Everything Else

This includes everything else I discuss on Pounds and Sense, including Health, Holidays, Relationships, and so on.

December 15, 2024

UK Bloggers Christmas Giveaway and Gift Guide 2024!

Nick Everything Else events, reviews, shopping, giveaway 0 Comments

Christmas is coming, so here’s a chance to make it extra special for one lucky winner!

I’ve joined forces with some of my fellow UK bloggers in this festive mega-giveaway with prizes valued at over £500 in total.

Entering the giveaway is free of charge and full instructions can be found below. There are multiple ways to enter, and the more you do, the better your chances of winning. You may also like to use the prize list as a source of ideas for Christmas gifts.

Note that where an entry requires following a social media account, you will need to continue following this account until the winner has been drawn after the closing date of 22 December 2024. Before the winner is announced the organisers will check that they are still following the account in question. If not, they will be disqualified and another winner drawn.

This giveaway has been organised by my fellow blogger Rowena Becker, who blogs at My Balancing Act. Please check out her blog and those of the other talented bloggers taking part (listed below). And read on for full details from Rowena of all the prizes on offer and how you could win this mammoth bundle!

The Bloggers Mega Christmas Giveaway!

Win Big This Christmas! Some of the UK’s top bloggers have come together to offer one lucky winner a collection of incredible prizes that are sure to bring smiles to every face in your household.

From thoughtful treats to exciting surprises, this bundle has everything you need to make this Christmas extra special. Entering couldn’t be easier—simply head over to our Rafflecopter link at the bottom of this post for multiple chances to win.

Don’t miss out—this could be the perfect way to surprise and delight the whole family!

This giveaway is open to over 18 only and age verification will be required. The winner will be chosen at random and contacted via email. Terms and conditions apply.

The Bloggers

In order to be able to bring you this incredible giveaway, some of the UK’s top bloggers got together. A massive thank you to our bloggers! The bloggers taking part are:

The Prizes

The Perfect Gift for Foodies: FinaMill Rechargeable Gift Set

Upgrade your loved ones’ cooking game with the festive FinaMill Rechargeable Gift Set. This set not only adds a pop of colour to any kitchen in its Sangria shade, but it also takes cooking to the next level with its innovative design and features. Whether you’re shopping for experienced chefs or kitchen newbies, this gift set is sure to impress.

The rechargeable grinder allows for fast charging and has a long-lasting battery, making it the perfect addition to any busy kitchen. And with its eco-friendly design, you can feel good about reducing your carbon footprint while cooking up delicious meals.

Not only does the gift set come with the FinaMill grinder, it also includes 3 different types of FinaPods: 2 FinaPod Pro Plus for everyday spices and 1 FinaPod MAX for larger spices and dried herbs. With a sleek and modern tray exclusive to this gift set, your loved ones will have all the tools they need to elevate their dishes in one convenient package.

As well as being a practical and unique present, this will also show your loved ones how much you care about their passion for food. Don’t wait—enter our giveaway now!

Ocoopa HotPal PD Quick Charge Rechargeable Hand Warmer

The Ocoopa HotPal PD Rechargeable Hand Warmer is the perfect addition to our prize bundle, making it an ideal gift for anyone who loves spending time outdoors during the colder months. This hand warmer not only keeps your hands warm and toasty during chilly morning hikes or outdoor activities, but it also has adjustable heat options so you can customise the warmth level to suit your needs.

But that’s not all! The Ocoopa HotPal PD Hand Warmer also serves as a backup portable charger using the PD protocol, making it a convenient and versatile gadget to have on hand. It can charge various devices such as lights, earbuds, and smartphones – with lightning-fast speed. In fact, it can charge an iPhone to 50% in just 30 minutes, perfect for those who are always on-the-go. This means you’ll never have to worry about your devices running out of juice during your outdoor adventures.

So whether you’re gifting this hand warmer to a friend or family member who loves camping, hiking, or simply enjoys being outdoors, or even treating yourself to one, the Ocoopa HotPal PD Rechargeable Hand Warmer is a must-have accessory for any winter adventure. Don’t miss your chance to win this amazing prize and make someone’s Christmas extra warm and special with our ultimate giveaway bundle!

Opinel Cheese Knife & Fork Set

Looking for a unique and practical gift for the foodie in your life? Look no further than the Opinel Cheese Knife & Fork Set. This set is not only stylish and beautifully designed, but also functional for any cheese lover.

Opinel, known for their iconic French design and quality craftsmanship, brings their expertise to this must-have set for any cheese plate or charcuterie platter. Made from sustainably harvested European wood, the beechwood handles add a touch of elegance to the knife and fork.

But don’t let the sleek design fool you, these tools are made to last. The stainless steel blade of the knife is sharp, durable, and easy to maintain, ensuring that it will be a staple in any cheese lover’s kitchen for years to come. Plus, the fork serves a dual purpose as a holder for the knife and for easily serving slices from the platter.

This set is not only perfect for holiday gatherings and dinner parties, but also makes a great gift for any occasion. Give the gift of style and functionality with Opinel’s Cheese Knife & Fork Set this Christmas!

Opinel Art Deco 4pc Kitchen Knife Set

The Opinel Art Deco 4pc Kitchen Knife Set is the perfect addition to our prize bundle this Christmas. With its simple, versatile and efficient design, these knives make everyday cooking much easier. The set includes four high-quality knives with unique and stylish designs that are sure to impress any recipient.

Each knife in the set has a Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel blade with a high carbon content, ensuring excellent cutting quality and resistance to corrosion. The handles are made from tinted hornbeam and covered in a protective varnish, making them resistant to water for long-lasting use.

The set contains four essential kitchen knives: No.112 Paring knife in purple, No.113 Serrated knife in soft grey, No.114 Vegetable Knife in emerald green and No.115 Peeler in white. These knives are perfect for various tasks such as peeling, slicing, and dicing fruits and vegetables, cutting bread or meat, and even preparing sushi.

The Opinel Art Deco 4pc Kitchen Knife Set is not only practical but also adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen with its Art Deco design. It’s an ideal gift for anyone who loves to cook or wants to upgrade their kitchen essentials.

Note: Age verification will be required for all prize winners. Open to UK residents over 18 only.

The Perfect Gift for Coffee Lovers: RISE 26oz Tumbler by Klean Kanteen

As part of our amazing Christmas prize bundle, we are excited to offer the RISE 26 oz tumbler with flip lid in Sea Spray. This sleek and stylish tumbler is not only a great addition to any coffee lover’s collection, but also an eco-friendly choice.

Made from certified 90% post-consumer recycled stainless steel, this durable tumbler is perfect for enjoying hot or cold drinks on the go. Its Climate Lock™ insulation keeps drinks at the desired temperature for hours, making it ideal for busy mornings or long commutes.

Christmas Negroni Cocktail Prize Pack

Are you looking for a sophisticated and festive cocktail to add to your Christmas celebrations? Look no further than the Award-Winning Christmas Negroni, crafted by Bottle Bar and Shop.

This twist on the classic Negroni is perfectly balanced with warm seasonal spices and premium ingredients, providing an effortless way to indulge in the holiday spirit. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cosy night in, this Christmas Negroni will elevate your experience with its rich flavours and festive flair.

Enter now for a chance to win this as part of our prize bundle. Please note that this prize is only available for those who are 18 years or older. Cheers to the holiday season with our Christmas Negroni Cocktail Prize Pack! Disclaimer: Must be 18 years or over to enter.

Disney Stitch Drink Flask from Thermos

Looking for a practical and fun gift for the little ones in your life? Look no further than the Direct Drink Flask 470ml Disney Stitch Signature from Thermos. This flask not only features cute images of everyone’s favourite mischievous alien, Stitch, but also keeps drinks hot for up to 10 hours and cold for up to 24 hours.

Whether they’re off on an adventure or just need a cool drink at school, this direct drink flask is perfect for kids (or adults!) who love Disney and staying hydrated. And with its durable design and reliable insulation, it’s sure to be a gift that will last beyond the holiday season.

Brainstorm Toys Outdoor Adventure Metal Detector

As part of our Christmas prize bundle, we are excited to offer the Brainstorm Toys Outdoor Adventure Metal Detector. This fun and innovative STEM toy is perfect for young detectorists who love to explore and discover hidden treasures. With its easy-to-use design and light and sound alerts, kids will be entertained for hours as they search for buried gems and coins. Not only does this gift encourage curiosity, but it also provides an exciting outdoor activity that will keep kids active and engaged during the holiday season. Lightweight and versatile, the Brainstorm Toys can be used in handheld mode or attached to a pole for an even more thrilling treasure hunt experience. Don’t miss your chance to win this amazing gift for the little ones in your life!

Doll Smash Glass Lip Oil: The Ultimate Hydration and Shine for Her Lips

This Christmas, give the gift of hydrated and shiny lips with Doll Smash Glass Lip Oil. Its lightweight, vegan formula is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy way to add some moisture to their lips. Say goodbye to sticky residue and hello to soft and supple lips with just one glide. With its instant boost of hydration and shine, this lip oil is the perfect addition to any winter skincare routine. So why not treat your loved ones (or yourself!) to beautifully moisturised lips this holiday season?

Age-Defyers Discovery Set from Evolve Organic Beauty

Looking for the perfect gift for her this holiday season? Look no further than the Age-Defyers Discovery Set from Evolve Organic Beauty. This giftable collection of 3 travel-sized skincare products is suitable for all skin types and is specifically designed to help smooth, plump, and give a younger-looking appearance.

Included in this set are 3 samples from Evolve’s award-winning range of organic skincare products, so you can try out some of their best-selling items before committing to full-sized versions. The Gentle Cleansing Melt (30ml) will leave her skin feeling clean and refreshed while the Peptide 360 Serum (10ml) and Multi Peptide 360 Anti-Ageing Cream (30ml) work together to tackle signs of aging. Plus, with the addition of 2 sachet samples, she can continue her journey to youthful skin even after the holidays are over.

Don’t miss out on this amazing gift that will give her the gift of beautiful, radiant skin this Christmas!

New Sprouts® Prep ‘n’ Store Kitchen Island from Learning Resources

As part of our amazing Christmas prize bundle, we are excited to offer the New Sprouts® Prep ‘n’ Store Kitchen Island from Learning Resources! This fantastic play kitchen island is perfect for your little chef to prepare and serve pretend play food and will provide hours of imaginative play. With two rolling wheels on one side and a convenient handle on the other, it’s also easy to move around and store when not in use. Plus, with two storage shelves included, there’s plenty of space to store all kinds of play food—including the six pieces that come with the set! Let your child’s creativity and culinary skills shine this Christmas with the New Sprouts® Prep ‘n’ Store Kitchen Island from Learning Resources.

Numberblocks® Rainbow Counting Bus

The New Sprouts® Prep ‘n’ Store Kitchen Island is not the only exciting educational toy that we have included in our Christmas prize bundle. As part of our commitment to providing quality learning resources, we are also offering a Numberblocks® Rainbow Counting Bus from learning resources! This fun and educational toy is perfect for any young Numberblocks fan who loves imaginative play.

Get ready to embark on exciting adventures in Numberland with the included Seven figure as your driver. With 12 songs and sounds from the series, your child will have a blast counting along and exploring all the numbery features of the bus.

Take a peek at the hidden rainbow by opening the drop-down back, and count all the different colours together. Let this magical toy from Learning Resources be a part of your child’s Christmas celebrations and help them learn and grow while having tons of fun!

Pretend to Bee Postal Worker – 3-5 Years

This fun and interactive costume from Pretend to Bee is the perfect gift for children who love to play pretend and explore different occupations. With a sleeveless jacket, trousers, and post bag, kids can dress up and act out the role of a postal worker, gaining a better understanding of this important job in their community. Not only will they have hours of fun with imaginative play, but they’ll also learn valuable skills such as responsibility and teamwork. Plus, it’s machine washable for easy clean-up after all their adventures! A great addition to any child’s dress-up collection and a fantastic way to encourage creativity and social development. Get ready to deliver some letters this Christmas with the Pretend to Bee Postal Worker costume!

Little Brian Scribble Paint Sticks and Bath Paint Sticks

Add a splash of colour and creativity to your child’s Christmas with the Scribble Paint Sticks by Little Brian, included in our prize bundle! These innovative paint sticks allow kids to unleash their imagination and create intricate designs thanks to their finer tip. With 12 vibrant colours, these paint sticks bring any artwork to life in just under 60 seconds. And the best part? No more messy clean-up afterwards! Watch as your child explores their creativity on paper, card, wood, or glass without worrying about stains or spills.

But wait, there’s more! Also included in our prize bundle are the Bath Paint Sticks from Little Brian. These washable paint sticks make bath time even more fun and colourful as kids can create their own masterpieces on the bath tub or shower walls. With six vibrant colours that easily wash off with water, these paint sticks provide a mess-free and imaginative activity for children of all ages. Make bath time a creative experience this Christmas with the Little Brian Bath Paint Sticks! Don’t miss out on this perfect gift for budding artists this holiday season!

LittleLife Toddler Backpacks

LittleLife’s award-winning range of toddler backpacks come in a plethora of different colourful designs, giving your little ones the perfect amount of storage space this Christmas, whether that’s for their new toys or sweet treats!

What’s more, LittleLife’s toddler backpacks have a built-in safety rein to keep youngsters safe and within reach, whilst still giving them the freedom and independence to explore the outdoors and develop motor skills that are so important for children’s development.

Make festive family walks a cherished tradition, knowing your little ones are secure with LittleLife toddler backpacks!

Browse the LittleLife toddler backpack collection here

Start-Rite Party Shoes

Add some sparkle and fun to little feet this Christmas with Start-Rite’s versatile collection of children’s party shoes! You’ll find classic T-bar styles such as Lottie in Pink Leather and Puzzle in Navy Patent, and festive colours, such as Wiggle in Gold Glitter and Wonderland in Cherry Red Patent. The extensive collection of party shoes and boots from Start-Rite has something for everyone – perfect for family festivities this Christmas.

Buy from the ‘Party Shoes’ Collection at startriteshoes.com

Graco FoldLite LX Travel Cot

The FoldLite LX is the perfect solution for making family visits easier this Christmas! With a lightweight, one-of-a-kind fold, the FoldLite LX can be popped up and taken down with ease both home and away. Collapsing to only 26cm wide, you can swiftly tuck the cot into any nook around the house. When travelling, the FoldLite LX can go one step further, folding down even tinier for exceptional portability. Doubling as a playpen and featuring a removable infant bassinet, the FoldLite LX conveniently travels with the family throughout the festive period and beyond.

Buy now for £80 from Amazon

How to Enter

You can enter the Giveaway by completing as many Rafflecopter widget entry options below as you like. All entries will be collected, and one winner will be randomly chosen via Rafflecopter. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms and Conditions of the Giveaway

The giveaway will run from 8 am 15th December 2024 to 11.45 pm 22nd December 2024.
Prize open to over 18s only. Age verification will be required.
The winners will be notified by email from rowena@mybalancingact.co.uk.
The winner will have 7 days to respond after which time we reserve the right to select an alternative winner.
This prize draw is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, BlogLovin or Pinterest or any other social media platform.
The prizes may not arrive in time for Christmas.
Some or all of the prizes may take a few weeks to arrive.If any prizes are out of stock then we will do our best to find a suitable replacement but cannot guarantee it.
Anyone who unfollows before the giveaway ends or doesn’t complete the required entry action will be disqualified.
The prize is non-transferable, non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for monetary value.
We may be using a parcel service or Royal Mail for some of the prizes and their standard compensation will apply in the event of loss or damage.
Some items may be sent directly by the supplier and we do not have responsibility if these go missing and we cannot replace them.
In the unlikely event that one of the companies withdraws a prize, we cannot offer an alternative.
The winner’s name will be stated on some or all of our blogger’s websites and announced on Twitter and other social media channels. It will also be displayed on the Rafflecopter entry form. By entering this prize draw, you give your permission for this.
Please note the winner may have the same name as you, so if you see your name displayed, be aware that you are not the winner unless you have been notified by us.
There may be some delays in receiving prizes.

Good luck, and I hope a Pounds and Sense reader wins this fabulous prize bundle!

NOTE: Posts on Pounds and Sense may include affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission for introducing you. This will not affect in any way the product or service you receive or the price you pay.

If you enjoyed this post, please link to it on your own blog or social media:

November 19, 2024

What Are the Best Video Calling Tools for Older People?

Nick Everything Else events, reviews 6 Comments

Christmas will soon be here. Touch wood, it looks as though it will be more ‘normal’ than the last few years. But even with memories of the pandemic fading, many older people especially will still be understandably cautious about how much face-to-face socializing they do at this time.

In addition, this year we have a cost-of-living crisis. And many pensioners are even more cash-strapped than usual due to the removal of Winter Fuel Payments for all but the very poorest. Add to that bad winter weather (snow is currently falling here). And, of course, there will be the usual congestion (and worse) on many roads and motorways.

All this means that potentially there may still be less face-to-face socializing this festive season, especially where older people are concerned. Of course, it’s true they are more likely to suffer severe consequences if infected with respiratory viruses such as flu or Covid, so a measure of caution is understandable. But many have been seeing other people less often for several years now. And a lack of human contact – at this time of year especially – can lead to loneliness, depression, and other health issues (physical and mental).

While not a complete solution, video calling can provide a lifeline for older people. In particular, it can provide a means for them to keep in touch with distant friends and family, and especially with children and grandchildren.

So in this post I thought I’d look at some of the main options available. I hope this will help if you are an older person yourself, or if you have older friends and relatives.

What Do You Need?

At the risk of stating the obvious, if you’re going to make video calls, you will need a device with a camera and a microphone.

The good news is that all modern smartphones, Apple or Android, have good-quality cameras built in. These devices can be great for video calling, as you can hold them comfortably in your hand, move around with them, and point them at yourself or at anything you might want to talk about. The one drawback with smartphones is that the screen is relatively small, but for one-to-one conversations they are perfectly adequate.

Other good options are a tablet, a laptop or a Chromebook. All of these devices generally have a front-facing camera that is ideal for video calling (and indeed designed for it). As the screens are larger you will be able to see the other person (or people) more clearly. And group video calls with two or more other people (should you want to do this) are more feasible.

If you’re using a desktop computer it’s not quite as simple. In this case you will need to activate the built-in webcam or else buy a separate webcam (e.g. from Amazon). Standalone webcams normally plug in via a USB port. They may come with third-party software designed to help you control and make the most of them.

The other thing you will need is a video-calling app. There are lots you can use, but in this post I’ll focus on four of the most popular: Skype, FaceTime, WhatsApp and Messenger. All of these are free to download and use on wifi. If you are using them with a mobile data service they will eat up your allowance and you may end up paying extra, so it’s best to stick with wifi if at all possible.

There isn’t much difference in call quality in my experience, so it really comes down to personal preference which one you choose.

One other thing to note is that the person you are calling will need to use the same app as you are.

1. Skype

Video calls on smartphones? Yes

Video calls on tablets? Yes

Video calls on Windows? Yes

Video calls on a Mac? Yes

Skype was originally designed for making free voice calls over the internet, but then added video calls too. It’s seen as a little old-fashioned in some circles, and isn’t quite as easy to install and configure as some of its newer rivals. Nonetheless, it still works well, and you can use it for one-to-one or group calls.

If you have a modern smartphone or tablet it’s quite likely that Skype will be installed already, but otherwise you can download it from the Play Store (Android), Apple Store (Apple) or Skype website (PC or Mac). You will need to set up an account before you start using it, for which you will need to provide either your mobile number or your email address.

To make a Skype video call to a new contact, use the Search Skype box at the top left to search for the person’s real name, Skype name, or email address. If your friend has a common name, you may find there are a number of people to choose from in the list that pops up. Use the profile pictures to find the person you’re looking for, or click on the name to view their profile information. Anyone you talk to will automatically be added to your Skype contact list. Select your contact and click Call. With your audio call running, select the video camera icon to open the camera. During a call you can mute/unmute your microphone and switch your camera on/off by clicking on or tapping the appropriate icon.

Here is a link to a more in-depth article on making a video call with Skype.

2. WhatsApp

Video calls on smartphones? Yes

Video calls on tablets? No

Video calls on Windows? No

Video calls on a Mac? No

WhatsApp is owned by Facebook. It is primarily used for text chats and sharing photos and videos, but you can make video calls on it as well.

If you have a modern smartphone it’s quite likely WhatsApp will be installed already, but otherwise you will need to download it from the Play Store or Apple Store. To create an account, open the app and work through the set-up assistant. You will need to provide certain permissions to allow the app to access your camera and microphone and to import your existing phone contacts.

WhatsApp then works in a similar way to Skype. To place a video call, tap the contact you want to talk to, and tap the video camera icon next to their name. The other person can answer the call (swipe up the blue button), reject the call (swipe up the red phone button), or reject the call and send a text instead (swipe up the message button). If they answer, you’re good to go. You can toggle between the front and rear cameras on your phone by tapping on the appropriate icon if you wish.

Here is a link to a more in-depth article on making a video call with WhatsApp.

3. FaceTime

Video calls on smartphones? Yes – iPhones only

Video calls on tablets? Yes – iPads only

Video calls on Windows? No

Video calls on a Mac? Yes

FaceTime comes pre-installed on most Apple devices, so if you and the other person both have devices from Apple, it’s an easy option.

Making a call is (again) very simple. Just open the FaceTime app and tap the ‘+’ button, then type the phone number or email address of the person you want to call. Select audio (the microphone icon) or video (the camera icon) and you’re all set. If you have Apple’s voice assistant Siri you can also just say ‘Contact [Name]’. You can also tap ‘Recents’ to call people you have called recently and/or add your regular contacts to a Favourites list.

Here is a link to a more in-depth article on making a video call with FaceTime.

4. Messenger

Video calls on smartphones? Yes

Video calls on tablets? Yes

Video calls on Windows? Yes

Video calls on a Mac? Yes

Messenger is owned by Facebook but it is a separate app. If you don’t have it on your device already you will need to download it from the Play Store or Apple Store or via the website for PC or Mac.

To use Messenger you will need to have a Facebook account, but this does have the advantage that you won’t need to register the app separately and can start using it straight away. Messenger will automatically connect with all your Facebook friends.

To make a Messenger video call, tap the pencil icon at the top right of the app screen. Enter the name of whomever you want to contact and tap on their picture. You can then tap on the video camera icon to start a video call.

Here is a link to a more in-depth article on making a video call with Messenger (or Facebook).

Making Group Video Calls

All the apps above also allow you to make group calls. These can be great for connecting with multiple friends and/or family members. The number of contacts you can have in a call varies between apps. I have put details for the four services discussed in this post below.

Skype: Up to 100 contacts. In an ongoing conversation click the ‘+’ icon to add more contacts.

WhatsApp: Up to 32 contacts. In an ongoing call, select ‘Add Participant’.

FaceTime: Up to 32 contacts. During a FaceTime call, select ‘Add Person’.

Messenger: Up to 50 contacts. In an ongoing video call, tap on the ‘+’ icon.

Note that video calling apps compete fiercely for dominance, so the maximum numbers set out above may increase.

Finally, you will probably have heard about the group video-calling app Zoom. This is really a meetings app for businesses, but in the last few years it has become very popular with younger people especially. You don’t need any special software to take part in a Zoom chat – just click on the link you receive by text or email and the Zoom (meeting) will open in a browser window.

Zoom is very easy to use, and its Gallery View in particular has made it very popular. You can have up to 100 participants on a free call (there are also paid options for larger meetings of up to 1000 people). Concerns have, however, been raised about some privacy/security issues. One other drawback is that the free version only allows you to chat for 40 minutes at a time, although you can then reconnect in a new chat if you wish. You can read more about Zoom here.

Using a Smart Speaker

Another increasingly popular option is to use a smart speaker with a video display, e.g. the Amazon Echo Show [affiliate link]. In fact both parties don’t even need an Echo Show device, as you can make and receive calls to an Echo Show using a smartphone.

To make a video call using the Echo Show, first ensure the person you want to speak to has the Alexa app set up on their mobile phone or also owns an Echo Show. Then say, ‘Alexa, video call [contact name].’ You may be asked to confirm details of the person you’re trying to reach. Then wait for the person to answer. If you can’t see yourself on the screen, check the camera shutter on your device isn’t closed, or the ‘camera off’ icon isn’t selected. All being well, you can then start chatting to your friend or relative. At the end of the call click the red hang-up button or say, ‘Alexa, end video call.’

For more detailed information about using an Echo Show to make a video call, click through to this useful article on the popular Tom’s Guide website.

I hope you have found this article helpful. As always, if you have any comments or questions about this post, please do leave them below.

Note: this is a fully revised update of an annual article.

If you enjoyed this post, please link to it on your own blog or social media:

October 28, 2024

Twelve Great Christmas Gift Ideas for Older People (That Aren’t Socks)

Nick Everything Else events, shopping 0 Comments

It won’t have escaped your notice that Christmas will soon be here.

It’s well known that older friends and relatives can be the hardest to choose gifts for. But don’t despair – as an older person myself (I’m 68) , I’m here with some ideas to make gift-buying for this age group a bit easier for you!

None of the suggestions below will break the bank. For the electronic ones, though, you might just want to check first how they might be received. Some older people are wary of trying new things, but I believe most will enjoy and get a lot of benefit from all these products. So a little bit of gentle encouragement if they express doubts might be in order!

Let’s start with a couple of the more techy ones then…

1.Kindle e-reader

As an older person myself I love my Kindle.

Of course, people of all ages use these devices, but for older people they have two particular advantages. One is you can adjust the brightness, font size, and so on. For those (like me) whose eyesight isn’t what it once was, the benefits of this can’t be overstated.

The other attraction is that on a Kindle you can literally carry hundreds of books around with you. If – like many of us older folk – your shelves are already groaning from the weight of books on them, a Kindle can provide a great alternative option.

Various models of Kindle are available from Amazon at prices from around £105.

2. Echo Smart Speaker

In my view an Amazon Echo smart speaker with Alexa would make a great gift for any older person, even if they aren’t tech-savvy (though these devices do of course need wifi to work).

Once the speaker has been set up – which you can help with if required – they can control it using just their voice. As you may know, you can ask it to play your favourite music, set alarms and reminders, ask questions, and much more besides.

For an older person living alone especially, having an Echo can provide companionship as well as reassurance in the event of an emergency (you can ask Alexa to call any of your contacts for you, though currently you can’t get it to phone 999). And an Echo smart speaker is a present that will go on giving through Christmas and well beyond.

Again, various models are available from Amazon, including my personal favourite, the Echo Show. This has a display screen, so you can do video calls on it if you like. Prices range from £45 upwards, with generous discounts frequently on offer.

3. Afternoon Tea Voucher

Dare I say it, this might be especially popular among female friends and relatives, but plenty of men will enjoy it too. Or you could buy this as a joint gift, of course.

Vouchers are available to suit all budgets, starting from around £30 to £160 at the time of writing for a champagne afternoon tea at Fortnum and Mason. Visit the Virgin Experience Days website for a wide range of options.

4. Hot Air Balloon Ride

This is another very popular gift among older people. It’s an opportunity to enjoy an exhilarating flight in a hot air balloon with stunning views of the UK landscape.

Vouchers are available from Virgin Balloon Flights for prices between £169 and £209 for a one-hour flight, including a celebratory glass of Prosecco afterwards. Flights take place in the UK between March and October.

5. Christmas Hamper

Who doesn’t enjoy a hamper of festive food and drink at Christmas? And that applies especially to older people on a limited income, who may relish the opportunity to enjoy some little luxuries that would normally be beyond their budget, particularly in the current cost-of-living crisis.

You could put together a basket filled with quality chocolates, nuts, gourmet snacks, cakes, biscuits, and a bottle of fine wine or champagne. Alternatively you can buy a ready-made hamper from suppliers such as Prestige Hampers or Marks and Spencer. Prices range from £25 upwards (including delivery).

6. Magazine or Newspaper Subscription

Choose a magazine or newspaper subscription that aligns with their interests, e.g. gardening, travel, cooking, or current events. Another good option might be Radio Times, as many older people consume a lot of TV and radio.

This is another present that keeps on giving throughout the year. Just remember to purchase a gift subscription rather than a standard one, or your subscription will automatically renew.

7. Artisan Chocolates

You can’t go too far wrong with chocolates. But except perhaps for your least favoured relatives, a tin of Quality Street isn’t going to cut it.

So why not push the boat out and buy them some luxury, hand-made, artisan chocolates? There are various local shops specialising in this, and as ever Amazon sell a good range. Here are some I bought my sister as a thank-you for putting me up for a few days recently. She tells me she and her husband enjoyed all the different flavours and quickly polished them off!

Click here to visit the Amazon sales page.

Prices for boxes of artisan chocolates range from £15 upwards. They are guaranteed to bring a bit of good cheer to anyone’s Christmas celebrations!

8. Digital Photo Frame

Load a digital photo frame with a collection of your friend or relative’s favourite pictures. This way, they can enjoy a rotating display of memories without the need for multiple printed photos. And compared with the latter option, it’s a great space-saver as well!

Most frames come with a remote control; they may also have extra features such as a built-in clock/calendar. Prices range from £30 upwards. You can view a selection on this Amazon web page.

9. Cosy Blanket or Throw

A soft and luxurious blanket or throw (such as the one pictured below from Amazon) is perfect for staying warm during the winter months. And of course it can help save on energy bills as well.

Click here to visit the Amazon sales page.

Prices range from £15 upwards (more for those with built-in electric heating). Look for one in their favorite colour or with a pattern that matches their decor.

10. Ergonomic Gardening Tools Set

For those with green fingers, consider a set of ergonomic gardening tools (like this one perhaps). These tools are designed to reduce the strain on joints and muscles, making gardening more comfortable and enjoyable. Prices range from about £15 upwards.

11. Subscription to a Streaming Service

Give the gift of entertainment with a subscription to a streaming service like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video. This will provide a wide range of films and TV shows for your friend or relative to enjoy at their leisure. This is another gift whose benefits will extend well beyond Christmas itself.

12. Comfortable Slippers

I’ll close with an ‘old-school’ gift, but nonetheless one that will be very much appreciated by many older people.

Opt for a pair of high-quality, comfortable slippers. Look for features such as memory-foam insoles and non-slip soles to ensure your friend or relative stays cosy and safe around the house.

You can expect to pay from £20 upwards for a decent pair of slippers. They are available from many high street stores including Marks and Spencer or – inevitably – from Amazon (see example below).

Click here to visit the Amazon sales page.

A personal recommendation is to avoid getting slippers with low (or no) backs, as these are easy for an older person to slip out of. Traditional high-backed slippers, such as the ones pictured above, are safer and better.

So there you have it. Twelve great gifts for older people – one for each day of Christmas – and not a sock among them!

Remember to take into account personal preferences and interests when choosing a gift, to make it truly special.

If you have any comments or questions about this article, as ever, please do post them below.

Note: This article is adapted from one originally written for my good friends at Mouthy Money.

Disclosure: This article includes affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission for introducing you. This will not affect the price you pay or the product you receive.

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October 23, 2024

My Review of the Simba Orbit™ Weighted Blanket

Nick Everything Else events, reviews, shopping 1 Comment

I was recently offered the chance to review the Simba Orbit™ weighted blanket (see cover photo). This is a premium weighted blanket from the well-known Simba Sleep brand.

Weighted blankets are a growing trend right now. They purport to help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation and improve sleep. Naturally I was pleased to have the opportunity to test this out for myself.

The Simba Orbit™ blanket is available in various sizes and weights. I received the 15 lb (6.8 kg) single bed version. For reasons to be discussed, in my view this would also be perfectly suitable if (like me) you normally sleep on your own in a double bed.

Even though I got the lightest version, I was still quite surprised how heavy it was. It comes with a machine-washable cotton cover and I got a decent workout just putting the blanket in! The cover and the blanket itself are a rather nondescript brown. It might be nice to have a choice of colours to suit your decor. That’s only a minor criticism, though.

The blanket is filled with tiny weighted-glass nano-beads. These are stitched evenly into small pockets (see picture below) to prevent clumping. I can confirm that they don’t appear to move around in the night, neither do you hear any noise from them. As they say on the Simba sales page, ‘Together they form a soothing layer that rests gently over your body, giving you a feeling of light, comforting pressure.’ The blanket and cover are also designed for maximum breathability, so the blanket feels warm in winter but cool in summer.

The theory behind the Simba Orbit™ weighted blanket (and weighted blankets generally) is Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT). This is an actual, scientific thing, with academic studies to back it up.

DPT is a calming process activated through a physical stimulus – like a hug, or the application of some sort of gentle pressure across the body. Some studies have suggested that this pressure works by helping your nervous system switch off its ‘fight or flight’ system (sympathetic) and move to its ‘rest and digest’ system (parasympathetic).

Simba say the Orbit™ weighted blanket is designed to replicate that feeling of soothing pressure. They suggest thinking of it as your ‘off switch’ – a switch that helps regulate your heartbeat, relax your muscles and set your mind at rest.

My own experience confirms this. Admittedly it took a night or two to get used to, but I did then notice I was sleeping longer and deeper and feeling more refreshed when I woke up. One thing that impressed me was how the blanket stays in place and doesn’t move around or slip off the bed once it’s in position. That is why I think the single version is also suitable for people who sleep alone in a double bed. Personally I found it worked best (and felt most comfortable) if I positioned it over the lower half of my body rather than up to my neck/chest. Your experience might be different, of course.

Clearly, weighted blankets won’t be right for everyone. In particular, as SImba themselves say, they aren’t suitable for children, the elderly or anyone suffering from breathing difficulties or circulatory issues (including diabetes). In cases of pregnancy and kidney issues, you are recommended to consult your doctor before use.

If you’re stressed and anxious and finding it hard to unwind, however, then based on my experience this weighted blanket is well worth a try. You can order direct from the SImba Orbit™ weighted blanket web page while stocks last. You can get free next day delivery if you order before 2 pm on the UK mainland, with interest-free finance options also available.

As always, if you have any comments or questions about this post, please do leave them below.

Disclosure: As stated above, I received a free Simba Orbit™ weighted blanket in exchange for reviewing it here. This has not influenced my review in any way.

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October 15, 2024

How to Prepare for Winter Blackouts

Nick Everything Else property, energy 0 Comments

Unfortunately winter blackouts look increasingly probable in the UK.

There are various reasons for this. High among them is the transition away from fossil fuels to electricity. The latter will increasingly come from renewables like wind and solar. While they are (arguably) more environmentally friendly, renewables are less reliable than fossil fuels and produce significantly less power when the sun doesn’t shine or the wind doesn’t blow.

In addition, the growing use of electric vehicles (EVs) and heat pumps is adding to the overall demand for electricity, which current generation and distribution systems are struggling to keep pace with.

Even National Grid chiefs have acknowledged that winter blackouts are becoming more likely, in London and the South-East especially [source]. Only a few days ago we apparently came close to a nationwide blackout after an interconnector from the Nordic Grid failed and gas power stations had to be quickly fired up to meet the shortfall [source]. In future, as fossil fuels are phased out, this backup option may no longer be available.

I have also just heard that on Monday a backstop system designed to prevent blackouts was activated for the first time in two years as Britain’s power grid battled low winds and plummeting temperatures [source].

Finally, we live in an increasingly dangerous world. Wars in Ukraine and the Middle East threaten our gas and oil supply lines, which in turn may impact on our ability to generate electricity. And – without wanting to sound unduly alarmist – if these wars were to come to Britain’s doorstep, via the actions of terrorists or hostile nations, then attacks (including cyber-attacks) on our energy infrastructure certainly can’t be ruled out.

For ordinary UK residents, it’s therefore vital to prepare for increasingly likely disruptions to the electricity supply. This applies especially if there are young children or older people in the house, as they may be more vulnerable in the event of blackouts.

So here’s a guide to ensure that you are ready and able to cope during outages.

1. Emergency Kit Essentials

Lighting: Invest in battery-operated torches and lanterns. Avoid using candles due to fire risks.
Batteries: Stock up on various types of batteries for your devices.
Power Banks: Keep portable chargers fully charged for your phones and other essential gadgets.
First Aid Kit: Ensure it’s well-stocked with basic medical supplies.
Manual Tools: Have a manual can opener and basic tools handy.

2. Heating Solutions

Layer Up: Wear multiple layers of clothing and use extra blankets to stay warm.
Hot Water Bottles: Fill these with hot water before a blackout for lasting warmth.
Have Alternatives: Beware of relying entirely on electricity for heating. That obviously includes heat pumps, as they need electricity to function.
Fireplaces: If you have a fireplace, stock up on firewood and know how to use it safely. Some other non-electric heating options are discussed in this post.

3. Food and Water Supply

Non-Perishable Food: Stock up on canned goods, dried fruits, nuts and other non-perishable items.
Cooking: Have a camping stove or a portable gas cooker as a backup. Ensure you have adequate ventilation when using these indoors.
Water: Store bottled water in case of disruptions to the water supply. Aim for at least 2 litres per person per day.

4. Communication and Information

Battery-Powered Radio: This can be vital for receiving updates during a blackout.
Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency phone numbers and contacts handy.
Community Networks: Stay in touch with neighbours, especially the elderly or vulnerable, to offer and receive support.

5. Household Preparations

Insulation: Check your home’s insulation and draught-proofing to retain heat.
Surge Protectors: Use these to protect your electronics from power surges when electricity is restored.
Freezers: Keep freezers closed during a blackout to maintain the cold temperature for as long as possible. Group items together to retain cold.
Home Battery: If you can afford it, a home storage battery can give your home a backup power source.
Uninterruptible Power Supply: A UPS is a device that can keep your wifi router and other essential electronics operating for a limited period in the event of a power cut. You can buy one (such as this) for around £100 from Amazon. They will also help protect connected devices from power surges.
Diesel Generator: it may not be particularly ‘green’, but a diesel generator is another relatively inexpensive backup solution.

6. Health and Safety

Medication: Ensure you have an adequate supply of essential medications.
Medical Devices: If you rely on electrically-powered medical devices, discuss contingency plans with your healthcare provider.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors: If using alternative heating methods, ensure you have working carbon monoxide detectors.

7. Entertainment and Activities

Books and Board Games: Have these on hand to keep everyone occupied without the need for electricity.
Exercise: Stay active indoors to generate body heat and keep spirits up.

8. Transportation and Mobility

EVs: If you have an EV, keep it charged.
Fuel: If you have a petrol or diesel vehicle, keep its tank topped up (service stations need electricity to operate pumps).
Public Transport: Be aware that services may be disrupted, so plan accordingly and have backup options for essential trips if required.

9. Emergency Plans

Evacuation: Have a plan for evacuating if necessary. Know your nearest emergency shelter locations.
Pets: Make provisions for your pets, including food, water and warmth.
Priority Services Register: If there are old and/or vulnerable people in your house, be sure to add your details to the Priority Services Register. This is free, only takes a moment, and should ensure you’re prioritized in the event of blackouts and other emergencies.

10. Stay Informed

Weather Updates: Regularly check weather forecasts and be aware of any blackout warnings.
Government Advice: Follow advice and updates from government sources and energy providers.

Closing Thoughts

While the prospect of winter blackouts may be daunting, thorough preparation should mitigate many of the challenges. By taking steps now, you can ensure the safety and comfort of your household, no matter what the winter months bring. Stay prepared, stay informed, and support your local community.

As always, if you have any comments or questions about this post, please do leave them below.

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October 9, 2024

Here’s Why I’m Not Doing EDF Energy’s ‘Sunday Saver’ Challenge

Nick Saving Money, Everything Else events, reviews, property, energy 72 Comments

Recently my energy supplier, EDF Energy, has been sending me invitations to sign up for what it calls its ‘Sunday Saver’ challenge.

The way this works is that you sign up to shift some of your electricity usage on weekdays away from peak hours (4pm-7pm). When you hit your target (which is set individually for each user by EDF), you earn free electricity the following Sunday.

EDF say, ‘The more you shift, the more you earn – reduce your weekly peak usage by 40% and you could earn up to 16 hours of free electricity per week.’

The challenge is due to take place monthly, starting on the first Monday of each month.

At first glance you might think this is a good offer. But as I have looked into it more, my doubts have grown. Here are my main reservations…

To benefit from this scheme you have to cut your daily energy usage every weekday between 4pm and 7pm. That’s quite a long period (three hours), and coincides with when I would normally be cooking my evening meal. To have any realistic chance of cutting my energy use during this time, I would have to eat either ridiculously early or significantly later than normal. For various reasons, including my health, I prefer to eat between 6 and 7 pm and no later. So that in itself is a big ask and would impact drastically on my normal routine.
Free electricity on Sunday sounds great, but the devil is in the detail. EDF say that you will get ‘up to 16 hours’ of free electricity if you meet their targets, but are very vague about what this means in practice. Specifically, they don’t explain how your energy-saving targets are calculated, how any reduction in usage translates to free hours, or when on Sunday you will be able to use the free electricity awarded.
In addition, they say there are ‘fair usage’ limits to how much free electricity you can have. Again, they are vague about what this means in practice. The obvious way to use your free electricity would be to charge your EV, and I strongly suspect limits would be placed on this. As for me, I don’t have an EV and don’t want one, so my options for benefiting from the free electricity would be limited. I could shift use of appliances like my washing machine to Sunday but doubt if I could save more than a few kw/h this way (obviously the exact number would depend on how many free hours I was allocated, which is anyone’s guess). That means my free electricity would likely benefit me by no more than a pound or two.
Lastly, as a solar panel owner I already get some free electricity anyway. My panels obviously generate less in the winter, but during daylight hours they still produce something. That means any benefit from free electricity on Sundays will be reduced, especially if (as is likely) the free hours are in the day rather than at night.

Overall, then, I am not much enamoured of EDF’s Sunday Saver challenges and won’t be signing up. Ultimately, I am not prepared to make major changes to my day-to-day schedule in pursuit of what will likely be (in my case anyway) minuscule rewards.

Obviously some will see this differently and I wish them well. And it’s good that EDF (and other companies) are exploring ways to help customers reduce their bills. I do just think this particular one – for me anyway – is a non-starter.

I would be interested to hear any comments from people doing this challenge (or similar ones from other energy companies) as to whether they find it worthwhile, and whether the benefits really do justify the changes you are required to make.

I do still recommend EDF Energy based on my personal experiences with them. And as I’ve said before on PAS, I can offer anyone switching to EDF £50 off their bills if they use my refer-a-friend link at https://edfenergy.com/quote/refer-a-friend/sunny-koala-9462 when applying. I will also get £50 off my bill if you do this, which is duly appreciated 🙂

UPDATE 22 OCTOBER 2024 – I am indebted to the readers (especially Harry!) who have taken the time to comment on this article and address some of the points raised in my original post. Based on this I have changed my views somewhat and am considering registering for the scheme when it reopens in November. If you’re still wondering whether to take the plunge, please do take the time to read the comments as (like me) they may influence your decision. I will publish an update in due course if I proceed with it next month.

UPDATE 28 NOVEMBER 2024 – Thanks again to everyone who commented on this post. Sorry I couldn’t reply to everyone individually. You may like to know that I just added a new post about why I changed my mind and registered for the EDF ‘Sunday Saver’ Challenge and how I got on in my first month. Please see https://www.poundsandsense.com/heres-why-i-changed-my-mind-about-edf-energys-sunday-saver-challenge/

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September 21, 2024

Get Your Will Written Free of Charge in October

Nick Everything Else events 8 Comments

Did you know that October is Free Wills Month?

Free Wills Month brings together a group of well-respected charities to offer members of the public aged 55 and over the opportunity to have their wills written or updated free using participating solicitors across the UK.

The charities involved include the NSPCC, Dogs Trust, Samaritans, Mind, Age UK, The Stroke Association, PDSA, and many others. Free Wills Month happens twice a year, in March and October.

The scheme covers simple wills only, including ‘mirror wills’ for couples. In the latter case, only one member of the couple has to be 55 or over. If you need a complicated will (most people don’t) you can still have this done but may have to pay a top-up fee.

I have talked about the importance of creating a will and why you should get it done by a properly qualified solicitor previously on PAS. An up-to-date will written by a solicitor will ensure that your wishes are respected and will avoid causing legal complications for your loved ones after you are gone.

Free Wills Month means what it says. There are no catches, although the organizers hope that you will choose to leave a donation to charity in your will. There is no obligation to do this, however.

To take part in Free Wills Month click through to the website during October and fill in your details. You can then pick a solicitor from the list of companies taking part and contact them to book an appointment. Appointments are limited and on a first come, first served basis, so it’s best to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Free Wills Month October 2024 starts officially on Tuesday 1st October 2024 but you can sign up on the FWM website to be notified when when the campaign starts in your area.

If you have any comments or questions about this subject, as ever, please do post them below.

Note: This is a revised and updated version of my original post on this subject.

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August 24, 2024

UK Bloggers’ Back to School Giveaway 2024

Nick Everything Else events, reviews, competitions, families, shopping 0 Comments

Yes, it’ s time for another exciting giveaway here on Pounds and Sense. This one has a ‘back to school’ theme. In most parts of the UK, of course, this occurs in early September. Scottish schools generally return a bit earlier, around mid-August.

Again I have clubbed together with some of my fellow UK bloggers to provide a plethora of great prizes. And the best news is, it’s entirely free to enter. The giveaway is open now and will close on September 1st 2024.

The prizes have been hand-picked for children and young people returning to school this autumn, so they should be ideal for your children or grandchildren. But if you want to keep any for yourself, we promise we won’t tell!

This event has (again) been organized by Rowena Becker, who blogs at My Balancing Act. No small amount of effort has been involved in arranging and co-ordinating it, so many thanks again to Rowena for her hard work and dedication.

Without further ado, then, I’ll hand you over to Rowena to introduce the giveaway…

Back to School Giveaway

Get ready for an exciting opportunity as some of the top UK bloggers unite to bring you a fantastic back-to-school giveaway! We’ve teamed up to offer one lucky winner a fabulous collection of school essentials that will make heading back to the classroom a breeze.

From stylish lunch bags and durable water bottles, to school shoes and jackets, this giveaway promises to equip you with some great goodies to kick off the school year in style. Join us in this collaborative celebration and enter for your chance to win these amazing prizes. Let’s make this school year the best one yet!

In order to be able to bring you this incredible giveaway, some of the UK’s top bloggers got together. A massive thank you to all involved! The bloggers taking part are:

The Prizes

Start-Rite school shoes

Start-Rite Shoes is giving one lucky winner the chance to win a pair of school shoes for their child.

The foundation of any school uniform is a quality fitted pair of shoes, but there is nothing uniform about a Start-Rite school shoe! With 12 new styles added to their school shoe collection this season, Start-Rite is more prepared than ever to protect your children’s feet. No one size fits all, as every pair of feet has individual requirements to ensure healthy physical development.

Whether you’re looking to support wide or narrow feet, a high instep, or shoes that double for a special occasion, Start-Rite has a style to suit every child.

EcoSplash Fleece Lined Jacket Navy from Muddy Puddles

Gear up for the ultimate back-to-school season with Muddy Puddles’ in our back-to-school giveaway! Included in the prize bundle is a top-tier kids waterproof jacket that ensures your young adventurers are ready for any weather.

This navy raincoat features an impressive waterproof rating of 10,000mm to keep your child dry during heavy downpours, perfect for rainy days. Crafted from durable, breathable fabric made from recycled plastic bottles, it’s both eco-friendly and long-lasting. The soft fleece lining provides extra warmth, while the jacket’s design makes it easy to layer across various seasons. Fully taped seams offer robust protection against the elements, and reflective details enhance visibility in low-light conditions for added safety. Plus, it’s machine washable at 30 degrees for easy care.

Muddy Puddles has your kids covered for back to school with their back to school jackets, waterproofs, and more—ensuring every rainy walk to school, puddle-jumping session, and chilly playground adventure is tackled in style and comfort!

Smash lunch bag and water bottle set

Gear up for the school year with an essential lunch bag and water bottle set! The Smash Lunch Bag is your kids perfect lunchtime companion, designed with full insulation and an antibacterial lining to ensure their meals are as fresh as possible. Made from premium neoprene, this lunch bag is not only fully washable but also brings a splash of personality and fun to every meal.

Stay hydrated in style with the Smash Twin Wall Soda Bottle. Made from durable stainless steel, this sustainable bottle features a sleek design and a removable cap, making it an ideal everyday accessory. It’s BPA-free, food-safe, non-toxic, and offers a smart, twin-walled construction.

Create-a-Space™ Storage Centre from Learning Resources

Introducing a stylish addition to any back-to-school setup: the Create-a-Space™ Storage Centre from Learning Resources, which is part of our exclusive giveaway prize bundle! Perfectly blending modern design with practicality, this white 10-piece set will seamlessly fit into any décor theme, whether at home or in the classroom.

The carousel-style design features 8 removable containers, providing the perfect solution for organising essentials like glue sticks, crayons, pens and more. Keep your workstation clutter-free and enjoy a space that is as functional as it is chic with this versatile storage centre.

LittleLife Flip-Top Water Bottle!

Family active outdoors brand, LittleLife, is giving one person their choice of a flip-top water bottle, perfect for the school day.

Made from impact-resistant Tritan copolyester, a watertight lid and holding 550ml, these bottles are durable and fit fuss-free into your child’s school rucksack or backpack. LittleLife’s water bottles also come with a chew-resistant straw to avoid lingering tastes and odours due to being BPA-free.

Brainstorm Toys Children’s 14cm Desktop World Globe

Discover new horizons with the Brainstorm Toys Children’s 14cm Desktop World Globe, a shining star in our back-to-school giveaway prize bundle! This compact yet high-quality globe is a treasure trove of knowledge, showcasing detailed political boundaries, natural wonders like lakes, rivers, and deserts, as well as capitals and major cities.

Perfect for curious minds, this globe is ideal for home or school, making it a must-have for any aspiring explorer. The sturdy base ensures stability, while its easy rotation allows young adventurers to seamlessly explore different areas of the world. Enhance your child’s learning experience and ignite curiosity with this engaging educational tool.

Little Brian Scribble Paint Sticks

Unleash your creativity with Scribble Paint Sticks by Little Brian, a standout addition to our giveaway prize bundle! These innovative paint sticks are perfect for adding intricate details and patterns to your artwork, thanks to their finer tip. Featuring 12 vibrant classic colours, they bring your child’s artistic visions to life with ease. Enjoy a mess-free painting experience where paint twists up and down just like a glue stick and dries in under 60 seconds. Whether you’re working on paper, card, wood, or glass, these versatile paint sticks make it simple to explore your creativity without the clean-up hassle.

How to Enter

You can enter this Back to School Giveaway by completing as many Rafflecopter widget entry options below as you like. All entries will be collated, and one winner will be randomly chosen via Rafflecopter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms and Conditions

The giveaway will run from 4 pm 23rd August 2024 to 8 pm 1st September 2024.
The winner will be notified by email from rowena@mybalancingact.co.uk
The winner will have 7 days to respond, after which time we reserve the right to select an alternative winner.
This prize draw is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, BlogLovin or Pinterest or any other social media platform.
Prizes open to over 18s only. Age verification may be required to receive some prizes.
Some or all of the prizes may take a few weeks to arrive.
If any prizes are out of stock then we will do our best to find a suitable replacement but cannot guarantee it.
Anyone who unfollows before the giveaway ends or doesn’t complete the required entry action will be disqualified.
The prize is non-transferable, non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for monetary value.
We may be using a parcel service or Royal Mail for some of the prizes and their standard compensation will apply in the event of loss or damage.
Some items may be sent directly by the supplier and we do not have responsibility if these go missing and we cannot replace such items.
In the unlikely event that one of the companies withdraws a prize, we cannot offer an alternative.
The winner’s name will be stated on some or all of our bloggers’ websites and announced on Twitter/X and other social media channels. It will also be displayed on the Rafflecopter entry form. By entering this prize draw, you give your permission for this.
Please note the winner may have the same name as you so if you see your name displayed, be aware that you are not the winner unless you have been notified by us.
There may be some delays in receiving prizes.

Good luck, and I hope a Pounds and Sense reader wins this fabulous prize bundle!

Note: This post (and others on Pounds and Sense) includes affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase or perform some other specified action, I may receive a commission for introducing you. This will have no effect on the product or service you receive or the price you pay for it, but it does help me pay my bills. Thank you!

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August 20, 2024

How to Win Cash and Prizes in Online Competitions

Nick Making Money, Everything Else competitions 0 Comments

In a recent post I talked about tax-free ways to boost your finances. It occurs to me that I omitted an important one, however – entering prize draws and competitions. In the UK anyway, cash and prizes acquired this way are normally tax-free.

In recent years the internet has opened up a host of opportunities for entering (and winning) competitions from home. Whether you’re a seasoned ‘comper’ or a newbie eager to try your luck, I hope you will find the tips, resources and advice in this post useful…

1. Finding the Right Competitions

The first step towards winning is finding the competitions themselves. Here are some ways to discover them:

Competition Websites: Sites like Competition Database, Loquax, and The Prize Finder list numerous competitions in the UK.
Social Media: Follow brands, influencers (e.g. Superlucky Di) and competition-focused groups on Facebook, Twitter/X and Instagram. Search for relevant hashtags, e.g. #competition #prize #giveaway. Many businesses also run exclusive competitions for their social media followers.
Email Newsletters: Subscribe to newsletters from your favourite brands and competition websites to receive alerts about the latest contests.

2. Setting up Dedicated Comping Accounts

It’s best to set up dedicated email and social media accounts for your comping. Inevitably you will receive growing volumes of promotional material and even (regrettably) spam. Using separate, dedicated accounts will ensure your personal accounts don’t get cluttered up.

Check Email Regularly: To save time, you can search for relevant words and phrases like Congratulations, Winner and Runner-up.
Set up Accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter/X just for Comping: Some competitions require you to ‘like’ or follow a particular brand on social media in order to enter.
Don’t Sign Up for Further Info: Avoid ticking the box to receive more information when entering a competition, unless you are really sure you want this. Doing so can result in your inbox swiftly being overrun.

3. Understanding the Rules

Each competition has its own set of rules and regulations. Carefully read the terms and conditions to understand:

Eligibility: Ensure you meet the requirements (e.g. age, location).
Entry Limits: Some competitions allow multiple entries, while others are strictly one per person.
Closing Dates: Note the end date to ensure you don’t miss out.

4. Crafting Winning Entries

Certain types of competition require more than just luck. Here’s how to stand out:

Skill-based Competitions: These might ask for a slogan, recipe, or photo. Be creative and original. Research past winners to understand what judges are looking for.
Tie-breakers: If there’s a question to answer, put some thought into it. A unique and clever response can be your ticket to winning.

5. Maximising Your Entries

To increase your chances, enter as many competitions as possible. Here’s how:

Set a Schedule: Dedicate time each day or week to entering competitions.
Use Autofill Tools: Tools like RoboForm can save time by automatically filling out your details for you.
Keep Track: Maintain a list or (preferably) spreadsheet of entered competitions to avoid duplicates and track deadlines.

6. Avoiding Scams

While many competitions are legitimate, some are not. Protect yourself by:

Verifying the Source: Only enter competitions from reputable websites or brands.
Not Paying Fees: Genuine competitions won’t ask you to pay to enter.
Checking Reviews: Look up the competition and the company running it to ensure they have a good reputation.

7. Networking with Fellow Compers

Join online communities and forums such as MoneySavingExpert or dedicated Facebook groups (such as this one) where members share tips, winning stories and new competition finds. Networking with other compers can provide valuable insights and motivation.

8. Celebrating Wins, Big and Small

Not every prize will be a jackpot, but every win counts. Celebrate all victories, whether it’s a small voucher or a large cash prize. Sharing your wins on social media or competition forums can also encourage others and attract positive attention.

9. Staying Persistent

Winning competitions requires patience and perseverance. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t win straight away. Keep entering regularly, and your persistence will eventually pay off.

Closing Thoughts

Winning cash and prizes through online competitions is a fun and potentially rewarding hobby. By keeping organised, being creative, and staying wary of scams, you can significantly boost your chances of success. So get out there, start entering, and who knows? You might just land that dream holiday or big tax-free cash prize sooner than you think 😎🍾🏖

Happy comping, and may the odds be ever in your favour!

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August 12, 2024

What Alternatives Are There to Heat Pumps?

Nick Everything Else reviews, property, families 0 Comments

Today I’m sharing a post I originally wrote for my friends at Mouthy Money. It’s an important topic so, by agreement with Mouthy Money, I am publishing it here as well.

As you are probably aware, the UK government is currently pushing heat pumps hard in its quest to achieve Net Zero. As I said in my earlier article for Mouthy Money, however, they are definitely not a one-size-fits-all solution for home (or business) heating.

Even the government admits heat pumps are unsuitable for around 4 million UK homes, for a variety of reasons including lack of outside space and planning restrictions. Industry estimates suggest the real number is closer to 8 million [source].

Even if your home is theoretically suitable for a heat pump, there are good reasons why you might not want one. As previously discussed, these include the high initial cost, the potential noise issues, and the fact they work less well in cold weather (just when you need them most!).

For heat pumps to operate effectively, properties must be well insulated, and bigger pipes and radiators are likely to be needed. This can add considerably to the cost, not to mention the disruption caused. In my personal view heat pumps are best suited to new-build homes that can be designed around them.

So today I thought I would set out a range of other home heating solutions you might want to consider. I will also set out some points to take into account before making any decision.

Heat Pump Alternatives

1. Gas boilers

Gas boilers have been a staple in UK homes for decades, and they remain a very popular choice for heating. They provide reliable and instant heat, making them particularly suitable for homes with high hot water demand. While they rely on fossil fuels, modern condensing boilers are more energy-efficient, helping to reduce carbon emissions (and costs) compared to older models.

2. Oil boilers

For properties not connected to the gas grid, oil boilers offer a viable alternative. They work similarly to gas boilers but use heating oil stored in a tank on the property. While oil prices can fluctuate, modern oil boilers are highly efficient and can provide consistent warmth to homes in rural areas or those without access to natural gas.

In future oil boilers may be converted to run on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), which is a renewable and 100% biodegradable alternative [source].

3. Biomass boilers

Biomass boilers use organic materials such as wood pellets, chips or logs to generate heat. They’re a sustainable option, as wood is a renewable resource.

Biomass boilers can be integrated into existing heating systems and may be eligible for government incentives such as Green Deal, making them an attractive choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.

4. LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) boilers

LPG is a clean-burning fossil fuel typically stored in a tank on the property, providing a reliable source of heating and hot water. LPG boilers function similarly to natural gas boilers, offering instant heat and efficient performance. They’re particularly popular in rural areas where mains gas is unavailable, providing homeowners with a convenient and cost-effective alternative for heating their homes.

5. Electric heating systems

Electric heating systems come in many different forms, including electric radiators, storage heaters and underfloor heating. They also include low-emission infrared panels.

While electricity prices can be higher than gas or oil, advances in technology have led to more energy-efficient electric heating options. They are often easier – and therefore cheaper – to install and require less maintenance compared to traditional boiler systems. They can be a good choice for smaller properties and those with limited space.

6. Air conditioning systems

Traditionally associated with cooling, modern air conditioning systems can also provide heating during colder months through a process known as reverse cycle or heat pump technology.

These systems extract heat from the outdoor air and transfer it indoors, offering both heating and cooling capabilities in a single unit. While more common in warmer climates, air conditioning systems are becoming increasingly popular for heating purposes in the UK due to their energy efficiency and versatility.

7. Electric boiler systems

Electric boilers function similarly to gas or oil boilers but use electricity as their primary energy source. They heat water for central heating and domestic hot water supply, offering a clean and convenient heating solution. They can normally be used with the same radiators as gas boilers, unlike heat pumps which (as mentioned above) typically require the installation of bigger radiators and pipes.

Electric boilers are compact, quiet, and emit no emissions on-site, making them suitable for properties where space or ventilation is limited. While electricity costs may be higher than some other options, electric boiler systems can be an efficient and low-maintenance option.

The MInistry of Defence recently decided to opt for electric boilers rather than heat pumps as a more cost-effective solution for barracks and other military installations [source].

8. Hybrid heating systems

Hybrid heating systems combine two or more heating technologies to optimize energy efficiency and performance. For instance, a hybrid system might pair a gas boiler with a heat pump or integrate solar thermal panels with a conventional boiler. These systems offer flexibility and can adapt to changing energy demands, providing homeowners with both reliability and sustainability.

9. Solid fuel stoves

Solid fuel stoves, such as wood-burning or multi-fuel stoves, provide both warmth and ambiance to homes. They’re particularly popular in rural areas where homeowners have access to firewood or other solid fuels. While they require manual operation and regular maintenance, solid fuel stoves can significantly reduce heating costs and add character to any living space.

10. District heating networks

In urban areas, district heating networks supply heat to multiple buildings from a central source, such as a combined heat and power (CHP) plant or biomass facility. This communal approach to heating can be more efficient and cost-effective than individual heating systems, offering residents a sustainable and reliable heat supply without the need for on-site boilers or heat pumps.

Considerations When Choosing an Alternative

When exploring alternatives to heat pumps, various factors need to be considered.

Cost: Evaluate the initial investment, ongoing maintenance costs, and potential savings (or otherwise) on energy bills.

Space and suitability: Consider the available space for installation and the specific requirements of each heating system.

Energy efficiency: Look for heating solutions with high energy efficiency to minimize running costs and environmental impact.

Fuel availability: Assess the availability and accessibility of fuel sources in your area.

Control options: Explore the available control features, such as programmable thermostats or smart technology integration, for convenient operation and efficient energy management.

Lifestyle factors: Some heating methods (e.g. electric) are good if you are out and about a lot but want rapid warmth when you get home. Other methods (including heat pumps) are better suited to those who are around more in the day and like to keep their home at a fairly constant temperature.

Political and economic factors: Bear in mind that the government is keen to achieve its Net Zero targets, and as a result some heating options may become more costly in future and harder (or even impossible) to access. That applies to fossil fuels in particular; although realistically it is hard to see fuels such as gas being banned entirely any time soon.

Finally, I’d like to sound a note of caution about putting all your home heating eggs in one metaphorical basket, especially that of electricity.

As the UK transitions from fossil fuels towards (supposedly) greener electricity, power cuts are likely to become more frequent and longer. The growing use of heat pumps and EVs will add to the demand for electricity from a distribution network that is already struggling to cope. And renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, while they might be more environmentally friendly, produce significantly less electricity when the sun doesn’t shine or the wind doesn’t blow.

If you’re entirely reliant on electricity for your home heating, this could make you vulnerable in the event of outages (especially relevant if there are older people in the house). In my view there is much to be said for having a backup heating source, e.g. solid fuel, to keep your home warm if the mains electricity fails. Of course, this applies with regard to heat pumps as well, as they require electricity to function.

It’s also worth noting that in Scandinavian countries, where heat pumps are more common, most families have an additional source of heating as well as heat pumps to get them through the coldest months.

A home battery system, as discussed in this recent article, can also reduce your vulnerability in case of power cuts, especially when combined with solar panels.

Closing Thoughts

In summary, while the government and energy companies are pushing heat pumps hard, they are far from the only possible home heating solution, either now or in future.

If you’re considering upgrading your heating, take time to evaluate all the options and don’t be unduly swayed by the heat pump hype (and even misinformation). While these devices can work well for new-builds in particular, they are definitely not the only option.

By exploring alternatives such as gas and oil boilers, biomass systems, electric boilers, LPG boilers, solid fuel stoves, and others, you should be able to find a heating solution to suit your budget, your lifestyle, your priorities and your property size and character.

Good luck, and please do stay warm!

As always, if you have any comments or questions about this article, please do post them below.

This article was first published in Mouthy Money.

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