Fantastic Friday Update

Computers and a Cuppa is a service for those who need help using technology.

Drop by for free friendly, one-to-one tech help with any device—no booking needed! Whether it's setting up email, online shopping, or banking, our volunteers are here to guide you in a relaxed environment. 

Learn essential digital tools and skills to simplify your daily life!

Our next sessions are:

When: Monday 3 November from 10.30am to 12.30pm 
Where: Wyllyotts Centre, Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, EN6 2HN and The Radlett Centre, Aldenham Ave, Radlett, WD7 8HL

When: Thursday 6 November from 10am to 12pm and Friday 7 November from 12pm to 2pm
Where: Community Hub, 5 Leeming Road, Borehamwood, WD6 4EB

Have a look at our website for more information by clicking the button below. 

When: Wednesday 5 November, 10am - 11am

An online information training session that talks about Sexual Health and the issues related around it. Delivered by Metro, the session includes:

• Statistics on STIs and their symptoms
• Why understanding sexual health is important
• Testing and treatment
• Barrier methods and where to go for support with sexual health. 

This session is for those who work with people living with sexual health issues, service users within Hertfordshire, community and voluntary groups, corporate businesses, educational organisations, housing providers, local authorities, NHS trusts, youth services, and members of the public. 

When: Wednesday 12 November, 11am - 1pm

Phone: 01727 649960
Email: training@communities1st.org.uk

Our Employment Support Hub helps job seekers gain skills and experience to be seen by employers. Our expert team can help with:

• Creating online job-seeking profiles
• Writing CVs, personal statements, and cover letters
• Interview preparation techniques
• Communication tips, and more!

Appointments available at:

• Leeming Road Hub in Borehamwood every Friday, 9.30am - 3.45pm - Drop-in available or make an appointment
• Canada Life (café) in Potters Bar every Wednesday, 9.30am - 12.00pm - By appointment only

Appointments are available at other venues upon request.

Join PRONET at University of Hertfordshire (UH), a collaborative initiative between people with Parkinson’s and researchers at the UH, for an informal question and answer session with Professor Peter Jenner, Emeritus Professor of Pharmacology at King’s College London, whose decades of research into Parkinson’s disease have shaped current understanding and treatment approaches.

The session is open researchers, healthcare professionals, community advocates and members of the public, particularly those affected by Parkinson’s or supporting someone who is. 

When: Wednesday 26 November 1.30 pm – 4.30 pm
Where: The Fielder Centre, Hatfield Business Park, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9TP

Research plays a crucial role in improving health and social care services, and you can be a part of it.

Ways you can get involved:

• Take part in research - join studies that interest you and help improve healthcare services
• Share your experience - give feedback on research priorities and help shape future studies
• Become a Community Research Champion - work with us to make research accessible and meaningful to your community
• Spread the word - encourage friends, family, and community groups to learn more about research and how they can get involved.

If you would like to find out about becoming a local community research champion, visit our website or contact us via email or phone using the details below.

To find out about local research studies you could take part in, scan the QR code above. 

Email: communityresearch@communities1st.org.uk

Tel: 01727 649900

Aged 40-74? Find out about a FREE NHS Health Check near you.

Even though you might be feeling great, if you’re over 40 you may be at risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, diabetes or dementia. A free NHS Health Check can help you reduce these risks and make sure that you stay healthy.

When: Monday 24 November 10am - 3pm 
Where: Your Community Hub in Leeming Road, Borehamwood, WD6 4EB.

Appointments need to be booked in advance. Check if you’re eligible and book to be checked now.

Cold weather can bring extra challenges for our health — but a few simple steps can help you and your loved ones stay safe and well this winter.

The Winter Health Campaign brings together trusted NHS advice and local support to help you look after yourself and those around you.

• Practical Health Advice – Tips to prevent common winter illnesses, stay warm, and support friends and neighbours.
• Pharmacy First – Your local pharmacist can help with minor illnesses like sore throats, earaches, and sinus infections — no need for a GP appointment.
• Vaccinations – Protect yourself from flu and COVID-19 this winter.
• Mental Wellbeing Support – Free, confidential help is available 24/7 if you’re feeling low, anxious, or stressed.

Free CPR Awareness sessions are being run by members of the Potters Bar Life-Saving Club.

Learn about the recovery position, how to deal with an unconscious person who isn't breathing, CPR and how to use a defibrillator.

The sessions will take place at Elm Court Youth and Community Centre in Potters Bar on these dates:

• Wednesday 12 November, 7.45pm to 9.15pm
   

• Wednesday 3 December, 7.45pm to 9.15pm
   

• Wednesday 7 January, 7.45pm to 9.15pm
   

• Wednesday 11 February, 7.45pm to 9.15pm
   

• Wednesday 11 March, 7.45pm to 9.15pm

For more information and to book your place, please contact community.services@hertsmere.gov.uk or call 020 8207 7801.

Irattai/Twofold - a double bill consisting of WiW (Woman-in-Waiting) and Genesis, both are the work of artist Divya Kasturi.

The first act, WiW, inspired by Tamil Sangam poetry [dated more than 2500 years ago], is a new solo Dance-theatre by eminent Bharatanatyam artist Divya Kasturi. 

The second act, Genesis, is an ensemble choreography by Divya and influenced by Indian poet Arundhathi Subramaniam’s writings. 

When: Sunday 9 November, 4pm
Where: Trestle Arts Base, Russet Dr, St Albans, AL4 0JQ 

Tickets: Full price £17 | Concessions £15

These inclusive and fun sessions are moderate in intensity and will not only get your heart and lungs working, but also foster mindfulness. Register for the classes using the button below and get access to the Zoom links. 

If you'd like to run your own inclusive dance sessions, our online courses are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to do this. Find out more on the Communities 1st website. To book sessions, take a look at the What's on button below.

The Brookmans Park Rotary Club takes Santa and his sleigh around the local community to bring festive cheer and raise funds. They are looking for volunteers to help tow Santa’s sleigh – usually early evening for a couple of hours in December.

Celtic Harmony is looking for volunteers to support the day-to-day running of the Prehistory Centre by welcoming visitors, sharing insights about their collection, and ensuring their visitors are engaged. As a Visitor Experience Volunteer, you'll play a vital role in bringing history to life for their guests.

The Harpenden Trust is looking for dedicated admin volunteers to assist the Activity Organiser in ensuring the smooth and successful delivery of activities for clients. Volunteers in this role will be responsible for a variety of administrative tasks, including managing attendance records, coordinating bookings, handling communications, and maintaining accurate documentation. Their contribution will play a key part in creating a welcoming and well-organised environment for participants. This opportunity is ideal for individuals who are organised, enjoy working behind the scenes, and want to make a meaningful impact in their local community. Volunteers will be joining a supportive team and gaining valuable experience while helping to improve the lives of others.