5 Ways to Take Control of Your Health When Your Doctor Isn’t Listening

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Let’s be honest—sometimes, doctors just don’t listen. They rush through appointments, barely glancing up from their screens, or dismiss symptoms like they’re nothing. “It’s just stress.” “You’re fine.” “Come back if it gets worse.” Sound familiar? It’s infuriating. Because you know your body. You know something’s off. And yet, here you are, walking out of the office with more questions than answers.

You don’t have to accept that. You don’t have to wait for permission to take your health seriously. If your doctor won’t advocate for you, you do it yourself.

Become Your Own Health Detective

When doctors miss the bigger picture, you start putting the pieces together yourself. Track everything—when your symptoms flare up, what you ate that day, how well you slept, your stress levels, even changes in your routine. Patterns emerge when you pay attention.

Grab a notebook, use an app, whatever works. The next time you’re in that office, you won’t be explaining vague discomfort. You’ll be armed with evidence. And if they still wave it away? That’s their problem. Not yours. Because now you have the data to find a second opinion—one that actually matters.

Research Like Your Well-Being Depends on It (Because It Does)

You don’t need a medical degree to be informed. The internet is a minefield of misinformation, but it’s also a goldmine of research if you know where to look. PubMed, NIH studies, functional medicine articles—dive in. Find real sources.

It’s not about diagnosing yourself. It’s about knowing what’s possible. When a doctor brushes you off, you’ll have a list of conditions that match your symptoms. You’ll know which tests to ask for. You’ll walk in prepared instead of just hoping they’ll figure it out.

Explore Alternative Health Assessments

If you hear “your labs are normal” one more time, you might scream. Because normal doesn’t mean optimal. It doesn’t mean you feel good.

That’s where private blood tests come in. Many labs now let you order tests yourself; no doctor is required. Vitamin levels, hormone panels, inflammation markers—there’s so much you can check. Beyond standard blood work, there’s functional medicine testing, genetic analysis, and even biofeedback scans. All the things conventional medicine rarely looks at.

Learn About Nutrient Stress and Optimize Your Diet

Food isn’t just fuel. It’s medicine. And sometimes, it’s the missing piece doctors ignore. Magnesium, vitamin D, B12, iron—deficiencies in these can masquerade as anxiety, fatigue, even depression. It’s wild how much your body depends on the right balance of nutrients.

If your diet isn’t supporting you, change it. Cut back on processed junk. Add whole, nutrient-dense foods. Try an elimination diet if something feels off. A functional nutritionist can help if you’re overwhelmed. The way you eat might be the most powerful thing you can control.

Find a Practitioner Who Actually Listens

You don’t have to keep seeing a doctor who dismisses you. Seriously. Fire them. There are good doctors out there—functional medicine practitioners, naturopaths, integrative specialists—people who will sit down, listen, and actually work with you.

Yes, it might take time. Insurance might not cover it. But if it means getting real answers instead of being sent home with “it’s all in your head,” isn’t it worth it?

Take Your Power Back

Your body. Your health. Your responsibility. Doctors are there to help, but they’re not the final authority on how you feel.

Track your symptoms. Research everything. Get your own tests. Fix what you can through food. Find a professional who listens. And most importantly—trust yourself. No one knows your body better than you do.

DIY Garage Organisation: Budget-Friendly Ideas for a Tidy Space

 

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Do you open your garage door and instantly feel overwhelmed by the clutter? Whether your goal is to create a space to park the car, a workshop, or simply a neat storage area, organising your garage can feel like a daunting task. But the good news? With some budget-friendly DIY ideas, you can transform your garage into an efficient and tidy space that the entire family can enjoy.

This guide is packed with practical tips and clever storage ideas to help you reclaim your garage—without breaking the bank.

Why Organising Your Garage Matters

Garages often become the dumping ground for everything from sports equipment to Christmas decorations. But if everything’s in disarray, it’s hard to find what you need when you need it. A well-organised garage isn’t just more functional; it can also reduce daily stress, keep your belongings in better condition, and make cleaning a breeze.

Creating a space that works for you doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. There are countless ways to achieve order and style on a budget. Here’s how to get started.

Declutter First

Before implementing any new organisation system, take some time to declutter. Sort your belongings into three piles:

• Keep – Items you use regularly or are essential.
• Donate/Sell – Things you no longer need but are in good condition. 
• Bin – Anything broken or no longer usable.

Once you’ve separated the essentials from the clutter, you’ll have a much clearer idea of how much storage space you actually need.

Top tip: Be ruthless! That kayak you haven’t touched in six years probably doesn’t belong in the “Keep” pile.

Choose the Right Shelving for Your Needs

Shelving is one of the best ways to maximise vertical space in any garage. Here are some cost-effective options to consider when designing a system that works for your family’s storage requirements.

    1. Industrial Shelving for Heavy-Duty Storage

Industrial shelving units are great for storing heavier items like power tools, paint cans, or gardening equipment. They’re sturdy, durable, and can often be found second-hand online for a fraction of the retail price.

Pro tip: Opt for adjustable shelves so you can adapt the storage as your needs change.

    2. Garage Shelving for Everyday Essentials

Garage shelving units tend to be lighter and more scalable, making them ideal for organising everyday items like sports gear or kids’ outdoor toys. Units with baskets or bins can help keep smaller items neat and easy to access.

Consider labelling bins with clear categories like “Camping Gear” or “Seasonal Decor” to make finding things effortless.

    3. DIY Wall-Mounted Shelves

If you’re looking to save money, try building your own shelves. With a few brackets and wooden planks (which you can often get cut to size at DIY stores), you can create custom wall-mounted shelves for a fraction of the cost.

These shelves are perfect for storing lightweight items such as paintbrushes, tins of nails, or cleaning supplies.

Tips for Settling a Fractious Baby

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Having a fractious, unsettled baby can be stressful and tiring for parents and foster carers. Babies cry for many reasons - hunger, discomfort, overstimulation or just needing comfort. While crying is normal, a very fractious baby who cries for hours on end without being soothed can be exhausting. Here are some tips to help settle a fractious baby.

Establish a Bedtime Routine

Having a consistent, calming bedtime routine is important to help baby wind down and get ready for sleep. This could include activities like a warm bath, infant massage, putting on pyjamas, reading a story and singing lullabies. Keep lights dimmed, speak softly and avoid overstimulation. The routine, done in the same order each night, helps signal to baby that it’s time to sleep. This applies to all babies, including foster babies if you are with an agency like Foster Care Associates Essex.

Swaddle Your Baby

Many babies love being wrapped up snugly in a light muslin or cotton cloth - it reminds them of being cocooned in the womb and makes them feel secure. Ensure arms are down by baby’s sides rather than strait jackets across their chest as this can be unsafe. Stop swaddling as soon as baby shows signs of being able to roll over.

Use White Noise

White noise that mimics sounds from the womb, like a fan, the vacuum cleaner or special white noise baby apps, can help soothe and calm fractious babies. The constant, familiar sounds block out abrupt noises that can startle them awake. Use white noise when putting baby down to sleep, and if they stir in the night.

Employ Gentle Motion

Many babies love gentle motion and find it calming. Hold baby close and sway, rock or walk with them. Push them in their pram or put them in a sling. Drive them in the car. The repetitive motion reminds them of being rocked in the womb. You can also try special baby swings or rockers, but always supervise.

Why You Should Cut Back Your Trees

 

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Trees are a wonderful addition to the front or back yard of the home. They can provide shade from the sunlight, much needed colour to the space and they give you that literal breath of fresh air you’ve been looking for. Findingthe right trees for your yard is a wonderful thing to do for the planet - but that doesn't mean that you shouldn't be looking after them. You have to take care of the trees that you have in the front or back yards of your home, and that means taking the time to cut them back when needed.

Are you now perplexed as to why we’ve said cut them back? Well, that’s great, because we’re going to tell you exactly why it needs to be done. Of course, you don't have to arm yourself with a chain saw and do it yourself - you can call the professionals - but it absolutely has to be done. Trees provide you with the shade and curb appeal but they can also provide you with a unique set of issues. Let’s take a look why you should be cutting back your trees:

1. They’re dead or dying. Trees don't stay alive forever and they do tend to die off. This happens due to disease, age or pests in the trees and a dead or dying tree can be a safety hazard for you, too. Falling branches are a problem, it can fall over completely during a storm (not ideal!) and you could end up injured. By getting rid of the dead trees, you avoid all of that. Dead branches and limbs, peeling bark and a lack of leaves all tell you that your trees are dead or dying and should be cut right out.
   
   
2. They’re damaging your foundation. Tree roots can be pretty impressive, but they can damage the foundation of your home. Trees that are planted far too close to the house can mean that roots stretch beneath it and disrupt the house foundations. This is not ideal at all and removing those problem trees can prevent further damage. Nature will out, but it doesn't have to be out in your house foundations, right?

Top Tips for Finding Remote Jobs on Jooble: A Busy Parent’s Guide

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According to recent research, 61% of parents now want to work full-time from home. Also, 37% of busy parents would like the choice of some kind of mixed work routine as they look forward to the world after the outbreak. It’s likely that you understand why so many other parents are so eager to work from home if you are a parent hunting for a job that you can do from home. To support you in this tough journey, we have prepared a couple of tips for you.

 

1. Plan Your Childcare

Before starting your job search, ensure you have a plan for managing childcare during application and interview processes. This might involve setting up a dedicated workspace at home or arranging for childcare support during critical times.

2. Identify Flexible Roles

Look for jobs that offer flexible hours or asynchronous communication methods (e.g., email or chat), which allow you to work around your child's schedule without constant interruption. Roles like customer support via chat, data analysis, and project coordination are ideal.

3. Research Parent-Friendly Companies

Some companies offer childcare assistance or benefits that can help working parents manage their responsibilities more effectively. Research these companies to find roles that align with your needs.

4. Use Remote Job Boards and Networking

You can find remote job opportunities tailored for parents through specialized employment platforms like Jooble, with many career options available in London. So you will not suffer from a shortage of options. Networking with other working parents through social media groups can also provide valuable insights into family-friendly companies. You just need to set up the target location for the networking events — be it London, Birmingham, or any other city.

5. Highlight Your Skills Strategically

As a parent, you have most probably developed skills such as multitasking and time management. These are highly valued by employers. Ensure these skills are highlighted in your resume when applying for remote positions.

Helping Kids Understand the Importance of Faith in Their Daily Lives

 

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Is faith merely a concept, or is it a guiding light in everyday life? You might find that helping kids grasp its significance can shape their moral compass and resilience. By fostering an environment where they can explore faith through storytelling and open discussions, you’re not just imparting knowledge but also nurturing their spiritual growth. What role can family play in this journey, and how can everyday experiences transform their understanding of faith? The answers might surprise you and lead to meaningful changes in both their lives and yours.

Defining Faith for Kids

What does faith really mean to a child? At its core, faith is believing in something bigger than themselves. It might be trusting that a parent will always be there, or feeling a sense of wonder about the world around them.

For kids, faith isn’t just a religious concept; it’s about having hope and confidence in the unknown. When you explain faith to them, emphasize that it’s about believing in things they can’t see—like love or kindness—and understanding that these feelings are real and powerful.

Children often relate faith to their experiences. You can encourage them to think about times when they’ve trusted someone or something without needing proof. Maybe it’s believing that a friend will keep a secret or that a favourite toy will always be there.

By connecting faith to their daily lives, you help them grasp its importance.

Encourage open discussions about their thoughts and feelings. Ask them what faith means to them personally. This way, you foster a deeper understanding, helping them build a solid foundation that can guide them through life’s challenges and uncertainties.

The Role of Family in Faith

Family plays a pivotal role in shaping a child’s understanding of faith. When children observe their family members practising faith, it creates a strong foundation for their beliefs. Your family’s actions, discussions, and traditions can greatly influence how kids perceive spirituality.

Here are three ways you can nurture faith within your family:

1. Modelling Beliefs: Show your children how faith impacts your daily life. Whether through prayer, attending services, or acts of kindness, your actions speak volumes.

2. Open Conversations: Encourage discussions about faith. Ask your kids what they think, share your perspectives, and be open to their questions. This fosters a safe environment for exploration.

3. Creating Traditions: Establish faith-based family traditions. Whether it’s celebrating religious holidays, volunteer work, or community service, these rituals help solidify the importance of faith in everyday life.

Storytelling as a Learning Tool

Utilizing storytelling can be a powerful way to help kids grasp the nuances of faith. Stories resonate with children; they capture their imaginations and make complex ideas more relatable.

By sharing tales from various traditions, you can illustrate key principles of faith, such as love, forgiveness, and hope.

Consider using parables or fables that embody spiritual lessons. These narratives not only entertain but also spark curiosity and discussion. When kids hear a story, they’re more likely to remember its message and apply it to their lives.

You can also encourage them to share their own stories about experiences that shaped their beliefs. This personal connection helps deepen their understanding of faith, making it more than just a concept.

Remember to ask open-ended questions after sharing a story. This invites reflection and reinforces the lesson without making them feel pressured.

Incorporating storytelling into your discussions about faith creates a safe space where kids can explore their beliefs. It fosters empathy and understanding, enabling them to see faith as a living, breathing part of their everyday lives.

Encouraging Open Discussions

Open discussions about faith create a welcoming environment where kids feel safe to express their thoughts and questions. By fostering these conversations, you empower them to explore their beliefs and understand the significance of faith in their lives.

Here are three ways to encourage open discussions:

1. Ask open-ended questions: Instead of yes or no questions, try asking, “What does faith mean to you”; This invites deeper reflection and sharing.

2. Create a judgment-free space: Assure your kids that all opinions are valid and that it’s okay to have doubts. This reassurance can help them feel comfortable voicing their thoughts.

3. Share personal experiences: When you talk about your own faith journey, it humanizes the conversation. It shows kids that everyone has struggles and questions, making it relatable.

Practical Examples of Faith

After fostering those open discussions, it's helpful to provide practical examples of faith that kids can relate to in their everyday lives.

Start by encouraging them to see faith in action through small, everyday moments. For instance, when they share a toy or help a friend in need, emphasize how those actions reflect their beliefs and values.

You can also introduce them to stories from various cultures or religions that highlight acts of kindness, courage, or perseverance. These narratives show that faith isn’t just a concept but something that can inspire them to act positively.

Encourage your kids to participate in community service or volunteer work. When they help others, they’ll experience firsthand how faith can drive compassion and make a difference.

Another example could be setting family goals that require patience and trust, like saving for a special trip. This can be especially relevant for families whose children are enrolled in online public schools, where learning flexibility can provide more opportunities for such bonding activities. Explain how faith in each other and in their ability to reach that goal fosters a sense of unity and hope.

Faith in Everyday Decisions

Throughout their daily lives, kids face countless decisions that can be influenced by their faith.

It’s important to help them recognize how their beliefs can guide their choices, whether big or small. Encouraging them to think about their faith can lead to more thoughtful and ethical decisions.

Here are three ways faith can shape everyday choices:

1. Friendship: When choosing friends, kids can reflect on their values. Do their friends support their beliefs, or do they encourage negative behaviour? Faith can help them seek out friendships that uplift and inspire.

2. Honesty: In situations where honesty is tested, faith can serve as a moral compass. Kids can ask themselves if their actions align with their values, leading them to choose honesty even when it’s challenging.

3. Kindness: Decisions about how to treat others can be influenced by their faith.

Encouraging them to act with kindness aligns with many teachings and promotes a positive environment for everyone.

Keeping the Kids Safe and Happy on Every Drive: Mum Tips You Can Trust

 

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The time spent travelling with kids in the car can be both a magical and challenging experience. From exciting road trips to visiting theme parks or beloved relatives, drives with the children have their unique charm. However, it can also be a nerve-wracking responsibility, ensuring that your precious little ones are safe, secure, and entertained throughout the journey. 

When it comes to securing their safety and happiness on every drive, here are some mum-tested tips you can trust.

Car Insurance

A fundamental thing to ensure you have is a comprehensive car insurance policy. While you might wonder about the possibility of having two insurance policies on one car, it’s important to note that a singular comprehensive coverage is crucial. This goes beyond the legal requirement for insurance; it’s for your peace of mind if any unforeseen mishap ever arises during the journey. 

Essentials for the Journey

An accident is the last thing anyone wants to think about, but being prepared is vital. Always keep a first-aid kit packed and easily accessible in the car to tackle minor bumps and scratches. A supply of bottled water and snacks that your kids enjoy can also prove useful in preventing tantrums when hunger hits. And every parent knows that some easy entertainment is an essential journey partner. From simple eye spy to a whiteboard, to a tablet with downloaded programs or games, there are lots of ways to keep your little one occupied. 

Choose the Right Car Seat 

The law in the UK requires all children travelling in a car to use the correct car seat until they are either 12 years old or 135cm tall, whichever comes first. For toddlers, you need to make sure you opt for a forward-facing car seat with a harness. The importance of a correctly fitted and appropriate type of car seat cannot be overstressed for your child’s safety.

Engrossed and Entertained 

Keeping the kids content and entertained during the drive can make the experience much more enjoyable for everyone. Portable devices for watching cartoons or listening to music can be a lifesaver, especially during long journeys. Alternatively, classic car games, like 'I Spy,' and the number plate game are great if you want to limit screen time. 

Create a Calm Environment 

Traffic jams or unfortunate car break-downs can elevate stress levels, which can be sensed by the children too. Try to maintain a calm and composed demeanour to help the children stay relaxed and happy too. 

Give Responsibility 

Allow your kids to feel like a part of the journey by giving them little responsibilities. Let them be in charge of their travel bag or the snack box. This keeps them engaged and makes them feel valued and grown up. For your older children, you could even get them to navigate for you, either with a physical map or a route planner/ sat-nav.

Prep the Car for Comfort 

Ensure that your car is in top shape and that there are necessary comfort measures rolled out for your children. Whether it's maintaining an appropriate car temperature, having comfortable seating, ensuring you have sunshades for blocking harsh sunlight, or neck cushions for a comfortable nap - every little detail matters. 

Keeping your children safe and happy on every drive is indeed a mammoth task. Yet, with a bit of mindful planning, empathetic understanding, and a dash of creativity, every drive with your kids can turn into a beautiful memory. Remember, the journey matters as much as the destination, especially when you’re travelling with your loved ones. As a mum, your efforts and diligence will ensure that your children are safe and that they relish every ride with you.

 

How to Choose the Right Press-On Nails for Your Nail Type

 

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Choosing the right press-on nails can transform your manicure routine, offering an easy and stylish way to maintain beautiful nails. To find the perfect fit, consider your natural nail size and the shape that best complements your style. You can select press-ons that look seamless and natural by measuring your nails carefully. Some sizing methods involve simple tools like tape or sizing kits, making it easy to find your ideal match.

Shape and length are also key factors when selecting press-on. For longer nail beds, medium or long options often provide a more flattering appearance. Meanwhile, shorter nails may benefit from compact shapes. The right design should improve your natural nails rather than overpower them, guaranteeing a balanced look.

You can easily find the best press-on nails at Lilac St., or any other reputable brand, which offers a wide selection of stylish, easy-to-apply options. These nails are durable and available in stunning designs, perfect for any occasion. By choosing the right press-ons, anyone can effortlessly achieve a professional-looking manicure at home.

Identifying Your Nail Type

Understanding your nail type is key to choosing press-on nails that fit well and last longer. You can make a more informed choice by assessing nail shape and size, considering nail bed health, and recognizing nail texture.

Assess Nail Shape and Size

Determining the shape and size of your nails involves measuring them at their widest and longest points. Use a soft tape or a piece of paper to capture measurements accurately. People often overlook the curvature of their nails, which can impact how well press-on nails fit.

Common shapes include round, square, and almond. Knowing your natural shape will help you select suitable press-on nails. Consider both width and length, as a close fit may require some filing or trimming. This approach guarantees a more comfortable and natural appearance.

Understand Nail Bed Health

The health of your nail beds affects how well press-on nails adhere. Healthy nail beds are typically smooth and even with a light pinkish color. Check for ridges, discoloration, or spots, as these could indicate issues that might impact the longevity of press-on nails.

Maintaining good nail hygiene is important. Keep nails clean and moisturized to prevent dryness and brittleness. Healthy nails provide a strong foundation, helping the press-ons stick better and longer. Neglecting nail bed health can result in discomfort or short-lived applications.

New Year: New Home - How to Easily Inject some Colours into your Home?

 

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We've just headed into February and I'm feeling so discontent with my home this year. I'm not sure why, but I'm itching for change in 2025 and my issue is that I'm not particularly great at DIY. I don't want to spend a fortune engaging tradespeople but I also don't want to trash my house by attempting big jobs myself. So, if you are like me, limited in skills but wanting a new design in your home, read on for some easy ideas -

Change the Soft Furnishings

I know it is the classic answer but it works. You can buy cushions, duvet covers, rugs, throws, curtains etc all in the sales and for a reasonable price, so if you know you like to see changes every so often this is a good way to do it. 

If you have good storage space, you could even have two or three different sets of soft furnishings to swap to suit your mood. I have a friend who always changes their soft furnishings at the end of Winter and the end of Autumn so the colours work well with the natural light and the seasons. 

She makes sure her walls and flooring are neutral, so they work well with every colourway, and if you go for cream, beige, grey or stone bedding, again you can easily change the throws and cushions to brighten up your room and give yourself an instant boost. 

Opt for Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Did you even know there is peel and stick wallpaper available? I didn't. I must say I have never attempted wallpapering a room, as I used to watch my dad pasting, folding and hanging wallpaper when I was a little girl and it looked like a real art. He'd have his plumb line hanging to make sure it was straight, then he'd meticulously match up design features and that put me off for life.

However, peel and stick, I'd have a go at, especially when it can be applied with no more preparation than washing down your wall and when you've had enough it also peels easily off, without taking the paint and plaster with it. Genius! There are so many peel and stick wallpaper ideas out there, do take a look and see what takes your fancy. Look how easy it is to make a massive difference in the same space.

I enjoyed having a good look at all the different designs on the Love Vs Design website and the range is vast. From simple colour changes to stripes, small geometric patterns, botanicals to animals, damasks and even rainbows, there is something to suit everyone. I must say I had a bit of a soft spot for the pink cactus wallpaper. 

Update your Flooring

This can be a more costly option but it will certainly make a big change quite quickly. Whether you opt for a rug that you just need to buy and throw down or you go for a bright and intricate tile design on your floor, it will update your room and bring more colour in quickly. 

Don't be limited by your imagination, go along to a good flooring shop and speak to them for some inspiration. Have you thought about having two or three different rugs in a large space and slightly overlapping them, or use them to define different uses/ areas in a large room.

Go for the Clash

So many people think you have to choose a signature colour and stick with that in the room. Or maybe have your hero colour and add in a couple that sit close to it in the colour wheel, but if you want some serious impact and an update that will excite anyone who sees it, colour clashes can be the way to go.

I'm sure you've seen a room before where the kitchen cabinets are painted a bold colour like bright green or red and then the walls have the polar opposite and if you are bold enough, all your accessories can be in a third colourway. It really can work, you just need to have a play and see where your imagination takes you. Spend an enjoyable afternoon looking on the web. just type in colour clash home design and you'll have hundreds of pages to look through. This trend really does seem to be developing in recent years.

It doesn't matter what you choose to do, or whether anyone else likes you. You'll have to live with the changes you make and if they make you smile and bring you joy then I say that is a true win. Have fun!

Mum Life Meets Fashion: How to Keep Your Style Sharp Amidst the Chaos

 

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Being a mother is no small feat. From changing nappies to attending PTA meetings, the tasks and responsibilities are seemingly endless. In the midst of this dispersed routine, it's common for mums to lose sight of their previous way of life - one that included taking time to get ready and putting together stylish outfits. 

However, retaining your sense of style doesn't necessarily mean you have to forego your mum duties. With a little bit of thought, planning, and stocking up on some key wardrobe essentials, you can keep your fashion game on point, even amidst the chaos of motherhood. Let’s take a closer look at how to effortlessly balance motherhood while maintaining your personal style. 

 

Find Balance Between Fashion & Function

Embracing the mum life doesn't mean sacrificing your style. You can still look chic while staying comfortable and practical. Invest in good-quality basics that offer both style and ease, like stretchy jeans, flowy tops, and comfortable shoes. Don't forget to pack a few matching bikini sets for those family beach days, which provide both comfort and flair. A pair of easy-to-throw-on sunglasses and some simple yet elegant accessories can also instantly elevate your outfit, ensuring you feel stylish without compromising on function.

 

Easy-to-Style Wardrobe Essentials

Maxi dresses, loose-fitting cardigans, and wide-legged pants are fantastic pieces that are easy to put together while remaining stylish. Also, consider investing in some high-waisted jeans. They are fashionable and serve as a tucked tummy shield during those playground frolics. Versatile items like button-down shirts or knit sweaters can be mixed and matched leading you to look photo-ready at all times. 

 

Don’t Shy Away From Colours & Patterns

Dressing up as a busy mother doesn't have to mean sticking to boring, monochromatic outfits. This is where you can take out those matching bikini sets that have been waiting to see the light of day. Bright, bold colours and vibrant patterns not only add a fun element to your outfit but also cleverly disguise any accidental spills or smudges. 

 

Are plumbers regulated?

 

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When hiring a professional to work on your property in pretty much any capacity, you’ll want to make sure you get the right person for the job. We’ve all heard horror stories of ‘cowboy’ tradespeople, and it’s worth putting some effort into avoiding these situations. 

While in most cases, you’ll have to judge whether the individual or company in question is trustworthy, in others you’ll also have some regulatory frameworks to help you out. Here, we take a look at the different ways in which plumbers are regulated, and how you can use that information to help you get the right plumber for your needs.

What do plumbers work on?

Professional plumbers with the appropriate qualifications are able to work on the whole of your plumbing system in your home. That includes the water pipes, heating system, gas system, and drainage pipes on your property. While some of these will require more care than others to work with safely, all can result in serious incidents if repaired or installed in an unsafe manner by an unqualified plumber.

The different regulatory bodies

Plumbers are regulated, but not by a single entity. There are a few different regulatory bodies to be aware of.

Gas Safe Register

The most important regulatory body when it comes to plumbing is the Gas Safe Register. Any plumber who’s going to work on the gas system in your home, such as a boiler technician, must be registered on their list in order to legally work on your property. 

It’s easy to search for any plumber's name on the list, and it’s something that’s worth checking before hiring a plumber for any gas-related job. Whether that’s someone from a company like Able Plumbers or a professional who is self-employed, it only takes a second to put their name into the search box.

WaterSafe

For plumbers who work on water systems but not on gas, there is the WaterSafe register. Importantly, unlike the Gas Safe system, WaterSafe is voluntary. Plumbers do not legally need to be members in order to work on your water system, but it is an efficient and handy way of checking how trustworthy the individual is who you’re considering hiring for the job.

Qualifications

In most cases, professional plumbers will need to hold something like a Level 2 or 3 NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) in plumbing in order to work in that capacity. There are also City and Guilds Diplomas that can sometimes be used, and other plumbers may have qualified through other means. 

Regardless of how they received their training, to be authorised to work on a gas system, they will need to be Gas Safe Registered. If they say that their training was through another route but they aren’t Gas Safe Registered, then something is likely wrong and it’s worth going with another plumber. 

The regulations covering plumbers in the UK exist for your protection, and it’s important to take them seriously. By using things like the Gas Safe Register, you can help avoid using any dangerous tradespeople for any work you do on your house.