Going out this Christmas? How to Use "Hi, I'm Angela" in a Pub or Restaurant if You Need Help

In today's world, ensuring safety in social spaces like pubs and restaurants is more important than ever. One campaign that has gained significant attention for its practical approach is the "Ask for Angela" initiative. 

This discreet code phrase is designed to help people feel secure and get assistance if they find themselves in uncomfortable or potentially dangerous situations while out.

Here’s a breakdown of what “Ask for Angela” is, and how you can use it effectively if you ever need help.

What is the “Ask for Angela” Campaign?

The "Ask for Angela" campaign was introduced to tackle situations where individuals may feel unsafe during a date or night out. 

Perhaps you've arranged to meet someone for the first time, or things have taken an unpleasant turn during an outing. Rather than having to publicly call out the situation, which can often be intimidating, the campaign provides a discreet and simple way to signal for help.

When you say “Hi, I’m Angela” to the staff at participating pubs, bars, or restaurants, it acts as a pre-agreed signal that you need assistance. Trained staff will then take steps to help you out of the situation discreetly.

How to Use “Hi, I’m Angela”

Find a Staff Member: If you ever feel uncomfortable, look for a member of the staff. Whether it’s at the bar, in the dining area, or near the entrance, approach them with confidence.

Ask for Angela: You don't need to explain the details of your situation. Simply say, “Hi, I’m Angela.” Most staff members in venues that support this initiative will immediately recognise the phrase and understand that you need help.

Follow Their Lead: Once you've said the phrase, the staff will know to assist you. They might offer to take you to a safe area, escort you to a taxi, or simply help you leave the situation without attracting attention. Some places may even help create a distraction if necessary, or contact authorities if the situation calls for it.

When Should You Use It?

On a Bad Date: If you're meeting someone for the first time and things don't feel right, "Hi, I’m Angela" can be your lifeline to exit the situation gracefully.

In an Uncomfortable Environment: If a stranger is making unwanted advances or the overall atmosphere is unsettling, use the phrase to signal that you're uncomfortable.

If You Feel Threatened: In more serious situations where you feel you could be in danger, using the phrase can help you get out quickly and safely without confrontation.

Why It Works

The beauty of "Ask for Angela" is that it gives you control over the situation without needing to cause a scene. It’s a subtle way of letting others know you need help, while avoiding embarrassment or escalating tension. This approach is especially useful if you're worried about how the other party might react.

Tips to Keep in Mind

Look for Participation: Not all venues may be familiar with the "Ask for Angela" initiative. Many places that do participate will display posters or information in the bathrooms or around the venue. However, it’s always worth asking even if there’s no visible sign.

Stay Aware: If you're planning to use the initiative, try to assess whether the staff looks approachable or if there’s a better time to ask (such as when the person making you uncomfortable isn’t nearby).

Stay Calm: Know that once you ask for Angela, the staff are trained to handle the situation calmly and professionally. Trust in the process.

Final Thoughts

The "Ask for Angela" campaign is a brilliant, simple, and effective way to promote safety in social settings. Whether you're on a date, having a drink with friends, or out for a meal, it’s empowering to know that help is available with just a few words. Knowing you can discreetly ask for assistance is an important tool in maintaining personal safety and ensuring a night out doesn’t turn into something uncomfortable or worse.

So, the next time you're in a pub or restaurant and feel the need for help, remember: "Hi, I'm Angela" could be your key to safety.

Stay safe, and never hesitate to use the tools at your disposal to protect yourself.

That's Food and Drink: How to Eat Healthy This Christmas: Tips for a Bala...

That's Food and Drink: How to Eat Healthy This Christmas: Tips for a Bala...: Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and, of course, delicious food. However, with indulgent meals, sweets, and festive treats all aroun...

The Disturbing Reality: 2,025 Years After Christ, His Followers Are Still Being Persecuted. What can be done?

As we approach another Christmas, it is a time for reflection, celebration, and the anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world. 

Yet, in the pre-Christmas period, while many of us prepare for festivities, millions of Christians across the globe, especially in regions like Africa, are facing persecution, homelessness, violence, and even martyrdom. 

This disturbing reality raises a sobering question: How is it that 2,025 years after Jesus was born, lived, and died for us, His followers continue to suffer so deeply for their faith?

A Disturbing Continuation of History

Persecution of Christians is not a new phenomenon. Jesus Himself warned His disciples that they would face trials for following Him: "If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you" (John 15:20). Yet, one might have hoped that after two millennia, the world would have progressed beyond the brutal intolerance that marks the treatment of Christians in some parts of the world today.

The plight of Christians in Africa is particularly heart-wrenching. From Nigeria to the Central African Republic, countless Christians have faced unimaginable violence. Islamist extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS-affiliated factions have carried out barbaric attacks, specifically targeting Christian communities. Churches have been burned, villages destroyed, and believers abducted or killed—sometimes in front of their families.

What makes this even more tragic is the relatively muted response from the international community. In an age where human rights are often championed, the silence surrounding the martyrdom of Christians in many African nations is deafening.

Why Does This Continue?

The reasons for this persecution are complex. Religious extremism, political instability, ethnic conflicts, and economic disparities all play a role. In some regions, being a Christian is equated with being an outsider or enemy, making believers easy targets for violence. 

But underlying these factors is the simple reality that darkness often rebels against light. The Gospel of Christ challenges oppressive systems, and in return, many in power, whether political or religious, lash out against those who live out the teachings of Jesus.

However, it's not just an African issue. From North Korea to the Middle East, and even in countries where Christianity once flourished, believers are still being marginalised, imprisoned, murdered or executed for their faith. The persecution of Christians is a global crisis that deserves our attention and action.

What Can We Do?

As Christians, it’s not enough to simply acknowledge this dreadful state of affairs. We must actively work to support our brothers and sisters who are suffering for their faith. So, what can we do?

Pray Unceasingly: The Bible tells us that "the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective" (James 5:16). Pray for those who are being persecuted, for their strength, protection, and courage. Pray also for their persecutors, that their hearts may be transformed by the love of Christ.

Raise Awareness: One of the most significant challenges in addressing persecution is the lack of widespread awareness. Many people, even within the Church, are unaware of the scale of Christian persecution worldwide. Share stories, educate your community, and bring attention to the suffering of persecuted Christians.

Advocate for Change: Use your voice to call for justice. Write to your government representatives, urging them to take action and provide aid to persecuted Christian communities. International pressure can make a difference, and our leaders need to hear that this issue matters to their constituents.

Support Charities and Organisations: Many Christian organisations, such as Open Doors, Release International, and Aid to the Church in Need, are working tirelessly to provide aid, advocacy, and support to persecuted Christians around the world. Consider donating to or volunteering with such groups to ensure those in need are not forgotten.

Encourage Solidarity: As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, let us not forget the global body of Christ. Encourage solidarity within your church, fostering a spirit of unity and concern for Christians in peril. Share their stories in sermons, Bible studies, and prayer groups. The Church is one body, and when one part suffers, all suffer with it (1 Corinthians 12:26).

Hope in the Midst of Darkness

Though the persecution of Christians remains a grim reality, we must hold on to hope. Jesus Himself promised, "In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). The Church has withstood centuries of persecution, and though the suffering is immense, the power of Christ’s resurrection gives us the assurance that evil will not prevail.

As we enter this pre-Christmas season, let us remember not only the manger but also the cross and the sacrifice Jesus made for all of humanity. And let us not rest while His followers continue to suffer for the same faith that we are free to celebrate. Their plight calls us to action, and as followers of Christ, it is our duty to respond.

This Christmas, let us resolve to stand in solidarity with our persecuted brothers and sisters, ensuring that their voices are heard, their suffering is acknowledged, and their faith is honoured. Together, we can be a light in the darkness, carrying forward the hope of Christ in a world that so desperately needs it.

To learn more about what you can do please visit these resources:-

https://www.opendoorsuk.org

https://releaseinternational.org

https://acnuk.org

https://www.genocidewatch.com/single-post/2020/08/07/silent-slaughter-2-decades-of-genocide-in-nigeria

https://www.ofnc.org.uk/who-we-are

https://canng.org

If you can, please help by forwarding this blogpost to a wider audience. Thank you.

Traditional Russian Christmas Feast: A Celebration of Faith and Festivity

While Christmas in the West often conjures images of turkey, mince pies, and mulled wine, the Russian Orthodox Christmas, celebrated on January 7th, offers a rich tapestry of unique and traditional feasting rituals. 

Deeply rooted in faith, Russian Christmas is less commercial than in other parts of the world and centres around family, food, and religious devotion.

A Sacred Fast

Before diving into the celebratory meal, it’s important to understand the religious context of Russian Christmas. Observant Orthodox Christians partake in a 40-day fast leading up to Christmas Eve. This fast excludes meat, dairy, and other animal products, allowing only plant-based foods. The fast is a time of spiritual reflection and prayer, preparing the soul for the celebration of Christ’s birth.

The Christmas Eve Feast

The fast ends with a Christmas Eve meal, known as "Sochelnik". This meal is modest, but it carries great symbolic weight. Traditionally, it consists of 12 dishes, each representing one of the apostles. While these dishes are still free from meat and dairy, they are rich in flavour and tradition.

The centrepiece of the meal is Kutya, a sweet, porridge-like dish made from wheat or barley grains, honey, and poppy seeds. The wheat symbolises immortality, the honey represents the sweetness of life, and the poppy seeds stand for hope. It’s customary for the head of the family to offer the first spoonful of Kutya, often throwing a small portion up towards the ceiling. It’s believed that if the Kutya sticks, the family will have good fortune in the coming year.

Other dishes typically include vegetable-based salads, pickled vegetables, Blinis (thin pancakes), Borscht (beet soup), and stewed fruit known as Uzvar. Each dish is steeped in symbolism, representing different aspects of faith and the agricultural year.

Christmas Day Celebration

Once Christmas Eve has passed and the fast is officially over, Russian families prepare a much more lavish Christmas Day feast. While there is no single prescribed menu, the spread often features hearty dishes that reflect the country’s diverse culinary heritage.

Roast goose or duck is a popular main dish, often stuffed with apples, buckwheat, or prunes. Other meat dishes such as roast pork or beef might also make an appearance. 

Fish is another important element of the meal, especially baked or stuffed fish like pike or sturgeon, seasoned with herbs and lemon.

A Russian Christmas feast is incomplete without traditional salads like Olivier Salad (a creamy potato salad with vegetables and meats) and Herring Under a Fur Coat (Selyodka pod Shuboy), a layered salad with pickled herring, potatoes, carrots, beets, and mayonnaise.

Accompanying these hearty mains are side dishes like Pelmeni (dumplings stuffed with minced meat), and Pirozhki (small stuffed buns filled with mushrooms, cabbage, or meat). These comforting dishes symbolise warmth and hospitality, hallmarks of Russian festive gatherings.

Sweet Endings

To round off the feast, desserts make a grand appearance. One of the most traditional is Pryaniki, spiced gingerbread cookies often decorated with intricate patterns. There’s also Kulich, a sweet bread, similar to panettone, often enjoyed during festive periods. Cakes, pastries, and tarts filled with fruit or nuts are also popular, reflecting the rich flavours of Russian baking.

For those seeking something a little stronger, Sbiten, a hot drink made from honey, spices, and herbs, is traditionally served. Alternatively, Vodka often plays a role in toasting, alongside Kvass (a fermented beverage made from bread) for those preferring a non-alcoholic option.

A Celebration of Faith, Family, and Tradition

Russian Christmas feasting is a time for families to come together, share in the joy of the season, and enjoy the fruits of their labour. It’s more than just a meal—each dish and drink is imbued with deep spiritual and cultural meaning. Whether fasting in anticipation or feasting in celebration, the Russian Christmas table represents centuries of tradition, faith, and community, making it one of the most memorable and meaningful celebrations in the Orthodox calendar.

The Pros and Cons of Buying Christmas gifts from Temu: Is it Worth It?

In recent years, online shopping has seen a significant rise in popularity, with platforms like Temu becoming the go-to for budget-conscious shoppers. 

Temu, a relatively new player in the e-commerce market, is quickly gaining traction, offering a wide range of products at competitive prices. But is buying from Temu really worth it?

Let’s explore the pros and cons of shopping with this platform to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Buying from Temu

1. Affordability

One of the biggest selling points of Temu is its affordability. The platform offers a vast selection of products at prices that are often lower than mainstream retailers. Whether you're looking for electronics, clothing, home goods, or beauty products, you’ll likely find something that suits your budget. For those trying to stretch their pounds, this can be a significant advantage.

2. Variety of Products

Temu is known for its extensive catalogue, offering everything from the latest tech gadgets to quirky home décor items. The platform is particularly popular for niche products that are hard to find elsewhere. This variety allows shoppers to find all sorts of items in one place, making it a convenient shopping experience.

3. Flash Sales and Discounts

Another reason Temu has gained popularity is its frequent flash sales and promotional offers. Customers can take advantage of massive discounts, limited-time deals, and voucher codes. This makes it even easier to get items at a fraction of their usual price, adding extra incentive for bargain hunters.

4. Easy-to-Use Platform

Temu’s app and website are user-friendly, offering an intuitive interface that makes browsing and purchasing straightforward. The platform provides filters, search tools, and product recommendations to help users find exactly what they need quickly. Plus, it accepts a variety of payment methods, including PayPal, making transactions smooth and secure.

Cons of Buying from Temu

1. Quality Concerns

One of the most common complaints from shoppers is the varying quality of products on Temu. While some items are of good quality, others may not meet expectations, particularly at lower price points. Since many products come from third-party sellers, it can be difficult to gauge the reliability and quality before purchase. It’s important to read reviews carefully to avoid disappointment.

2. Long Shipping Times

Temu often sources products from overseas, particularly from Asia, which can lead to longer shipping times. Standard delivery can take anywhere from two to four weeks, depending on your location and the seller’s processing speed. For shoppers expecting quick delivery, this can be a major downside. While there may be options for faster shipping, they usually come at an additional cost.

3. Inconsistent Customer Service

Customer service on Temu can be hit or miss. Some users report satisfactory experiences when dealing with issues like returns or refunds, while others have encountered difficulties getting responses or resolving disputes. As the platform is still growing, customer support infrastructure may not be as robust as with more established e-commerce giants like Amazon.

4. Environmental and Ethical Concerns

Like many online marketplaces that focus on affordable, mass-produced goods, Temu has been criticised for contributing to overconsumption and environmental waste. The platform's low-cost model encourages impulse buying, which can lead to more waste. Additionally, there are questions about the working conditions of factory employees involved in producing such low-cost goods.

Conclusion: Should You Buy from Temu?

Temu offers a wide range of affordable products, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious shoppers. Its variety and frequent sales are strong draws, but it’s important to weigh these against the potential downsides, such as longer shipping times, inconsistent product quality, and customer service issues. For those willing to take the time to research products and sellers carefully, Temu can be a good way to find bargains. However, if you prioritise speedy delivery and consistently high-quality goods, you might prefer more established platforms.

In the end, whether or not to shop at Temu depends on your shopping habits and expectations. As with any online platform, it’s always wise to approach with a bit of caution, especially when the deals seem too good to be true!

https://www.temu.com

Why You Should Buy the Love of Your Life a Genuine Barbour Waxed Jacket for Christmas

When it comes to finding the perfect Christmas gift, there’s always a pressure to choose something that’s thoughtful, stylish, and long-lasting. 

If you're looking to truly impress the love of your life this year, a genuine Barbour waxed jacket could be the ultimate present. Not only is it a timeless British classic, but it’s also practical, fashionable, and meaningful. Here's why it should be at the top of your gift list.

Fortunately for me, my Barbour waxed jacket was an early Christmas present for this Christmas. 

1. Timeless British Craftsmanship

Barbour has been a symbol of quality since 1894. Their waxed jackets are meticulously handcrafted, each piece representing the rich heritage of British craftsmanship. When you buy a Barbour jacket, you’re not just purchasing a coat—you’re gifting a piece of history. It’s a symbol of enduring quality, built to last a lifetime. This makes it a beautiful metaphor for your relationship—durable, timeless, and built with care.

2. Unmatched Durability

A Barbour waxed jacket isn’t just for show; it’s known for its resilience. Made from high-quality waxed cotton, these jackets are designed to withstand the elements—whether it’s a stroll in the countryside or a day in the city. The wax coating provides weatherproofing, offering protection from rain and wind, while also being easy to maintain. Barbour even offers rewaxing services to keep the jacket looking and feeling as good as new, year after year.

Giving your partner a Barbour jacket is a nod to both practicality and luxury. It’s a gift that proves you’re thinking about their comfort and style in all weather conditions.

3. A Statement of Style

The Barbour waxed jacket has become an iconic fashion piece, beloved by royals and celebrities alike. From Kate Middleton to David Beckham, the jacket’s effortless combination of country chic and urban style appeals to a wide range of fashion tastes. Whether your significant other prefers a classic look or enjoys more contemporary fashion, a Barbour jacket is versatile enough to suit any wardrobe.

Moreover, Barbour jackets never go out of style. Their clean lines and understated elegance ensure they can be worn year after year without looking dated. It’s the perfect balance of trend and tradition—just like a well-balanced relationship.

4. A Thoughtful, Personal Touch

Gifting a Barbour jacket can be incredibly personal. You can select from a range of styles—whether it’s the classic Bedale, the tailored Beadnell, or the modern Ashby. Each jacket can be chosen to suit your partner’s specific taste and lifestyle, making it a deeply thoughtful gift.

Barbour jackets are also customisable. With a variety of liners, hoods, and accessories, you can tailor the jacket even further. It’s a chance to show how well you know your partner, making it more than just a gift—it’s a gesture that speaks to the uniqueness of your relationship.

5. Sustainability and Longevity

In today’s world, sustainable gifting is more important than ever. Barbour’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and repair services ensures their jackets are built to last, reducing the need for fast fashion and unnecessary waste. By buying a Barbour waxed jacket, you’re not only giving your loved one a beautiful gift, but also contributing to a more sustainable future.

A well-cared-for Barbour jacket can last for decades, often becoming a beloved family heirloom. The longevity of this gift mirrors the long-term investment you’ve made in your relationship, symbolising a love that will stand the test of time.

6. The Perfect Blend of Luxury and Practicality

A Barbour jacket strikes the ideal balance between luxury and practicality. It’s something that can be worn day-to-day, but with the kind of elegance that makes it feel special every time it’s put on. When your loved one wears their Barbour jacket, they’ll be wrapped in warmth and style, constantly reminded of your thoughtfulness.

It’s a gift that’s both meaningful and useful—exactly the kind of present that will be cherished long after the Christmas lights are taken down.

This Christmas, give the love of your life a gift that’s as timeless, dependable, and stylish as they are. A genuine Barbour waxed jacket isn’t just a coat—it’s an investment in quality, sustainability, and personal style. It’s a present that reflects thoughtfulness, practicality, and love—everything that makes your relationship special.

So, why not choose a gift that can weather any storm and stand the test of time? A Barbour jacket is not only a nod to British heritage, but also a testament to the strength of your bond. Let this Christmas be one to remember with a gift they’ll treasure forever.

https://www.barbour.com/uk

The Best Christmas Hampers to Gift This Year: A Roundup of Luxurious Hampers in the UK

Image courtesy Cestas De Navidad Cestas y Lotes of Pixabay

As the festive season approaches, the quest for the perfect gift begins. There’s no better way to show appreciation and love during Christmas than with a beautifully curated hamper. 

Packed with gourmet treats, fine wines, and festive delicacies, hampers make an indulgent gift for friends, family, and colleagues alike. 

Whether you're looking for a classic selection of British goodies or something a bit more decadent, here are some of the best Christmas hampers available in the UK this year.

1. Fortnum & Mason Christmas Feast Hamper

Fortnum & Mason is synonymous with luxury, and their Christmas Feast Hamper is a showstopper. This glorious hamper is bursting with festive treats, including Christmas pudding, spiced biscuits, champagne, and their famed teas. With everything from smoked salmon to cranberry sauce and an assortment of chocolates, it’s the ultimate indulgence for any gourmet lover. This hamper exudes sophistication and is perfect for those who appreciate fine British craftsmanship in food.

Price: £225

Ideal for: Food connoisseurs and lovers of traditional festive fare. https://www.fortnumandmason.com

2. Harrods The Decadence Hamper

Harrods, a name that evokes luxury and class, offers The Decadence Hamper for those who want to go all out. It features an extravagant selection of goodies, including truffle oil, artisan crackers, a variety of cheeses, wine, and chocolate. Not only will the contents impress, but the presentation is stunning, making it a gift that will be remembered long after the holiday season.

Price: £500

Ideal for: Those seeking to spoil someone with an opulent gift. https://www.harrods.com

3. Daylesford Organic Christmas Hamper

For the health-conscious foodie or someone who loves organic products, Daylesford Organic’s Christmas Hamper is the perfect fit. Packed with sustainably sourced, organic delights like chutneys, jams, organic prosecco, and classic mince pies, this hamper balances indulgence with mindful eating. Daylesford’s commitment to organic farming and sustainability ensures this gift is both ethical and delicious.

Price: £150

Ideal for: Environmentally-conscious recipients or fans of organic foods. https://www.daylesford.com

4. Selfridges Selection Ultimate Christmas Hamper

Selfridges never disappoints when it comes to offering a luxury experience, and their Ultimate Christmas Hamper is no exception. It boasts an impressive range of delicacies, including smoked salmon, Iberian ham, Christmas pudding, wines, and chocolates. The selection is well thought out, providing a mix of traditional British Christmas favourites and premium international treats.

Price: £350

Ideal for: Those who enjoy a combination of British and global gourmet treats. https://www.selfridges.com

5. Cartwright & Butler The Connoisseur Collection

For a truly thoughtful gift, Cartwright & Butler’s Connoisseur Collection is packed with artisanal delicacies. With items such as fine preserves, Yorkshire chutney, English afternoon tea, and buttery shortbread, this hamper brings a classic British countryside feel. It’s a fantastic option for those who appreciate a touch of nostalgia and enjoy the flavours of a traditional British Christmas.

Price: £195

Ideal for: Those who love timeless British treats with a premium twist. https://www.cartwrightandbutler.co.uk

6. The White Company Christmas Hamper

Known for its understated elegance, The White Company’s Christmas Hamper is a beautiful mix of gourmet food and lifestyle products. With a focus on quality over quantity, it includes items like luxury candles, artisan chocolates, and beautifully packaged tea. It’s perfect for someone who enjoys the finer things in life, both in terms of food and home decor.

Price: £100

Ideal for: Those who love luxury and an aesthetically pleasing home. https://www.thewhitecompany.com

7. John Lewis & Partners Winter Warmer Hamper

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality, John Lewis & Partners Winter Warmer Hamper is a great choice. It features seasonal favourites such as mulled wine, spiced biscuits, and fruitcake. This hamper is ideal for warming up during the cold winter nights and is a fantastic gift for families or friends gathering for the holiday season.

Price: £75

Ideal for: A family-friendly gift or those who love traditional Christmas flavours on a budget. https://www.johnlewis.com

8. Marks & Spencer The Indulgent Hamper

Marks & Spencer is known for its quality food products, and The Indulgent Hamper brings together the best of their Christmas range. From Belgian chocolates to festive biscuits, premium wines, and classic mince pies, this hamper provides a delightful assortment that won’t break the bank but still delivers on taste and presentation.

Price: £60

Ideal for: A versatile and affordable option for friends or colleagues. https://www.marksandspencer.com

Final Thoughts

This Christmas, give your loved ones the gift of indulgence and joy with one of these luxurious hampers. From opulent selections at Harrods and Fortnum & Mason to organic and sustainable options from Daylesford, there’s a hamper for every type of foodie and gift recipient. Whether you're splashing out or seeking something more affordable, these hampers are sure to bring festive cheer to any home.

What’s your favourite Christmas hamper? Share your top picks in the comments!