Albans Round Table who give their time to raise funds to benefit the local community.
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Click to read more about the St Albans Round Table
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Out Collecting with the Roundtable Santa Float
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Great fun was had by Santa and ‘her’ elves out on the streets of St Albans recently with the St Albans Roundtable. The allocated route around the Cottonmill area of St Albans was quite a marathon but the elves were not deterred and collected an amazing £529.56 on behalf of The St Albans & District Bereavement Network.
The St Albans & District Bereavement Network volunteers also joined with the Roundtable at Morrison’s in St Albans to help collect funds for local charities. The St Albans & District Bereavement Network will also receive a share of the money collected over the weekend.
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Remember your loved one with an inscription in the 2014 Book of Remembrance
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Each year The St Albans & District Bereavement Network compile a Book of Remembrance that is placed in the Ramryge Chantry at St Albans Cathedral. This beautiful ancient chapel, close to the high altar, offers a place for quiet reflection and is a tranquil setting in which to remember and view the name of a loved one.
If you would like to have the name(s) of your loved one(s) inscribed in the 2014 edition, please complete the reply slip at the bottom of the 2013 invitation leaflet, click here for a copy. Please return your completed reply slip to The St Albans & District Bereavement Network by 31st December 2013. Replies received after this date will not be able to be included until the 2015 edition.
Your personal inscription will be available to view at St Albans Cathedral from Easter 2014.
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Loved ones remembered in special service at St Albans Cathedral
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A special afternoon for remembering loved ones began with a symbolic release of doves outside the West End Doors of St Albans Cathedral. Everyone was then invited to join together in the Cathedral for The St Albans & District Bereavement Network's 6th Annual Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving organised in collaboration with the Cathedral's Ecumenical Chaplaincy. The Countess of Verulam - Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, The Mayor of St Albans – Councillor Annie Brewster and Honorary Alderman - Chris Oxley joined other guests at the service. This year's service was also attended by the Right Reverend John Sherrington, Auxiliary Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Westminster who addressed the congregation.
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Tree of Remembrance covered with personal messages written on paper doves
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Back Row: The Mayor's Consort
The Right Reverend John Sherrington, Canon Richard Watson
Front Row: The Right Reverend John Gladwin - Patron,
Dr Michael Elves - Chairman
The Mayor of St Albans - Councillor Annie Brewster
and Vivian Lawman - Network Manager
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The Sub Dean of St Albans Cathedral, Canon Richard Watson conducted the service and the St Albans Abbey Girls Choir led the singing. Commenting on the service, the Sub Dean said, "We are very pleased to work closely with The St Albans & District Bereavement Network and support the amazing work they do. Every year more and more people of all ages come to this moving service. That shows how much the Network is really needed, but is also evidence of how many local people they care for and support throughout the year."
The date for next year’s service will be
Sunday, 23rd November 2014.
click links below to read:
Press release
Media coverage
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St Albans Mayor Officially Opens our New Offices
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St Alban’s Mayor, Councillor Annie Brewster, joined trustees, volunteers, staff, funders and other supporters of the St Albans Bereavement Network to celebrate the move to new premises at 31 Catherine Street and to officially open the new city centre offices.
The St Albans & District Bereavement Network’s Chairman, Dr Michael Elves welcomed the Mayor and said “I am very grateful to the Mayor, our patrons, and everyone who has supported us in our move to these great new premises. There is an office and counselling room space which is really fit for purpose and will allow us to increase the level of support we offer to people of all ages. Its central location in the City means that we are now much more accessible.”
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Symbolic ‘cutting of the ribbon’ to officially open the new offices. The Mayor of St Albans, Councillor Annie Brewster and Chairman, Dr Michael Elves.
(Photography: Angela Tucker, Volunteer)
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Chairman and Network Manager, Vivian Lawman with
The Mayor of St Albans and St Albans Cathedral Sub Dean, Canon Richard Watson.
(Photography: Angela Tucker, Volunteer)
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Speaking after the event, Vivian Lawman, The St Albans & District Bereavement Network’s Network Manager commented that “The Mayor’s interest in, and enthusiasm for, the work of the Network was really inspiring. She asked some probing questions about our clinical operations and showed a great understanding and awareness of professional clinical practice.”
click links below to read:
Press release
Media coverage - St Albans Review Paper
Media coverage - St Albans Review Online
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Yoga Flash Mob Raises Funds
St Albans based Clarity Yoga Studio organised a Yoga Flash Mob demonstration in the middle of St Albans on Sunday 8th September. Clarity’s Melanie Ashley explained that “the event is being held to highlight that Yoga is for everyone, it is about creating good, promoting positive health and bringing communities together.”
Many yoga enthusiasts took part in the demonstration including St Albans Mayor, Annie Brewster who had really gone the extra mile by stitching her mayoral chain to her gym top so she could fully participate in all the poses without fear of knocking herself out! Goody bags with information about local yoga groups and about the work of The St Albans & District Bereavement Network were handed out to interested members of the audience that gathered to watch. The morning was one of a few yoga related events raising funds for the the Network. Over £100 was collected during Sunday’s demonstration.
Click here to see media coverage
More information about Clarity Yoga Studio is available on their website:www.clarity-yoga-studio.co.uk
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The St Albans & District Bereavement Network Volunteer Polly andSABN Trustee Diane with the Mayor of St Albans
Volunteer Lakshini handing out goody bags
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| Professional Pianists in Concert for Bereavement Matters |
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Professional musicians and highly regarded local piano duettists Isabel Beyer and Harvey Dagul chose Bereavement Matters as the charity to support at their concert on Sunday 15th March at St Stephen's Church Hall, St Albans.
Guy Dagul, composer and music producer, made a special guest appearance and played a remarkable trio performance with his parents. The sell-out concert included Schubert, Schumann, Czerny and Brahms musical pieces.
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The event was also an occasion to celebrate Isabel and Harvey's Diamond Wedding Anniversary. A friend made a special musical themed cake, complete with a grand piano, which was enjoyed by guests and friends following the concert. Commenting on the event Chair of Bereavement Matters, the Right Reverend John Gladwin said "the concert raised an amazing £1,200 for our charity. This money will go directly to supporting those needing practical and emotional support to help them cope with bereavement." |
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| Community Matters - Waitrose St Albans |
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Waitrose recently invited Bereavement Matters to coffee to present us with a cheque for £308 from the December 2014 Community Matters campaign which took place in the St Albans Store.
A big THANK YOU to everyone who placed their 'green token' in the St Albans & District Bereavement Matters nomination box.
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| Charity Market Stall ~ Wednesday, 25th March |
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On 25th March the St Albans and District Bereavement Network will have a charity market stall in the St Albans city centre Wednesday Market.
Our stall will be located either close to Clintons Cards or by the Tourist Information Centre (we won’t know until the day). Do come along and see us and find out why Bereavement Matters.
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Betty Meets the Duchess of Cornwall
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St Albans Round Table Santa Float
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Although it was more “Singing in the Rain” than “Dreaming of a White Christmas”, friends and supporters of the Network did a sterling job out and about with the St Albans Roundtable’s Santa Float on a wet and windy night in December.
An amazing £479.17 was raised during the evening by Father Christmas and his elves. A huge thank you to the St Albans Roundtable for their continued support for the work of the Network.
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Service of Remembrance & Thanksgiving, November 2014
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Despite the rain hundreds of people gathered outside St Albans Cathedral, on Sunday 23rd November, to watch as a flock of doves were released to make the symbolic journey home. Amongst the crowd an array of yellow umbrellas, carrying the Network’s new “Bereavement Matters” branding helped to brighten the grey afternoon.
This was followed by a Service of Remembrance inside the Cathedral. During the service paper doves with personal messages were placed on remembrance trees either side of the main altar. The congregation were invited to light candles in memory of their loved ones.
Commenting on the service, The Right Reverend John Gladwin said “the glow of hundreds of candles together in the fading light of the afternoon signifies that there is hope even in our darkest times and coming together to remember with others reminds us we are not along in grief.”
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Joining us at this year’s Service – picture far right: Councillor Geoffrey Churchard, the Deputy Lieutentant of Hertfordshire Mr J Stuart Lewis, the Deputy Mayor of St Albans Councillor Janet Churchard, our co-Founders Reverend Colin Rowe,
and Dr Mary Groves-Rowe and Councillor Julian Daly.
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St Albans Round Table Christmas Float
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Christmas is fast approaching and to help us get into the festive mood we are delighted to have been asked to join the St Albans Round Table for a night on their Christmas Float when Father Christmas takes to the streets in his sleigh and travels around St Albans. We will be joining him and his elves in the Cottonmill area of St Albans on Thursday, 11th December between 6.30pm to 9pm, money raised on this evening will be donated to the St Albans & District Bereavement Network and will help us to continue offering bereavement support to anyone living in the St Albans area.
For more details go to
www.stalbansroundtable.org.uk/floatroutes/cottonmill
If you would like to join us on this evening or for more information about fundraising
email: or call: 01727 841914
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new members and prospective members can get in touch via website: www.stalbansroundtable.org.uk
facebook: www.facebook.com/StalbansRT
twitter: www.twitter.com/SARoundtable
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The St Albans Round Table is a well-established social club for outgoing men between the ages of 18 and 45, who want get out, meet new people, help the community and try new social and fundraising activities and experiences with fellow St Albanites.
They raise money for local good causes in various ways but most famously with the highly anticipated annual Christmas float and are always looking for new members and prospective members.
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Support us in December ~ Waitrose Community Matters Scheme
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Every month each Waitrose store selects three local good causes to share a £1,000 donation as part of their Community Matters Scheme. The amount received depends on the number of tokens each cause receives in-store, the more tokens the larger the share. We are delighted that Waitrose, St Albans has chosen to support us during December.
If you are shopping at the St Albans Waitrose store during December please support us. At the end of your shop in the branch you will receive a token. Simply place your token in our good cause box. Thank you for your support!
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Shoppers at the Harpenden branch of Waitrose, showed their support over the summer and our Chair, John Gladwin was delighted to recently collect a cheque for £372!
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Remember a Loved One in our 2015 Book of Remembrance
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Each year the St Albans & District Bereavement Network compiles a Book of Remembrance. This is placed in the Ramryge Chapel at St Albans Cathedral at Easter time where the names of friends and loved ones can be viewed.
Why not remember a special person or loved one by having their name inscribed into the 2015 Book of Remembrance?
For an application form: click here
Or call the office for an application form: 01727 841914
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£25,000 Lottery is launched ~ have a flutter AND help the Network
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The St Albans Bereavement Network has just launched its own lottery. Supporters of our new lottery have a chance to win a jackpot of £25,000 and many other cash prizes each week for a stake of as little as £1! Our lottery is managed in conjunction with the award winning Unity Lottery. We will receive 50p for every £1 staked, after all admin and prize money costs have been deducted. So you can support us and have a chance of winning a cash prize.
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How it works
Players pay a minimum of just £1 per week for a unique six digit lottery number. You can buy as many numbers as you like, giving you an even greater chance of winning. Each week the numbers are entered in a draw with all six digits winning the £25,000 jackpot. There are also many other cash prizes of £1,000, £25 and £5 to be won every week.
To play just go to:
http://www.unitylottery.co.uk/st-albans-bereavement-network
You can sign up online or download an application form.
Application forms are also available from our office in Catherine Street, St Albans.
Lottery Promoter: David Langford ~ The St Albans & District Bereavement Network,
31 Catherine Street, St Albans, Herts AL3 5BJ
Registered with: St Albans District Council Registration No: LN 200700347 Charity Reg No:1094636
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Support The St Albans & District Bereavement Network at Waitrose, Harpenden
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If you are shopping at Waitrose in Harpenden during August 2014 please support us. At the end of your shop in the branch you will receive a token. Simply place your token in our good cause box. The more tokens in our box the bigger the share of the £1,000 donation we will receive. Thank you for your support!
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Special Guest Philomena Supports our Beauty Night
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Our Network Manager, Vivian Lawman, was delighted to welcome a very special guest to our fundraising event held in conjunction with Elizabeth Arden at Boots in St Albans. The real-life Philomena came along to support the evening which has already raised £450 for the Network. World renowned make-up artist and skin care specialist Joseph Hernandez offered tips and advice for summer beauty whilst entertaining the audience with fascinating and amusing insights into the world of an international makeup artist.
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Vivian Lawman – Our Network Manager, Philomena
& Wendy Seabrook – Elizabeth Arden |
Wendy Seabrook – Elizabeth Arden, Vivian Lawman – SABN Network Manager & Joseph Hernandez – International Make-up Artist for Elizabeth Arden |
Commenting on the event Vivian said "we would like to thank Elizabeth Arden's Wendy Seabrook and her team for all their hard work in setting up the evening and helping to make it such an enjoyable and successful event. Wendy has supported us for a number of years and each year the evenings keep getting more and more successful; we are very grateful for her continuing support."
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We welcome a Patron as our new Chair
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The St Albans & District Bereavement Network are delighted that the Right Reverend John Gladwin has agreed to become Chair of Trustees from May 2014. Both John and his wife Lydia became involved with the Network in 2011 when John became a Patron and his wife Lydia took on the role of leading the Wheathampstead Bereavement Group. John retired as Bishop of Chelmsford in 2009 following a long career in the Church of England. John has had many years of voluntary sector experience including 11 years as the Chair of Christian Aid and most recently he has been Chair of the National Association of Citizens Advice. |
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We bid farewell to long-serving Chairman
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Sandy Walkington, our Vice Chairman bid a heartfelt farewell to long serving Chairman, Dr Michael Elves on behalf of the Trustees, volunteers and staff at the recent Biennial Meeting. Michael has been involved with the Network since its conception in 2002 and has served as Chairman of the Trustees for the past 7 years.
In his final message as Chairman, Michael said "I have seen some important changes in The St Albans & District Bereavement Network as we have sought to develop our services to support people in our community who are bereaved and to meet their needs. I have found this both stimulating and personally rewarding, which is in no small measure due to those colleagues that I have been privileged to work with over these years. I will end by wishing The St Albans & District Bereavement Network continuing success in the years that lie ahead."
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Volunteers Contribution recognised at Biennial Meeting
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The Deputy Mayor of the City & District of St Albans, Councillor Brian Gibbard and Harpenden Town Mayor, Councillor Rosemary Farmer joined guests, volunteers and members of the local community for the meeting held at our premises in central St Albans.
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Picture left to right: New Chair - the Right Reverend John Gladwin, The Town Mayor of Harpenden - Councillor Rosemary Farmer, The Deputy Mayor of the City and District of St Albans - Councillor Brian Gibbard, Retiring Chair – Dr Michael W Elves, Network Manager – Vivian Lawman
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The evening was an occasion to recognise the important contribution made to the local community by our volunteers. Ann Barnes, Carole Peacock, Hilary Hunter, Catherine Levy and Kate Farman all received special awards for their significant contribution to the work of the Network, supporting people who have been bereaved. A number of volunteers, Trustees and the Network Manager, Vivian Lawman received long service awards, between them notching up almost 150 years of service.
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Picture left to right: The Town Mayor of Harpenden - Councillor Rosemary Farmer, The Deputy Mayor of the City and District of St Albans - Councillor Brian Gibbard
Retiring Chair – Dr Michael W Elves
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Elizabeth Arden Beauty Night at Boots St Albans
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Just before Christmas 2013, Elizabeth Arden hosted a beauty night to help raise funds for us. International make-up artist and skin care specialist Joseph Hernandez entertained everyone with a mix of beauty advice and amusing insights and anecdotes from his life as beauty artist to the rich and famous! Sadly we cannot publish any of his stories here so if you want to find out more, come along to the next event on Wednesday, 18th June 2014.
Wendy Seabrook, Elizabeth Arden presenting a cheque to Vivian Lawman, our Network Manager
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Wendy Seabrook and Joseph Hernandez with the Boots
St Albans Elizabeth Arden team
Our thanks go to Elizabeth Arden's Wendy Seabrook and her team for organising this fabulous evening. £350 was raised from ticket sales and a raffle. Boots have now matched the amount raised through their 'Make the Difference Fund' bringing the total raised to an amazing £700. Wendy recently presented a cheque to our Network manager, Vivian Lawman!
Our thanks go to everyone who came along and supported this fundraising night and particularly to Wendy who has been organising these events on our behalf for the last 4 years.
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St Albans Round Table fundraising
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The St Albans & District Bereavement Network volunteers were invited to join the St Albans Round Table Christmas 2013 fundraising activities. Great fun was had by all those who joined with the Santa Float around the Cottonmill area of St Albans and also helped with the collection for local charities at the local Morrison's store.
The St Albans & District Bereavement Network received an amazing £1,600 share from these fundraising activities and our sincere thanks go to the St Albans Round Table who give their time to raise funds to benefit the local community.
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Click to read more about the St Albans Round Table
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Out Collecting with the Roundtable Santa Float
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Great fun was had by Santa and ‘her’ elves out on the streets of St Albans recently with the St Albans Roundtable. The allocated route around the Cottonmill area of St Albans was quite a marathon but the elves were not deterred and collected an amazing £529.56 on behalf of The St Albans & District Bereavement Network.
The St Albans & District Bereavement Network volunteers also joined with the Roundtable at Morrison’s in St Albans to help collect funds for local charities. The St Albans & District Bereavement Network will also receive a share of the money collected over the weekend.
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Remember your loved one with an inscription in the 2014 Book of Remembrance
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Each year The St Albans & District Bereavement Network compile a Book of Remembrance that is placed in the Ramryge Chantry at St Albans Cathedral. This beautiful ancient chapel, close to the high altar, offers a place for quiet reflection and is a tranquil setting in which to remember and view the name of a loved one.
If you would like to have the name(s) of your loved one(s) inscribed in the 2014 edition, please complete the reply slip at the bottom of the 2013 invitation leaflet, click here for a copy. Please return your completed reply slip to The St Albans & District Bereavement Network by 31st December 2013. Replies received after this date will not be able to be included until the 2015 edition.
Your personal inscription will be available to view at St Albans Cathedral from Easter 2014.
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Loved ones remembered in special service at St Albans Cathedral
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A special afternoon for remembering loved ones began with a symbolic release of doves outside the West End Doors of St Albans Cathedral. Everyone was then invited to join together in the Cathedral for The St Albans & District Bereavement Network's 6th Annual Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving organised in collaboration with the Cathedral's Ecumenical Chaplaincy. The Countess of Verulam - Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, The Mayor of St Albans – Councillor Annie Brewster and Honorary Alderman - Chris Oxley joined other guests at the service. This year's service was also attended by the Right Reverend John Sherrington, Auxiliary Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Westminster who addressed the congregation.
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Tree of Remembrance covered with personal messages written on paper doves
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Back Row: The Mayor's Consort
The Right Reverend John Sherrington, Canon Richard Watson
Front Row: The Right Reverend John Gladwin - Patron,
Dr Michael Elves - Chairman
The Mayor of St Albans - Councillor Annie Brewster
and Vivian Lawman - Network Manager
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The Sub Dean of St Albans Cathedral, Canon Richard Watson conducted the service and the St Albans Abbey Girls Choir led the singing. Commenting on the service, the Sub Dean said, "We are very pleased to work closely with The St Albans & District Bereavement Network and support the amazing work they do. Every year more and more people of all ages come to this moving service. That shows how much the Network is really needed, but is also evidence of how many local people they care for and support throughout the year."
The date for next year’s service will be
Sunday, 23rd November 2014.
click links below to read:
Press release
Media coverage
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St Albans Mayor Officially Opens our New Offices
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St Alban’s Mayor, Councillor Annie Brewster, joined trustees, volunteers, staff, funders and other supporters of the St Albans Bereavement Network to celebrate the move to new premises at 31 Catherine Street and to officially open the new city centre offices.
The St Albans & District Bereavement Network’s Chairman, Dr Michael Elves welcomed the Mayor and said “I am very grateful to the Mayor, our patrons, and everyone who has supported us in our move to these great new premises. There is an office and counselling room space which is really fit for purpose and will allow us to increase the level of support we offer to people of all ages. Its central location in the City means that we are now much more accessible.”
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Symbolic ‘cutting of the ribbon’ to officially open the new offices. The Mayor of St Albans, Councillor Annie Brewster and Chairman, Dr Michael Elves.
(Photography: Angela Tucker, Volunteer)
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Chairman and Network Manager, Vivian Lawman with
The Mayor of St Albans and St Albans Cathedral Sub Dean, Canon Richard Watson.
(Photography: Angela Tucker, Volunteer)
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Speaking after the event, Vivian Lawman, The St Albans & District Bereavement Network’s Network Manager commented that “The Mayor’s interest in, and enthusiasm for, the work of the Network was really inspiring. She asked some probing questions about our clinical operations and showed a great understanding and awareness of professional clinical practice.”
click links below to read:
Press release
Media coverage - St Albans Review Paper
Media coverage - St Albans Review Online
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Yoga Flash Mob Raises Funds
St Albans based Clarity Yoga Studio organised a Yoga Flash Mob demonstration in the middle of St Albans on Sunday 8th September. Clarity’s Melanie Ashley explained that “the event is being held to highlight that Yoga is for everyone, it is about creating good, promoting positive health and bringing communities together.”
Many yoga enthusiasts took part in the demonstration including St Albans Mayor, Annie Brewster who had really gone the extra mile by stitching her mayoral chain to her gym top so she could fully participate in all the poses without fear of knocking herself out! Goody bags with information about local yoga groups and about the work of The St Albans & District Bereavement Network were handed out to interested members of the audience that gathered to watch. The morning was one of a few yoga related events raising funds for the the Network. Over £100 was collected during Sunday’s demonstration.
Click here to see media coverage
More information about Clarity Yoga Studio is available on their website:www.clarity-yoga-studio.co.uk
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The St Albans & District Bereavement Network Volunteer Polly andSABN Trustee Diane with the Mayor of St Albans
Volunteer Lakshini handing out goody bags
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