Passionate Blog

City charity raises awareness on domestic violence

WE were delighted to help shine a light on the effect of domestic violence recently when we gained regional radio and newspaper coverage for a 16-day campaign to raise awareness of the plight of women and children.

The Haven Wolverhampton, an organisation set up to help women and children victims of domestic violence and homelessness, organised a series of events including a seminar, a silent vigil in the city centre and a ‘wear white’ at school/work day to highlight this often hidden issue.

The events have been planned to coincide with an international 16-day campaign that calls for the elimination of all forms of gender-based violence and runs to December 10.

We're backing the Black Country: Vote now for The People's Millions!

WHAT could the Passionate team have in common with a world class darts player I wonder?

Well apart from being a little bit fond of the odd pint and bag of nuts, we are also backing the Black Country's bid for £50 million in funding to transform the area and help show off the proud industrial heritage built on the blood, sweat and tears of our forefathers!

Raymond “Barney” van Barneveld took time out to support the campaign for The People’s Millions when he stayed at the Novotel in Wolverhampton.

'Green' computers to boost good causes

A BIG-HEARTED Burntwood business is turning unwanted computer equipment into essential office tools for local charities and good causes after taking inspiration from Channel 4’s Secret Millionaire programme.

IMPlog, which provides IT products, support and services, is offering to take away unwanted equipment from offices free of charge, carry out the work necessary for it to be reused and then donate it to a worthy cause in the vicinity.

The first equipment has already been donated to the Norton Canes Community Partnership.

Heartfelt thanks to those who have bought my book

A MASSIVE thank you to everyone who has spent their hard earned cash on my book, or been so kind about it in reviews.

It's on the 'bestselling' list (number three behind Andrew Crofts and another one) on Amazon for freelance writing and second only to gardening (in front of sex) in The Greatest Tips series, on Amazon at least.

Letting agency prepares for property boom in Walsall

A LEADING Midlands letting agency has identified Walsall as the next hot-spot for buy-to-let investors and is opening a regional office to support the anticipated growth in the rental market.

Lawsons, established in Wolverhampton for 17 years, already has a small portfolio of rental properties in and around Walsall but feels now is the time to increase their presence.

Managing Director of the firm, Sally Lawson, said: “There has been a huge amount of regeneration across the Walsall area which is attracting larger businesses and, in turn, more people to the town.

“We are expecting a considerable rise in the number of tenants looking for rental properties in Walsall and this growing population will drive investors to the area.

Code of conduct for online tribute sites launched

IT'S always rewarding to work on features that can make a genuine difference.

One such piece is published in Take a Break this week and Linda previously wrote about this for The Guardian.

While researching a previous writing project she came across various online tribute sites and became concerned, when she saw the outpourings of grief they contained, that vulnerable people could fall victim to unwanted attention.

She was further alarmed when she read reports from America that said some bereaved relatives were even insulted online and decided to suggest features to warn people of the perils.

Passionate about "people power" in Walsall...

WE are delighted to continue to work with Walsall's £52 million New Deal for Communities - which puts people at the heart of its ambitious vision, tranforming neighbourhoods and raising aspirations.

Having worked on on features and other promotional copy for this life-changing and award-winning initiative, which covers areas including employment, health and housing, we are now all set to proofread on-going marketing and news material.

Happy Birthday Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce

CONGRATULATIONS to all at Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce and Industry for a fantastic event this week which marked a decade of serving the local business community.

In a thought-provoking address, David Frost from the British Chambers of Commerce spoke eloquently about current concerns facing business and praised Cannock Chase for leading the way in regeneration, thanks to a partnership between public and private money.

Chase Chamber President Philippa Smart,of Smart Ideas, was dubbed a 'rainmaker' as storms lashed The Ramada Hotel, but its impressive Sky Room nevertheless proved a wonderful vantage point to see across Bridgtown, into Cheslyn Hay, and beyond.

Quick journalism catch-up

IT's been a busy time recently with some very interesting and worthwhile commissions. Here's a selection.

Your Family magazine: Focus on bullying

HOW can you nip bullying in the bud if your child is either the bully or the victim? Linda Jones reports. Read more.

NHS Choices: Caring for a loved one with depression

WHEN a loved one suffers from depression, OCD or has a breakdown, it’s not just their life that’s affected. Here are some tips on how to cope if you find yourself in the role of carer. Read more.

The Telegraph: Headhunted on Facebook

AS some companies ban social networks, others are using them to find recruits, says Linda Jones. Read more.

Book launch photos

SEE here for a fuller report about our recent book launch.