MyLife News

Whilst Christmas is traditionally viewed as a time of happiness, enjoying time with loved ones, sharing festive treats and special moments together, it can be a tough time for many, not least because we often feel the pressure to enjoy ourselves at this time of year.

This year, the pandemic may have  brought extra difficulties, with many of us feeling it’s been a time of uncertainty, of missing those who are important to us, of making connections.

If, for whatever reason, you don’t feel on top form this Christmas, or at any time, please don’t suffer in silence. Here at My Life we’re always here to listen. 

MIND have put together this useful information that explains how the period around Christmas and New Year might affect your mental health, along with tips on how to cope, suggestions for supporting someone else and contact details, in case you need to talk to someone.

Please don’t feel you have to struggle with any difficult feelings alone. You can find everything you might need to help, here. 

You never know when you might be called upon to save someone’s life.

Our My Life Support member Zack is all too aware of this and has had the goal of undertaking first aid training on his list since last year, with the pandemic unfortunately causing a delay – up until now that is.

We’re delighted to say that, along with his team, Zack was able to take part in My Life’s Basic Life Support training earlier this month. After guiding his staff through CPR and recalling the Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing and Circulation procedure incredibly well, Zack proved himself to be top of the class.

Explaining what it meant to him to have taken part in the course, Zack underlined the important fact that “if my staff or my family fall ill I know what I need to do,” adding of the training “I felt that I was very involved. I was happy for the opportunity.”

Many peoples’ lives are saved every year simply by people like Zack learning what to do when someone needs lifesaving attention. We’re really proud of Zack for pressing ahead with this goal and displaying such excellent knowledge during his training.

And what’s next on Zack’s list? “I want to do fire safety training and any other training that involves helping others.”

We’re currently rolling out this opportunity to all of our members and staff teams. If you’re interested in taking part in My Life’s Basic Life Support training, please call 01257 472 900 or email info@my-life.org.uk

Give the whole family a pre-Christmas treat, with our Farmer for a Day Family Experience, Saturday 11th December 9.30am -12.00pm or 12.30pm-3.00pm.

• Look after our farm animals!
• Horses! Piggies! Chickens and more!
• Enjoy cuddles in our small animal farm!
• Feeding! Petting! Planting and more!

From just £30 per family, book now on 01257 472900 or email info@my-life.org.uk.

Takes place at My Life, Thompson House Equestrian Centre, off Pepper Lane, Standish, Wigan, WN6 0PP.

Please note: we have indoor areas in case of adverse weather. 

Our spine tingling family friendly Halloween Spooktacular is back and suitable for all ages, including children! 

Book by calling 01257 472 900 today or emailing info@my-life.org.uk!  

This year with a Halloween Movie theme – Harry Potter, Caspar,  Batman, Dracula, The Mummy and more, all adapted to your child’s age!

Be thrilled by: 

• Hansel and Gretel’s sweetie house!
• Spooky games!
• A Scare Maze!
• Fancy dress!
• Ghoulish delicacies
• And much, much more!

It’s the highlight of our calendar – make it yours!

This event is fully inclusive and all ages and abilities are welcome.

Just £5 per person! Don’t miss out! 

All the spooky fun takes place at My Life, Thompson House Equestrian Centre, off Pepper Lane, Standish, Wigan, WN6 0PP.

This festive season, our Christmas Wreath Making Workshops are back by popular demand!  

Always hugely popular, this year, you can once again get into the festive spirit by creating your very own handmade Christmas wreath with local artisan Birdie and Blossom.  Even better, you’ll be able to enjoy scrumptious festive drinks and treats from our Stable Door Café & Ice Cream Parlour as you work!

Now an integral part of Christmas, we will be using well-known festive foliage and Christmas decorations. All materials are supplied, but you may wish to bring personal decorations to add to your wreath.

What you need to bring…

• Strong pair of scissors
• Apron is advised
• Face mask

Each workshop will last around 2.5 hours.

Dates:

• Fri 26th Nov | 6pm -9pm
• Sun 28th Nov |10am-1pm
• Sat 4th Dec | 2pm-5pm

Location:

My Life, Thompson House Equestrian Centre, off Pepper Lane, Standish, WN6 0PP

Price:

£35 per person, price includes festive drinks and treats

Places are limited. Please pre-book yours early to avoid disappointment, on 01257 472900 or email info@my-life.org.uk.

Can’t make these dates? Make your own wreath at home, with our ‘kit in a box’ containing all you need to make a festive wreath, including instructions. Just £35 including local delivery. Please call or email to order.

Its nearly time for the summer holiday season and what a warm up we’re having with this beautiful weather! We’re delighted so many of our members and learners have managed to complete their expedition for their Duke of Edinburgh Award in the Lakes this week. They’ve had a great time  experiencing a wide range of new opportunities and challenges – we’re so proud of you all.

Who would have thought that way back in 2012, when a few families, including mine, sat around a kitchen table and dreamt of an organisation that would enable them to have more choice and control in their lives, to be able to live the best lives that they could, that we would be where we are now!

The recent BBC report which found that many disabled people have felt forgotten during the pandemic is a stark reminder that we must continue to listen to all members of our society and ensure that we keep important lines of support open, through even the hardest of times.

I know that this still feels like a very uncertain time for many of our families. As we continue to navigate our way through the pandemic we’re focused more than ever before on listening to your views and opinions. My Life has been built on the feedback of our community members, so please do keep it coming.

As the summer sun shines and the flowers and vegetables continue to blossom, I hope that you are all able to enjoy the holidays and do the things that make you happy!

I think we all knew it before, but for me, the incredible things that I have seen so many individuals do to support others during this unprecedented time, the things that people have done for me and my family, really do underline what we believe here at My Life. Together, we are better.

Enjoy the summer.

Caroline Tomlinson,

My Life Founder and CEO