January was another busy month for the DL team. I’ve been busy supporting my marketing/social media clients and reviewing TV programs for the BBC. You can catch me on BBC Radio Kent every Thursday at 4.35pm.
David has also been very busy with his racing driver clients, building and upgrading websites for them, and much more. Our next networking event will take place on 10th March, with over 100 attendees expected. Visit www. dartfordlivinglive.co.uk to book your spot for this event. It’s totally free to attend!
Again, all advertising space in the February edition of DL sold out before the deadline, so if you are considering advertising, please get in touch ASAP to avoid disappointment!
In case you weren’t aware, David and I run Dartford Living alongside over 50 volunteer members of the local community. DL is the only independently run magazine, serving the local area with information and positive local stories!
Please get in touch if you would like to write an article for the magazine. If writing is not for you, then perhaps you could volunteer to deliver 100 or so magazines to your neighbours. You will guarantee your copy of the magazine and get a little exercise too!
If you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our e-newsletter mailing list and you will join over 75,000 local people who read the magazine and/or follow us on social media each month.
When you’ve finished reading the magazine please either keep it on your bookshelf, for when you need to use a local business, or pass it on to a friend or family member to read too. Vijay
Editor - Dartford Living Magazine
(and of course David and the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)
Dementia and Veterans
A warm welcome awaits at Dartford’s parkruns
Helping little ones and parents to blossom and bloom
Supporting your child’s communication. Every child has a voice
The big interview - Omid Djalili
Under the stairs
Up and coming travel hotspots for the UK market in 2026
Get up to 20%. Just quote ‘DL’
Jon’s story
By Jonathan Dix
Up until a couple of years ago, I used to be overweight. After a conversation with my doctor where I was given the news that I was pre-diabetic, I decided it was time to make a proper lifestyle change. I’m a secondary school teacher, and last year a few of my colleagues ran a marathon for charity. It got me thinking, could I take on a challenge like that too?
During a staff meeting, they mentioned running it again and jokingly said, “Why don’t you give it a go?” It was said in a slightly mocking way, and I remember thinking, ‘Alright then, I’ll show you!’
Since then, I’ve lost 4 stone through changes in my diet and regular exercise. I entered the marathon ballot but didn’t get a place the first time. I wasn’t a runner at all back then (and still don’t even really consider myself one now!), but I’m actually starting to enjoy running. I wanted to run for a cause that really means something to me, and migraine immediately came to mind.
I’ve lived with migraine since childhood and missed a lot of primary school because of it. The attacks eased off for a few years but came back later, and when they hit, they’re awful. They really do affect your life, and there’s not much others can do to help in the moment. Even at work, when people ask how they can support me, there’s often nothing practical that can be done.
I’ve often had to work through migraines because I can’t just lie down for half an hour in my role. I teach Catering, Food and Hospitality, so my subject area is very active and hands-on and I’m also head of Years 8 & 9 so I often have no real choice but to push through. Migraine does affect a lot of areas of life – I can’t drink alcohol or caffeine, for example, small sacrifices really, but they make a difference.
Despite that, I’ve come a long way. I’m now well past the pre-diabetic stage, my running is improving, and I feel so much healthier. Losing weight was the original goal, running the marathon feels like an incredible bonus. The support at school has been amazing; the students are excited for me.
This whole journey has been a huge mindset shift. Being told I was pre-diabetic was the wake-up call I needed. As a food teacher, I already had good nutritional knowledge, but I started logging everything I did and really held myself accountable.
I was also diagnosed with ADHD in my 40s, which definitely played into my motivation to run. When that person laughed and jokingly suggested I take on the marathon, that little spark of ADHD determination kicked in – I wanted to prove I could!
These changes haven’t been easy, but the benefits have been huge. My migraine attacks have become less frequent, I feel fitter and healthier, and running has become something I genuinely enjoy.
Connecting with the other marathon runners for #TeamMigraine has been great. Now we even have a WhatsApp group where we support each other, share our runs on Strava, and cheer one another on. Doing it together makes such a difference – it’s a real team effort.
If you would like donate then look here: https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/jonathan-dix
DEMENTIA AND VETERANS: UNDERSTANDING THE UNIQUE RISKS
In addition to the main risk factors associated with dementia, veterans may face unique risks linked to their military service. These risks can be elevated due to service-related factors such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and depression, as well as other contributing factors including loneliness, poor sleep, and existing health conditions - particularly cardiovascular disease.
According to the 2021 Census, there were 2,153 households in Dartford where at least one person had previously served in the UK Armed Forces. Of these veterans, 86.4% were male, and around half were aged 65 or over, placing many within an age group where dementia risk naturally increases.
Veterans living with PTSD are at a higher risk of developing certain types of dementia, including frontotemporal dementia (FTD). PTSD can make it difficult for individuals to recover from traumatic experiences, often leading to long-term mental health challenges. FTD is caused by progressive nerve cell loss that affects the frontal lobes (behind the forehead) or temporal lobes (behind the ears) of the brain. Although FTD is considered a rarer form of dementia, its impact on personality, behaviour, and communication can be significant.
Veterans living with traumatic brain injury may have experienced anything from mild concussions to more serious head injuries that result in brain damage. Those who have sustained moderate to severe TBIs are at an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia later in life. Repeated head injuries can further elevate this risk.
Veterans and those who care for them are encouraged to seek support as early as possible if they notice changes in memory, thinking, or behaviour. ADSS can provide guidance, support conversations with your GP, and help navigate the diagnosis process and the support available afterwards.
At ADSS, we are committed to supporting those in our local communities to understand Dementia.
FREE Dementia Awareness Workshops
We are offering free dementia awareness sessions for underserved and underrepresented communities across Dartford.
Our fun & interactive sessions cover:
• What dementia is
• How to reduce risk factors
• Brain health and the importance of movement
• Building and strengthening local support networks
If you would like to take advantage of our FREE workshops, please contact Emily Forster at: emily.forster@adss.org.uk
Helping to support you
We are your local independent charity supporting people affected by dementia across Kent and Medway. We deliver life changing services for people with dementia and their carers from pre-diagnosis and throughout your experience of dementia.
Please contact us if you are affected by dementia or you would like to support us:
General enquiries
01474 533990
info@alz-dem.org www.alz-dem.org
ADSS
Facing dementia together
How we can support you: Dementia Coordination Advice, information & guidance in person, over the phone and by email.
Dementia Wellbeing Local community fun and friendly activities and support groups.
Dementia Care Active and fun filled days at The Beacon day service and support in your home with daily living.
Whatever the weather, there’s always a warm welcome at Dartford’s parkruns
By Stuart McTeer
It’s not hard to spot a parkrun event on a Saturday morning in Dartford. You’ll see groups of people of all ages laughing, smiling and chatting with fellow participants before everyone sets off on their 5-kilometres long run, jog or walk at 9AM.
On Sunday mornings it’s the turn of junior parkrun, with the excited chatter of children’s voices echoing across the park ahead of their 2-kilometres long activity, also at 9AM.
Everyone is welcome at parkrun. There’s no entry fee to join or requirement to have ever exercised before. There’s no uniform, no commitment to turn up every week, and there’s no age limit as long as you’re over the age of 4.
What’s more, living around Dartford, we are spoilt for choice with three very scenic 5km routes to try out on a Saturday morning.
Dartford parkrun is held in beautiful Central Park, while Dartford Heath parkrun’s attractive course takes in heathland and a wood. Whitecliffe Lake parkrun at Castle Hill is the newest event and its lakeside route has quickly become a hit.
On Sundays, you’ll find junior parkrun events which are designed for 4–14-year-olds at Dartford’s Central Park and the Swanscombe Heritage Park.
People just need to sign up once for a barcode, which is done by searching online for ‘register for parkrun’.
The volunteers make everyone feel welcome
All the local parkruns are overseen by volunteers who work hard to ensure everyone feels included.
Barry Nicholson is Event Director for the Dartford event and highlights how a special briefing for first time attenders is always held at 8.50am, ten minutes before the start.
“We recognise people may be nervous and in attempting something new may be out of their comfort zone. We are a
welcoming group of local people who are just pleased that you are out exercising”.
Despite the parkrun name, people who want to turn up and walk are also invited.
“We have people who have never run or jogged 5K before, but every week walk the parkrun. There are people recovering from various illnesses who find walking parkrun helps in their recovery”, says Barry.
People return again and again
What’s obvious in the eleven years Dartford has been hosting parkrun events is how popular they’ve become, with hundreds of people returning every week.
Teenager Neve recently completed her final ever junior parkrun at Central Park. Now 15-years old, she did her first event aged just 7.
To celebrate this fantastic milestone, she was awarded a special certificate by Kent Deputy Lieutenant Kelvin Holford, who is himself a regular parkrunner.
“I liked seeing my friends that I made through parkrun and it’s been a good way to set myself goals like improving my time. My target is now to just continue improving my times in all distances,” says Neve.
The local events have recently been visited by the Dartford Mayor and Mayoress, Council Leader Jeremy Kite and Jim Dickson MP along with athletics legends Dame Kelly Holmes and Adam Gemili.
However, whoever they are, on Saturday at 9AM or at a junior event on Sunday morning, everyone is always welcome to take part at parkrun.
What happened when the family of parkrun volunteer Coralie joined parkrun
I recently had some family members over from Belgium where parkrun does not exist (yet). I have talked about parkrun many times over the years, as this is part of our weekly activities for my daughters and myself. I suggested we all join the event at Dartford’s Central Park that was taking place, and they were quite keen to experience it.
When we arrived, a lovely volunteer who was doing the briefing for first timers, welcomed us warmly and even greeted us in French, which was a nice touch. After a few words about Dartford and its history, she described how parkrun works, what everyone needs and explained the route. She insisted that everyone is welcome to join, whatever their pace.
This turned out to be a fantastic experience for each of us as my nephew and nieces have very different running abilities. They all could run the way they wanted without any pressure and could enjoy it the way that suited them.
My family all came back saying it was a lovely initiative and do not understand why this does not take place in their own country. They might now keep an eye on the parkrun map and see whether there might be an event happening next time they go abroad.
Helping Little Ones – and Parents – to Blossom and Bloom
By Anna Simmons
My name is Anna Simmons, I’m a mum of two, and the founder of Blossom Babies and Blossom Tots. Blossom Babies and Blossom Tots were created from my heartfelt love of working with young families and the pure joy of watching little ones grow, develop and begin to flourish in their own unique way.
For over 13 years, I have worked across a variety of early years settings, gaining training in Sensory Development, Baby Massage, Baby Yoga and Sign Language (BSL/Makaton). Alongside this professional experience, becoming a parent myself gave me a whole new perspective on just how challenging – and wonderful – those early years can be. Parenting, especially at the beginning, can feel overwhelming, and it’s so easy to lose a sense of yourself. I wanted to create a nurturing, welcoming space where parents and children could bond, feel supported and grow together. Blossom Babies was created with exactly that in mind.
At Blossom Babies, everything we do is research-based and backed by science. The first three years of life are the most important period for brain development, laying the foundations for future learning, emotional wellbeing and relationships. Babies’ brains develop through movement, sensory exploration, repetition and loving connection, and our sessions are carefully designed to support this in a gentle, joyful and meaningful way.
Blossom Babies is suitable from birth up to pre-walking and is thoughtfully split into non-crawler, crawler and mixedage groups. Each 45-minute session is fully led by your class leader and designed to be interactive, engaging and purposeful. Every week brings a new theme, while still following a familiar, reassuring routine. We always begin with our signature “Wake Up Toes” song and end with our much-loved “Thank You” song. Along the way, I explain the learning and developmental benefits in a fun, accessible way, helping parents understand just how incredible their babies truly are. Most importantly, these sessions create meaningful moments of connection and memories to treasure for years to come.
As children grow and become more confident on their feet, Blossom Tots offers the next step. Designed for young toddlers who are actively moving and exploring the world around them, these sessions introduce a whole new dynamic. While we still use our favourite sensory props, the focus shifts towards movement, listening, social skills and fine motor development. Each 45-minute session begins with the same three familiar songs, before moving into the weekly theme, providing structure while allowing plenty of space for curiosity and fun.
Based in Bexley, Dartford and the surrounding areas, Blossom Babies and Blossom Tots have been running for four years. My hope is that Blossom Babies continues to be a place where families feel supported, confident and reminded that they’re doing an amazing job –helping both parents and little ones to truly Blossom. ��
To follow our journey or book a class, find us on social media or get in touch — we’d love to welcome you to Blossom. www.blossombabies.co.uk
For many, Christmas is “the most wonderful time of the year.” But behind the lights, music, and festive gatherings, this season can also bring added pressure. From the trying to fit everything in, the financial strain, family dynamics, or feelings of loss, grief and loneliness, the holiday period can be emotionally demanding. Taking care of your mental health during this time is just as important as looking after your physical wellbeing. With a little planning and self-compassion, it is possible to enjoy the season while protecting your peace of mind. Firstly, ignore what social media is telling you about what the perfect Christmas should look like. It can be easy to feel the pressure when flicking through Tik Tok, seeing stunning decorations, the must have gifts this year and matching pjs for the whole family, dog included!
Remember not everyone will be spending Christmas surrounded by family or friends. It can often highlight feelings of loneliness and isolation. Keep an eye on neighbours and friends you know might be alone, why not invite them round for a mince pie? If you’re feeling lonely, consider attending a local social lunch, either as a participant or a volunteer.
Setting a New Standard in Homecare
At Vitality Home Health, we deliver compassionate, personalised care tailored to your unique needs—right in the comfort and safety of your own home.
Whether you’re recovering after a hospital stay, need daily assistance, or require specialised medical support, we’re here to help.
Striving for perfection often leads to stress and disappointment and instead of focusing on having fun and the things that matter to you most, you end up exhausted and drained. Think about what you want from the holiday season. Snuggling up under a blanket watching Christmas films, spending time with friends you haven’t seen in ages, enjoying Christmas your way. It’s easy to fall out of our normal routine over the holiday period, no work or school the next day can lead to staying up late, extra commitments, festive parties, and overindulging in food and drink which can leave us feeling a bit out of sorts. Wherever possible, maintain elements of your usual routine, such as a consistent sleep schedule, regular exercise, and balanced meals. You know yourself best and learn to listen to your body and mind. Including small pockets of rest, like a short walk or a quiet cup of tea, can help recharge your batteries.
Our Services – Dedicated to Your Wellbeing
• Personal Care & Hygiene
• Medication Assistance
• Dementia & Alzheimer’s Care
• Pet-Friendly Care
• Mobility & Transportation Services
• Overnight Care
• Live-in Care
• Meal Preparation
• Housekeeping & Home Management
• Friendly Companionship Home to Decide Service
Gift-giving can be a source of stress, especially when money is tight. Remember that thoughtfulness is more valuable than price. Homemade gifts, acts of service, or shared experiences can be just as meaningful as store-bought presents. Planning a secret Santa at work or with friends? Keep the price low and do some good for others by challenging your group to buying from a charity shop.
Plan ahead of time and be your future friend. You’ll always be more successful if you plan to do something, than last minute panic buying.
Remember, it’s okay to say no. Christmas brings with it work events, social nights out and some will give you energy, some will drain you. Choose the activities that bring you joy and politely decline what you don’t want to do. Healthy boundaries are an important part of selfcare. If you think things are going to be busy, think about blocking out time for doing nothing.
Exceptional Care, Delivered at Home
It’s normal to feel a mixture of emotions during the holidays, it can be tiring and overwhelming. Be kind to yourself and think about what you need in the moment and give yourself permission to put your wellbeing first. If this time of year feels particularly difficult and your mental health is suffering, consider talking to a professional. Speaking with a GP, counsellor, or mental health service can provide valuable support and guidance.
Parent & Toddler Groups
Dartford Libraries
Baby Rhyme Time:
A free, fun and noisy way for under 3s to develop a love of language and a foundation for learning. Each session lasts about 20 minutes and includes the opportunity to join in with nursery rhymes and action songs. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Dartford Library - Mondays 10.30 – 11.00 – Term time only
Dartford Library - Mondays 11.15 – 11:45 – Term time only
Fleetdown Library - Tuesdays 10.30 – 11.00 – Term time only
Greenhithe Library - Fridays 10.00 – 10.30 – Term time only
Longfield Library - Thursdays 10.45 – 11.15
Summerhouse Drive Library - Tuesdays 10.30 – 11.00 – Term time only
Temple Hill Library – Wednesday 2:15 – 2:45 – Term time only
Storytime:
Listening to stories is a great way to develop and encourage young children to read books. Come and join one of our free storytime sessions for pre-school children - it’s great fun! Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Dartford Library - Thursdays 10.30 – 11.30 – Term time only
Children’s Craft and Activity Time:
A fun free craft and colouring session for children. This group aims to bring children aged 4-11 together to chat and make new friends. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Dartford Library – Saturdays 11.00 – 13.00
Sutton-at-Hone Library – Mondays 15.00 – 16.00 – Term time only
Temple Hill Library – Saturdays 10.30 – 1.00
Baby Playground:
An exciting programme of creative play sessions for young children, has begun across Kent. Led by a team of brilliant artists and musicians, families with babies (aged 0 to 18 months) can share creative play. Book up to 2 weeks in advance at playgroundkent.co.uk
Dartford Library – Fridays 10.30 – 11:15 – Term time only – Booking required
Family Playground:
Join our amazing Playground artists for some creative play and fun specially designed for children 5 years and under to share with their parents or carers. The group sessions are fun and engaging, led by a brilliant team of artists and are completely free. Book up to 2 weeks in advance at playgroundkent.co.uk
Dartford Library – Last Saturday of the month 13.30 – 14.30 – Booking required
Other Parent and Toddler Groups
Monday 9:15am - 11:30am - A&J Toddlers - St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. £2.50 per one adult and child and 50p for any extra children or adults each. Tea/coffee biscuits, small snack for children with juice. Craft table and singing and dancing at end of session Contact Julie on 07917 843592.
Sing and Sign Orchard Shopping Centre - Mondays - 9.30am - 10.15am Toddlers 10.15 - 11am 6 months - 14 Months 11am - 11.45am Under 6 Months.
Bexley Park Sports and Social Club - Thursdays 11.am - 11.45am 6 months - 14 Months 11.45am - 12.30pm Under 6 months
Tuesday 9.30am-11.30am - Sticky Fingers - £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy snack time for the children For pre school children up to 4 years. St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com
Friday 9.30am-11am - Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child- £1 Non Walkersfacebook.com/ToeRagse
Friday 10.30am – 12.30 - Mummy’s Linkup - on the 4th Friday of each month., Temple Hill Community Centre
Saturday 2-3pm - Lego Club- ages 5 and over - Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602
Sundays 10:15-10:45 - Little Tigers - Karate for 3, 4 & 5 year olds - Swanscombe Leisure Centre. Call Saj on 07903 51310
Singing Mamas Mondays 10am- 11:30am Tree Community Centre, Cedar Rd, DA1 2RS
Singing Mamas is a singing for wellbeing group for women. Babies and little ones are welcome too. No prior singing experience needed- come and join us for singing, joy, connection and cake!
For more details and to book a free taster session contact singingwithmarianna@gmail.com
NEW CLASSES IN HEXTABLE, SWANLEY AND BEXLEY info@blossombabies.co.uk 07794451386 www.blossombabies.co.uk
BABYBALLERS Themed Football and multi skills sessions are suitable for girls and boys aged 16 months to 5 years old.
Your little superstar will learn shapes, colours, numbers and lots, lots, more all through playing the BabyBallers way!
Classes in Dartford, Northfleet, Gravesend and Ebbsfleet on Fridays and weekends.
Please visit babyballers1.class4kids.co.uk or email matt@babyballers.com
Local Groups
EAST DARTFORD BENEFICE, ST ALBAN AND ST EDMUND CHURCHES - www.2dartfordchurches.org
St Alban’s Church, St Alban’s Road, DA1 1FT
ST ALBAN’S COMMUNITY HUB. Wednesdays 11:00 - 2:00pm. Hot food and drink, a warm welcome, friendship, help and advice. Sharing links to local services and partnership agencies to support our community.
STEPPING STONES TODDLER GROUP. Wednesdays, 8:30am – 11am. Free to join, lots of toys, books and opportunities to make new friends, tea/coffee, juice, biscuits.
3RD DARTFORD, ST ALBAN’S BROWNIES. Fridays, from 5pm (Rainbows) and 6:15pm (Brownies). Weekly group held at St Alban’s Church.
ST ALBAN’S KNIT & NATTER. Saturdays (1st and 3rd of the month), 10am – 11:30am. Your opportunity to come and join this lovely group, come and knit or crochet, learn or teach someone else, tea/coffee and a lot of nattering.
St Edmund’s Church, St Edmund’s Road, DA1 5ND CAFÉ @ ST EDS. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays. 9.30am – 2pm. Serving a wonderful range of food, drinks and daily specials. Café is open on Thursdays serving a limited menu as we have a 2-course meal for £5 available (pre-booking advised).
KINDNESS & WELLBEING GROUP. Tuesdays, 9:30am – 11:30am. Make new friends, chat over a cuppa, mindfulness and wellbeing resources and support.
OVER 60’S GROUP @ ST EDS. Thursdays, 11:30am – 3pm. 2 course hot lunch for £5 served from 12noon (pre-booking advised), followed by Raffles and Bingo from 1pm – 3pm, prizes galore.
LITTLE EDS TODDLER GROUP. Fridays, 9am-11am. Free to join, lots of toys and opportunity to make new friends. St Eds Café is open.
Dartford District Libraries Activities and Events: For Adults:
Knit & Natter:
Enjoy knitting or crochet? Come along to our friendly group, meet new friends and enjoy a chat. Everyone is welcome from beginners to expert knitters and crocheters. Sessions are free but please provide your own materials.
Ashen Drive Library - Tuesdays 10.30 – 12.45
Dartford Library - Wednesdays 1.30 – 3.30 – Full
Dartford Library – Saturday 10:30 -12:30 – Booking is essential
Fleetdown Library – Friday 10.00 – 12.00
Longfield Library - Every other Thursday 11.15 – 12.30
Summerhouse Drive Library - 3 rd Tuesday of the month 2.00 – 3.30
Talk Time:
Come along to our free friendly group, meet new friends and enjoy a cuppa and a chat. Everyone is welcome.
Fleetdown Library – Friday 11.00 – 12.30
Longfield Library - Every other Thursday 11.15 – 12.30
Summerhouse Drive Library – 2 nd and 4 th Friday of the month 2.00– 3.30
IT Buddies:
Book a session with one of our volunteer IT buddies for help with basic computer queries. These sessions are not classes and our IT buddies cannot help with filling out forms due to Data Protection Regulations. Contact your local library for availability.
Clubs at the Orchard Theatre
Chair Fit –Seated Exercise Class, Every Monday, 10:15am-12:15pm at Orchard West. £5 per session. Email tmccann@orchardtheatre.co.uk for more information.
Orchard Theatre Choir – A friendly daytime choir, Every Tuesday, 10am-12pm at Acacia Sports Hall. £7.50 per session. Email tmccann@orchardtheatre.co.uk for more information.
Ukulele Club – Suitable for all abilities, Every Thursday, 11am-1pm at Acacia Sports Hall. £7.50 per session. Email tmccann@orchardtheatre.co.ukfor more information.
Would you like your group/ club or society featured on these pages? Email wtgl@dartfordliving.com for a FREE listing
North Kent Embroiderers
Learn new techniques, make friends and enjoy interesting talks, workshops and demonstrations. Absolute beginners and more experienced stitchers welcome.
We meet on the third Saturday of every month except August from 2-4pm in Southfleet Village Hall, Southfleet, Gravesend, DA13 9NX or by Zoom if necessary.
Visitors are very welcome. website: www. northkentembroiderers.co.uk email: info@ northkentembroiderers.co.uk phone: Eileen on 01474 324734
Dartford Music School
Want to learn to play or sing? For all ages and abilities, we have something for you. We offer a variety of music learning activities based at The Mick Jagger Centre including Individual Instrumental Lessons, group sessions with Red Rooster, Dartford Youth Choir and DMS Orchestra!
Dartford socials for the over 30’s more information visit: www.meetup.com/dartford-socials-for-the-over-30s
Dartford u3a
Meets on the first Tuesday of every month (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, West Hill, Dartford at 2 p.m.
We offer a warm welcome and the opportunity to meet new people, join others in activities and explore new interests. For more information about meetings and interest groups visit dartford.u3asite.uk
Knit & Natter: bring your own project. Alternate Mondays, 10.1512.30. Free with donation for refreshments. Contact communitysupport@ymcatg.org
RNEW Digital Kent:
Get Digital! Whether you need support with using your tablet, the NHS app or just getting online.
We’re here to help! To book onto a session and find out more, please visit digitalkent.uk or call 03000 410 950.
Longfield Library – Fourth Monday of the month 2.00 – 4.00
Sutton-at-Hone Library – Last Tuesday of the month 10.30 – 12.30
Temple Hill Library – 2 nd Monday of the month 10.00 – 12.00
Pavilion Players Amateur Dramatics Group - Joydens Wood
We are an amateur dramatics group who meet every Tuesday 8-10pm at Joydens Wood Community Centre. Whether you want to stand in the spotlight, hide behind the scenes, or have worldclass tea-making abilities, we’re always on the lookout for new recruits! There’s nothing like the buzz of putting on a show, so why not take the plunge and join us.
Contact us now at pavilion_players@hotmail.com Social media: linktr.ee/pavilionplayers"
Home Library Service:
We can deliver library items to you if you cannot visit a library due to illness, disability or your caring responsibilities. After visiting you to discuss your tastes and needs, staff will select suitable material for you. A volunteer will deliver your books, DVDs or other items and collect ones you are finished with. Contact your local library for availability.
Supporting Your Child’s Communication: Every Child Has a Voice
Communication Grows Through Relationships
Whether it’s a baby’s smile or a child’s first words, communication is how children connect with the world. It includes listening, understanding, expressing feelings and building relationships. Supporting communication from the earliest years helps children develop confidence, friendships and strong foundations for learning.
Communication is one of the most important life skills a child will develop. Children rely on speech, language and communication to play with others, understand routines, manage emotions and succeed at school. Research shows that a child’s vocabulary by age five is a strong indicator of later academic success, highlighting the importance of everyday interactions. Communication skills grow most when children are engaged in meaningful, responsive interactions throughout daily life.
Children learn to communicate through warm, responsive interactions with the adults around them. Specialist resources are not needed- just time, attention and connection. Talking together throughout the day, listening carefully, and showing genuine interest in what your child expresses all make a difference. Simple strategies include having regular conversations, getting down to your child’s level, following their lead, and giving them time to respond. Facial expressions, gestures and tone also play an important role, as communication is not only about words.
Everyday routines such as mealtimes, bath time, shopping or travelling provide rich opportunities for language development. Sharing books, songs and rhymes, introducing new words during play, and talking about everyday experiences all help children to build vocabulary naturally. Early language grows best when it feels joyful, meaningful and connected to real life.
Creating a Communication-Friendly Home
A communication-friendly environment is one where children feel listened to, valued and encouraged to express themselves. Responding to baby babble, copying their sounds, commenting on what they are doing, and pausing to allow them to join the “conversation” are all powerful ways to support early communication. Sharing books daily and using simple games like peek-a-boo or action rhymes strengthen early listening and turn-taking skills.
Supporting Inclusion: Different Ways to Communicate
Children develop at different rates, and some may need additional support with communication. Inclusion means recognising that every child communicates in their own way and that all attempts at communication are meaningful. Using signs alongside speech, such as Makaton, can support understanding and reduce frustration for many children. Visual tools like choice boards, picture cards and Now and Next boards help children understand routines and make choices, reducing anxiety and increasing confidence.
Play: A Powerful Tool for Language
Play is one of the most effective ways to support communication. Imaginative role play, messy play, puzzles, rhyming books, puppets and simple board games encourage language, listening and turn-taking. When playing with your child, try commenting on what they are doing rather than asking lots of questions.
When to Seek Support
Some children find talking or understanding language more challenging. If you have concerns about your child’s communication, trust your instincts and seek advice early. We know that early support can make a significant difference. Every child has a voice. By creating inclusive, communication-rich environments at home and within our community, we help children feel heard, valued and supported to reach their full potential.
Pancakes
By The Little Lavinia Bakery
Tuesday 17th February is Shrove Tuesday this year and that means we will be making and eating lots of Pancakes.
This year I’d love you all to make your pancakes from scratch – it’s unbelievably easy!
If you have a protein shaker bottle and a plastic kids’ beaker I have a great recipe and a relatively mess-free method for quick and easy pancakes.
The recipe works equally well in a mixing bowl but possibly with a little more mess.
Look out for a video on the Dartford Living Facebook page if you’d like a little more instruction!
What to do:
What you will need
1 Egg
1 Beaker Plain Flour (approx. 100g)
1 Beaker Milk (approx. 200ml)
Various toppings – Sugar and Lemon Juice/ Chocolate Yoghurt/FruitSpread/
Preparation – shaker bottle method
Add one egg to the bottom of the bottle (this is important to ensure mixture doesn’t get stuck in corners of bottle)
Add a beaker full of plain flour, followed by a beaker full or milk. Pop the mixer disc/whisk in and secure the lid. Shake until the contents are fully combined
Preparation – mixing bowl method
Add one Egg to a large mixing bowl. Add a beaker-full of sugar and a beaker-full of milk to the bowl. Whisk until completely combined and smooth.
To cook
Ensure your mix is nice and smooth and not too thick. Add a small knob of Butter to a large frying pan and place on a medium heat. When the butter is melted and starting to bubble, pour in pancake batter until the bottom of the pan is just covered. You may need to tilt the pan to get the bottom completely covered. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom starts to colour, then flip and cook for about 1 minute on the other side. Serve immediately.
We like to make Pancake ‘nachos’ in our house. Cut your pancakes into wedges and serve with a bowl of yoghurt for dipping and bite sized pieces of fruit.
The Big InterviewOmid Djalili: ‘NAMASTE’ TOUR
Omid Djalili has never been more serious about his stand-up. As he takes to the road with his new show Namaste, he talks to Mark Wareham about putting a funny spin on the state of the world and how being cancelled post-9/11 makes him the perfect comedy ambassador for these tumultuous times
How long is it since your last tour?
Well, you can’t really call it a tour. It was during Covid and very few came out but I did it anyway. I threw out all my material and made it all about Covid. We finished at the Hammersmith Apollo, it was one of the first gigs back there, and it was full of anti-vaxxers. December 18, 2021 and 2,600 people showed up. It wasn’t socially distanced, it was a big superspreader event. There was a march that day so they all piled in.
Can you explain a bit about the new show Namaste. Well, I’ve always tried to be nice about people but this time I can’t. The world is in such a terrible state. At the end of the day the whole purpose of comedy is not just making people laugh. That’s not the end game. When you talk about the means to an end, the means is comedy but the end is to actually make sense of what’s going on. And because I’m from the Middle East, I feel I do have some answers. People come to me as some kind of bridge, like a cultural stopgap, as someone to spread light on things. People don’t get what’s going on. They don’t get the connection between Iran and what’s going on in Gaza, they didn’t get what’s going on with Joe Biden attacking Syria and Iraq. It’s me trying to use comedy to make it more palatable for a British audience to understand what’s going on. So I’ve put my hat in the ring.
So it’s a more considered, rational response, rather than a Mr Angry approach? Yeah, the tour poster is a picture of me with steam coming out of my ears. I’m angry but it’s a controlled anger and it’s considered. Audiences are really appreciative of that. So many people want to hang around afterwards. They say ‘thank you’, not ‘Oh mate, that was hilarious.’ It’s making sense of things. You give them a glimmer so people have some sort of handle on the situation.
Do the cancel culture warriors need to be on high alert for this tour?
Cancel culture is a real thing. We’re always on the edge of being cancelled. We’re one joke away from having a TV series taken away or being kicked off a film. But I feel I’m old enough not to care anymore. I’ve been watching people like Seann Walsh and Louis CK and I kind of wish that I was cancelled cos they reach a level in their comedy where they just don’t care. Seann Walsh was this wide-eyed young guy doing Strictly and didn’t realise he was going to be so pilloried in the press. It’s given him a kind of ‘I don’t care anymore’ attitude. It’s a release. Nothing can get worse and you’ve nothing to lose. And that’s when people are at their funniest. So you either do that by getting cancelled or just by getting old. In my case, I’m just too old to care.
It’s almost 30 years since your debut. Do you feel your material has changed a lot in that time? I was terrible back then. I look back at myself and it was appalling. I didn’t really want to do it. All my friends used to say, you’re funny you should get up there and do it. So I thought I’d give it a shot, but I didn’t really care much about it. It was only when 9/11 happened and I thought this is something serious I could have a voice about. I worked with Whoopi Goldberg 20 years ago when we did a sitcom together in America. I did some shows in New York and people were saying he’s good but he’s not quite top level. And Whoopi said, ‘Yeah, that’s what they said about Richard Pryor.’ And she made this connection between me and Pryor, and I said I’m not having that. But she said, ‘No. For your people,’ – and we’re talking about a whole gamut of countries and cultures from the Arab States, Iran, Pakistan, India – ‘for brown people, you are the first.’ So, like Richard Pryor, you do stuff that is geared towards white, middle America or middle England, and they will love you for it, but you won’t get really good until you become authentic. That’s what she was saying. As you get older that authentic voice will emerge. So she made me promise not to stop doing stand-up. And she said soon you’ll see others being inspired by you. And I thought, really? But I have seen people
come through like Guz Khan, Romesh Ranganathan, who’ve told me I gave them the confidence to do it. So if I have inspired people that’s great. But Omid Djalili in the 1990s is definitely not my cup of tea. I looked a mess. I didn’t know how to dress, wore the wrong colour boots with the suit, I just looked like a fat, mentally ill person but I was at least trying to write recognisably good stand-up. So I try and forgive myself, but I’m much happier with what I’m doing now.
Do you feel, intrinsically, because of who you are, it’s impossible for your act not to be political? Yeah, it’s impossible. People would just be disappointed. I love Tim Vine. I went to see his show and he made me laugh from beginning to end. But if I did that to my fans I’d be hanged from a lamppost. They’d say, ‘What are you doing? There’s all this stuff going on. Are you seriously not going to mention the Woman, Life, Freedom movement? Are you seriously not going to make fun of this regime?’ So I do feel obligated, yes. For someone in my position and from my background, it would be remiss not to. But the trick is you’ve still got to make it funny…
Well, I was talking to Sean Lock about this before he died and he said if I do have a political thing to say, I’ll make it funny. But I’m not going to stand there and do slogans. And there’s a bunch of us who’ve always felt that. Unless it’s funny, I’m not even going to bother. I’ve got reams and reams of notes of things that have outraged me, but if there’s no joke there then I won’t inflict it on the audience.
What else can audiences expect from you? Obviously the usual swagger, a bit of dancing, any singing? There’s always going to be a be a little bit of singing and dancing, but it’s mostly a systematic look at the state of the world and a systematic look at myself. The first third of the show is about me. And the journey I’m going to take you on, I could get cancelled for. So I talk about the times I have been cancelled, and the whole Israel-Palestine thing is in the context of me having been through this before because after 9/11 I was cancelled. Before the days of cancel culture, I was cancelled. I called my manager on September 12 and I said, ‘There’s a gig with Jack Dee tomorrow, I presume that’s not going ahead.’ And he said, ‘Yes it is, but not with you. All your gigs are gone until Christmas, nobody wants to have you on. They don’t trust you.’ And I said, ‘So they think I’m a terrorist?’ And he said, ‘Well, there’s an association.’ And I said, ‘So they think I’m a sleeper cell.’ And he said, ‘Yeah.’ And then I asked him, ‘You don’t think I’m a sleeper cell?’, and he paused… So I knew I had to do something. A lot of people think my career was made by 9/11 but no, I saved my career with comedy, cos I really believe that comedy is stronger than politics. Someone who is cancelled can joke their way out of it. I was never really cancelled for my jokes, I was cancelled for who I was. So it’s the journey of how I resurrected my career after 9/11. And because I’ve been through this before, I can look at what’s happening in Israel and Palestine, and this terrible global situation where we’re on the verge of Third World War… and the idea is, what can I do to avert it? I have no say, but I can certainly put out some thoughts and ideas that will have a little influence.
You had to cancel a show in Shropshire, just after the October 7 attacks, are you worried about any repeats of that?
Who would have thought that calling for a ceasefire and calling for peace would get you cancelled. Some people had written to the venue saying we’d like to speak to Mr Djalili about his stance on Israel. And they cancelled it, I didn’t ask them to cancel it. I could have handled it but if you feel there’s a security risk then that’s not good. But it doesn’t stop me, it was the venue’s decision. I would never cancel a show.
Are you taking your great mate Boothby Graffoe on the road with you?
Yes I am. I’m very lucky to have someone of his standard as a support act. If he does his A material he’ll blow me off the stage! He’s very kind, he’ll listen to my show in the dressing room and tell me, I only winced six times. He’s like my comedy police. He’s got a few new songs and he creates a very nice atmosphere.
What are you like on the road these days? Were you a bit rock ’n’ roll back in the day?
I’m always moved by meeting people after my shows. There’s always a gaggle of people I go and meet. That’s the only rock ’n’ roll thing I do. I like to talk to people afterwards. But mostly I’m just trying to make the show better. That’s my focus. Make it even funnier.
Omid Djalili will be performing in Dartford at the Orchard Theatre on 7th February. Tickets can be purchased from orchardwest.co.uk
Jim Dickson MP for Dartford
From the day I was elected last July, I have been working hard in Parliament and across the local area to support our communities and to carry my Dartford constituent’s voice and priorities to Westminster.
I am here to support you, and my office is always here to help – please get in touch on jim.dickson. mp@parliament.uk for any questions, support or to sign up to my next surgery. I look forward to meeting you soon.
If you’d like to keep updated with my regular activity and find out about new events and surgeries, follow me on social media (Jim Dickson MP on X, Facebook and Instagram) or sign-up to my newsletter on the QR code.
Please always feel welcome to get in touch with me via email for any questions or if you’d like to speak with me.
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By Jane Stevenson
Other Half and I have never really embraced technology. Much of it has simply passed us by. I’m not sure why we have such a disinterest in these things, but we’ve managed to reach old age without ever having a Sky dish, a games console of any kind, or any other seemingly indispensable hardware.
The purchase of our first Smart TV was a revelation. So much on offer, yet we’re still not really making the most of it. Too much choice perhaps, or just most programmes spoilt by the incessant advertising breaks. I occasionally venture into Prime or iPlayer, but it is the exception rather than the norm.
However, change is afoot.
Other Half thoughtfully bought me an Alexa Echo for Christmas. I was so overwhelmed and more than a little apprehensive. How on earth did it work? Youngest Offspring, who spent Christmas with us warned against encroaching disasters. ‘It listens to you’ he warned. ‘It remembers what you ask it to do,’ he added darkly.
So much for that. It stayed in its box, lid firmly shut.
Taking the bull by the horns, I eventually unpacked the gadget in mid-January (just to look at, you understand) and then had a fit of the vapours!
I googled it, I asked savvy friends about it. All good reports and gushing comments. No hint of Big Brother. Taking the next step, I downloaded the app and eventually took it out the box. Set up and connection were easy. Then came problem number two. I had to talk to it. Unfortunately, it doesn’t read my mind and know that I’d like to listen to The Mavericks or hear the weather forecast or need a recipe for chicken kiev!
While I will happily chat away to the cat, I draw the line at talking to a plastic, blue ball, so Alexa remained quietly sitting there in silent judgement at my cowardice.
Other Half was less reticent. He has spent the past few days thinking up questions Alexa can’t possibly answerand he’s found a few! He’s also discovered Alexa loves him – its description of the affection it has for him is that of a
unicorn riding a dragon!
Also, there is the etiquette surrounding this gadget. Is it an ‘it’ or a ‘her’? Do you wish it good morning? Do you thank it for helping you? It’s a whole new way of life.
Eventually, during a quiet morning I ventured to speak to her/it. Amazingly she listened to me, and I spent a wonderful thirty minutes listening to Courtney Pine.
I’m not a complete technophobe. I have an air fryer although I’ve yet to experiment cooking anything other than the basics with it. Not like Janet, who bakes cakes et al with hers!
I have a smart phone (which is about the only type you can get nowadays), but most of the apps remain a complete mystery to me. If I needed to use them, I’d find out some way, but I’m happy writing things down in a notebook, rather than attempting to synch Notes with Calendar or whatever you have to do.
I’m in awe of my friend Sarah, who could run the world using only an IPad and IPhone. In my eyes, that makes her dangerous!
Mind you it’s not only Alexa that has gained a foothold in our lives. We are waiting for the delivery of a Ring doorbell, as part of our forward planning for old age. You try hurrying for the door with arthritic knees!
I also now have an iPad, but it is as alien to me as chaos theory. Having spent an inordinate sum of money on it, I’m going to enrol in one of those groups which supports old people with new technology.
To be honest, I owe it to myself and the family to learn how these things work. By embracing certain new-fangled ideas, I hope to remain as independent as possible for as long as possible. It will keep my brain active, and who knows, I might eventually master the intricacies of the neighbour’s coffee machine.
Take Care
Staying
Attending
Having
Planning
Diet
Helping
Up-and-Coming Travel Hotspots for the UK Market in 2026
UK travellers are increasingly gravitating toward destinations that feel authentic, offer strong value, and provide a clear sense of place without the intensity of Europe’s most crowded hotspots. For 2026, momentum is building around regions that combine food, culture, and nature with improving accessibility and broad appeal to British travellers.
Puglia, Italy
By Harden Holidays
Southern Italy’s Puglia continues to perform strongly with the UK market, appealing to travellers seeking a slower, more characterful alternative to Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast. Whitewashed hill towns, trulli houses, ancient olive groves, and a long Adriatic coastline define the region’s visual identity. Food-led travel is central to its appeal, with simple, seasonal cuisine, excellent olive oil, and local wines shaping the visitor experience. Reliable flight access to Bari and Brindisi, combined with the rise of high-quality masserias, has made Puglia both accessible and aspirational for British travellers.
The Azores, Portugal
Nature and experience-led travel remain key drivers for UK holidaymakers, positioning the Azores as one of Europe’s most compelling emerging destinations. This volcanic Atlantic archipelago offers crater lakes, geothermal hot springs, dramatic coastal scenery, and exceptional whale and dolphin watching. São Miguel, the main island, is particularly popular with British travellers seeking active itineraries balanced with comfort and strong local gastronomy. Improved awareness and straightforward connections via mainland Portugal have brought the Azores into sharper focus while preserving their sense of remoteness.
Istria, Croatia
Croatia’s Istria is increasingly attracting UK travellers who want Mediterranean scenery without the crowds associated with Dubrovnik or Split. The region blends Venetian-influenced coastal towns such as Rovinj and Poreč with a rural interior known for vineyards, truffles, and olive oil. British travellers are drawn to Istria’s food culture, understated boutique hotels, and easy combination of coast and countryside. With good flight access via nearby airports and a growing reputation for quality rather than mass tourism, Istria is emerging as a refined, food-forward alternative in the Adriatic.
Riga, Latvia
For culturally curious UK travellers, Riga continues to gain traction as a high-value city break. The Latvian capital is renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture, atmospheric Old Town, and increasingly confident dining scene. Compared with Western European capitals, Riga offers excellent affordability, making it appealing for long weekends and shoulder-season travel. Its compact layout and proximity to beaches, forests, and national parks align well with the growing preference for city breaks that combine culture with access to nature.
Why These Destinations Are Gaining Momentum
Across the UK market, demand is shifting toward destinations that feel distinctive yet accessible, offering depth, quality, and value rather than familiarity alone. Puglia and the Azores reflect sustained interest in food and nature-led travel, while Istria and Riga appeal to travellers actively seeking alternatives to overcrowded and over-priced destinations. Together, these hotspots highlight the direction of UK travel in 2026: experience-driven, value-conscious, and focused on places that still feel like genuine discoveries.
Growing Healthy Minds: Children’s Mental Health Week
Children’s Mental Health Week is an annual UK-wide awareness campaign that shines a spotlight on the emotional wellbeing of children and young people. Taking place 9-15 February, the week encourages families, schools, and communities to have open conversations about mental health and to recognise that children’s feelings matter just as much as their physical health.
Growing up can be exciting, but it can also be challenging. Children and young people face pressures from school, friendships, family life, social media, and the wider world. While it is normal for children to experience worries or low moods from time to time, ongoing stress or emotional difficulties can affect their learning, relationships, and confidence if left unsupported.
Children’s Mental Health Week aims to reduce stigma by reminding everyone that mental health is something we all have and talking about feelings should be normal, not something to hide. Each year, the campaign focuses on a specific theme, helping children explore their emotions and giving adults practical ways to support them. This year, the theme is ‘This is my place’, aiming to support the systems around children and young people to create an inclusive and nurturing environment with a sense of belonging. When we feel we belong, it empowers us to contribute to the world and make a real difference.
Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting children’s mental health. Simple actions such as listening without judgement, validating feelings, and creating a safe space for children to talk can make a big difference. Asking open questions like “How was your day?” or “What’s been on your mind?” can help children feel heard. It is also important to reassure children that it is okay to feel sad, worried, or angry sometimes, and that help is available if they need it.
Teachers and school staff are also key in promoting positive mental wellbeing. Schools that prioritise emotional health often see improvements in behaviour, attendance, and academic engagement. By teaching children emotional literacy—how to recognise and name their feelings—schools help pupils build resilience and coping skills that can last a lifetime.
If a child is experiencing persistent anxiety, low mood, changes in behaviour or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed, it may be time to seek professional advice. GPs, school counsellors, and local mental health services can offer guidance and support. Kent School Health website is a useful starting point if you are looking for help www.kentcht.nhs.uk/service/schoolhealth/ There is support available for parents who are struggling with their child’s mood or behaviour. If a professional suggests this, they aren’t saying you are a bad parent but that there are tools available to help you to support your child.
By raising awareness, starting conversations, and taking action, Children’s Mental Health Week helps to build a kinder, more understanding society - one where every child feels valued, supported and able to thrive. Supporting children’s mental health today lays the foundation for healthier, happier adults tomorrow.
Dr Julie Taylor is a GP Partner and Trainer at the Wellcome Practice and the Primary Care Medical Director for Dartford Gravesham and Swanley Health and Care Partnership.
Poem
By Local Resident Michael Ostertag
Hi my name is Michael, I’m a local resident. Something I find so challenging at times is the separation of how mental health can be so damaging that leaving one’s home can feel almost impossible. The outside can be scary and overwhelming. I myself require so much routine and safety in where I go and what I’m around. For the last year writing has been a form of expression, and has allowed me to feel I can express my voice. So I felt I’d write this poem about Dartford and and how I’ve found a sense of safety & community.
Dartfords places & faces
Each day I wake with a quiet sense of dread. What will today bring?
Do I even have the energy to leave my flat? Indoors, the chores feel endless — the washing, the tidying, and yes, that thing called feeding yourself.
At times it all piles up, an overload so heavy my mind feels as though it might implode. I know I can’t stay in. I need air.
And yet, the outside frightens me — the possibility of being spoken to, seen, interrupted. Maybe I can drift through the streets unnoticed, a ghost among the moving crowd.
As I walk through Dartford High Street, my eyes settle on the beauty of Holy Trinity Church, its quiet grounds, the narrow alley beside the Wat Tyler. Something softens.
Calmness washes over me. There is beauty closer than we think. I cross from the church through iron gates into a place that brings me warmth and safety.
The Lounge.
A space where the staff let me simply be, held within a non-judgemental ease. Blue and mustard walls, navy velvet sofas that seem to say stay. I rest.
For a moment, the world feels manageable again. Gathering myself, I wander back into town, past barbers and shuttered shops that blur together.
Then my eyes light up — SCOPE. My favourite charity shop. I have to go in.
Through the glass-framed doors, I’m greeted by rails of colour and care, a window display always thoughtfully done. At the back of the shop, the manager greets me — black boots, sparkling top, and a hug that makes me feel known.
“Wait — only £6?”
Well, that settles it.
Excitement flickers as a kind woman rings me through, wishing me a good day. I leave feeling welcomed, seen.
Outside, I notice the dread has loosened its grip. I feel lighter. Hungry, too. Market Square calls, and there it is — Albion Bakery.
Wicker-style chairs, a wide glass front, and inside, a warm smile from its owner, always creating an inclusive, gentle space. The scent of freshly ground coffee, cinnamon buns whispering yes.
I sit in the corner beneath a tree lit with soft lights, wrapped in warmth.
Hours pass as I watch people drift by, the world moving without urgency. What can I say, other than today has been a good day. Its many faces and places remind me that care, compassion, and community live closer than we think.
What do you think of Michael’s poem? Have you ever written anything about our Borough? Get in touch with your thoughts: poetry@dartfordliving.com
Senior Snippets: Getting home safely from hospital
By Christina Uppenkamp Home Instead
Welcome to Senior Snippets: the monthly advisory column with older members of our community in mind, brought to you by Christina Uppenkamp of Home Instead Dartford.
As we get older, a hospital stay can be all too common. It’s a great sense of relief being discharged. But it’s important to have a sound discharge plan to ensure a safe return home to keep you or your loved one well and prevent any further hospital admissions.
NHS discharge teams work hard to develop a plan, and that should range from the practical measures to looking at how healthcare needs can continue to be met. The plan should cover the following areas:
• Short-term needs: the discharge team should ensure that the patient doesn’t go home to an empty fridge. This may mean that they need to speak to family and friends to get supplies in. They should have enough food to keep them going before carers can see to that need.
If they’re provided with medication, nurses should make it easy for them to know what medication they should take and when. Otherwise, it can be confusing for them when they’re presented with various boxes containing a range of medication. Blister packs or similar devices might be suitable and available in your area; you should ask if this is an option.
• Care assessment: for some patients being discharged, the care shouldn’t stop when you leave hospital. The discharge team may assess you for NHS continuing healthcare, meeting your healthcare needs long-term, or assess you for local authority care if they believe you may need help with day-to-day tasks. They should be able to suggest local organisations that can help, whether that’s a full care package or regular prescription collections.
The hospital might be struggling to get access to state funded care. It’s important to know that you may be eligible for direct payments or personal budgets which are funds provided by the council to meet social care needs, and can be put towards alternative community care available. This could speed up the discharge process.
• All parties working together: when the discharge takes place, hospital teams should give families plenty of notice, particularly if the family needs to provide care before a care team takes over.
The hospital should also work closely with the care team, especially if specialist care such as catheter care is needed. The ideal scenario is the discharge not taking place until the care package kicks in, to ensure maximum safety.
• Onward referrals: the further support considered as part of discharge plans should include onward referrals for services such as rehab care. Patients, and their families, should not assume that the hospital team has done that, so it’s always worth asking the question before it gets forgotten about.
• Transport home: it’s the hospital’s responsibility to organise transport home if family can’t do so. The discharge team should consider whether the person can get from the car to the house, and even up the stairs to bed if required.
• Equipment aids: if you’re given equipment to aid with recovery, it’s important that not only are you confident using it, but that your carer is too. And the discharge team should consider whether the person will be able to accept the equipment once it’s delivered; it might be that it can only arrive when a carer is home and can let people in.
• Supplies: you might need regular access to products that you rarely or never required before, e.g. incontinence products. Discharge plans should include this.
Discharging patients is a win-win: hospitals can get access to beds taken up unnecessarily by medically fit patients, while people can get back to the home they love. It all comes down to efficient discharge planning and regular communication between the hospital team, social care providers, and the person’s family.
We’d love to hear from you if you think you can help or if you would like to make a suggestion for a future topic. Please write to me at c.uppenkamp@dartford.homeinstead.co.uk or by post to Home Instead, St Fidelis House, St Fidelis Road, Erith, DA8 1AT. Alternatively, you can also call me on 01322 923750.
Stay sharp with Home Instead
NONAGRAM
How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found. Guidelines:
16 Good; 19 Very Good; 22 Excellent.
Any word found in the Concise Oxford English Dictionary is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).
Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another. You may only enter each chamber once and may only proceed through openings in the walls. The first letter may appear in any of the chambers.
Call in to have your hearing aid cleaned and re-tubed and collect new batteries. Find out how to make the best of your hearing aid.
Ashen Drive Library – 3 rd Thursday of the month 2.30 – 3.30
Fleetdown Library - 2 nd Thursday of the month 2.00 – 3.30
Sutton-at-Hone Library – 2 nd Friday of the month 11.00 – 12.00
Kent Pathways Service Help Desk:
The Kent Pathways Service provide support for people with disabilities become more independent and develop life skills to improve quality of life. To find out more about The Kent Pathways Service please visit: https://www.kent.gov.uk/social-care-andhealth/adult-social-care/care-andsupport/disability/learning-disability/kent-pathwayservice
Dartford Library – Every other Tuesday 10.00 – 12.00
THE WELLBEING LINK
The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative group is a support group for people with any life affecting health issues from loneliness and isolation to life limiting conditions. - call Julie On 07775875585
Dartford Ostomy Group Support (DOGS) meet every third Wednesday in the month at St Anselm’s Parish Centre, West Hill, Dartford DA1 2HJ from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm. It is for anyone who has an Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy, IBS and pouch, their carers, family and friends.
ALL DIRECTIONS
is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+ with physical, learning and mental health difficulties. For more information, attend a taster session or visit our community lunch club, contact Caroline on 01322 837172 or 07570 347612
Bexley and Dartford Branch Parkinsons UK
For people with Parkinsons and their carers. Dartford: 2nd Wednesday of each month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7 -9pm. Information support workers available, guest speakers and quizzes. Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973
The North West Kent Branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association meets on various date at Birchwood Country Club For more information contact Mark – 07966537814
Kindness and Wellbeing Group It’s every Tuesday 9.3011.30am at St Edmund’s church Dartford. We have loads on offer for just £3 per week including a cuppa, crafts and a friendly chat.
WILMARA Wilmington Active Retirement Group.
We are an active retirement group who meet on the third Friday of the month from 2pm till 4pm at the Memorial Hall in Wilmington. Our activities include guest speakers, outings, holidays, theatre trips, tenpin bowling, Petanque, Kurling, indoor sports activities and a lunch club. Please comealong and pay us a visit you will be very welcome! Telephone Membership Secretary.
Wendy Murray 01322 226943
Hawley and Sutton at Hone Active Retirement
Association is a friendly group of retired and semi-retired men and women over 55. We have a monthly meeting on the second Thursday at Sutton at Hone Scout Hut at 1.30pm. Associated activities include petanque, keep fit, short mat bowls, country walks and ten pin bowling. Come along to a meeting [£2 entrance] or call Carol on 07912 564710. You will receive a warm welcome.
WIlmington and Axstane Probus Club
We are a group of retired men who meet monthly for a lunch and a speaker at the Swanley Bowls Centre. We also have a monthly walk and occasional coffee mornings and as a side line we raise money for a local charity. If you are missing the contact with other business men since you retired, why not come and join us on the last Thursday of every month. For more details contact Phil Burt on 01322 274541 or look at our website www.waprobus.com
JARA - Joydens Wood Active Retirement Association
We meet on the first Tuesday of every month at 2pm in the Joydens Wood Community Centre, Birchwood Drive DA2 7NE. Be active, be happy and make new friends with similar interests with events and activities on offer to suit everyone
You are welcome to join in and participate as you wish. Call Delma 01322 556081
Yoga & Meditation Classes
Every Tuesday from 6-7pm at Peppercorns, 3 Orchard Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2DF. For more information please call The Hope Group on 07722 629446
Fairfield (Dartford) WI We meet on the second Tuesday of the month at Dartford Girls Grammar School at 7.30pm. Activities include guest speakers, theatre visits and monthly lunches.New members welcome. For more information please call Judith on 01322 278703 Crayford WI Baker Trust Hall Maxim Road, Crayford DA1 4BG 1.30 to 3.30pm 1st Thursday of the month. Phone: Phone: Gloria on 01322 405737 Mobile: 07791353128 for more information
ROTARY CLUB OF
DARTFORD This Club meets at the Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel on the first, second and third Tuesday of every month. Time: 12.45 for 1 pm start. If you would like further details please contact the Secretary on 07706103706.
WOOD ACTIVE RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION
We have a robust activity programme and currently offer over 50 events a year, including monthly membership meetings with entertainment & refreshments, and frequent art classes, short walks, theatre and coast trips, socials, lunch & dinner meals, seasonal events, holidays
Open to new members in the Joydens Wood area and surrounding vicinities. If you are 50 or over, semi-/retired, wish to remain active, and membership is of interest, call or drop us a line: Graham – 01322 528 596 or E-M: membership@joyara.org.uk Or visit our website for more information: www.joyara,org.uk
DARTFORD HISTORICAL & ANTIQUARIAN SOCIETY
meets usually on 3rd Friday in the month ( October to May) at the Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, Dartford at 7.30 p.m. See website for details.
Hartley Poetry Society If you enjoy reading and/or writing poetry you will be given a warm welcome by this friendly and enthusiastic group. We meet on the first Monday of each month at 7pm at The Pavilion, Punch Croft Road, New Ash Green in the Green Room.We read poems according to a different theme each month and there is also plenty of lively discussion. For further information please phone Kathryn (01474 704058)
DARTFORD LIONS CLUB (CIO)
This club meets at The Hill Hub, 1a Highfield Road, Dartford, DA1 2TJ at 7pm every first Tuesday of the Month.
Like minded volunteers welcome. If you would like further information please contact 07951 822015
Dartford Arts Network (DAN) – is a welcoming community of creatives and a local inclusive arts and culture network serving Dartford. Are you an artist, maker, photographer, writer, or just curious to explore your creative side? Become a member and you can
· Learn/Grow through workshops
· Meet/Collaborate or run your own sessions
· Show your work in exhibitions
· Join group art and community projects
We meet every first Monday of the month at 7:30pm in a cosy atmosphere.
Membership is just £20/year – and worth every spark of inspiration. Get in touch hello@dartfordartsnetwork.com
DARTFORD CHORAL SOCIETY A warm welcome awaits newcomers to Dartford’s oldest choir - established over 100 years ago. We rehearse on Monday evenings between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at The Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, from September to June and perform four concerts annually. Just turn up to sample the delights of choral singing! For more information please contact the Chairman, Pat Everington. Tel: 01322 220124.
North Kent Nomads Model Club
Located in Dartford, we have one of the most desirable model flying sites in the country. As a club we have been established since the 1930s. We are multi disciplined, catering for Power, Glider, Electric and Helicopters. We welcome fliers of all skill levels, and offer advice and training for beginners.
For further information, visit us at http://www.nomadsmc. co.uk
For an informal chat, contact Ken on 07515 937 078
Fun Friends Social Groups
Social groups for children and young adults with additional needs aged 7-25. No diagnosis or EHCP necessary. Groups are based in Sidcup, Swanley and Wilmington after school, and on Saturdays - with summer holiday activities, trips, birthday parties and much more throughout the year.
For more information please contact Esther Dawson on 07745036868 or Funfriendsgroups@gmail.com . https://www.facebook.com/funfriendsgroups/ https://instagram.com/ funfriends2017?igshid=tocvdnel5i4f
SCREEMING BANSHEES GOTHIC MORRIS Want to have fun, make friends and get fit? Join our friendly Morris group in Hawley. Dancers and musicians of any age needed - no experience necessary! Find us on Facebook. Contact us at screemingbanshees14@gmail.com for further details.
JOYDENS WOOD GARDENING CLUB – A WARM WELCOME AWAITS YOU
Do you enjoy gardening, nature, and good company?
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or enjoy pottering outdoors, our friendly club offers something for everyone. We meet monthly with guest speakers covering topics like herbs, garden design, and conservation. We also enjoy outings to beautiful gardens, afternoon teas, group meals, and a summer garden party.
Meetings: First Thursday of each month
Venue: St Barnabas Church, Tile Kiln Lane, Bexley, DA5 2BB
Email: jwgardeningclub@gmail.com
Call Chris on: 07938 117389 or 07305 563814
Come along and grow with you.
We are Dartford Active Retirement Association meeting every 2nd Thursday at the Fleetdown Community Centre, Dartford from 2pm-4pm. We are looking for new members retired or semi-retired from the age of 55 to join us, we enjoy a range of activities including, art, tea and cake, short mat bowls and holidays .At our Thursday monthly meetings we have either a speaker or singer to entertain us.
Please contact membership secretary, Mel Foster on 01322 227519 for more information.
JOYARA – 2ND JOYDENS
BAYAR HUGHES & CO
W. LEWIS
Property Maintenance
Moss cleared from all types of roofs
Tiling, Slating, Chimney Stacks, Ridges, Flat Roofs, Re-pointing Work, Exterior Painting, New Guttering and Fascia Boards
Any type of roof repair Gutters
•Public
When the news headlines feel too much
By Louise Garner, MBACP Integrative Counsellor
The current bombardment of news right now can feel relentless. Headlines appearing every few minutes and stories from around the world competing for attention. It’s completely natural to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or drained. Caring about what’s happening shows empathy, but it can be a lot to take on and manage.
Human minds were never meant to process a constant stream of global crises. Due to many of our now global connections it can feel like all of this is happening on our doorstep. Stepping back from the news or taking breaks from social media isn’t avoidance — it’s choosing when and how information enters your day.
How news is presented also shapes how we experience it. Headlines are designed to grab attention, not to offer comfort or give full context. They can be dramatic, unsettling, or even misleading. Stick to sources of journalism that you trust and are verified.
Strong emotional reactions to current events are normal. Feeling sad, angry, or worried is a sign of compassion, but on occasion they can start to feel too much to handle. Returning to familiar routines, spending time with people who matter to you, or finding moments of joy throughout the day can help.
Be present in what you’re doing. When you’re at work, let work be your focus, out for coffee with a friend, enjoy that time, playing with your children, immerse yourself in their world.
Talking about the news with someone you trust can also lighten the load. Sharing your thoughts can make heavy topics feel less isolating. At the same time, it’s perfectly okay to step back or take a break from conversations or online spaces that leave you tense or depleted rather than informed.
If things are affecting your day-to-day life, you might find speaking with a trained professional offers a space where your reactions are taken seriously and explored without judgment. A counsellor can help you understand why certain stories affect you so strongly, teach strategies for managing emotional overwhelm, and support you in building healthier boundaries with the news. It’s not about ignoring the world — it’s about making it manageable.
When the world feels overwhelming, it can help to focus on special connections with your family, friends, and community. Paying attention to what you can influence, and seeking out moments of joy, can restore a sense of balance.
If you’re someone who reaches for your phone or switches on the news when you wake up, try putting on some music that you know will lift you. Dance in your kitchen while you put the kettle on, sing along to it in the shower. Get some fresh air, take a walk, stand in your garden and if you don’t have access to a garden, open a window, breath in the air and feel it on your face.
You don’t need to shut out the world to protect your peace. It’s entirely possible to stay informed while also taking care of yourself. Both can coexist.
Coffee Goat & Vaping Goat Open at Dartford Station
A new independent hotspot has landed at Dartford Station with the opening of Coffee Goat and Vaping Goat, now trading side by side on Station Approach.
Run by a local family team, Coffee Goat is already known for quality coffee and friendly service, offering commuters and residents a welcoming daily pit-stop. Next door, and connected discreetly at the rear, Vaping Goat delivers a sleek, modern vape store stocked with a wide range of essentials.
The dual concept brings together great coffee, fresh food and convenience in one stylish setting, transforming the station approach and adding something genuinely new to the area. Coffee Goat also supports the local community by employing local staff and helping people take their first steps into work.
Both brands reward loyal customers with generous schemes, from free coffees and bakery treats at Coffee Goat to cashback and exclusive deals at Vaping Goat.
Now open just outside Dartford Station, Coffee Goat & Vaping Goat are fast becoming a welcome new addition to the town’s daily routine.
Local Sports and Fitness Groups
Dartford and White Oak Triathlon club
We are the local British Triathlon Federation Club covering Bexley, Dartford and Swanley. We offer coached swimming sessions 3 times per week at White oak pool in Swanley and Fairfield pool in Dartford. Our members compete in many local Triathlons plus many members are training towards Iron Man distance. We also have our own Triathlon in June every year which has been running since 1989. If you are interested in joining us then please visit our website http://www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri.co.uk
Kent Exiles American Football Club
www.kentexiles.co.uk.
Coach Martin - 07944 730634. All ages from 7 years to adult welcome
Dartford Road Runners
Dartford Road Runners are based at Princes Park Stadium and are one of the biggest road running clubs in Kent. We currently have about 200 members of all abilities including a beginners group. DRR teams compete in the Kent League, the Assembly League and the Kent Fitness League. To see what we offer and how to join us please visit our website – anyone is welcome to join us with all abilities.
http://dartfordroadrunners.co.uk/node/440
Dartford Harriers Athletics Club
Dartford Harriers is among the leading athletics clubs in Kent, with a history stretching back to the 1920’s, making it one of the oldest clubs in the country. If you are interested in seeing how we can help you advance your Athletics then please visit our website www.dartfordharriersac.co.uk
Central Park Athletics Club
We are situated in Dartford’s outstanding Central Park and can provide access to a state of the art running track (re-laid in 2015) and the full range of track and field facilities for just £4.50 per session (we offer discounted annual memberships). Refreshments and changing facilities are also available. For no extra charge, we hold coached track sessions on Wednesday evenings for runners of all abilities.
For more information please visit our website centralparkathletics.co.uk
Ashes Badminton Club
meets every Monday 7.30pm – 9.15pm at Dartford Science and Technology College. We are a sociable nonleague club and would welcome new players age 18 and over. Call 07764 182854 for more information
CPA Swifts
Every Sunday 10-11am – Child friendly coached sessions – Come and join the CPA Swifts – As a fledgling club we would like to give children of all ages and abilities the chance to experience training and coaching within a club
environment – come and be part of the team Free first session with this advert
So Let’s go Running (SLGR)
SLGR is a local running club with structured training sessions designed to improve runners speed and stamina.
The runs available are the free session at 7pm meeting at The Dart, Chastilian Road, DA1 3JJ for 5 and 8k runs every Tuesday. Open to everyone and suitable for all abilities including beginners. We have run couch to 5k before covid and hope to do another in the Spring. Our affiliated club meets on Thursdays and Sundays and is also fully inclusive of all abilities.
You can find more information on our website teamslgr. com or email us at slgr.contact@gmail.com
DARTFORD JU JITSU CLUB
Mondays 7-8pm for 7-16s at the Dartford Girls Grammar, Shepherds Lane Dartford DA1 2NT in the Dance Studio. We have an adult class 8-10pm too.
We’ve been running for 20 years, building confidence, teaching self-defence, hardening the target, developing skills and always welcome new members.
Dartford Gymnastics
Based in Heath Lane, we are a friendly club with super equipment, great coaches and high standards. We do lots of competitions and we do not close through the holidays!
Visit our website www.dartfordgymnastics.co.uk for full details or contact Linda on 01322 409312 or emaildartfordgymclub@yahoo.co.uk
Dartford Hockey Club
We are a welcoming hockey club for women of all abilities. Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced player, you’ll find a friendly environment here. We are committed to making hockey accessible to everyone, so we do not charge a membership fee. Join us for fun, fitness, and friendship on and off the field!
For further information visit our website www. dartfordhockeyclub.co.uk
Instagram @dartfordhockey
Learn karate with Yamato Damashii – for adults & children
Every Wednesday evening at the Leigh Academy & every Saturday morning at Becket Sport Centre, first lesson free.
For more info, visit www.ydma.club or find us on Facebook, search for Yamato Damashii Martial Arts.
Dartford Junior Chess Club
Wednesdays from 6:30 - 8:00 pm at The Mick Jagger Centre.
The focus of the lessons will be learning and improving
the game of chess along with play and fun activitiessuitable for beginners and intermediate levels. Lessons are tailored to the strength of children attending, so you will always be taught what is best for you!
We accept juniors aged 5-18, for more information and register visit: www.dartfordchess.com
Hesketh Park Bowling Club
Park Road, Dartford DA1 1ST Open from: April-September Come along and have a go at bowls. Tel: Julie 01322 229886 www.heskethparkbowlingclub.org
No Strings Badminton sessions, Tuesdays
Juniors (£6 per player) 5:30-6:30pm
Adults (£8.50 per player) 6:30-8:30pm Cash or card payments. At Beckets sports centre, DA1 2JB. All abilities, ages and solo players welcome, but direct 1:1 coaching is not able to be given.
Seeds Cycling Club Dartford
Seeds is a long-established cycling Club in Dartford and we share our headquarters at Hesketh with Dartford Cricket Club. We cater for most abilities and have a social ride most Saturday mornings. For info on joining us please visit our website www.seedscycling.co.uk
WALKING TENNIS GROUP
Finding it difficult to play social tennis? Please come to Bexley Lawn Tennis Club and give walking tennis a try. A much slower paced game with a great group of people who don’t take it seriously. Wednesdays 12.30-2pm. Contact: colleenmedcraft@yahoo.co.uk.
Dartford Parkrun
Dartford parkrun is a free to enter 5k run every Saturday morning starting by the Dartford harriers track in Central Park at 9am. All participants get a time a position emailed and texted after the event. To register go to www.parkrun.org.uk. Remember to bring your printed Barcode.
Every Sunday Morning in the Park there is a Junior parkrun over 2k
Wheelchair Epee Fencing
Wheelchair epee fencing in Dartford and Gravesham, we are delighted to announce that New Ash Green Epee club, can now introduce wheelchair fencing. If interested in taking up this para sport please contact us on 01474 871484 or alternatively look at our website www. nagfencing.eu
ENERGY FITNESS AND NUTRITION
I run group fitness classes as well as 1-1 and semi private personal training sessions in Darenth at Dimples Day Nursery DA2 7HT. ENERGY Fitness & Nutrition: we offer a wide variety of group classes such as strength
& conditioning, boot camps, Boxercise, mum and baby classes, inside and outside classes with great equipment and suitable for all abilities. The website is www.energyfitnut.co.uk
WEST KENT ROAD CLUB
We are an established cycling club that has set up an easy paced led ride on Friday mornings. Anyone who is new to cycling or who is returning to cycling is welcome as is any type of roadworthy bike or ebike. We meet at the Wilmington Memorial Hall, Wilmington at Meet at: 09:15. Depart at: 09:30. If you would like further information, please visit our club website: http://wkrc.org.uk/ “contact us” option and complete the contact form there.
We also run longer rides on Wednesday and Sunday mornings, please see our website for details if interested: http://wkrc.org.uk/
DANCING IN LINE
Every Tuesday, Goodman Dance Centre, Market Street DA1 IEY, 10:30 am, £9
POWER YOGA
Every Tuesday, Jubilee Hall, Horton Rod, South Darenth DA4 9AX, 19:30, £10
DANCE FITNESS
Every Thursday, St Anselms Parish Centre, West Hill DA1 2HJ, 19:30, £8
More information: www.dancegeneration.co.uk
StART yoUR yEAR IN THE STALLS
Useful Numbers
Key Numbers
Police 01622 690690 NON EMERGENCY ONLY
Call 999 in an Emergency Fire, Police, Ambulance and Coastguard 101 Non Emergency Number for Kent Police NHS 111
Crimestoppers 0800 555 111
Fire Safety Advice & FREE Home Fire Safety Check 0800 169 1125
Dartford Borough Council 01322 343434
Gas Leaks (24 hour) 0800 111 999
EDF Energy Networks Emergencies/Powercuts Helpline 105
Flooding 03459881180
Highways Kent 03000 41 41 41
Social Services 03000 41 41 41
Water Burst 0800 820 999 (Southern) 0800 714614 (Thames)
Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162
Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line: 0800 138 1624
Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula 01322 224072
National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hour) 0808 2000 247
NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000
RSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline 01322 286720
Samaritans: 116 123
Travel
Heathrow Airport Enquires 08700 000123
Gatwick Airport Enquires 08700 002468
National Rail Enquires 08456 484950
National Highways Info Line 0300 123 5000
Bexley Accessible Transport Scheme –01322 311 333 (www.bexleyct.co.uk) Fully accessible transport services for the elderly and those with additional needs. Become a member today!
SHOUT (Mental Health Support) 85258 Local MP
Advertisers Index
Dartford Borough Council Walk and Talk Groups
Healthy Living Walk - Mondays 10.00am (Contact the One You Team)
Dartford Heath Walk - Tuesdays 10.00am (Upper Heath Lane)
Darenth Country Park - Tuesdays 10.30am (Darenth Valley Hospital)
