Save up to 50%* on touring and camping breaks
Book now and secure your Haven holiday with a low deposit of just £25^. Feeling adventurous? Now’s the time to get planning your next family getaway at one of Haven’s 22 touring and camping parks. Whether you roll up in your tourer or pitch up a tent, we’ve got the pitch for you. Plus you’ll have access to over 100 activities, fantastic entertainment and a selection of tasty restaurants for the whole family to enjoy.
To find out more visit haventouring.com or call us on 0333 202 5250 seven days a week, 9am–9pm Terms and conditions: *Up to 50% discount varies by park, date, pitch, duration and excludes school and bank holiday dates where a saving of up to 25% applies instead (on a minimum of three nights). ^£25 deposit payable at time of booking. Any final remaining balances for all touring and camping holidays will be due 10 weeks prior to arrival. These offers cannot be combined with monthly and seasonal lets. On peak dates, a minimum duration may apply at selected parks – please check at time of booking. All offers are subject to availability, apply to new bookings only and can’t be used with any other voucher, discount or offer (unless otherwise stated), and may be reduced or withdrawn without notice. Pictures shown are for representational purposes only. Facilities, activities and entertainment vary by park and date and may be subject to a moderate extra charge. For full terms and conditions, including call charges, visit www.haven.com/terms. Haven Holidays is a trading name of Bourne Leisure Limited, registered in England and Wales, no 04011660. Registered office 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4YL. HAV13757_29887
Hello & Welcome To Woman’s Own
This week we’re loving
The first series pitted Laura and Andrew against each other
ITV’s psychological thriller had us on the edge of our seats in 2017, and now Liar is back to answer all our questions from the nail-biting finale to series one. The episode ended with rapist Andrew (Ioan Gruffudd) dead in a Kent marsh – but was it suicide, or had one of his enemies taken the law into their own hands? Series two sees Laura (Joanne Froggatt) in prison for Andrew’s murder and newcomer DI Renton (Katherine Kelly) trying to work out what really happened. It’s set to be the most exciting whodunnit since Phil’s shooting in EastEnders!
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DI Renton has some questions for Laura
WHAT’S INSIDE THE ISSUE Celebrity 4
Features
ON THE COVER Richard Arnold: Our showbiz expert has all this week’s gossip 6 ON THE COVER Phillip Schofield: ‘Why I married Steph’ 9 Celeb photo fun: The stars flaunting their nipples for the camera 10 Who wore it best? Celebrities looking glamorous in green 60 Imelda Staunton: ‘Whatever else you think, you can’t call me vain’
12 Shock read: Cancer gave me a gift – now I’m finding joy in every day 18 From the heart: A grieving mother’s memories of her beautiful little girl 36 ON THE COVER You’ll never believe it: I was getting too big for my vet scrubs 42 ON THE COVER Behind the headlines: The scam targeting mums 62 Debate: Is shapewear worth the hype?
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14 Fashion: Chic picks to suit your shape 20 ON THE COVER Treat yourself: Brilliant buys for £5 and under 24 Live well: How to handle varicose veins 27 Health: Good for you 28 Healthy eating: What are you missing? 32 Beauty: all-new buys for under £15 34 Homes: Top of the shops 38 ON THE COVER Recipes: Three ways with fish fillets
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Tamzin
‘I worry I’ll never work again!’
PHOTOS: BBC, GETTY, PA IMAGES, ITV/SHUTTERSTOCK
Why Tamzin Outhwaite is spreading her wings…
4
Are you glad Mel was killed off and the door has closed for good at EastEnders? There are moments when I think I would love Mel to have gone back as an old lady, but when the door is closed, you can’t go back. And now it’s over, there’s a sense of ‘the world is your oyster’. Did you enjoy going back? I was having a lovely time at EastEnders. I could have quite easily stayed for another five years, but thankfully when you clear a space, you let in other stuff and you realise the potential is quite enormous. Like you’ve ever been short of work! Yeah, but you do get that fear of ‘What if I never work again?’ and I think I’ve never felt that so much. You’ve joined the cast of The Seagull with Emilia Clarke and Robert Glenister, to name a few. I do feel ridiculously lucky. We’re all cogs in this play and it’s been brought bang up to
date – Chekhov but not as we know it. It really gets my juices going. I look forward to going back in every day, and that’s almost unheard of – especially when you get to my age. EastEnders: It feels like I’m in second time the right place. You hit the big 5-0 this year – any plans? I did think about doing something massive to mark it, but then I don’t really know what I’m going to be doing work-wise. I’m not great at planning. I’m so last minute, especially with holidays. You and your partner Tom always look like you’re having a ball when away together. We do. I’d like to go away with Tom and the girls (daughters Florence and Marnie) and maybe have a party back home. I did think about having a yoga retreat for my birthday, but I can already hear my mates going, DUTY CALLS AGAIN ‘Oh, I’m busy that weekend!’ They’re back filming Line ● The Seagull opens 11 March, of Duty, and star Martin theplayhousetheatre.co.uk Compston tells me the new
Overheard in the green room ‘I spent the coldest winter in Australia, but I’ve got a new patio with bi-folding doors!’ How Denise Van Outen’s gig on Neighbours paved her way at home!
Woman’s Own
BACKSTAGE GOSS! series will be the most gripping yet: ‘They’ve done it again! It’s a real page-turner,’ he told me. ‘The interrogation scenes are the best yet.’ The hunt for elusive corrupt cop ‘H’ is back on.
All smiles: no interrogations here
Celebrity News
CELEBS
Perfect smile
OF THE WEEK JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE & ANNA KENDRICK They’re back as Branch and Poppy in Trolls World Tour in April. And Justin tells me his fouryear-old son Silas loves it: ‘He’s seen it and is very proud to tell all of his classmates.’ Father and son even dressed as Trolls for Halloween: ‘We were both Branches.’ The apple, as they say, never falls far from the tree.
Dick’s pics
You’ve been
! D E P P A P
SMILEY SHIRLEY!
Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas couldn’t stop grinning during a recent outing, and with those teeth, who can blame her? Shirley, 59, posed up a storm on the red carpet, and we couldn’t help but wonder if she’d had a new set of pearly whites after confessing in January to chipping her tooth during the Strictly Live Tour – while opening a packet of crisps… He beat Jake Wood and Prince Harry for the second year to win Heat’s Secret Crush, although my pal Piers was less than impressed that the award was smaller than before. Not that you can tell from the glee in his eye.
Sleep is the key
NAPPY VALLEY Call the Midwife star Helen George heads back to film the next series in a few weeks. ‘I can’t believe it’s been 10 years,’ she tells me. Her secret to looking not a day older? ‘Napping! I sleep on set for 20 minutes.’ Unlike the extras, who are too busy in labour…
Definitely redcarpet ready
Woman’s Own
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PHILLIP
‘Why I married STEPH’
As Phillip Schofield admits he’s gay after 27 years of marriage, we look at why he married Stephanie Lowe despite the internal battle with his sexuality hen Phillip Schofield poured his heart out on national TV, telling the world he was gay despite being married with two children, it looked like a huge weight had been lifted from his shoulders. Presenter Phil, 57, was no stranger to rumours about his sexuality even before he tied the knot – confessing that, deep down, he knew the truth before marrying Steph. ‘I am not saying I didn’t know,’ Phil admitted. ‘Whatever was “there”, I thought, “OK, whatever this is, you stay back because I am happy”. If you ask anyone who is gay, they know – there is no confusion.’ But rewind to 1992 and Piers Morgan, author of Phillip’s unofficial biography To Dream A Dream: The Amazing Life of Phillip Schofield, was aware of people questioning Piers mentioned the Phil’s sexual rumours in his book orientation.
Phil and Steph married in 1993
PHOTOS: GC IMAGES, GETTY, ALAMY
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Woman’s Own
He wrote, ‘The rumours, which tend to haunt any unmarried TV personality who prefers not to show off his girlfriends in public, have dogged Phil on and off for years.’ But it’s clear his early relationships with women kept the rumours at bay. ‘For the truth is that Phil has hardly ever been without a girlfriend, making him one of the most eligible bachelors in Britain,’ Piers added. And, at the time Phil agreed, ‘I’ve been out with a lot of women.’ But, perhaps tellingly, also admitted he was ‘fairly guarded’ when it comes to relationships.
QUASHING THE RUMOURS
Just a year before he wed, Phillip hit back at claims he was gay – and even Piers was convinced the rumours couldn’t be further from the truth. Piers wrote, ‘One of the most laughable accusations in show business is that Phillip Schofield might be gay.’ And Phillip explained, ‘Because I have always guarded my private life
Cover Story
LIVING A LIE?
‘Ask anyone who is gay – there is no confusion’
last due to his hectic work schedule. In the late 80s and early 90s, as presenter of Saturday morning kids’ TV show Going So, with Phillip admitting that he knew Live! and star of West End musical Joseph he was gay when he married wife and the Amazing Technicolor Stephanie, it begs the question, Dreamcoat, his schedule left why go through with the wedding little time for a relationship. in the first place? Well, it seems ‘It will take a very determined workaholic Phil dreamed of the woman to break down my day he could announce he was shields,’ he once confessed. getting married after he struggled ‘I’ve been dumped a few to make some of his relationships times because the girl said she never saw me and when she did I was never very emotional. That’s true – I do work seven days a week. But I am quite looking forward to the day when I can walk into my management office and Phil’s career took tell them to tear up my diary off in the late 80s because I’m getting married.’
FOLLOWING THE CROWD
Phil didn’t want to be ‘left on the shelf’ very closely, these sort of rumours are bound to fly around. But I’ve got one thing to say to anyone who says things like that – b******s!’ And when Phillip’s news broke, Good Morning Britain host Piers, who usually leaves no stone unturned when interviewing, admitted, ‘I’ve known him a long time, I’ve written a book about him… I missed the story, actually!’ He added, ‘We were joking about it [missing the story in the book] the other day.’
Phil met Stephanie when he was working on BBC children’s television, where she worked as production assistant, and after just eight months of dating, Phil admitted he felt marriage was on the cards. Speaking at the time, he said, ‘I am considering marriage, obviously. I am 30 years old, financially secure – and I’d love to have children.’ He continued, ‘About 90% of my friends are either married or getting married and I have no desire to be left on the shelf. I’ve got a big house with plenty of room for a wife and a wee Schofield.’ The pair tied the knot at Ackergill Tower – a Scottish castle – on 29 March 1993 and went
on to have two children – daughters Molly, now 27 and Ruby, 24. And Phil’s adoration for his wife still stands. ‘I can’t write in any statement what I feel about that woman,’ he said after coming out. ‘She is amazing, incredible. There is no one in my life who would have supported me as a wife the way she has supported me. She’s astonishing.’
The couple with baby Molly; and with Ruby and Molly in 2018
YOU CAN’T HURRY LOVE As Phillip returned to work to host Dancing on Ice and This Morning alongside co-star and friend Holly Willoughby, his wedding ring was still firmly in its usual place. And sources say wife Steph isn’t in any rush to file for divorce. ‘She isn’t the type to be spiteful by dragging him into court,’ revealed the insider. ‘She’s saying she’ll stick with
him until he’s settled and happy in a new relationship, and then they’ll talk about an amicable split deal.’ And Phil is more than happy to take his future slowly. He told Holly during his ‘coming out’ segment that he is taking ‘each day at a time’ and added, ‘This has always been a slow process and there is no fast process after this… There’s no one, I’m not rushing out to anybody.’
Woman’s Own
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Celeb Photo fun
Got it,flaunt it! These celebs clearly don’t mind baring all for the paparazzi…
WORDS: GEORGIA FARQUHARSON. PHOTOS: GETTY, INSTAGRAM @RITAORA, PA IMAGES
AMANDA HOLDEN
The Britain’s Got Talent judge, 49, left little to the imagination in this skintight, pink jumpsuit after Alesha Dixon branded Amanda’s nipples the show’s ‘secret weapon’. ‘They get so much attention – even more than the acts!’ she joked.
JENNIFER ANISTON Her nipples became famous on US sitcom Friends, and Jen, 51, has said, ‘It’s just one of those things, I guess. I wear a bra. I don’t know why I’m supposed to be ashamed of them – it’s just the way my breasts are.’
CAT DEELEY
RITA ORA
TV star, Cat, 43, appeared to be feeling the chill during an LA appearance, when her nipples were clearly visible through her silk outfit.
The Masked Singer panellist, 29, might as well have left her top at home – this barely-there crop top leaves her almost exposed.
LAUREN SILVERMAN
PAMELA ANDERSON She caused waves on Baywatch back in the 90s, and the 52-year-old proved she still has an age-defying bust in this tight little number.
Simon Cowell’s girlfriend chose to shun a bra in this red number, despite it showcasing her nipples. We love the confidence!
Woman’s Own
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WHO WORE
Our fashion team rev
l which star rea
Brooke Shields 54 Wearing retro glasses with an evening dress, Brooke is looking good. Her jazzy heels, box clutch bag and statement earrings complete the outfit perfectly.
Duchess of Cornwall 72 Looking perfect in pleats, Camilla gives her classic jacket a modern update by pairing with a midi skirt. Fun feather in the hat too!
COMPILED BY: MILLIE GOOCH. PHOTOS: GETTY
Christy Turlin ton 51
10
Model Christy is a glam goddess in this sparkly frock. And the contrasting red leopard print bag is daring but works.
Woman’s Own
Fashion Trends
IT BEST?
lly nailed the latest look
Glamorous GREEN £18 Scarf, Oliver Bonas
£26 Dress, sizes 6-22, F&F Clothing
Wear it
YOUR WAY OUR FAVE LOOK
£3 Earrings, Primark
Drew Barr more 45 Sienna Mille 38 Who said that a suit needs to be black or navy? Sienna proves it’s best to be bright, in this colourful combo.
Shining in satin, Drew’s subtle horse-print dress would work for day and night, and the oversized shades give a nod to her quirky side.
£22 Bag, Topshop
Woman’s Own
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Cancer gave me a gift A devastating diagnosis taught Fi Munro, 34, how to really live
A
August 2015. Ewan and I were devastated Recovering in as we’d been hospital after trying for treatment a baby. I’d needed emergency surgery to remove the baby and my left fallopian tube, and afterwards, we allowed ourselves to grieve, yet the physical pain didn’t fade. I visited the GP with abdominal pains and swelling – but, aged 30 I vaguely remember a nurse bringing tea as and with no family history of ovarian cancer, we were told I’d be admitted the next day. it was months before I was sent for tests. The worst thing, though, was getting Then, in January 2016, I got the diagnosis. home and phoning loved ones with The word ‘cancer’ rang in the news. Hearing their muffled my ears as the consultant sobs as they tried to stay strong for explained it’d started in my me was unbearable. left ovary before spreading to ‘We’re all here for you,’ Ewan said my pelvis, abdomen and as I tearfully put the phone down to chest. ‘It’s incurable,’ my parents, who were on holiday in he said while I gripped Spain and instantly set off on the Ewan’s hand. My cancer long drive home. I felt surrounded was advanced and by such love and support that when could only be managed I arrived at Ninewells Hospital the following with chemotherapy. In other words, day, I felt ready for what came next. I was dying. Somehow, I held it It was gruelling, though. My hair, together, even managing to crack a eyelashes and eyebrows fell out within joke to Ewan about getting a dog, weeks of chemotherapy starting, and relying on my dark sense of humour to looking at my reflection, I felt like a strippedget me through. back version of myself. It struck me how The consultant took us through the quickly my life had changed. Just three next steps, but I barely heard any of it. Fi and Ewan on weeks earlier, I’d been a high-flying Ewan looked just as stunned, and their wedding day
s a pod of bottlenose dolphins took turns to dive into the air and splash back down, I watched in awe. ‘Now, this is what life’s about,’ I grinned to my husband, Ewan, then 46, as we climbed back into our brightyellow Volkswagen camper van. ‘I’ve never seen anything like it,’ Ewan smiled from the driver’s seat as we continued our 500-mile loop around the Scottish coastline. Growing up in Scotland, I’d always dreamt of touring the North Coast 500 – one of the world’s most iconic coastal routes – in a VW camper, but had never got round to it. Work, social commitments, and training for marathons meant I’d always put it off ‘until next year’ – until the day I learned my ‘next years’ were running out. I’d known something was wrong for months before I got the diagnosis. It’d started with a ruptured ectopic pregnancy in
12
Woman’s Own
‘I felt like a stripped back version of myself’
Real Life Shock read Doctors said I’d still be bed-bound, but I was up and about, learning the physical and mental theories – and using it to heal my body. In August 2016, I started a year-long training course, and when I qualified, started holding my own one-to-one classes in Tayside, as well as yoga retreats around Scotland. By now, I was in remission, in hospital every three weeks for an intravenous maintenance drug.
After the diagnosis, Fi and Ewan travelled the world
My transformation Next, I turned my blog into a book about everything cancer had taught me so far, and Love, Light and Mermaid Tails was published in August 2017. Within a year, cancer surgeons at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary had turned me into a yoga teacher removed my cervix, womb, right fallopian and author, things I’d only dreamt of. tube, spleen, omentum (tissue that connects Ewan and I had come to terms with not the stomach and other organs), appendix, having a family and started planning the and parts of my bowel, liver, things we wanted to do, every diaphragm and pancreas. It country we wanted to see. was a drastic bid to stop the In September 2016, we went on cancer spreading further, a Mediterranean cruise, visiting and waking up in the Lisbon and Tenerife, then travelled High-dependency around Italy and France by train in Unit, I felt the February 2017, and cruised around enormity of the Norway in October. And then, 12-hour op in every inch of my last August, we spent two weeks touring the The annual campaign, led by Target body. I had a colostomy bag Scottish coast, spotting the dolphins off Ovarian Cancer, runs throughout March. and wouldn’t be able to walk Chanonry Point. There’s no screening for ovarian cancer, for weeks. Living in the moment wasn’t just about which affects around 25,000 women in Bed-bound, I thought travelling, though. I took joy from the little the UK. So knowing the symptoms is about all I’d achieved, and things, like green leaves sprouting from vital: persistent bloating, feeling full those things I wished I’d done trees, going to my nephews’ and niece’s or loss of appetite, pelvic or abdominal but never got round to. That’s school plays – something I’d never have pain, and needing to wee more often when I realised: I hadn’t been found time for before cancer. I also wrote or more urgently than usual. living at all, I’d been on a hamster another book, How Long Have I Got?: The For more info, visit wheel, working a corporate job to Story of a ‘Terminal’ Cancer Patient, about targetovariancancer.org.uk. fund a lifestyle that didn’t truly make finding light in the darkness of cancer. me happy, punishing my body with Last December, tests revealed tumours marathon running to fit society’s idea of what on my lungs, so I’ve started chemo again. user-research lead it meant to be attractive. There’s not much more doctors can do for the Scottish Deep down, I’d always wanted to teach to stop the cancer Government, training for marathons in my yoga, but was spreading, and I don’t spare time; now, I was an exhausted and always too worried know what the future ravaged cancer patient with an uncertain, about what people holds, but whatever and possibly short, future. My work clothes would think. Having happens, I know I’m remained in the wardrobe, my four-hour gained a PhD at 25, finally living my life as commute a distant memory. I was expected to I should be. It’s like I have a career in spent 30 years asleep, Findingjoyineveryday academia, and going and it took a terminal Yet, with my previously hectic schedule down a spiritual path diagnosis to wake me pushed aside, having been signed off work would have shocked up. I feel like I’ve been for a year, I actually had space to reflect on everyone, me given a gift, so I’m myself for the first time in years. ‘I don’t want included. Now, I dedicating the rest of to wallow,’ I told Ewan. I still had hopes and realised how stupid my time to spreading dreams, and if I didn’t have long left, then that was. ‘As soon as awareness of ovarian I was going to find joy in every day. I’m strong enough...’ cancer symptoms, I poured my positivity into a blog and I thought, and 12 and encouraging allowed messages of support to buoy me weeks later, I started a everyone to live like when I couldn’t move from the bathroom yoga-teaching course. me: like they’re dying. floor in case I threw up. In May 2016, Long dog walks are a great source of therapy Woman’s Own
WORDS: SASKIA MURPHY
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
‘It’s like I spent 30 years asleep’
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Woman’s Own
Jumpsuit, £25, sizes 6-20, Primark
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BELT UP
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A belt with central detail will draw the eye inwards and this one will look just as great with jeans as it will with a shift dress.
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PLEATS PLEASE Still the hottest skirt style going, pleats are great for adding extra volume and curves, while the elasticated waist will ensure that you’re always nipped in.
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SHEER LEADER A top like this is a great way to show some skin without revealing too much. The darted shoulders will make you look narrower too.
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Woman’s Own 15
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YWO CODE: 54AY
Dawn Neesom
MIND OF MYOWN The Woman’s Own columnist has her say
ADELE can’t win!
Adele has lost seven stone
She’s one of the best-selling artists ever, yet we harp on about her weight
went online it was her weight that was being discussed. Now she’s got healthy for herse and she’s in trouble again. The militant ‘proud to be fat’ brigade are blasting her for being too skinny and selling out the Sisterhood. To which, I’d humbly suggest, they She faces criticism might have whatever her size only a rough grasp of themselves, given the abuse they’re hurling at her. Meanwhile, on the other side, even those praising her new fitness regime are critical of what she’s achieved, saying she’s lost weight too quickly. ‘Too skinny’, ‘too gaunt’, ‘too self-obsessed’ are now some of the nicer comments aimed at her. Wouldn’t it be great if us women were simply left to get on with our bodies?
‘Now she’s in trouble again’
Meghan and Harry are causing controversy
Panic spreading I still think scaremongering over coronavirus is a lot more terrifying than the actual disease. But spare a thought for anyone suspected of having it in North Korea – according to one newspaper, they simply shot a victim when he left enforced quarantine.
A right royal rebuff
W
ell, that didn’t take long, did it? The American media have already turned on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for ‘dredging up their emotional chaos for the right price’ and for being ‘freeloading and cynical’. As their first public
appearance was at an exclusive event in Miami for bankers JP Morgan, for which they reportedly flew in and out by private jet, it’s probably a fair criticism. It does appear their fiercely guarded privacy and holierthan-thou causes tend to go out the window when it suits them.
PHOTOS: GETTY, AFF/PA IMAGES, ALAMY, INSTAGRAM @ADELE
S
o, is it still OK to be fat and proud? Asking for a friend – let’s call her Adele. The pop sensation is looking toned and taut after shedding an incredible seven stone – reportedly thanks to an intense diet, hypnotherapy and Pilates. Oh, and a divorce. The Londoner now resides in the land of plant-based smoothies and mindfulness – or Los Angeles, as most of us call it. And it seems to be doing wonders for her health and happiness. Plus, with a highlyanticipated new album out later this year, she needs to be fighting fit in every sense. Her first album, 19, sold more than six million copies, followed by her recordbreaking second album, 21, which sold over 30 million. And she’s won every award going, so there’s a lot to live up to. But this is where the confusion starts. When Adele was at her heaviest, we loved her for being proud of her curves. She was beautiful, successful and happy to eat and drink whatever she wanted. As every woman everywhere should have the right to do. She was also overweight for her height, which fat-shamers were quick to jump on, saying that putting her health at risk when she had a young son was selfish. The poor girl couldn’t win. Despite all her talent and success, every time she
What’s your opinion? Tell Dawn on Twitter @DawnNeesom Woman’s Own 17
‘Mummy, I want to go HOME’ Yet all Lori Mullen, 34, would leave hospital with was a lock of her little girl’s hair
A
A few days later, on 7 March 2019, Harper woke up with a temperature of 38.5C. ‘Do you feel OK?’ I asked, but she was her usual self, laughing and chatting, so I assumed she’d just picked up a bug at nursery. Only, by the afternoon, she looked very pale, and when I checked her temperature again, I realised it’d shot up to 41.5C. Worried, my first thought was that it could be meningitis, so I lifted up Harper’s top. A red rash had spread across her tummy. When I used a glass to check if the rash would disappear, I couldn't tell if it did, so I called an ambulance, which took us to hospital. Sitting on my knee in the waiting room, Harper seemed to perk up a bit. ‘I’m hungry,’ she said. Her Lori doted on emperature had come her little girl down slightly, too, and the octor took both as a good as we watched Thomas the Tank Engine. gn. She had diarrhoea, ‘She must be over the worst,’ I thought, hough, and I was advised to relieved as she drank a flask of milk. ive her plenty of fluids. ‘It could be a stomach bug,’ he doctor said. Taking Harper Her lips turned blue ome, I tucked her up in bed My gran Margaret, 74, and mum Mandy, with me. It was a rough night, 56, popped in that afternoon, so I got hough, with her waking up Harper out of bed and settled her on the very few hours, either sofa, where I could keep an eye on her. creaming and hallucinating or We were chatting away while Harper unning to the toilet. I drifted in quietly played games on her iPad, when d out of sleep, waking when Mum suddenly stopped mid-sentence. She liked to heard Harper’s footsteps ‘Harper’s lips are blue,’ she gasped. dance around unning to the bathroom, or to Running over to the sofa, I noticed her oothe her back to sleep. toenails were blue, too, and she had three Yet the next morning, the rash little dots on her hand, like bruises. I called was gone and her temperature the hospital and was told to take her was normal, so we spent the straight to our GP, and Mum came with me morning in bed, Harper giggling while Gran watched Cayden. In the waiting
s the first notes of Ed Sheeran’s latest hit played on the radio, my little girl Harper, three, clambered to her feet. ‘Watch me, Mummy,’ she grinned, spinning around to the music and showing off her dance moves. And I daren’t refuse: from the moment she’d been born in June 2015, Harper was a mini tornado. Her big brother, Cayden, then 12, and I watched from the sofa, laughing while Harper twirled, pouted and jiggled in time to the music. We nicknamed Harper our little Shirley Temple, with her blonde ringlets and almighty tantrums. The kids’ dad, Andrew, 41, and I had separated when Harper was a baby, but we’d stayed friends and worked out a routine with the kids. We all adored Harper, happy to make her the centre of attention when she danced around the room.
‘A rash spread across her tummy’
Harper loved brother Cayden
18
Woman’s Own
Real Life From the heart Harper’s life was stolen in just a few hours
I felt numb as Harper was taken away to a side room, like the world had stopped and I’d stepped into my worst nightmare. At 8pm, less than three hours after we’d arrived, we stumbled out of the hospital, dazed, with a lock of Harper’s blonde curly hair tucked in a memory box.
room, Harper was ratty. ‘I want to sit on my own seat,’ she demanded, squirming on my knee. Then she suddenly flopped forwards in my arms. Just as quick, she sat back up straight, as though nothing had happened, but I rushed her straight into the doctor’s room. Her temperature was normal, but when the doctor lifted up her top, there was a huge rash all over her back. ‘That wasn’t there half an hour ago,' I cried as the doctor gave Harper a shot of penicillin and put us in an ambulance back to hospital. I called Andrew and told him to meet us there, and I looked on helplessly as doctors crowded around Harper, inserting tubes and hooking her up to machines.
‘I don’t like this, Mummy, I want to go home to Cayden,’ she said wearily as chaos raged around her. Doctors said they were going to put Harper in a coma, but as I looked on in horror, I saw the light in her eyes go out. ‘Her heart has stopped,’ a doctor cried, starting CPR as the alarm on all the machines wailed. Helpless, I stood with Andrew and our parents as doctors spent 50 agonising minutes trying to get Harper’s heart beating. I hoped for a miracle, but then I saw Harper’s right arm had turned black and her ears were blue. At 6.45pm, doctors had no choice but to stop, and my beautiful little girl – our feisty, fearless Harper – was pronounced dead. She was gone.
‘Doctors had no choice but to stop’
It had all happened so brutally fast, I was still in shock, and arriving home I blurted the news out to Cayden and Gran. ‘She’s gone,’ I wept, hardly believing the words myself. Cayden screamed and tried to run to his room, but I held him and we all sobbed together, consumed with grief. A doctor confirmed Harper died from sepsis – triggered by a simple strep-A infection in her throat. It felt so unjust, and I struggled to accept my little girl was gone. Two weeks later, we all dressed in colourful clothes to say goodbye to Harper. We played Ed Sheeran’s Perfect and Photograph, songs that she used to love dancing and singing along to just months ago, and as her tiny coffin was carried into the crematorium, I couldn’t stop thinking of her dancing in the living room, demanding attention, playing with her dolls or bossing us around. Almost a year on, I still lay awake at night thinking about my funny, feisty girl and how her life was stolen in a matter of hours. A piece of me died with Harper that day, but I know I have to be strong in her memory, and for Cayden, now 13, too. I want parents to know how quickly sepsis can kill – so, please, make sure you know the signs, and if you spot them, seek medical attention urgently. For me, all I have left of Harper are memories of her first steps, first words, her giggle, and it’s hard to accept I only got three years with her. I’d give anything to see her one last time, but now, all I have is a lock of hair in a box.
SYMPTOMS TO LOOK OUT FOR
Sepsis is life-threatening and hard to spot. Call 999 or go straight to A&E if a baby or young child has any of these symptoms: ● Blue or pale skin, lips or tongue ● A rash that doesn’t fade when you roll a glass over it ● Difficulty breathing, breathlessness or breathing very fast ● A weak, high-pitched, abnormal cry ● Not being interested in feeding, eating or normal activities ● Being sleepier than normal. Visit nhs.uk/conditions/sepsis
Woman’s Own
WORDS: SASKIA MURPHY, HARRIET WHITEHEAD. PHOTOS: PA REAL LIFE
Consumed with grief
19
At home mani
In clover
Hands on
Clutch control
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yourself! Shop till you drop with these amazing buys
5 £ r! n & u de
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20 Woman’s Own
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Put your face on
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Gold jewellery is the perfect finishing touch to any outfit. £5, M&Co
Woman’s Own 21
Fully escorted tours
Award-winning luxury River Cruises in Europe On the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Douro, Seine, Saône or Dutch waterways
8 days from £1,199pp 15 days from £2,999pp
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Riviera Travel’s river cruises include everything you need for an exceptional experience. Cruise Europe’s most beautiful waterways aboard the finest ships, featuring superb dining on board and spacious suites and cabins – many with a French balcony for unrivalled views. Choose from 19 fascinating river cruises that take you to the iconic highlights as well as lesser-known gems.
Departures from March to December 2020. Price includes: ● Return rail connections on selected ● Exceptional cuisine with full board dates and cruises from over 50 regional throughout stations (supplements may apply) ● Extensive and inclusive touring ● Spacious and beautifully appointed programmes suites or cabins with hotel-style beds, ● Return flights from a choice of regional en-suite bathrooms and river views airports or standard class reserved seat ● The services of our experienced cruise on Eurostar from London St Pancras director and tour manager (supplements may apply)
River cruise itinerary
Duration Price from
Rhine Cruise to Switzerland
8 days
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Rhine & Moselle
8 days
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8 days
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The Blue Danube
8 days
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Vienna, Bohemia & Treasures of the Danube
8 days
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Cruise the Heart of Europe
15 days
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Burgundy, the River Rhône & Provence
8 days
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Amsterdam, Kinderdijk & the Dutch Bulbfields
5 days
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Bruges, Medieval Flanders, Amsterdam & the Dutch Bulbfields
8 days
£1,699pp
The Seine, Paris & Normandy
8 days
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8 days
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Budapest to The Black Sea – Gems of Eastern Europe
15 days
£3,049pp
The Danube’s Imperial Cities & Yuletide Markets
6 days
£899pp
Enchanting Rhine & Yuletide Markets
5 days
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Christmas on the Blue Danube
8 days
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8 days
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6 days
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book or for a free br h e, c ll 01283 742395 or go to ownr v era co uk Terms & conditions: Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of Woman’s Own, published by TI Media Limited. Prices correct at time of print. *On selected cruises and dates.
Dawn Harper
ASK THE DOCTOR Doctor Dawn Harper answers all your medical questions…
His meds are making him worse
Scared to leave the house
Q
Q
I suffered badly with anxiety in my 20s and was on high doses of Valium for several years. Coming off it was worse than the original anxiety. I never ever want to go down that route again, but I can feel the symptoms of anxiety There are always options available coming back. Even walking to the corner shop fills me with dread. How can behavioural therapy, may be a good I stop feeling like this without having alternative, but even if your doctor to take any pills? recommends medication, he wouldn’t suggest anything addictive like Valium. Please speak to your GP. There There are lots of new, non-addictive are several options open to you. drugs to treat anxiety today. A talking therapy, like cognitive
My husband has had type 2 diabetes for years. His doctor increased his medication recently and I’m worried it is too strong, as he has had a couple of funny turns. I checked his blood sugar, and, on both occasions, it was very low. I don’t want to go against medical advice, but I really think he should cut back. What do you think? Ask your husband to speak to the surgery today and they will advise on how to reduce his medication. I’m afraid, as he has had two hypos in 12 months, he is also required, by law, to stop driving and inform the DVLA. His licence will be revoked but he can reapply after three months.
A
Pink sperm could be a sign
A
Afraid
TO ASK?
Will I get glaucoma like my mum?
Q
My mother has been diagnosed with glaucoma at the age of 80 and has to use drops each day. My brother tells me that I need regular tests as I could be at risk. Is this true? I have needed glasses for reading since I was in my 40s, but other than that I don’t have any problems. Most cases of glaucoma develop slowly and don’t have any visual symptoms in the early stages, but if left untreated, glaucoma can lead to loss of vision. You are at increased risk if you have a parent, sibling or child with the condition, so it is important that you have check-ups
PHOTOS (POSED BY MODELS): GETTY
A
Contact Dr Dawn Send your questions to drdawn@ ti-media.com, follow her on Twitter @DrDawnHarper, or go to drdawn.com
at least every two years and because you are in an at-risk group and over 40, these will be free. Go for regular checkups
His sperm is a funny colour
Q
I’m in a new relationship and we are practising safe sex, but I have noticed that my partner’s semen is pink. Our sex life is otherwise really good, and he doesn’t have any other symptoms. Should we be worried? This is probably haemospermia, which simply means blood in the semen. In most cases, we don’t find a specific cause and put it down to vigorous sex. This may well be the case, but your partner should see his GP who will want to do some tests to rule out infection or other problems.
A
Woman’s Own 23
How to handle
VARICOSE VEINS
What your GP will do
They may be unsightly, but there are ways to stop your veins from becoming a pain
L
iving with varicose veins? You’re not alone. Around 30%* of Brits have them, with 35,000 procedures to remove them carried out by the NHS each year. Yet they’re not just a cosmetic condition – varicose veins can cause extreme pain,
and potentially harm your health. ‘If not treated correctly, they get worse, and can lead to skin damage, blood clots, DVT and leg ulceration,’ says consultant venous surgeon Professor Mark Whiteley. Here’s when to get yours checked…
Meet our experts… Dr Ross Perry is a GP and medical director of CosmedicsUK (cosmedics.co.uk) Professor Mark Whiteley is a consultant venous surgeon at The Whiteley Clinic (thewhiteleyclinic.co.uk)
Spotting an issue Varicose veins are usually bulging veins that protrude from your skin. ‘Typical varicose veins are either slightly green or colourless, and appear as large bumps when you stand and sit, but disappear when you lie down,’ says Professor Whiteley. ‘Shockingly, up to half of all varicose veins sufferers show no overt signs of the condition, as the problematic veins remain hidden under the skin.’ Look out for: ● Heavy legs that feel tired and achy ● Swollen ankles or feet ● Lower leg muscle cramps ● A change in texture or colour of the skin below the knee
24 Woman’s Own
‘Your GP will assess the veins to see how extensive they are,’ says GP and medical director Dr Ross Perry. ‘They will be looking to see if the leg veins have signs of ulceration, pain, bleeding or skin colour changes – these are signs the veins are moderate to severe – and whether you can be seen under the NHS or need to find a private clinic. In most cases, your GP will advise either compression stockings to help manage symptoms (usually for six months) or to go private. The criteria for referral to an NHS hospital is very strict, so you won’t be able to have them removed for purely cosmetic reasons on the NHS.’
Assess your risk ‘There’s a stereotype that it’s only the old and overweight who suffer,’ says Professor Whiteley. While there’s some truth in this, you can also get them if you spend a lot of time standing up. Women are more prone too, which may be due to female hormones relaxing the walls of the veins, making the valves more prone to leaking. Plus, varicose veins run in the family. ‘The more relatives you have with them, the more likely you are to have them,’ adds Professor Whiteley.
Why do we get them? Healthy veins take blood up from our feet to the heart but, because they are working against gravity, the blood will always try to flow backwards the wrong way. This is prevented by tiny one-way valves in the veins that open and close to let blood through. ‘Varicose veins occur when the small valves in our leg veins fail. This allows the blood to fall back down to the ankles and feet and collect in the veins,’ says Professor Whiteley. ‘Any vein can become varicose if its wall is stretched and the valve is weakened.’
Health Live well
Treatments at a glance ●
Endothermal ablation Energy from high-frequency radio waves or lasers is used to seal affected veins. ● Radiofrequency ablation This involves heating the wall of your varicose veins via a small incision in your leg. ● Endovenous laser ablation A similar procedure to the radiofrequency ablation, except
it uses a laser to deliver short bursts of energy. ● Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy Special foam is injected into your veins to seal them closed. ● Surgery You’ll be offered a surgical procedure called ligation and stripping to remove the affected veins.
‘Varicose vein treatments on the NHS vary between hospitals, but it will often take three to six months to be seen, and then a further wait for surgery if you meet the criteria,’ says Dr Perry. ‘They tend to offer surgical stripping (an older technique that can be painful and have poorer outcomes) and endovenous laser ablation (which is considered gold standard by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence), as the main treatments. Private clinics are able to offer endovenous laser ablation treatment in far more instances. You’ll get a quicker appointment and be seen by a consultant rather than a trainee junior doctor, but expect to pay between £1,500 and £3,000 per leg.’
HOW DANGEROUS ARE THEY?
5
‘Research suggests that one in 20 people with ‘simple’ varicose veins will go on to have leg ulceration some time in their life, if they aren’t treated,’ says Professor Whiteley.
ways to reduce your risk
1 Quit smoking, as it causes damage to blood vessels and arteries. 2 Eat a heart-healthy diet with lots of fruit, vegetables and limited saturated fats. 3 Keep the body moving. Stand every 30 minutes and pump your calves by rising up on to your toes repeatedly. 4 Elevate legs when resting. 5 Avoid high heels and tight clothing.
WORDS: FAYE M SMITH. PHOTOS: GETTY, ALAMY. *ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS. IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH, SEE YOUR GP
NHS v private
Woman’s Own 25
Anita Naik
APROBLEMSHARED Mum-of-two Anita Naik has been an agony aunt for 25 years
He says he’ll hurt himself if I go
Losing contact with a family member can be extremely hard
Q
My partner is 15 years older than me, and although I care about him, I’m not in love with him. Last year, I decided I would leave but held back when his mother died. It’s now 10 months later, and I am determined to go. But he has said he will hurt himself if I leave. I feel trapped – what do I do? Name and address withheld You can’t stay because your partner is threatening to self-harm or worse, but what you can do is put support in place for him before you leave. Talk to his family and friends, and your GP. Tell them what’s happening and what he’s threatening to do. Right now, what’s important is that support is there ready to fill the gap when you go.
PHOTOS (POSED BY MODELS): GETTY. *YOUGOV.CO.UK/TOPICS/LIFESTYLE/ARTICLES-REPORTS/2015/05/27/ONE-FIVE-BRITISH-ADULTS-ADMIT-AFFAIR
A
3 ways to... 1
ease your panic
DOWNLOAD ROOTD – THE PANIC ATTACK & ANXIETY RELIEF APP (ANDROID). Overcome panic attacks and anxiety the moment they strike with proven lessons, a panic button, breathing tool and exercises. DON’T CATASTROPHISE. As in letting your worries and anxieties spiral downwards. When you feel your thoughts doing this, say ‘stop’ and distract yourself to change your thought pattern. LOOK AFTER YOUR PHYSICAL HEALTH. When you’re tired, stressed and hungry, you are more likely to have panicky thoughts and feelings.
2
3
26 Woman’s Own
Try techniques to help to ease your panic
She’s cut me out of her life
Q
I have a 25-year-old daughter, and we used to be close. In the last year, she has cut me out of her life, and I genuinely have no idea what I did to make her do this. I have tried calling her and writing to ask, but she won’t respond to me. I feel so upset and at fault about this, and think of her every day. My son says she is having a hard time and blaming me for it. If so, I want to be there for her, but I don’t want to make things worse. What can I do? Jill, 52, Kent
He’s flirting with me
Q
I’ve been with my partner for five years, and I love him, but he pays me no attention. He’s either tired or at work, or out with his mates. When we first got together, it was so different. Now a man at work has been flirting with me and I really like it. I’m not a cheater, but I am tempted. Help. Kath, 36, by email Thinking about having an affair and having an affair are two different things. Of course, you are taken with the
A
A
Losing contact with someone you love is incredibly hard, especially when you have no idea why. If your daughter is going through a hard time, give her space but ensure that she knows you are there for her. Until then, you can’t waste time endlessly going over things because you can’t change her current mindset. Place the focus on your life and your needs for a change to ensure your daughter’s issues don’t 33% of consume your life. people have thought of attention this new man is having an giving you because your affair* husband isn’t, and this is what you need to talk to him about. Find ways to reignite that excitement between you so that you don’t go seeking it elsewhere.
Contact Anita
Send your questions to askanita@ ti-media.com, follow her on Twitter @AnitaNaik, or go to anitanaik.com
GOOD ! U O Y R FHeO lping you make smart
Health Live well
health choices
Have you heard about?
Prunes can boost bones A US study found that post-menopausal women who ate 10 prunes a day had significantly higher bone density than a group who ate only apples. Tuck in!
Health checks on the high street Want a full body MOT by a health expert? LloydsPharmacy’s new Total Health Check (£25) looks at everything, including your height and weight, blood pressure, diabetes risk, cholesterol, issues to do with family history and lifestyle questions about smoking, alcohol and healthy eating.
Modern life is officially exhausting
WORDS: FAYE M SMITH. PHOTOS: GETTY. *ABBOTT. ** HERPOTHERM. ***PHARMACY2U. IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH, SEE YOUR GP
Daily stress has left 10.5 million* Brits feeling exhausted. Sound familiar? Find out what’s secretly stealing your energy by taking the tiredness quiz at tryensuremax.co.uk
How toÉ
get the most out of 2 Take it properly ‘Often, your medicine label will include your medicines instructions to take with food or on Phil Day, Pharmacy2U’s superintendent pharmacist, shares his advice
1 Don’t stop too soon
an empty stomach. This can help or hinder how your body processes 22% the medication.’ of Brits don’t take their prescribed medication as intended.***
‘Always follow your GP’s advice properly. It’s tempting to stop taking medication as soon as you feel better, but in some cases this can cause things like your blood pressure or blood sugar levels to spike.’
3 Ask for an alternative if you’re struggling
‘If you take a tablet in the evening but often forget it, maybe it could be taken in the morning instead? Or, if you have to take a tablet three times a day, is there a once-daily alternative? Speak to your pharmacist and ask.’
It worked for me Millions of us are exhausted
30% of people have tried using toothpaste to cure a cold sore.**
Jenny Reeves, 43, from Kent ‘I’d always known my hearing was bad. I would never join Suffering with irritated in conversations skin, with rubbing from because I would clothing or body parts miss half of it. I couldn’t hear the making it worse? Containing oven timer or my mobile ringing – naturally anti-bacterial the little things you take for granted. colloidal silver, BeYou My routine hearing test was due, Anti-Chafing Cream so a friend recommended I go to (£12.99, beautybay.com) high-street hearing specialist Hidden is great for healing, while Hearing (hiddenhearing.co.uk) for a the non-greasy free test. The audiologist was excellent, formula can reduce and I was given new hearing aids. I no further friction. longer feel like an outsider. I’m so happy and grateful – I have my life back.’
Buy of the week
Woman’s Own 27
What are you
missing? The right food can provide a real boost if you’re lacking in a certain vitamin or mineral
W
hether it’s a lack of vitamin C, a worry about iron or wondering if you’ve seen enough sunshine to get your dose of vitamin D, deficiencies can weigh on our minds. It’s hard to know if we have a serious deficiency, and, of course, see your GP if you have concerns. But there are plenty of foods you can eat to help give you a boost, too.
Vitamin C
If you’re considering a supplement, it’s best to take one multivitamin rather than lots of individual ones to avoid ‘doubling up’, as some might be fortified with others (eg, a vitamin C supplement with added iron).
Our experts Dr Carrie Ruxton works with the Health and Food supplements information service (hsis.org)
Anya Mustard While it’s rare to have a vitamin C head of nutrition at deficiency, it can happen, and a severe The Pure Package, deficiency is better known as scurvy. a specialised food Nutritionist and personal trainer Stuart delivery service Roberts says, ‘Vitamin C is essential for our immune system. It’s anti-viral, Stuart Roberts antibiotic, and fights off toxins and nutritionist and personal fevers. Bleeding gums and fatigue can be trainer and author of telltale signs. Great food sources include Get Strong, Get Fit, Get citrus fruit, acerola cherry Happy (Hashtag Press) juice, red sweet peppers, blackcurrants, green leafy vegetables, such as watercress, The amount of vitamin broccoli, tomatoes C tends to deplete in and peas.’ ‘Often overlooked, magnesium is vegetables that aren’t as vital for more than 300 chemical fresh, so choose frozen reactions to maintain normal nerve peas to retain the and muscle function,’ says Anya freshness! Mustard. ‘Importantly, magnesium has been shown to reduce water retention, improve mood and other PMS-related symptoms. Boost your intake with dark chocolate, avocados, nuts, seeds and bananas.’ Dr Carrie Ruxton suggests green leafy vegetables, such as spinach or chard, too.
TOP TIP
28 Woman’s Own
Magnesium
Healthy Eating
Calcium
Calcium can’t be absorbed without sufficient vitamin D.
Vitamin B
There are several B vitamins, and you might recognise names such as riboflavin and thiamin, especially if you read your cereal box, as one source is fortified cereals, says Dr Ruxton. ‘The signs of B vitamin deficiency include tiredness, weakness and tingling or numb fingers. The most common B deficiency is for B12, mostly seen in elderly people, although vegans may also be affected, while vitamin B6 supports healthy nerves and helps release energy from our carbohydrate foods.’ Try some yeast extract (Marmite!) as well as poultry, fish, liver, red meat, quinoa and muesli.
WORDS: JENNY STALLARD. PHOTOS: GETTY, ALAMY PLEASE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE EMBARKING ON ANY NEW DIET PLAN
You might have guessed this one, but it’s easy to forget to eat plenty of calcium, especially if you’re avoiding dairy. A lack of calcium can lead to osteoporosis in later life. Dr Ruxton says the main sources of calcium are yogurt, milk and cheese. However, you can also turn to green leafy veg, nuts, seeds and fortified bread. Stuart adds, ‘Kale is an especially good source, as is fish where the bones are eaten, such as sardines.’
Vitamin D Potassium
Abundant in apricots, prunes, bananas, melon and avocados, potassium balances water content in our cells, keeps the brain clear, helps to prevent and lower high blood pressure, and keeps our muscles working well. Stuart says: ‘Lack of potassium
leads to muscle weakness, inability to concentrate and drowsiness.’ Luckily, there are a range of foods high in potassium, including kiwi fruit, bananas, instant coffee, dried fruits, such as apricots and prunes, avocado and potatoes. Potatoes should be baked ideally, as boiled potatoes lose 50% of their potassium.
Vitamin D helps regulate calcium and phosphate, both of which are needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. Signs of this deficiency can include more colds and flu or fragile bones. ‘The most bioavailable form of vitamin D – that is to say, the one that’s most efficiently absorbed – is likely to be from animal foods. It’s not about how fast it’s absorbed but the percentage absorbed. Try oily fish such as mackerel, tuna or salmon, as well as eggs,’ says Dr Ruxton. Oily fish is the richest natural source of vitamin D, containing around 10-15 micro grams per serving.
Woman’s Own 29
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Get the glow with
Annabelle Minerals! 10 prizes each worth £150 to be won
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nnabelle Minerals is a 100% natural beauty range that is based on only four ingredients. Annabelle Minerals’ cosmetics offer high-quality, natural make-up suited to the needs of every skin type, from oily to dry and sensitive. Its mineral make-up is gentle and delicate – even for those suffering with rosacea – and gives you better coverage than many of the better-known brands.
The foundations consist of 22 shades in three different formulas: radiant, matte and coverage. With so many shades in three different finishes, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect one to suit your skin’s needs. The products are also suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Annabelle Minerals will help you to create perfect, natural-looking make-up without clogging your pores – leaving you looking and feeling fresh!
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A Louisa May Alcott B Agatha Christie C Mary Shelley If you know the answer, go to goodtoknow.co.uk/ womansown, click ‘Win’ and look for the competition. This competition is open from 9am on 25 February and closes at 11.59pm on 25 March 2020. TERMS AND CONDITIONS:- Standard Woman’s Own terms and conditions apply, for details go to ti-media.com/ standard-competition-terms/. Entry implies acceptance to these rules. For website rules of play, go to comps. womansownmagazine.co.uk/rules. The promoters are TI Media Limited & Annabelle Minerals (supplier of prize) (“Promoters”). In the event of a conflict between the terms and conditions in this promotional material and the Standard Woman’s Own terms and conditions, the former shall prevail. 10 readers will each win a bundle worth £150, which contains 1 foundation in preferable shade and formula, 2 classic blushers, 3 mineral eyeshadows, 1 clay primer, 2 highlighters, 1 illuminating blusher, a small sponge and 1 brow palette.
Woman’s Own
31
Must try BEA
From jelly micellar to Japanese skincare, these all-new buys are too exciting to miss
All under
£ 15
Embrace Eastern wisdom
Play with skinsavvy make-up
The Asian skincare market is super-advanced, so when Curél landed in the UK boasting one product sold every two seconds in Japan we were all ears. The range is designed for sensitive skin and includes several gentle cleansers and moisturisers, all with barrierboosting ceramides. We particularly love the mild and hydrating Foaming Facial Wash, £12.50, Boots.
Hyaluronic acid, argan oil and vitamin E are just some of the skincare ingredients packed into Collection’s new You Do You make-up range. The Cheek & Eye Tints, £4.99, Hydrating Mist Primer, £4.99, and Multi-Use Glow Balm, £5.99, have light formulas that hydrate and leave a subtle sheen on skin.
Show your lips some love Purse-friendly brand Barry M is usually known for colourful make-up and fab nail polish, but now they’re dipping a toe into skincare too. The latest launch, Lip Rehab £4.99, Boots is a nourishing mask that covers lips in soothing avocado oil while Vitamin E encourages natural hydration.
WORDS: SOPHIE CULLEN. PHOTO: GETTY
Say hello to hemp The Body Shop’s Hemp Hand Protector has been a staple in our handbags for years, thanks to its velvety nourishing texture that keeps dryness at bay during the colder months. Excitingly, they’ve now extended the range to include a Shower Oil, £9, that quenches thirsty skin instantly.
32 Woman’s Own
Perk up city skin Anti-pollution skincare is set to be a huge trend for 2020, so it’s no surprise Nspa has launched a dedicated Daily Defence range. The collection includes a Clay Mask, £5, Micro Derma Cleanser, £4 and an AntiPollution Day Cream SPF 30, £5, Asda. We particularly like the day cream as it not only protects skin from blue light damage and environmental pollutants, it also won’t break the bank.
AUTY
Beauty How to Try turmeric Who knew that a spice from your kitchen cupboard could hold so many skincare benefits? Well, Neutrogena did, and it’s the hero ingredient in their new Clear & Soothe range. Designed to balance the effects of stressed skin, there are four products to try: Mousse Cleanser, Jelly Micellar Make-up Remover, a Toning Mist, and Moisturiser, all £5.99. Each product harnesses turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties to calm breakoutprone skin.
Tackle sun spots If you have sundamaged skin or pigmentation, you may want to try out Bioderma’s Pigmentbio range. The five-step routine helps treat dark spots by targeting the three biological stages responsible for hyperpigmentation, while increasing cell turnover. The Foaming Cream, £10.80, feelunique. com, contains active ingredients and feels great.
Have a bright idea Brighter, healthier looking skin is always a good idea, and Pixi Beauty has formulated a new vitamin C range that promises to add luminosity, brighten your complexion and give skin a youthful glow. The range includes Sheet Masks, £10 for three, and a Lip Brightener, £10, with a sheer pink tint. Woman’s Own 33
Shop Watch
From
£1
Update any room in your house with our picks from your favourite shops
Argos Finley coffee table set, £70 Metal shade, £10
Diamond cushion, £12
Standing desk (used as side table), £150, concrete and wood lamp shade, £40, half-moon double bedding set, £14, Scandi storage bed, £359, three-drawer chest, £150, Scandi table lamp, £18, large drum shade, £10, all Argos
Mirror, £25
JD Williams
Serving tray, £16
Geo rug, £30 Fringe cushion, £16
Storage basket, £24
Home Style Holmfirth wing chair, £229, floor lamp, £60, baskets, from £15 each, shaggy rug, from £39, all JD Williams
Primark
Candle holder, £2
Potted faux plant, £8 24 pack tealights, £1
Diffuser, £4
Planter, £4.50
COMPILED BY: ESME CLEMO
Woven basket, £2.50
Towels, £4 each, all Primark
Woven shade, £20
Framed print, £30
Patterned rug, £39 Stripe basket set, £15
Woman’s Own 35
I was getting TOO BIG fo my scrubs
Veterinary nurse Jenna Martin Leitch felt awkward telling owners their pets should lose weight
Height: 5ft 2in Starting weight: 15st
I
’d been asked to assist in theatre at the vet’s where I worked, and as I walked into the changing room to find a pair of scrubs, I was fretting. If I couldn’t find any big enough, I’d have to admit to my colleagues there wasn’t a single tunic or pair of trousers I could squeeze into and ask if someone else could go instead. And that wasn’t the only way my size was affecting me. I was finding it more uncomfortable getting up and down off the floor to bandage injured animals and, at 15st, I’d cringe when I needed to tell an owner their pet would benefit from losing weight. Before: feeling self-conscious
Weight conscious I’d been self-conscious about my weight for as long as I could remember. When I met my husband, Chris, I just about fitted into a size 18 and, as we settled into our life together, I didn’t pay much mind to what I was eating. Dinner was often made using sauce from a jar, with oven chips on the side, plus mayonnaise, ketchup and barbecue sauce. Then later I’d make myself toast with peanut butter or cheese. Gradually, the weight crept on, and
I gained a little more with the birth of each of our daughters, until I’d gone up another couple of dress sizes. That’s when I started thinking about the future – I wanted my girls to grow up with a healthier and more energetic mum. In 2016, when my youngest was just a few months old, a family member asked me if I’d go along to Slimming World with them for moral support. Given the way I’d
‘I gained a little more with each birth’
36 Woman’s Own
Weight now: 11st 2lb Weight lost: 3st 12lb
Real Life You’ll never believe it been feeling about my own weight, I wasn’t about to say no. I was nervous about what to expect, but I also knew I was finally taking a step towards a better future for our family. It helped that, from the moment I walked into the group, the other members made me feel as though I was part of a family there, too.
Eating habits Back home, I soon got to grips with a new way of eating. I’d have porridge made with plain oats and unsweetened almond milk for breakfast, topped with blueberries and plain quark, salmon pasta salad for lunch, and dinners such as veggie sausages with mashed potato and veg, tofu stir-fry with noodles, or lentil curry with rice. Planning the week’s meals in advance meant there was no longer a last-minute panic about what was for tea. I felt calmer and more organised, I was losing weight, and, within weeks, I started to notice a real difference in my energy levels. Rushing down a corridor in an emergency at work didn’t leave me out of breath any more. I no longer dreaded going to the changing room to search for a pair of scrubs that might just fit. Instead, every few months I was fitting into the next size down, and when I bumped into colleagues I’d not seen for a while I revelled in the lovely compliments. With new-found self-esteem, I no longer felt awkward talking to owners about their overweight pets, and when I strode out of the doorway after work it was with a spring in my step.
In February 2018 I hit my target and, for the first time in my life, I could walk into any high-street shop and buy a pair of skinny jeans, or a printed dress or top that I felt great in. So, when I was thinking about what to wear for my 40th birthday the next month, I decided to be bold. I’d seen Tess Daly on Strictly Come Dancing wearing a fabulous, slinky yellow dress and, when I found something just like it, I had to try it on. Feeling like a star in my size 10 gown, I sipped champagne with my friends on what was a double celebration: a milestone birthday and the unveiling of a whole new me – the happy, sunny me I’d always wanted to be.
Jenna has more energy at work
My new positivity shines through in everything I do – I’ve even started a joyful Facebook page and Instagram account, with the sole purpose of spreading a bit of sunshine to the world through my art and stories. And I beam with pride as my daughters give me their verdict on my latest recipe, or as we get wrapped up warm ready for a scamper through the woods. I’m so grateful they’re growing up knowing the happiness that can be found in eating nourishing food, being active and believing in yourself. Now at the start of a shift, I’m raring to go and confident I can handle whatever comes my way – whether it’s giving advice to the newer veterinary nurses, talking to owners about their beloved pets, or crouching down to tend to a poorly rabbit or examine a dog’s paw. Work and my family are getting the very best version of me – and that brighter future I wanted is already in full swing.
After: happier and more positive
● Slimming World magazine is on sale now at news stands and in Slimming World groups. To find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk or call 0344 897 8000.
WORDS: MICHELLE RAWLINS. PHOTOS: SLIMMING WORLD/ANGELA SPAIN
‘I no longer dreaded Beam with pride going to the changing room’
Woman’s Own 37
Three ways with
fish fillets Get some fresh inspiration from these healthy weeknight recipes
TIP
For a little indulgence, serve with oven fries.
Salmon sandwiches Serves 4 Move over fish fingers! Here’s a new take on the family favourite.
You will need:
✽ 4 fillets salmon, skinned ✽ Juice of 1 lemon ✽ 4tbsp breadcrumbs ✽ 1 ciabatta loaf, sliced lengthways then cut into 4 ✽ 1 cucumber, peeled, deseeded
38 Woman’s Own
and peeled into ribbons ✽ mustard and cress FOR THE TARTAR SAUCE ✽ 200ml mayonnaise ✽ 3tbsp capers, drained and chopped ✽ 3tbsp gherkins, drained and chopped ✽ 1 small shallot, finely chopped ✽ Squeeze of lemon juice ✽ 3tbsp chopped fresh parsley
How to do it:
1 2 3
Heat the oven to 200C/Gas 6. Mix together all the tartar sauce ingredients, season well and set aside. Put the salmon onto a tray lined with oiled foil. Squeeze over the lemon juice, sprinkle over the breadcrumbs, coating the sides. Place in the oven for 15 mins.
4
Divide the tartar sauce between the sandwich bases. Top with a piece of salmon, and add the cucumber and cress, then your bread lid. PREP: 10 MINS COOKING TIME: 15 MINS SKILL LEVEL: MEDIUM COST PER SERVING: £2.25 CALS: 804 FAT: 56G SAT FAT: 6G CARBS: 45G
Tasty Recipes
Rosti fish pie Serves 4 An easy-peasy pie that’s a joy to come home to on a cold winter’s night!
You will need:
✽ 4 large baking potatoes, unpeeled ✽ 500g skinless smoked haddock fillets, cut into chunks ✽ 200ml jar hollandaise sauce ✽ 100g green beans, cut into small chunks ✽ 1tbsp freshly chopped dill ✽ 30g butter, diced
How to do it:
1 2 3
Put the potatoes into a pan of boiling water, bring back to the boil and simmer for 10 mins. Drain well. Heat the oven to 190C/Gas 5. Put the haddock, hollandaise, green beans and dill into a 1.25-litre pie dish. Peel away the skins from the potatoes and coarsely grate the flesh. Put on top of the fish and dot the butter all over, then season. Bake for 25 mins, until golden.
TIP
Wear rubber gloves when peeling the potatoes, as they will be very hot.
PREP TIME: 5 MINS COOKING TIME: 35 MINS SKILL LEVEL: EASY COST PER SERVING: £1.50 CALS: 672 FAT: 46G SAT FAT: 27G CARBS: 84G
Serves 6 Deliciously low-cal and packed with warming flavours
TIP
You can add water or fish stock instead of wine.
✽ 3tbsp olive oil ✽ 8 garlic cloves, finely chopped ✽ 1tsp cinnamon ✽ ½tsp chilli flakes ✽ Zest of 1 orange ✽ 250ml white wine ✽ 3 x 400g cans plum tomatoes, crush the tomatoes slightly ✽ 2tsp sugar ✽ 150g green and black olives, halved ✽ 800g skinless pollock or cod fillets, in chunks ✽ 300g raw, peeled frozen prawns, defrosted ✽ Finely chopped parsley
1
Heat the oil, garlic, cinnamon and chilli in
a large pan over a gentle heat for a few mins. Add the orange zest, wine, tomatoes, sugar and olives. Bring to the boil, and then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30 mins, stirring occasionally. Scatter over the fish and prawns and stir. Cover with a lid and cook gently for 10 mins until the fish is opaque and the prawns are pink. Scatter over the chopped parsley just before serving.
2
3
PREP TIME: 10 MINS COOKING TIME: 40 MINS SKILL LEVEL: EASY COST PER SERVING: £1.75 CALS: 326 FAT: 12G SAT FAT: 1.7G CARBS: 8G
COMPILED BY: ROSIE BENSBERG. RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHY: TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
Italian-style fish stew
Woman’s Own 39
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3
and stir-fry for 4-5 mins or until golden. Add the carrot and cabbage to the pan and cook for 4-6 mins or until the vegetables are just soft. Add the stock and beansprout mixture, mix until combined, then stir through the noodles. Scatter with coriander and serve with lime wedges.
4
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WAS £2.50 NOW £2 Woman’s Own 41
The cruellest of CONS A billion-pound industry is luring vulnerable women with false promises of easy riches
F
ancy being your own boss, working flexible hours from the kitchen table and around the school run? How about a chance to earn thousands, with no commute, just a few hours selling mascara or diet shakes, and some friendly networking? These are promises made by hundreds of multi-level marketing companies (MLM) preying on busy mums, low-earners and those hoping to get rich quick. Half a million Brits are now signed up to MLM. Social-media feeds are awash with posts from friends peddling make-up, skincare, weightloss products, vitamins, cleaning products...the list goes on. They’re trying to recruit you to sell, too, because most companies make their revenue from new recruits stocking up
on expensive products they then struggle to sell. There’s always a tantalising story of a mum earning six figures, yet no one mentions those success stories make up less than 1% of MLM recruits, and for the few making money up top, there are thousands lower down slogging their guts out and struggling to break even. It’s a legal sales model, and MLM companies that don’t exploit the seller or their network of friends do exist – but, worryingly, 75% of MLM workers are women, with the prime targets being hopeful mumpreneurs wanting to stay home with children while earning money. Woman’s Own investigates...
Many MLM recruits are stay-at-home mums
‘Peddling my wares cost me friendships’ Kerry Clayton, 30, lives in Maidstone with her husband, David, and their children, Flynn, four and Lyla, three. Before I had kids, I had a rewarding job as a transition support worker in a paediatric hospice, so when I became a stay-athome mum, I felt like I’d lost part of myself. In 2016, a contact got in touch on Facebook about a diet shake they said could help me shift the pregnancy weight, and by selling shakes myself, I could make extra cash around looking after my kids. It sounded ideal. I paid £38 for the shakes and access to training materials and socialmedia forums. The online training encouraged me to make new friends to
42 Woman’s Own
sell to, advising I listen to their problems and offer products as a solution. If they declined to join, move on to the next group. Friends bought some shakes to support me, but I didn’t sign anyone up and my line manager became domineering, pressuring me to meet new people. I felt uncomfortable and sold barely anything. I blamed the products and joined a make-up company, instead, but my excitement faded when I realised the Kerry got products were too sucked into schemes
expensive and the market was saturated. So I moved on again, selling gas and electricity contracts. Each time, I invested in new products and training. My friends got sick of being flogged my latest project. ‘I’ll only come for coffee if you don’t try to sell me something,’ they’d say. I could feel eyes rolling at baby groups, and even my mum was getting annoyed. My husband, David, tried to be supportive, but he’d always ask if I’d actually made money. Social-media groups built us up as girl bosses, mumpreneurs, and there were constant messages with inspirational slogans. But in reality, I felt like a joke. If anyone dared criticise the scheme, other members would lambast them. It’s almost a cult-like culture – and, even now, I’m wary about naming companies I
‘I could feel eyes rolling at baby groups’
Real Life Behind the headlines
WHAT IS MULTILEVEL MARKETING? Also referred to as network marketing, social selling, direct selling and referral marketing, it’s a strategy used by some directsales companies to encourage existing distributors to recruit new ones, and who are then paid a percentage of their sales. Recruits are the distributor’s ‘downline’. Distributors also make money through direct sales to customers.
worked for, in fear of backlash. After a few months selling utilities, I actually sold a few thousand pounds of contracts and built a network of 40 acquaintances as the deal on at the time was quite good, but it only amounted to a few hundred pounds in profit. It didn’t seem fair that the people higher up believe in the products or methods. made money doing little while I felt under Most sellers were mums, like me, trying 24-hour pressure to sell. My line manager to earn extra income, and I felt vulnerable would call and text constantly to ask why and taken advantage of. Thankfully, the I wasn’t selling more. I’d got tired of experience gave me the confidence to relentless ‘networking’, didn’t want to turn start my own business making every play date into a business meeting, hypo-allergenic cork earrings. It and many ‘mum friends’ stopped took two years to see a profit, but I inviting me out. now make more than before I had After three years and Mumsnet kids and I’m passionate about pumping £4,500 into banned MLM my jewellery. MLM companies various companies, adverts after sell the idea of quick cash – I’d only made £1,500 receiving up to but, in reality, it can be a con. profit. I couldn’t justify 30,000 posts from ● See trendtonic.co.uk carrying on. I didn’t
Jane Smith from the Anti-MLM Coalition, says: These schemes aren’t sold by strangers, but the fellow mother at baby group or on Facebook, who compliments you and says she used to struggle, too, until this opportunity came along. She’ll talk about successful sellers but won’t mention she doesn’t actually earn income from it and is faking it until she makes it. People are tricked into believing they’re signing up as salespeople, but really it’s to raid their social network and continue the endless chain of recruitment. Legislation governing MLM is vague and companies are skilled at operating within grey areas. They focus just enough on sales to avoid being branded an illegal pyramid scheme, where payments or services are promised but never delivered. Many sellers end up with thousands of pounds of product in their garages, which they can’t sell – partly because they’re expensive items and not particularly saleable. It’s a system where it’s almost impossible to succeed, yet pushes people to keep plugging away and spending more money. Leaving can be a nasty process and friends within the MLM may ghost you or become aggressive. But there are lots of support groups to help, so there’s never been a better time to leave MLM. ● Visit mlmtruth.org
SPOTTING A LEGITIMATE OPPORTUNITY
Becky O’Connor, a personal finance specialist at mutual life, pensions and investment company Royal London, shares some tips. 1 If it feels wrong, it probably is. 2 Look for online reviews and signs sellers have dropped out quickly. 3 Consider if the product looks hard to sell or overpriced. 4 Find out how many sellers above you will make money from your hard work, and how many distributors you’ll need on board to make money.
WORDS: ANNA MATHESON. MAIN PHOTO (POSED BY MODELS): GETTY. *FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION
Almost 99.7% of people who join MLM companies lose money.*
‘Exploiting friends and monetising loved ones’
worried users in three years. Woman’s Own 43
MONEY
MATTERS Our expert Rebecca Gamble helps make your cash go further
HAVE YOU HEARD?
I
lchester Place in London’s Holland Park has retained its crown as the most expensive street in England and Wales, according to Lloyds Bank, which found properties there averaged nearly £17.2m. Data for 2014 to 2019 confirmed the top 10 most expensive streets were all in London, while the priciest outside the capital was Charlbury Road in Oxford, where homes averaged £5.2m. Ilchester Place
IF YOU DO ONE THING THIS WEEK… KEEP AN EYE ON OLD CARDS If you have a credit card you don’t use any more then beware. A study by Credit Karma found these cards expose holders to a greater fraud risk because they’re less likely to check their balance or statement regularly – and so they’ll be less likely to spot if someone is fraudulently using their card. So always read your statements and consider closing down cards you don’t need. Check your statements
3
...ways to save for kids Want to start putting away some money for your children? Here are some of your options, according to Sarah Coles, personal finance analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown
1
Children’s savings accounts
‘Banks are keen to attract lifelong savers, so often offer attractive interest rates on children’s savings accounts,’ says Sarah. ‘It’s also great to get the kids involved in picking the account too,’ she adds.
2
Junior ISAs
‘These are an excellent way to build a nest egg for a child
because they let you save or invest up to £4,368 a year per child tax-free, and keep the money out of reach until the child reaches 18,’ says Sarah. ‘There are two different types: cash Junior ISAs and stocks and shares Junior ISAs,’ explains Sarah. For more information visit hl.co.uk/ free-guides/guide-to-junior-isas
3
Premium Bonds
‘More than 21 million people have Premium Bonds; they’re popular as they combine the safety of cash with the chance of a prize,’ says Sarah.
Your Money
How to... get a pay rise
Explain to children how savings work
Think you deserve a raise? Shelley Preston, head of Adecco Retail, gives tips on how to ask for one
1 Time it right
highlight your success and demonstrate your worth to the company.’
‘To ensure your manager has time to listen to you properly, book a meeting at a time that suits them,’ advises Shelley. ‘You can also try asking for a pay rise at your performance development review. And note wider trends at your firm – if profits are high it may be a good time to ask,’ she adds.
2 Know your strengths ‘Talk about your recent achievements and how you’ve exceeded expectations in the business,’ she says. ‘Having quantifiable results and examples of your work, as well as proof of successful working relationships will
3 Believe in yourself ‘Be confident and proactive, but measured in your approach,’ advises Shelley. ‘This will help enforce your case by showing to your manager your ambition to succeed.’
4 Know your worth ‘Research average salaries for your role in your industry,’ says Shelley. ‘It’s important you know how your salary relates to the wider market, so you can confidently argue your case. ‘The Adecco Salary Guide 2020, provides an overview of salaries across different sectors.’ Find the guide at adecco.co.uk/blog.
DID YOU KNOW?
‘Anyone can save on behalf of a child – from parents and grandparents to friends of the family – and you can save with as little as £25 so you don’t need a big lump sum to get started. However, the downside is that your money won’t earn any interest,’ she warns. For information on Premium Bonds visit nsandi.com.
There is an art to asking for more
Best buy!
DEAL OF THE WEEK
You can save more than 50% on this Martha Hill Evening Primrose skincare set, which features a Cleansing Lotion (150ml), Moisturiser (50ml) and night-time Nourishing Cream (50ml) at Beauty Naturals. It’s worth £26.70, but you get it for £13.30 + free p&p at beautynaturals.com/wo or phone 01780 470802. Offer valid until 15 March 2020.
If you love to win prizes then visit... comps.womansownmagazine.co.uk
PHOTOS (POSED BY MODELS): GETTY, ALAMY
More than five million households have been deterred from switching energy supplier following a string of firms going bust, according to new research by comparethemarket.com. The study found one in five energy customers had been put off switching following the collapse of 14 companies in 2018 and 2019.
Woman’s Own 45
Take the familyÉ
on a coastal cottage break Wells-next-the-Sea, on the north Norfolk coast, boasts a beautiful beach, bustling harbour and sublime seafood
Look out for grey seal pups
Why go?
Food and drink
WORDS: SIMON MAYNARD. PHOTOS: GETTY,ALAMY
T
his unspoilt seaside town has all the charm of a yesteryear holiday destination, but with a twist. Here, the traditional and contemporary happily exist side by side, from shops and cafes, to bars, restaurants and galleries. You can walk the mile from Wells to its award-winning beach on one of two parallel paths. The first is made of crushed stone, the second is smoother. Both offer views across the Channel. Alternatively, take the seasonal railway (it holds the Guinness World Record for being the narrowest gauge railway to operate a scheduled passenger service). Trains depart every 20 minutes throughout the summer. Ride the narrow gauge railway
Y
Things to do
B
ook a boat trip to Blakeney Point to see England’s largest breeding grey seal colony. Over 3,000 pups are born here each year. In the summer, look out for terns too. Four species – Sandwich, Common, Little and Arctic – breed here before migrating to Africa for the winter. Boat trips run throughout the year. Kids will love crabbing (or gillying, as it’s known locally) at the harbour. Pay a visit to the Gilly Hut, where you can hire reusable metal buckets and eco-friendly tackle. Remember to put crabs gently back in the water at the end of the day. And don’t forget to pop into ML Walsingham & Son to grab yourself a kite. It’s a popular beach activity and is the ultimate in windswept relaxation!
ou can’t visit Wells and not sample the catch of the day. French’s Fish & Chips is an award-winning, familyowned business that has been serving holidaymakers for 90 years. The restaurant and takeaway has amazing panoramic views of the quay. Also at the quay you’ll find The Golden Fleece, a family and dog-friendly pub boasting spectacular views over the marshes. Here, the menu includes seasonal dishes using locally sourced produce, and freshly prepared pizzas to eat in or take away. Get your fill of fish and chips
Travel Escapes
Getting there
W
ells-next-the-Sea is located on the main A149 coast road between Holkham and Stiffkey. There is no mainline train station at Wells-next-theSea – the nearest connecting stations are at Sheringham (17 miles) and King’s Lynn (28 miles). Sheringham connects to Norwich via the Bittern Line, with trains running almost every hour, seven days a week. To get to Wells from King’s Lynn, the Coastliner 36 bus service also runs almost every hour, seven days a week. The journey takes around two hours.
Where to stay
T
he newly renovated, four-bedroom Spicer’s on the Buttlands in Wells is the perfect holiday retreat. Owned by the nearby Globe Inn, it has a sunny courtyard garden, sitting room and games room, making it the perfect place to relax after a day by the sea. It even has its own beach hut – complete with stove, kettle, pans, cups, cutlery and deckchairs for guests to use. You can cook for yourself in Spicer’s large kitchen, or the Globe Inn and Crown Hotel are just a two-minute stroll across the green. Both offer dishes using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
This cottage comes with a beach hut
● Visit theglobeatwells.co.uk
and crownhotelnorfolk.co.uk ● For more travel inspiration, visit thecaribou.com
Woman’s Own 47
Complete Patio Potato Kit
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Complete Patio Potato Kit SAVE £20.00! 350007 6 ‘Turbo Tubers’ each of 3 seed potato varieties 3 Heavy Duty 30L Pots and 1Kg Potato Fertiliser. 320072 HALF PRICE! Strawberry ‘Sweet Colossus’ 6 Jumbo Plugs. SAVE £6.50! Complete Blueberry Growing Kit 310022 3 Established Plants in 9cm Pots BUY 2 FOR £19.98 SAVE £6.00!
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WO129
Eating after midnight? Looks like someone’s been stitched up – Lilo’s extraterrestrial buddy is supposed to be cute and mischievous, not a psychotic gremlin.
Ghostly puddles To be fair, this valiant attempt does look scarier.
Baking DIS These bakers had much bigger problems than soggy bottoms...
T
he Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up To Cancer will be returning to our screens in early spring, with Kelly Brook, Patsy Palmer and Louis Theroux set to show off their kitchen skills. To get us in the mood, Woman’s Own takes a look at some spongy creations that are less Star Baker and more disaster chef...
Baa baa zombie sheep This baker is probably feeling embarrassed about their lamb of the living dead.
Star-sponge exit-prize This intergalactic marbled mess hopefully tastes better than it looks.
Real Life Photo fun Mythical nightmare When someone asked for a unicorn cake, this fondant horror was unlikely to be what they’d imagined.
ASTERS
Blobby blobby blobby A lot of care may have gone into this, but we just can’t bear to look at it.
Melting Minions
Bad dog! The cook may have tried their best, but this chocolatefrosting wonder ended up looking a bit, er, woof!
WORDS: LIANNE LA BORDE. PHOTOS: SPLITPICS.UK
The kids are unlikely to be eyeing up these cupcakes at the party buffet.
Woman’s Own 51
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THIS WEEK’S
TV PICKS Because life’s too short for bad telly!
‘Maggie’s a gossip but she’s got a good heart’ Dawn French stars in ITV show The Trouble with Maggie Cole
I
magine if you switched on the radio and heard someone sharing details about your life that you’d rather keep private? Well that’s exactly what happens to residents of a small seaside village in ITV’s new comedy drama The Trouble with Maggie Cole. Dawn French stars in the six-parter as Maggie, who’s thrilled when a radio journalist interviews her about the history of Thurlbury, where she lives, but in her excitement she gives him more detail than he bargained for… ‘Maggie tells people that she’s an historian, but she’s not – she works in the gift shop at the castle,’ says Dawn. ‘When she’s asked to do the interview, she couldn’t think of anything better. She feels like she doesn’t matter much, but suddenly someone is
listening to her and thinks she matters.’ When the interview is broadcast, Maggie’s shocked it includes the gossip, plus a few embellishments, that she shared about notable residents of the community, including publican Brian (Lee Boardman), author Marcus Ormansby (Patrick Robinson) and even best friend Jill (Julie Hesmondhalgh). ‘Maggie’s a good-hearted person and I think that’s a key thing,’ says Dawn. ‘Being a gossip doesn’t make you a dreadful person. We live in a society where reputation is all, and Maggie carelessly throws people’s reputations down the toilet because she has a few too many gins and feels flattered. She quickly realises that she has to apologise to each person.’ ● The Trouble with Maggie Cole is on ITV
‘She has a few too many gins’
54 Woman’s Own
Dawn with co-star Julie Hesmondhalgh
WHAT’S NEXT FOR... Martin Kemp
The Spandau Ballet bassist and his sibling bandmate Gary will play themselves in spoof documentary The Kemps: All True on BBC4. It shows the brothers recording a new album and features some famous faces, including former Doctor Who star Christopher Eccleston and Motherland’s Anna Maxwell Martin.
Top Telly
TOP 4 TV MUSTS Dawn says her self-confidence comes from her dad, ‘He told me I was uncommonly beautiful and the most precious thing in his life. A dad’s boost of confidence is a very potent thing.’
1
This new version of HG Wells’ sci-fi novel is set in modern-day Europe and follows the survivors of a devastating alien attack. The eight-parter features Downton Abbey’s Elizabeth McGovern and Hollywood actor Gabriel Byrne.
YOU LIKED... LUTHER, BBC1 Idris Elba starred in the title role of this crime drama as the obsessive and sometimes violent murder DCI John Luther, whose methods and troubled private life often got him into strife. Ruth Wilson played psycho stalker Alice Morgan.
Elizabeth McGovern and Gabriel Byrne
2
Ready Steady Cook, BBC1
NOW TRY... BECAUSE THE NIGHT, ITV This upcoming psychological drama from Luther writer Neil Cross tells the story of Nathan (Russell Tovey) who hopes to escape his past when shocking news forces him to relive horrific events from 10 years ago. Doctor Foster’s Bertie Carvel also stars.
Favourite stars in future TV projects
Oti Mabuse In the one-off BBC1 special Oti’s South African Odyssey, the Strictly Come Dancing star heads back to the country of her birth to take viewers on a tour of her homeland. On the trip, Oti meets friends old and new as she follows roads she’s travelled with her family.
Rylan Clark-Neal hosts the return of the cooking show. In each episode, two chefs have to create a delicious meal with a bag of mystery ingredients brought in by a contestant they’ve been paired up with – and it’s up to the studio audience to decide the winner.
Rylan is the new Ainsley
3
The Trip To Greece, Sky One
Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon return for a fourth series of the comedy in which they play fictionalised versions of themselves. This time, the pair embark on a gastronomic tour of Greece – with lots of laughter, banter and bickering once again on the menu.
Steve and Rob explore Greece
PHOTOS: ITV, PA IMAGES, BBC, SKY, GETTY, FOX
SHE SAID WHAT?
War of the Worlds, Fox
Coronation Street, ITV As Sarah continues to warn her about getting involved with Daniel, Bethany begins to realise her mum’s right about grief-stricken Daniel when he breaks down at Sarah and Adam’s wedding. So when Bethany leaves Weatherfield to start an internship on a magazine in London, will Daniel go with her or will she go it alone?
4 Are Bethany and Daniel set to split? Woman’s Own 55
THIS WEEK’S
HOT LIST
Your STARS
25 Feb – 3 Mar 2020
The movies and books not to miss
Film Downhill
Out 28 February All-American couple Will Ferrell and Julia Louis-Dreyfus are on a skiing holiday in the Alps with their two young children when a near miss from an avalanche exposes perilous cracks in their relationship. This Hollywood remake of 2014’s Swedish hit Force Majeure combines sharp laughs with an insightful portrayal of a fraying marriage. Ferrell’s everyman persona pays dividends, while Louis-Dreyfus is magnificent as his seething spouse.
Book Saving Missy
by Beth Morrey (£12.99, HarperCollins, HB) In this memorable debut, we meet prickly Millicent (Missy) who, at 79, is quite lost. Grieving for her husband, a son living in Australia and a daughter she hasn’t spoken to for a year, she is lonely. Then she meets two women who help her to realise it doesn’t have to be that way. You will want to savour every moment of it.
DVD
Roma
RRP £14.99 This Oscar-winning Netflix film follows Yalitza Aparicio, who plays Cleo, a live-in housekeeper in the middle-class neighbourhood of Roma in Mexico City. Aside from her cleaning the house and making lunch for the four kids, we get to know the couple, a doctor and his wife. But their life is thrown into chaos when Cleo unexpectedly becomes pregnant.
56 Woman’s Own
Discover your destiny with Sally Morgan, our expert astrologer
Aries
Libra
21 Mar – 20 Apr
23 Sep – 23 Oct
It seems like just another week until you hear some exciting news of a trip coming your way. Better still, it’s to a place you’ve always wanted to go to!
A bee in your bonnet this week may need to be kept to yourself as someone apologises, making you feel that your silence was necessary to keep the peace.
Taurus
Scorpio
21 Apr – 20 May
24 Oct – 22 Nov
Time to be a good friend, as someone close to you calls for help with an important personal problem. Be partisan, and peace will soon be restored.
Teamwork Scorpio and a strong will leads you to the top of your tree, so make sure nobody stands in your way. The boss is likely to listen to your demands.
Gemini
Sagittarius
21 May – 20 Jun
23 Nov – 22 Dec
Your love life will swing like a pendulum this week. Romance will be like peaches and cream, so savour it. A new offer of work may help you to make a decision.
Thinking healthy this week will be a great start to the new fitness regime you have in mind, and don’t forget that an apple a day keeps the doctor away.
Cancer
Capricorn
21 Jun – 22 Jul
23 Dec – 20 Jan
Taking a trip to a wood or forest will have benefits, which will make you feel like you can climb any mountain. Put on your boots and be prepared to get mucky.
Have you been feeling that love is on the rocks recently? A good chance this week to spend some quality time and prioritise pleasure will be the lifeboat to their heart.
Leo
Aquarius
23 Jul – 22 Aug
21 Jan – 19 Feb
Be prepared for lift-off this week, as you rocket your way to a promotion, Leo. You will impress someone in authority, bringing success.
Remember that you can’t climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets. It’s a great week to throw caution to the wind and take action.
Virgo
Pisces
23 Aug – 22 Sep
20 Feb – 20 Mar
There’s a chance to grab at the bigger piece of the pie this week, as you face healthy competition. Stick to your plans and know you can bend the rules if you want to.
Stop trying to whistle in the wind when it comes to a family member. Let them get on with their plans – and they will soon wish they had listened to your tune.
Fun Quiz
Ask yourself How did you score? Mostly As
The Exploder Rage-wise, you’re the type to get it all out, right here, right now! On the plus side, you’re probably not carrying around any anger or baggage that can end up being vented elsewhere. But being quick to snap can damage your relationships. Before you bubble over, take five minutes. Is your anger justified? Try talking it out when you feel more level-headed.
What’s your rage factor?
Mostly Bs
The Seether
Whether you’re a silent seether or feel like you’re about to boil over, our quiz shows you how to let off steam instead of totally losing the plot 1 Your friends would describe you as… An open book
B
Slightly guarded
C
Unpredictable
D
Easy to be around
2 When you’re feeling under pressure, you… A
Snap and raise your voice
B
Overcompensate
Mostly Cs
C
Take things to heart
D
Reach out and ask for help
Overthink things
C
Chop and change
D
Take it in your stride
Come prepared
C
Get pipped to the post
D
Prefer to listen to others
3 In life, you tend to… A
Go with your gut
B
4 In meetings, you… A
Talk the most
B
A
B
I keep to myself and that’s OK
C
It’s all about me
D
I go with the flow
6 When they were angry, your parents tended to… A
Have it all out
B
Have tense silences
C
Snap at each other
D
Talk things through
C
Walk away from the conflict
D
Try and reach a compromise
7 In a disagreement, you… A
Lose your temper easily
B
Give in to avoid an argument
A combination of an Exploder and a Seether, you suck your anger in and let it stew before blowing up. It might make it difficult for people to trust you, because you could explode around undeserving parties when you’ve reached your limit. Keep an anger journal, and see if you can spot patterns to help you manage anger better. Mostly Ds
5 The phrase that most applies to you is… I am who I am
The Switcher
The Zenster You don’t take things personally – you accept that people have different opinions and you listen rather than assume. But there is a productive side to anger you may want to tap into. It helps us to set boundaries and get what we want rather than being taken advantage of. You might end up benefiting from having a bit more backbone.
WORDS: EMMIE HARRISON-WEST. PHOTO (POSED BY MODEL): GETTY
A
When it comes to kicking off, you’re more likely to remain tight-lipped and say ‘it’s fine’ than admit you’re not OK. While you won’t lose friends with this approach, it’s not the healthiest way to process anger. Next time you’re annoyed, try to talk about how you really feel. Your friends will respect you for being honest.
Woman’s Own 57
PUZZLE BRE O TRY TE E T L P C O M ON E THIS 20 IN MINS
Clues & arrows
CAN YOU DO TH E SE IN 10 MINS EACH?
Quick & easy If you really don’t have much time to spare, give your brain a break with one of these.
2 6
Fill in the clues in the direction of the arrows
6
6 5
5 2
5 1
5 4
3
2 6
Sudoku To solve the puzzle, each 2x3 box, each column and each row must contain the numbers 1 to 6.
CROSSWORD S I S URN A B H U S U A L T L N I N E T T HU S T L T I L E A P S WE T T I S E I MP R E E S
E ME F P L Y S O S Y N I N E G E AND A F A L S I S NG A I S S R H
CLUES & ARROWS B L E A C H E S D I M P L E
D F R EMAN G L ARK L Y A D AH L E E U S T L E L S T AR T A A R Y L I C L S COV E R R R
Puzzle solutions
WORDSEARCH F M O R R A N C A N H G S
F E X E Y G P
A N N Y O O P T U E
X N G T L L Z R
L Z L I A A E U
1 2 6 3 4 5 3 6 3 6 1 5 2 4 5 1 6 3 2 4 5 1 4 2 SUDOKU
M L L N
A I N U H I U R D U T
5 2 4 3 1 6
O A N S K R
4 1 2 6 5 3
58 Woman’s Own
F C O R N I S H E
R M R A C A N G S
A A F E X E Y G P
N N Y O O P T U E
G X N G T L L Z R
L Z L I A A E U A
A I A H T M L L N
I N U I U R D U T
S A N S K R I T O
Wordsearch The answer is the word missing from the grid.
AZTEC CORNISH CREOLE EGYPTIAN ESPERANTO FRANGLAIS LATIN MAGYAR
MANX NAVAJO SANSKRIT SAXON THAI URDU ZULU
EAK 1
2
3
7
8
9
10
BEAT TH E K C O L C 4
5
6
13
14
Puzzles Your time
11 12
15
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21
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DO IT IN 30? MINS ACROSS 7 8 9 10 12 13 15 18 19 21 23 24 25
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Crossword
Put your feet up and have a go at this old classic DOWN
Smith or Jones, eg (7) Emergency service worker (7) Normally (7) Twinkly (7) Largest two‑digit number (6‑4) Roald ___, children’s author (4) Noisy activity (6,3,6) Big jump (4) Jumping of the gun (5,5) Moistening (7) Man‑made fibre (7) Affect favourably (7) Come back to health (7)
1 2 3 4 5 6 11 14 16 17 19 20 22
To replace (eg a player) (10) Take a breath (6) Member of staff (8) Cheek or chin hollow (6) Humiliates, brings low (8) Drop to the ground (4) Warning lights (7) Rabble‑rouser (10) Horse‑racing advisers (8) Makes pale with chemicals (8) Terminate (6) ___ Swift, country singer (6) ___ Mackinnon, skier (4)
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Woman’s Own 59
‘You can’t ever call me VAIN’ Imelda Staunton tells Woman’s Own why she’s shocked to be getting television roles
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WORDS: SELINA MAYCOCK. PHOTOS: ALAMY, GETTY, ITV, NETFLIX, RICHARD GRASSIE/CHILLI MEDIA
melda Staunton is one of the biggest names in British film – the 64-yearold actress is well-known for playing the frightful Professor Dolores Umbridge in the Harry Potter films. And last year, she got to join her husband of 36 years, Jim Carter, in the Downton Abbey movie. So it seems surprising that, when Woman’s Own catches up with BAFTAwinning Imelda, she tells us how shocked she was to have landed a starring TV role in new ITV drama Flesh and Blood over ‘bigger names’.
Hi, Imelda! We know you’re in a lot of films, but TV jobs are rarer for you...
With husband Jim Carter
Yes, I’ve been so pleased and delighted by these television jobs because I never thought I’d get parts like this. You know what the business is like – they say, ‘We need a name.’ And I understand that. I’m probably very lucky at this time when the writing is good for women.
How do you feel about seeing yourself on screen?
presenting on a programme about chairs or mirrors to actress Maggie Smith. Don’t put them both in the same category!
You did the Downton Abbey movie with your husband. What was that like? It was very nice to ride on the coat-tails of their success, making no effort whatsoever. I’d worked with most of them before and after living with Jim playing Carson for all those years, I knew backstories, so it was very nice. We travelled to work for three days, completely overexcited but we never got a stolen look because he was up at one end of the table and I was down the other!
Do you have any advice for someone starting out in acting? Take the next job, whatever it is. Don’t wait around for ‘the part’ – you’ve got to live your life as an actor, don’t waste it.
Tell us about your latest role in Flesh and Blood, playing lonely neighbour Mary... I’ve had good neighbours – but never anything like this! She’s been a good friend to Vivien,
Whatever you say about me as an actress, you can’t say I’m vain, because it’s never a great look.
Do you ever keep an eye on social media for feedback? No – there’s absolutely nothing I can do. It’s narcissistic and this job is bad enough for that. I’m an actress and [the word] ‘celebrity’ is something that’s been so overused – from anyone who does
60 Woman’s Own
Imelda will replace Olivia Colman in The Crown
Imelda now stars in Flesh and Blood
but the arrival of her toy boy Mark means Mary is in danger of being on her own. So she has let her imagination go in a weird direction and she begins snooping – which I didn’t feel as weird about as I should have!
How would you feel if someone was steaming open your post, like Mary does? I might be a bit bothered, but if they were good neighbours like Mary, I’d never find out. Mary’s got her reasons – she feels she’s doing something that could be helpful. So I give myself the logic that it’s an absolute duty. Of course she oversteps the mark, but she doesn’t think that.
What’s next for you? I’m going into [musical] Hello, Dolly! in London’s West End. Rehearsals start in June and it’s a bit of a push because I wasn’t mad about doing that. I just hope that I’ve not made a huge mistake. My voice has got to start warming up and I woke at 4am to go through some of the songs – that’s how the preparation begins. After our interview, it was confirmed that Imelda is to play the Queen in the fifth and final series of Netflix show The Crown. She said, ‘I’ve loved watching The Crown from the very start. I’m genuinely honoured.’ In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
● Flesh and Blood is on ITV
The Big Interview
Who is Imelda Staunton?
Born: 9 January 1956 Age: 64 Relationship: Married to Downton Abbey actor Jim Carter Her big break: Guys and Dolls at the National Theatre in 1982 What’s next: Hello, Dolly! in London’s West End
Woman’s Own 61
Real Life Debate
It’samultibillionpoundindustry withcelebfans– includingBridget Jones–but…
Is shapewear really worth the hype? Jacynth Bassett, 27, lives in south London and is the , founder of the-bias-cut.com an independent, designer online boutique. Wriggling around uncomfortably, I tugged at r the Lycra shapewear unde in my skirt as it pinched my sk and squeezed my body uncomfortably. ‘I must look g ridiculous,’ I thought, longin to slip off to the ladies and peel off the skin-coloured der body suit I was wearing un my evening dress. I was at a glamorous g work event I’d been lookin for ward to, and I’d worn the in body shapewear, with builtbra and stretching down to my thighs, in the hope of hiding lumps and bumps. Only, I was so uncomfortable that I ended uld up leaving early just so I co get home and get the thing off me. Af ter that, I vowed never to wear control w underwear again. From no on, I told myself, I was going
Jacynth hated being squeezed into Lycra to embrace my body. And I have done. As far as I’m concerned, shapewear is just a quick – t and uncomfortable – fix tha ing fails to address the underly issues of body confidence and poor self-esteem. to Instead, we should all learn r accept our bodies, whateve t our size, and recognise tha those celebrity body ideals we see are unrealistic. We are all different shapes ’t and sizes, and we shouldn feel the need to manipulate g our bodies with constrictin , xy se shapewear just to feel confident and desirable.
‘I even wore a pair while pregnant’ Nicole Higgins, 43, lives in Leeds and works in the fashion industry as a buying and retail consultant. There’s a reason there are so many brands of shapewear on the market. From Spanx to Kim Kardashian’s Skims, any kind of (decent) shapewear makes many styles of clothing look better. Take fitted dresses, for example, control under wear will help you make the most of the natural curves of your body by smoothing out any lumps and bumps, while showing off all your best bits. I even wore them during my pregnancy because it helped me to embrace my changing shape. I could show off my growing curves in fashionable dresses, without resorting to hiding behind baggy maternity clothes. I still feel like me,
Nicole enjoys the confidence boost only more confident. It’s now possible to buy shaping under wear to target your hips, legs, bum and tum in nice soft fabric, which won’t be too restrictive. It has nothing to do with women being ashamed of their bodies, it’s about optimising what you have. If something makes you look and feel better, then why not? Plus-size model Tess Holliday once described shapewear as ‘make-up for the body’ and I think that’s a great way to look at it. l thebuyerandretail coach.com
WORDS: FRANCES LEATE. PHOTOS: CARL HODGSON, YUVAL HEN, CAPITAL PICTURES
‘We should love our bodies the way they are’
Woman’s Own 62