Passionate Blog

Compton Hospice's major new facelift

READ all about the exciting work under way at Compton Hospice here.

We wish everyone involved well and hope it's not too stressful a time. Plans include sensory gardens, outdoor therapy areas and wheelchair accessible woodland walks.

The changes are aimed at creating an enriching environment, promoting privacy, dignity, independence and choice for patients and visitors at the hospice.

Sue Hope, director of Hope Studios and manager of the renovation project said: “Surroundings can make a huge difference to a person’s feeling of wellbeing and we want to create an environment that instills a sense of hope and inspiration as well as being inviting and comfortable."

It'll be great to see the result, so that the wonderful work carried out at Compton can continue, at full steam ahead! [Carol]

More advice for freelance writers

CONTRIBUTIONS to Press Gazette are continuing with a report on how to build a specialism as a freelance writer.

Our blog at Freelance Writing Tips is also picking up readers. Do get in touch if you have any questions. [Carol]

Microsoft Small Business Centre articles go live

FIVE articles by Linda on how new and growing businesses can make the most of technology are now online.

They are: Networking and data storage, Upgrading your IT, Integrating your communications, Virtual working and Keeping your data in synch.

Thanks to everyone who helped by sharing their advice, support and experience for these pieces. It really is much appreciated.

Mumtrepreneurs' funky togs go global

TWO ‘mumtrepreneurs’ who hatched their upmarket babywear business plan over a bottle of wine are celebrating after seeing their brand ‘go global’.

Friends Emma Williamson and Melanie Harvey, hit on the idea to combine healthy eating messages with funky, retro designs as they relaxed in Emma’s kitchen after a hard day looking after their children – and battling to get them to eat veg!

Tasty treat for Village people

WALSALL'S Village Hotel cooked up a treat for 80 VIP guests as they hosted a charity launch night for their new restaurant, Verve Grill, in aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice.

Street magician Russ Stokes conjured up some fun as he astounded with his up-close and personal tricks at the tables, and a barman from the hotel’s Victory Pub, Adam Smith, serenaded with classical tunes on the piano.

A charity auction raised £630 for Acorns Children’s Hospice, with prizes including a full spring-clean of someone’s house by the hotel housekeeping team, Verve Grill’s head chef cooking a three-course a-la-carte dinner for six at the winner’s home and a signed West Bromwich Albion shirt.

Adding some Bollywood spice

WOW! What a night. In between learning Bollywood dance moves, having henna tattoos and watching a fabulous fashion show by Coconut Couture, ladies at India Gates Restaurant's charity night raised £200 for Breast Cancer Care.
The event attracted 80 guests who all had a Bolly-Good time!

Thanks to Desi Nach Dance Troupe, Coconut Couture, Digital Aisa Entertainments, Shally's Beauty Parlour and Oxford Blue Jewellers for making the party go with a Bhangra!