Tenants mark 20 years
I would like to write a letter in appreciation of Trust Amenity Housing in Blackridge from a long-term tenant’s point of view.
The purpose of amenity housing like ours is to extend the independent living of elderly people and Trust Homes in Blackridge do just that.
In a beautiful setting we have formed a community of our own and live very independent lives.
Recently, to mark 20 years of existence, we attended a celebratory dinner hosted by the Monday club and well supported by Foundation Scotland.
In house as usual at the community centre, we were fed and watered in regal style by local caterer Andrew Sherlock and entertained to all kinds of magic by expert musician and magician Raymond Carse, of Tartan Lads fame.
The audience played its part, with local councillors Stuart Borrowman and Jim Dixon in starring roles.
Trust CEO Rhona McLeod goodnaturedly took part and at the close of the day presented local rep Sadie Montgomery with gifts to mark her 20 years of service.
Earlier the CEO had visited our two oldest tennants, Mrs Mary Sharp aged 96 and Mrs Nellie Gilchrist aged 95, who is our only original tenant.
Flowers were sent to tenant Nettie Strachan, who was in hospital.
It was a day to remember for all present. Thomas Anderson, by email. Helptokeepmoving
According to a recent survey from Arthritis Research UK, half of people who have or have had joint pain avoid doing exercise.
The joint pain puts them off. As a person who has lived with joint pain for some while, I find this worrying.
I used to be a keen runner but after developing joint pain in my wrists, feet and lower back I had to give this up as the pain became too much.
But I was determined to stay active.
I now regularly attend spinning classes, which have even inspired me to learn to ride a bike for the first time.
I also attend pilates classes, which I think helps build strength, plus I walk the family dog Dizzy.
I feel like exercise has helped me with my pain levels and if I don’t exercise I do feel quite a bit stiffer.
This makes sense, as research shows that regular safe, simple and effective exercise can reduce pain and stiffness in joints.
Learn from my experience and keep up the exercise.
If you’re not sure where to start, try out this programme of exercise that Arthritis Research UK has just developed. It includes one-minute exercise videos that have been specially designed by experts for people with joint pain: www.arthritisresearchuk. org/everydayexercises.
Joint pain is not a niche condition. Millions of people in the UK are living with it today but there are ways we can take control of it and exercise is a great way to do that. Sally Martin, Arthritis Research UK Thanksto donors
We would like to thank everyone who helped with the blood donor session when we visited Bathgate on Tuesday, March 7, and Sunday, March 19.
A total of 301 volunteers offered to give blood and 284 donations wer given. There were 28 new donors.
We are grateful for your help. Caroline Tutt, Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service