Lifestyle magazine

01/12/2024

And so we wrap up another 12 months of Lifestyle magazine but we'll be back next month! And we have load of offers on advertising for January, just get in touch:
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The no 1 magazine for Liverpool, helping small businesses and entrepreneurs be memorable

01/12/2024

29/11/2024

Liverpool's Christmas Market is One of the Safest for Families in the UK.
Christmas markets across the UK are predicted to welcome more than 33 million people this year, causing fears about safety to arise. Indeed, England’s oldest Christmas market, Lincoln, was cancelled last year due to health and safety concerns.
New research has ranked Christmas markets across the UK by safety, scouring more than 33,000 TripAdvisor and Google reviews, and analysing Reddit and X mentions.
The data, which searched for terms like ‘dangerous’, ‘unsafe’, placed Liverpool’s Christmas Market in second place after Glasgow, with just 1.4% of all reviews having negative sentiment surrounding the event’s safety. Drawing in over 750,000 people, the Liverpool Christmas Market offers a blend of independent stalls and attractions, including a Ferris wheel, karaoke ski lifts, and Santa's Village.

28/11/2024

Black Friday beauty warning: Expert tips to avoid common shopping mistakes
As festive sales ramp up, the temptation of holiday beauty deals can tempt even the most budget-conscious shoppers to splurge. But savings experts are sounding the alarm about common mistakes that can turn the joy of snagging a beauty bargain into post-holiday financial regret.
Coupon experts at Voucherbox share their top tips to keep your beauty budget in check this festive season, ensuring you glow without going broke.

Avoid impulse purchases
Sales create a sense of urgency which can lead to impulse purchases, especially when luxury beauty products or exclusive items are discounted. Before hitting 'add to cart', take note of your current beauty collection and focus on filling gaps or replenishing essentials. If you already have multiple mascaras, do you really need another just because it is on sale? A clear understanding of your needs can curb the urge to impulse buy.

Not comparing prices
A 'deal' on one website might not be the lowest price available. Use price comparison tools, and browser extensions or search for the item using the Google shopping tab to ensure you are getting the best deal.

Beware of giftsets and bundle deals
The festive season is full of enticing beauty bundles offering 'value for money'. However, if the extra products in the set are things you would not purchase individually, you are not saving money. Only opt for bundle deals when all the items align with your needs.

Understand return policies before you commit
Sale items can sometimes have different return policies; therefore, shoppers should check and read the fine print to avoid ending up with unwanted purchases that they cannot return.

Don't let hidden fees steal your Christmas cheer
Beauty deals often look better than they are before additional costs like shipping and taxes sneak in at the checkout. Before you buy, make sure to calculate the trust cost of your basket including these extras.

Charlotte Lumbroso-Baumgartner, CEO of Voucherbox added,

"It is essential for shoppers to approach sales with a clear plan and a critical eye. Planning ahead, staying informed, and prioritising genuinely needed items can help shoppers make the most of a sale event.
"While sales are designed to encourage spending, setting a budget, comparing prices, and understanding the fine print can help avoid common traps that lead to overspending.
"A deal is only valuable if it aligns with your needs and budget, so focusing on what truly brings you value is crucial. The key to maximising savings is to be intentional, not impulsive."

28/11/2024

Liverpool struggles with alcoholism, with the city recording the highest total number of admissions in the region with 4,457 cases and 1,032 admissions per 100,000 people. This figure is 37% above the region’s average, underscoring the city's struggle with alcohol-related health issues.
Knowsley saw 1,023 admissions per 100,000 people, translating to 1,533 total cases, and Burnley, with 947 admissions per 100,000 people and 858 total cases, ranks sixth.
Wirral ranks seventh, with a recorded 909 admissions per 100,000 people, totalling 2,982 cases—the second-highest number of admissions in the region. With 889 admissions per 100,000 people and a total of 1,194 cases, Preston is eighth on the list.
Halton reported 857 admissions per 100,000 people, with a total of 1,096 cases, putting the area in ninth place, and Tameside rounds out the top ten with 856 admissions per 100,000 people and 1,921 total cases.
Michael DeMayo, of DeMayo Law Office, commented on the findings,
"These figures are a stark reminder of the significant toll alcohol takes on public health, particularly during the festive season when consumption often peaks. “Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach, from promoting responsible drinking habits to ensuring adequate support services for those struggling with alcohol dependency. Communities need to prioritise awareness and intervention to reduce the strain on healthcare systems and improve overall well-being."

28/11/2024

Stay in an Oxford or Cambridge college – the home of the Christmas ghost story – this December.
The medieval scholar M.R. James first told his haunting stories to a group of undergraduates and dons at King’s College, Cambridge, at the turn of the last century. He started a Christmas tradition for spooky stories that’s continued ever since. Now we can all experience the atmosphere of staying in an ancient Oxford or Cambridge college this December.
From Mark Gatiss’ eerie modern adaptations to Robert Powell’s classic BBC readings, James’ haunting tales have become as much a part of Christmas as stockings and mince pies. Now it’s possible to soak up the ancient and occasionally eerie atmosphere with a stay at an Oxford or Cambridge college this December.
Thanks to M.R. James, the famous former Provost of King’s College, Cambridge, some of the spookiest have been set in an atmospheric old college.
‘At the turn of the last century, James would light a single candle and tell his haunting ghost stories to groups of undergraduates and dons every Christmas. Many of these were published in James’ first collection, “Ghost Stories of an Antiquary,” in 1904 and they have been an essential part of Christmas ever since.
In Cambridge, the 15th-century Christ’s College is one of the city’s oldest buildings. Visitors just have to cross the road from the busy shopping centre to pass through the 500-year-old Great Gate into quiet and tranquil gardens. Amazingly, rooms can still be booked in December for as little as £50 a night.
Downing College dates back to early 1800. It has a unique setting amid 20 acres of lawns and trees, yet the centre of Cambridge is only a few minutes’ walk away. It has dates available in December and January with double ensuites available from £150 a night.
Built around a Regency manor house, the heart of Fitzwilliam College is also suitably atmospheric. However, in contrast, the majority of its buildings and accommodation are of modern design. Contemporary ensuite rooms are available from just £95 a night in December for those who don’t want a full-on historical experience.
The ancient city of Oxford is an equally memorable Christmas location. Brasenose College was established in 1509. Its college quarters are packed with the glory and beauty of over 500 years of history. Rooms are available this December from just £90 a night.
New College is another fantastic location. Despite its name, it actually dates back to 1379 and its cloisters and quad are full of character. In fact, they will be familiar to Harry Potter fans as they feature in the movie “The Goblet of Fire”. Inexpensive ensuite rooms in Bodicote House are available from just £70 a night.
For lovers of Victorian Gothic, Oxford’s Mansfield College is perfect. The main building was designed by architect Basil Champneys and built between 1887 and 1889. The accommodation is on the main college site and ensuite rooms are available from £105 a night this December, with breakfast included.
For more information and to book your stay in Cambridge this December, see: https://www.universityrooms.com/en-GB/city/cambridge/home/

26/11/2024

Workplace discrimination at a three year high for young women

The number of young women being discriminated against at work is on the rise in the North West according to new research from the charity Young Women’s Trust. Rates of discrimination are at a three year high (54% of young women said they have experienced this in 2024, up from 43% in 2022).

Managers responsible for recruitment and HR decisions were also surveyed and 3 in 10 confirmed that they were aware of instances of young women being discriminated against in the past year.

The research found that discrimination is multilayered with young women reporting prejudice based on age (30%), s*x (16%), appearance (17%), and because of a long term mental health condition (16%).

Evidence of pay discrimination continues and despite it being illegal, almost a quarter (24%) of young women said that they have been paid less than male colleagues who do the same or similar work. This has been disappointingly consistent for the last three years (25% in 2022 and 23% in 2023).

From an employer perspective, 1 in 10 (10%) HR decision makers surveyed admitted that they were aware of women being paid less than men for jobs at the same level. When asked about gender pay gap reporting, 13% don’t think that their organisation takes the reporting seriously enough.

Furthermore, almost 3 in 10 (29%) young women told us that women and men are not given the same opportunities to progress in their organisation. This was mirrored by feedback from HR decision makers with a slightly lower proportion (19%) agreeing that it is harder for women to progress in their organisation than men.

Sexual harassment is still a devastatingly common feature of working life - over a quarter (27%) of young women told us they had experienced this. Over a third (36%) of HR decision makers agreed that s*xist behaviour still exists in their organisation.

Whilst discrimination is spiralling, almost a fifth (18%) of young women say that they don’t know their rights in relation to workplace discrimination. Almost a quarter (24%) say that if it did happen they wouldn't feel comfortable to challenge or report it and almost 2 in 5 (39%) would not feel confident to challenge pay inequality.

This new data highlights the desperate need for more protection for young women in the workplace and stronger enforcement. As the Government looks to strengthen and simplify enforcement of worker’s rights as part of its Employment Rights Bill and plan to Make Work Pay, Young Women’s Trust are calling for young women to be part of the design of the enforcement system to make sure it’s accessible and effective.

Young Women’s Trust are also urging employers to act now and address discrimination - creating workplace cultures where unfair treatment is not tolerated. Resources for employers are available here.

Claire Reindorp, Chief Executive at Young Women’s Trust, said: “Discrimination should have no place in our workplaces but the reality is that as a young woman in 2024 you are more likely than not to be experiencing it. We cannot accept that this is just a normal part of working life. Its harmful effects will scar young women well into their futures, from shattered confidence and poor mental health to a lifetime of lower pay. Most urgently, we must address the deeply alarming rise in racial discrimination that Black and Asian young women are facing at work. Only then will we have a workforce with equal chances to contribute and succeed, for the benefit of everyone.”

Employers: How to make a more equal world of work for young women in your organisation.

23/11/2024

23/11/2024

🎄✨ Christmas at Greatie Market! ✨🎄

Get ready to find the perfect Christmas gifts and enjoy festive fun with your favourite Greatie traders! Browse an incredible selection of holiday gifts, food, drink, and seasonal surprises at Greatie Market this Christmas.

📅 Dates & Times:
- Every Saturday | 8 am - 3 pm
- Sunday 8th December | 9 am - 3 pm

Come along for the festive spirit, grab some unique gifts, and treat yourself to delicious food and drinks.🎁✨

https://lpoolcouncil.info/FestiveMarkets

23/11/2024

A new survey of 1,006 mothers across the UK and Ireland reveals that Christmas is far from the 'most wonderful time of the year' for many.
72% of mothers report their mental health is at its lowest during the Christmas period.
Over half admit they are actively dreading the upcoming Christmas break.
A staggering 86% say they wouldn’t spend the same amount on their own mental health as they do on Christmas presents, even though many spend about a week’s household salary on gifts.
The pressures of Christmas clearly weigh heavily:
Half of the mothers surveyed feel unappreciated by their families over Christmas, with only 31 of the 1,006 respondents saying they feel "very appreciated."
85% said they don’t feel rested at all and feel they need another holiday to recover after the break.
Almost half wish for fewer family commitments and more help from relatives during this time.
One mother summed it up: “Without mothers, there would be no Christmas for kids—we organise everything. It’s a lot of added work each year.”
Another added: “I feel like I’m drowning under the pressure to do it all—school concerts, Santa, festive visits to lights – it goes on.”
Furthermore, the added pressure from social media hits hard: "The pressure from social media is immense. Matching pjs, magical experiences/holidays and tons of gifts. I spend a lot of time and energy reminding myself that I don’t have to do it all and can just focus on my own priorities".
The results of this survey by Maternal Wellbeing expert and host of the Momfessions podcast, Laura Guckian highlights the significant burden on mothers in the run up to and over Christmas, and opens up a conversation about the experience many mothers share and what can be done to lighten the load. One respondent suggested government-issued spa voucher to help recover from the Christmas break!
Laura Guckian is the Founder of Mind Mommy Life Coaching () and the host of the Momfessions podcast.

23/11/2024

3in 10 Britons find shopping for Christmas food stressful and households are planning to reduce their Christmas spend by a third this year because of worries over finances.
With this in mind, Richard Price director of online supermarket Britsuperstore, has given his advice on the best dates to buy your Christmas turkey and 5 money saving hacks when doing so!

Early December
Buying your turkey in early December can be a smart move. Prices are often lower as retailers aim to attract early shoppers. If you have the freezer space, buying and freezing your turkey early ensures its availability and can potentially save you 10-20%

Online ordering
Online ordering offers convenience and early-bird discounts. You can secure your desired turkey size and type, avoiding last-minute stress.

Local butchers and farmers' markets
Shopping at local butchers and farmers' markets allows you to support local businesses and find unique, high-quality turkeys. You may even find better deals and personalised service. Savings: Potential savings of 5-15%

Always compare prices, across different stores, local butchers, and farmers' markets. Often, smaller retailers are very competitive in price or offer special deals

Choose frozen turkeys
Frozen turkeys are much cheaper than fresh ones. If there is enough space in your freezer, buying a frozen turkey will not cost much money. Potential savings: 10-20%

Consider alternatives to large whole turkeys
If a whole turkey seems too expensive, consider buying turkey parts or a smaller turkey crown. These options can be more budget-friendly while still delivering the festive flavour. Savings: 10-30% of
For more details visit

23/11/2024

Drivers that overload their cars with presents or a Christmas tree this season could be fined up to £2,500.
With December around the corner, Brits will rely on their car to transport presents, decorations and groceries, with the majority of Christmas retail done in-store last year (£54 billion) and 7 million real Christmas trees sold and transported directly from tree farms each year.
But as Jamie Fraser, travel expert at Wild Packs, explains, piling multiple Christmas presents into the car can obscure your view and exceed the vehicle’s weight limit, leading to potential safety risks or penalties:
“Understandably many of us depend on our vehicles to transport Christmas goods. But overloading the car with too many items can obstruct the driver’s view, endangering those in the car as well as other road users.
This is due to Rule 98 of the Highway Code, which states that drivers must not overload their vehicles and should always stay within the weight limits recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
Drivers who overpack their vehicles risk a £50 fixed penalty for exceeding weight limits or blocking their view. Furthermore, in the event of an accident, overloaded vehicles may render insurance claims invalid.
In more severe cases, if authorities determine that a vehicle is in a dangerous condition due to the excess weight, the penalties can increase to a £2,500 fine, three penalty points, and even a driving ban.

23/11/2024

Liverpool is bringing the light back next month as city prepares to reopen the library and community hub which was torched during the summer’s racist riots.
Spellow Library and Community Hub will become part of the community once again, following the completion of works to rectify the damage which destroyed part of the building in August, closing the much-loved venue that had only been open for just over a year, following a revamp in 2023.
The arson attack on the Walton based venue, which prompted a huge outcry and a nationwide response with book donations from Her Majesty the Queen and a host of famous authors as well as a £250,000 fundraising campaign, will open its doors to the public once again on Thursday, 12 December.
To mark the occasion, the Leader of Liverpool City Council, Councillor Liam Robinson, is calling on every local authority in the country to be part of a nationwide symbolic moment on the eve of the reopening.
Councillor Robinson is writing to councils, asking them to light up one of their libraries on Wednesday 11 December, in a show of solidarity, hope and joy. By having a light, or a lantern in a window, or illuminating the outside of a building, this will symbolically shine a light on libraries as places of sanctuary, knowledge and community.
Details of the reopening event - and a special celebratory community-focused programme of events - which will take place in December, will be announced very soon.
Any organisation which wants to get involved in the lighting up moment can email [email protected] and they are encouraged to share their photos on social media using .
For more information, visit the Culture Liverpool website.