The all-important outfit

Treating yourself to a new dress is always exciting! We just love this elegant Orla design from Finery. It’s made from easy-to-wear jersey fabric, offering a comfortable feel and a flattering look, and with a smart long-sleeved design and chic pleated detail down the front, this piece is a real classic you’ll wear for years to come.

Another Finery gem is this Jolene dress we simply adore. Featuring a pretty print and puffed short sleeves, it’s really feminine and will look great for a wedding. If it’s chilly, just add a wrap or short jacket to add instant elegance.

If dresses aren’t your thing, why not try a stylish jumpsuit for the special day? They’re so easy to pull on and comfortable too. This Dannii Minogue petite design features a colourful hummingbird print that really pops, and the gorgeous wrap-over design and tie waist make this oh so stylish! It comes in a regular size too, so you can find the perfect fit.

This Ruth Langsford jumpsuit is another winner too. The collar and belted waist really give it a smart finish that’s perfect for a wedding. It comes in classic black or animal prints too, if you fancy something to show off your wild side!

If you need more outfit inspiration, explore our Occasionwear department here.

Best foot forward

A classic block heel sandal is a great option for a wedding, giving you the style and height you want in a pair of heels, but with the added comfort of a sturdy block heel to keep you going all day (you have to be able to dance in them right?). We just can’t get enough of these Mirello sandals from Moda in Pelle. The peep-toe design will look great with dresses or skirts as well as trousers.

Or if you’re looking for a pair with a lower heel then go for these court shoes from Rieker that are so easy to slip on and come in soft pastel shades.

For an alternative to heels, try out these super stylish loafers from Moda in Pelle. We love the chic tassel detail and they come in a range of vibrant block colours or striking snake print to match with whatever outfit you choose.

Accessories to finish your look

To complement your wedding day outfit, you’ll need the right bag and we think this Liverpool Street multiway design from Radley London is perfect. It’s made from gorgeous soft leather and has two handles and a detachable cross-body strap so you can carry it your way!

This Arlington Court bag from Radley is also fabulous. It has lots of compartments inside to keep your make-up, money and other essentials close to hand and you can choose from a variety of chic colours. We love the croc finish options that really give it an edge.

How about brightening up a simple block colour dress or jacket with a striking print? This Dannii Minogue scarf does the job rather nicely. It has a bright, colourful finish with a snake print that adds a fresh contemporary twist to any outfit.

If the sun is shining for you on the big day, then reach for these clever JPE Fitover Sunglasses. With a chic vintage design, they simply slot over your regular prescription glasses, offering UVA and UVB protection.

A touch of sparkle is a must-have for a wedding day look. We just adore these beautiful diamond stud earrings. They feature a pretty flower design and would be ideal for a bridal look or to pair with any wedding day outfit.

If you’re after a necklace, then try this stunning diamond station design that’s so chic and simple, or if you love pearls, this ming pearl necklace from Lara Pearls is simply gorgeous.

For an absolute show-stopper and real investment piece, opt for this truly spectacular AAAA tanzanite and diamond ring. It’s made from platinum and features a bold design that will really get you noticed. We also love this sweet twisted band ring from Diamonique, offering a more subtle look.

Wedding day hair and make-up

Getting your make-up right for the special day is so important. You’ll want a look that lasts all day but doesn’t leave you feeling overly made up, so make sure you take the time to choose carefully.

Start with your base and look no further than this fantastic all-in-one moisturiser, concealer and foundation from Tarte. It’ll help to leave your skin feeling hydrated all day, giving your complexion a radiant finish.

Estee Lauder’s cult classic Double Wear Foundation is a must-have for your make-up bag. It has a matte, budge-resistant finish and it’ll last all day. Winner!

Concealer and mascara are always essentials in any make-up routine, so why not try this Shape Tape Concealer from Tarte and Benefit’s Roller Lash Mascara for lashes you’ll want to flutter all night long!

Make sure your manicure is looking on point for the big day with this gorgeous collection from Perfect Formula. Featuring Gel Coats, Manicure Booster and a crystal file too, it has you covered with everything you need.

Give your hair a bit of pampering in the lead up to the wedding, with this superb Tweak’d collection. It includes a host of pampering treatments to make sure your locks are looking their absolute best.

For more inspiration, take a look at our wedding hair and make-up edits here.

Gifts they’ll treasure

Picking out the perfect gift can be tricky. Do you go for something for their home, a keepsake or something more personal?

We love this beautiful crystal tea-light holder and trinket box from the JM by Julien Macdonald collection. They’re so elegant and will look great in any home. Something they’ll keep for years to come.

If the happy couple are keen cooks, take a look at this three-piece knife set from Sabatier. They’re an essential in any kitchen and will last a lifetime.

These fabulous storage trunks from the BundleBerry by Amanda Holden range are just gorgeous. In an elegant velvet finish, they’d make the perfect wedding gift and will look wonderful in any home. We’ll take them in every colour please!

We hope we’ve given you a little inspiration to get you started, but for more ideas browse our Wedding Shop here.

The post Wedding season is here! appeared first on Stories.

Let the entertaining begin

Firstly, make sure you’ve got all the accessories you need to set the scene for the perfect party. You want your home looking it’s best and that means lights, decor, the full works! These Home Reflections pre-lit glitter stars are just exquisite. They’re large enough to make a real impact when guests walk into the room and will really brighten up your festive space. We’re sold!

If you’re after something fun, try these light-up parcels, or this mercury glass tree. They’re great for placing away from the tree to spread the joy around your home! We also adore these glitter cones from Alison Cork and wire light lanterns from BundleBerry by Amanda Holden – they’re so smart and elegant, offering a contemporary twist to your decor.

Looking for something a bit more traditional? Then try this beautiful crystal garland and lay it across your mantelpiece or place this berry wooden candle holder as the centerpiece on your dining table.

This jolly light-up Santa figure is sure to be a talking point at your festive gatherings. Place him by the front door to welcome in guests as they arrive!

One of the most important aspects for the party will of course be… the music! Keep the tunes coming and your guests can’t fail to have a great time. Try this Bose soundbar for top quality, crystal clear sound all night long. And if you want to take the entertainment up a notch, this classic arcade games machine is sure to impress, with games like Pacman and more – your guests will just love it!

Set the table

Pull out all the stops and create a wonderful display at your festive table with the help of Culinary Concepts. They always deliver when it comes to elegant, eye-catching tableware like this stunning octopus stand and glass bowl. Fill it with ice and keep the drinks cool, ready for guests to dive in. It’s a real show-stopper!

This cork screw and bottle stopper to match will look fabulous on your drinks trolley too. And use these gorgeous cheese knives for your cheese board. Your guests will love the little mice!

We love these elegant wine bottle holders too that feature an antler design. Just place one or two on the table for your guests to admire and help themselves!

Eat, drink and be merry!

Start the celebrations off in style and pop open the bubbles! This trio from Virgin Wines offers a mixed selection which will please all your guests on Christmas day. Whether you’re welcoming them in as they arrive or sharing a little glass of fizz with the family before the fun begins, it would be rude not to!

Stock up on wine too, whether it’s for your Christmas Eve party or to go along with your festive meal. This Virgin Wines assortment is great value for six bottles, including white, red and rose wines, so all bases are covered.

We just love starting off the festive feasting with some delicious smoked salmon – you can’t beat it! It’s a nice treat to enjoy that’s not too heavy before the main meal. Try this selection from the Cornish Fishmonger, including specially cured, ready-to-eat slices.

Cheese is always a winner at any Christmas party! Whether you’re serving up a tasty sharing board at your Christmas or New Year’s party or just want something to offer when the neighbours pop in for a festive tipple or two, you can’t go wrong with cheese in our eyes.

This tasty selection pack from The Mouse House includes different Cheddar varieties including Garlic & Chive and Caramelised Red Onion or why not opt for this Speciality Cheese selection from Godminster, which features tempting flavours like Black Truffle Vintage Cheddar to really spoil your guests.

After dinner delights

We all know what it’s like on Christmas Day – we over indulge, eat way too much turkey and feel like we can never eat again, well… until a few hours later, of course! You’ve always got to have a few special treats on hand to tuck into later in the evening.

A sweet indulgent tipple after your meal is always a welcoming treat to share with loved ones. We adore this decadent Hotel Chocolat set including Velvetised Chocolate Cream Liqueurs in a choice of wonderful flavours. These will be lovely served over ice or mixed into a cocktail.

Have you tried the Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser? It makes deliciously creamy, barista-style hot chocolates that are simply irresistible and a real treat to offer to guests. This collection comes with two tins of hot chocolate in different flavours and two ceramic Pod cups too. And it’s not only hot chocolate that this wonder machine creates – try this Caffe Latte selection pack from Hotel Chocolat for tasty, flavoured lattes too. They can be made in the Velvetiser or simply by whisking into hot milk. Mmmmm, delicious!

And if you’re a coffee connoisseur, give the Tassimo by Bosch pod coffee machine a try. It features Intellibrew (yes you read that right!) technology so it does all the hard work for you, delivering delicious coffee to you whenever you need it.

Once the excitement is over, there’s no better way to enjoy winding down on Christmas Day evening than to curl up with the kids, tuck into a few treats and watch a Christmas movie. Try these yummy festive muffins with a cuppa, or hand out these delicious packs of gourmet flavoured popcorn from Joe & Seph’s as you settle down on the sofa. They’re also great to open up and serve in bowls on your party table!

If you’re having friends over for a festive afternoon tea then why not serve up these delicious German biscuits from Lambertz or try whipping up some tasty fudge beforehand with this Calico Cottage fudge making kit. It’ll satisfy any sweet tooth!

We hope we’ve inspired you to get set for those festive celebrations in style. Cheers! If you want more, visit our Christmas Shop.

The post Be the ultimate host this Christmas! appeared first on Stories.

Right now, we’re shining a light on Smart Works (charity number: 1080609), a charity set up to help women build their confidence, get the job and transform their lives. We had a virtual catch up with Kate Stephens the Chief Executive at Smart Works to find out more.

Tell us about Smart Works and the important work that you do

Smart Works exists to empower women with the confidence they need to reach their full potential, secure employment and change the trajectory of their lives.

The women we support at Smart Works are at greatest risk of economic hardship and discrimination. In the last year 43% of clients had been unemployed for over a year, 25% had been rejected from over 50 jobs and 14% from over 100 jobs.

We help our clients by giving them a complete outfit of clothes and accessories followed by one-to-one coaching so that they can succeed at their job interview. It sounds simple, giving women the tools and the confidence that will help them get the job, but the impact is profound.

As we move forward from the pandemic our service has never been more needed and we’re determined that any woman who needs our support is able to find her way to one of our centres across the UK.

How does the support that you offer change the lives of these women?

In eight years, we’ve opened eight centres and supported 20,000 women. Over two thirds of our clients go on to get a job within a month of their appointment, and we are so proud of the tangible impact we have.

But Smart Works is more than numbers. Our aim is to create a safe space for our clients to realise their potential and feel like the best version of themselves ahead of interview. It isn’t just about the clothes they are gifted; it is about what those clothes allow each woman to become. It is always a wonderful moment when one of our clients looks in the mirror and begins to see hope and possibility for a better future.

The people who best describe the impact of the service are our clients:

“I was made to feel powerful and secure within myself. As well as just changing my wardrobe, it changed my outlook on work and life.”

We want to raise the profile of our charity so that we can take this service to even more women across the UK. It is our mission that any women in need should be able to find her way to a Smart Works centre.

What advice would you give to a woman needing your help, and how can she find her way to a Smart Works centre?

Smart Works is a referral service, so just approach the person supporting you in your search for a job and ask them to give us a call. It is as simple as a five-minute phone call and we can get you booked in.

If you’re not sure who can refer you then just give us a call directly on 0207 288 1770 and the team will find a way to help you.

Smart Works is a community, and we are here to support our clients at a crucial moment in their lives. However we can, we will find a way to be there for the women who need us.

How can we all support Smart Works?

Smart Works is nothing without its community. The most important way that people can support Smart Works is by spreading the word of our service. As we are needed now, more than ever, we want any woman who needs our help to know how they can access our service.

If you know someone who could use our help or someone who could help us reach more women, our website is the best place to get in contact with our team.

We also have several other ways that people can get involved, from volunteering with us in one of our centres as a dresser, coach or stock volunteer, to donating clothing that we could use for our clients.

You can also hold a fundraising event to help us raise vital funds or it can be as simple as following our social channels and engaging with our content so that we can continue increasing our reach across the UK.

Find out more about Smart Works here and help us support this great charity and the inspiring work they do.

The post Join us to support the charity Smart Works appeared first on Stories.

It’s time to start sorting out your decorations and decide what look you’re going for this year. Do you stick to a strict colour scheme or are you more of a mix and match type? Will you be giving your collection a complete overhaul or maybe just adding a few new pieces to freshen things up?

Well, we’re here to help you create your very own winter wonderland, whatever your style may be. Take a look at our gorgeous Christmas trends to offer a little inspiration.

Winter Lights

Go for a calm serene look inspired by the natural beauty of winter light with this beautiful collection. Subtle shades of frosty white and iridescent pastels, accented with delicate pearls and crystals will transport your decor to the snowy forests of Lapland in an instant.

What could be more angelic than these three pre-lit glass angels from Home Reflections? They would look gorgeous placed on a side table next to the nibbles, or taking centre stage on your festive dinner table.

These light-up trees from K by Kelly Hoppen are also beautiful ornaments to add to your festive decor. As well as dressing your tree, it’s nice to place pieces around your home too, to really set the scene. We love this greenery collection from Alison Cork too – perfect for that snowy, nature-inspired look. You can choose between different faux foliage designs, each decorated with white berries and silver baubles. They will look lovely on your mantelpiece or dining table.

Alison Cork’s pre-lit branch is another beautiful piece to give your festive decor a touch of woodland chic. It comes with a hook so you can hang it from the ceiling or against a wall for a striking look set with pretty LED lights.

If you’re looking for something bold to add to your tree, then these paper stars are ideal. They come in a sparkly silver finish and will look fabulous adorning your tree or even hung from doorways or in your windows to create a gorgeous display for passers by.

Looking for some new lights? These pretty strands won’t disappoint. We love these twinkling starburst ones that can draped indoors or out, and these metal snowflake strand lights are so pretty too and ideal for keeping within your nature-inspired theme.

Pre-lit decorations are so on trend this year. They have that added magic of drawing us in with shimmering, twinkling lights that are so enchanting. We adore this festive crackled glass sphere that lights up, displaying a pretty Christmas scene.

We can always count on the JM by Julien Macdonald collection to bring some glamour to the party. These crystal lotus flower tea-light holders are stunning and will look great lit up as you relax in your living room. Or why not try these beautiful crystal swan decorations to add serenity to your festive decor.

Merry and Bright

If a traditional Christmas theme is your thing, then this is the look for you. This collection blends classic red accents with rich greens and elegant gold decorations to awaken nostalgic memories of the cosy festive period.

And it all begins with your Christmas tree! This Alison Cork Sugar Spruce artificial tree is so easy to set up and features memory wire branches that are pre-lit with pretty fairy lights. It’s a great option if you’re looking to move away from a real tree this year and go for a fuss-free option.

Once you’ve got your tree all set up, you need to decide on what to decorate it with! These charming reindeer decorations are so cute and we love these elegant baubles with a glitter finish. Or go for something a bit different with these clip-on hummingbird decorations from Alison Cork finished with sparkling embellishments and beads.

When we think of traditional Christmas decor, a poinsettia will always feature. So bright and vibrant red, this plant will always brighten up any space and bring on the festive cheer! This Home Reflections red and gold faux poinsettia display adds a real touch of elegance and comes in different designs to choose from including a wreath, garland or hanging basket. It’s pre-lit as well, so will look really beautiful inside or outside your home.

These pre-lit pine branches are another gorgeous option for adding a traditional look to your decor. Place them in a vase or simply hang them from your mantelpiece to complete your look.

In keeping with the red and green theme are these lovely Alison Cork Christmas baubles. They have a stylish velvet finish with gold hanging ribbons for a smart look and they’ll easily fit in with your existing decorations too.

We like to mix and match baubles on the tree to create a more interesting finish. Try teaming plain colours with these beautiful embellished ones from Alison Cork that’ll really stand out for an eye-catching look.

Glittering Opulence

This collection is full of deep blues and decadent velvets lifted with glittering gold metallics to create a rich and luxurious style. If you’re hosting a Christmas Eve party or maybe the big day itself, this look will transform your home into the ultimate destination for entertaining.

What better way to welcome in guests than with this statement peacock decoration from Alison Cork. The standing peacock is so regal and elegant, decorated with shimmering sequins and faux fur accents, it’ll certainly get some attention at your festive gatherings! And if you’re loving the peacock theme, this gold ornament is also so striking. Try putting it in the hallway or porch to set the scene as guests arrive.

We just adore this drinks trolley and cocktail shaker from BundleBerry by Amanda Holden. They’re so smart and stylish and guests will be impressed as you mix and serve cocktails to everyone as you swish around the room. Espresso Martini anyone?

This gorgeous wall mirror from Alison Cork is a keeper! Not only will it look fabulous as part of your opulent festive theme with its gold and velvet design, but it’s one we think should stay all year round.

For your tree, go for lots of gold and jewel tones. We love these pre-lit baubles to drape across the branches, these sparkling glitter and crystal butterflies and these clip-on glitter flowers that really make a statement. Try Alison Cork’s tree jewellery set too to add some extra sparkle.

For more festive inspiration, visit our Christmas Shop for gifts, food, decor and lots more!

The post What’s your Christmas theme this year? appeared first on Stories.

The cold weather isn’t all that bad, but if you need a little help braving the chill, then we’ve got some handy essentials we think you’ll love.

Wrap up warm

The change of seasons is a great excuse to treat yourself to a few new wardrobe staples, and what’s the best thing for chilly weather? Soft, cosy knits that give you a big warm hug that’s what! We love this chic V-neck jumper from Phase Eight. It’s cosy, yet smart so you can easily wear it on a night out with a skirt, or layered over a tee with jeans during the day.

This Ruth Langsford Ottoman jumper is gorgeous too, with its slightly longer length and ribbed detailing. It’s really flattering and will look great teamed with jeans and trainers or smart trousers and boots.

If you’re looking for cosy at-home style then try this velour lounge set from Carole Hochman or this soft, plush cardigan from Cuddl Duds. We also love this stylish faux fur cape from Frank Usher. It’s so chic!

Snuggly slippers are an essential for the colder months, when relaxing at home. These slider style slippers from Moda in Pelle are so soft and feature warm sheepskin uppers to keep your feet feeling toasty. We also love these cosy sheepskin ones from Emu. Both are great for keeping your feet warm, but aired at the same time. Browse our Slipper Shop for more.

A good winter coat is essential for when the weather really gets frosty! Centigrade are a trusted brand, offering a host of stylish winter outerwear. This quilted water-resistant design is down and feather-filled and machine washable too. It’s a good one for those rainy weekends watching the kids play sports! This lightweight jacket is also fab as a shorter option. Or if you’re after more of a Parka style, then this Ruth Langsford one is ideal.

It’s worth having a smarter winter coat too, especially for the festive season when you might be dressing up more than usual! Faux fur designs are always an elegant choice and we just adore these two from Centigrade. This shawl collar coat is so smart and this animal print faux fur coat has an extra edge to it with a glamorous print.

Helene Berman’s animal print coat is another one that’s so sophisticated and great for stepping up the glamour. It features an open, long-length design with a striking all-over cheetah print. And if you’re after a biker jacket that’s always so on-trend, try this Centigrade faux leather one to layer over knitwear in the winter.

Get your boots on!

Cold weather fashion to us, means investing in a good pair of boots for the season and Emu are the masters of creating the perfect pair. If you love their warm, practical designs then take a look at these leather boots, or our fave, the Ellin suede ankle boot. Or if you’re after more of a cosy boot that’s great for all weather, try the Ankaa boot which has soft sheepskin lining to keep your feet feeling warm and snug.

Hiker boots are not only really practical for those long walks out in inclement weather, they’re also very fashionable right now. We love these lace-up ones from Skechers – with a water-repellant design and secure lace-up fastening you’ll adore them too.

If you’re after a more chic pair of boots you can wear in the evening, then these Katreena crystal ankle boots from Moda in Pelle fit the bill perfectly! With a smart suede finish and crystal embellishments around the heel, they’ll look fab with dresses and jeans too. Another gorgeous Moda pair is the Lizeth knee-high design that’ll also look so chic for a night out.

Ankle boots are still a firm favourite this season and we wanted to shout about these two pairs from Vionic. The Millie design is a suede ankle boot with a stacked heel that’s nice and low, so easy on your feet, and the Vera boots have a similar suede design that’s perfect for day or evening outings.

Your cold-weather beauty regime

When we move towards winter, our beauty rituals change and its important to recognise that our skin may need a bit of extra pampering. Think, soothing, rich formulas to comfort your skin during the harsh, cold winter months, like this classic Cleanse & Polish duo from Liz Earle. With its iconic, award-winning formula, you know you’re in good hands.

Another gem that we love is from Elemis – the Pro-Radiance Cream Cleanser duo. This luxe cleanser works to cleanse and hydrate your skin, without stripping it of much-needed moisture.

If you’re looking to add retinol to your skincare routine, then why not begin with this Skinsense duo. Featuring two serums, one Anti-Ageing formula and one Double Strength night serum, this set will help leave your skin looking radiant, refreshed and more youthful.

Stock up on luxurious, rich moisturiser with this wonderful duo of High Potency Classics Face Finishing & Firming Moisturiser from Perricone. It has a gorgeous gel-like cream texture that just melts into your skin, leaving it feeling super hydrated – perfect for winter. We also love this Advanced Night Repair Synchronised Multi-Recovery Complex from Estee Lauder, its a serum that works overnight to help fight the visible signs of ageing and this Delarom trio, for a whole new skincare regime in one set!

Curl up at home

What really makes a cosy night in super relaxing and special for you? We just can’t get enough of a soothing candle or diffuser, and this Made by Zen Luminarie diffuser is just perfect. Simply add your favourite essential oils, plug it in and enjoy some down time as it releases a relaxing aromatherapy mist for up to four hours at a time. Ahh bliss!

Warming up at home with a soothing cuppa and a good book is one of life’s little comforts. If you’re a coffee lover then the Cook’s Essentials capsule coffee machine is a must-have for your kitchen. It’s compatible with both Nespresso and Dolce Gusto coffee pods and will mean you can create your own coffee creations in the comfort of your own home, rather than having to venture out in the cold!

If you’re more of a hot chocolate fan, then you simply have to treat yourself to the Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser. It’s a dream of a machine, serving up silky smooth, delicious hot chocolate at home. Add some hot chocolate bombes to your basket too. We’re fans of these Christmas cracker bombes from Cocoba – a great treat or gift for loved ones.

Cooking up hearty, warming meals is another lovely thing to do at home in the colder seasons and it’s something the kids can get involved with too! Whether it’s a favourite stew or curry the family love or a new soup recipe you’re trying out, you can’t go wrong with Le Creuset. This casserole dish and grill pan set is a real investment – you’ll be using these for years to come.

We just couldn’t curl up on the sofa without a snuggly throw to climb under and Cozee Home offer an array of gorgeous designs like this Velvetsoft and Sherpa reversible throw. Or if you’re looking for something for the festive season, try the gorgeous Plush Printed or Christmas foil throws – just what you need for settling down to watch all those Christmas movies! With some gorgeous candles lit to set the scene as well of course! We love the HomeWorx by Harry Slatkin range, there are so many wonderful scents and designs to choose from.

Warm, cosy bedding is also essential when the nights turn cold. We adore this Cozee Home duvet set made from super soft fleece to snuggle up in. Just add this Sleep Smug Heatwrap set too, for the cosiest sleep ever! And if that’s not enough, relax in the evenings with this lavender weighted shoulder wrap that can be warmed up in the microwave. Just pop it on when you’re curled up with that book and cuppa – heaven!

Feeling all warm and fuzzy now? We hope we’ve inspired you with a few ideas – stay warm!

The post Are you ready to brave the cold? appeared first on Stories.

As part of QVCUK’s Making a Difference Together initiative to support local communities, we’re shining a spotlight on the work of community foodbanks, with a specific focus on the Knowsley Foodbank, located close to our warehouse and Customer Service Centre in Knowsley, South Liverpool.

We caught up with Simon Cowie, the Chief Operating Officer at the Big Help Group to find out more about foodbanks and the vital projects they run in Knowsley.

Can you tell us about the Knowsley Foodbank and the important work that you do?

Big Help Project was founded in 2011 as Knowsley Foodbank, initially operating out of the back room of a church in Kirkby, and feeding over 700 people in the first 6 months. A decade on, we now operate 10 foodbank centres across 6 days a week throughout the borough of Knowsley. In the 12 months ending in March 2021 we fed over 77000 people.

Very quickly after it started, they realised that some people were accessing the foodbank on a regular basis and sought to find out the reasons for this. Primarily it was due to insufficient funds often from unmanageable personal debt, so Jubilee Debt advice was formed which continues to help clients on an individual basis to liaise with creditors and find solutions to make repayments affordable.

Why are foodbanks so vital to local communities and those in need?

The need for foodbanks has been highlighted over the pandemic but the truth is, regardless of the wealth of a nation, there has and will always be people in need of food support. Often people are thrown into food crisis unexpectedly and sometimes accessing emergency food is a new experience.

More often though people are stuck in a rut with their finances, benefits, addictions, and other life complications which mean that foodbanks are truly a lifeline for them. Our aim is to empower people out of poverty and our strategy is based around additional wrap-around support, which is often needed to begin addressing the underlying issues.

How can we offer help in our local areas?

Help is always needed and there are many ways help can be offered and accepted. Donating food is the first and most obvious one, accepting food from individuals and groups, whether it be community centres, schools, football clubs, work-based or street collections – a food-based support project needs food!

Our foodbanks and food clubs can always benefit from people giving up their personal time to support the community and help keep these services open. Traditional fund-raising events can provide essential funds to keep our projects running and to buy food necessities that may be running low on stock levels. Raising the awareness and profile of our food support schemes is useful too as it means more people knowing about what we offer, where and when we offer it and importantly what is needed to maintain our provision.

Where can someone in need of help go to find support from a local foodbank?

We have developed strong partnerships over the years which include schools, community centres, GP surgeries, CAB, social care workers and Knowsley Borough Council. We have signage outside our foodbanks on the day they are open and we have our own website and social media.

We are part of the Trussell Trust network nationally and have a good network of volunteers and community workers. We also offer an Emergency Food Support Line which clients can access and when they are not close to or have easy access to a foodbank on that day, we will arrange to bring the food to them.

We aim to be non-judgemental and welcome users to our facilities; we hope not to have to see clients again, but we do help them to understand that we are here to help, especially if their problems go beyond the need for food.

We have many mantras and sayings at the Big Help Project. Here are two especially important ones:

“No-one needs to go hungry in Knowsley.”
“We will not pass by on the other side of the road.”

There are so many ways in which we can help, including donating to foodbanks, volunteering and spreading the word. Search online to find your local foodbank and offer support in your neighbourhood today.

The post Join us to support local foodbanks appeared first on Stories.

With our Christmas shop open for business, we wanted to share a few top picks with you, to get you in the festive mood (can you hear the jingle bells yet?!)…

Deck the halls

Transforming your home into a festive wonderland can be so much fun! We love to get right in the spirit, the more sparkle and Santas, the better. This Mr Christmas ceramic tree is so colourful and magical and definitely one the kids will love brining out year after year.

We also love this musical light-up scene with it’s charming intricate design and multi-coloured LED lights, or this customisable Christmas scene that you’ll love putting together each year. They’re a great way of brightening up a table top or sideboard.

It’s always great to bring out the fun novelty Christmas pieces that get everyone talking. This musical Christmas tree hat is great fun and it moves along to the music – we’re sure this’ll get passed around the table for everyone to have a go on Christmas day! And this jolly Santa figure is so festive and plays Christmas carols for you to sing along to as well, what’s not to love?

If you’re looking to update your baubles this year then try these gorgeous decoupage ones in a pretty festive print that come in a beautiful decorative box.

Now, this one has to be a favourite of ours, as it’s a real show-stopper! We just love this falling snowflakes projector that you can use inside or out. It has white LED lights that project a snowing effect with up to 50 square feet of coverage. It’s bound to impress the neighbours if you use it outdoors this Christmas.

The season of light

Whether you’re hanging up strings of lights or decorating your space with lanterns and candles, adding some festive glow to your home really does add a little magic. These gorgeous Home Reflections light-up spheres will look wonderful placed on the hearth or by the side of your tree. They have a crackled sequin finish for the perfect shimmering effect.

If lighting candles isn’t always practical with kids or pets racing around, then try these simple, elegant flameless candles from Luxform. This set of five candles comes with a remote control and the pieces are crafted from real wax to give an authentic look and the glow of real candles.

This Mr Christmas light-up tree is so pretty. It has a stunning vintage-style mercury glass finish with swirling LED lights inside to produce a gorgeous glow in your home. We also love these adorable pre-lit glass angels from Home Reflections. Pop them on your windowsill for a warm, welcoming glow for guests arriving to your home at Christmas.

Something to really bring the wow factor to your festive decor display is this set of three hanging beaded starbursts. They really are spectacular and can be used indoors and out, hung up on your tree or draped around the mantelpiece to give any room some dazzling Christmas sparkle. Perfect for a festive party!

These charming pre-lit fairy houses are going to be a big hit with little ones this Christmas. They’re so sweet, featuring little paper cone roofs and warm white LED lights inside. They will look great placed on a coffee table or windowsill. And who knows, the Christmas fairies might even pop by to say hello!

Let the festive feasting begin!

Food, glorious food! It’s such an important part of Christmas, isn’t it? From stocking up on tasty treats to share with loved ones at home to wonderful gift selections and, of course ,the main event on Christmas day.

Advent calendars have certainly evolved over the years. While the standard chocolate-filled ones are a still a favourite for most, there are now so many interesting ones on offer to treat yourself to in the lead up to Christmas. Like this Freixenet sparkling wine advent calendar, which is filled with mini bottles for you to share with friends. Or try this one from The Original Cake Company, featuring gorgeous miniature festive cakes. They look so tempting!

Isn’t it so nice to curl up on a wintery day with a hot mug of hot chocolate and watch all the Christmas movies? We just love these Hot Chocolate Bombe Christmas Crackers from Cocoba. You just place one into a mug of hot milk and it melts into a delicious, creamy hot chocolate. Perfect!

When you have visitors popping in over Christmas, it’s useful to have a stash of sweet treats you can whip out to share with them. This Luxury Fruit and Nut Selection Box is filled with tasty treats your guests will love. Or if that’s not your thing, try this festive popcorn selection from Joe & Seph’s or this delicious biscuit assortment to enjoy with a cuppa.

Hotel Chocolat offer a vast selection of amazing chocolates and treats that are perfect for gifting. One of our faves is this Christmas Wreath box, filled to the brim with tempting festive flavours and presented in a gorgeous gift box. We also love this wonderful hamper that would make a great present (if you can stop yourself from tucking into it!). It’s filled with slabs, chocolate snowflakes and more!

Another Hotel Chocolat treat that’s caught our eye is this Elf stocking set. It’s a great way of giving a gift of sweet treats that’s already perfectly presented in a festive stocking, as if it came straight from the big man himself!

Speaking of gifting, if you love the shopping and giving part, but can’t stand wrapping up all the Christmas presents, then check out this fantastic collection from Perfect Present. It’s a huge selection of ready-to-use gift bags in different shapes and designs, complete with gift tags too. So all you have to do is place your gift inside a bag, pull the drawstring and attach your tag. It’s so simple!

If you’re now feeling all nice and Christmassy, then why not head over to our Christmas page and check out the full selection.

The post Isn’t it time to talk Christmas? appeared first on Stories.

Bring the hotel home

Why not make a luxe space to enjoy this year? Whether it’s your bedroom or living area, create a peaceful sanctuary where you can switch off from the day and completely relax. Even if you’re not heading away on a break, it’s important to take time off from work and you can still make staying home a blissful escape.

So if you’ve got a couple of days off, prepare with a bedroom makeover. Our stunning range of bedding and décor means you can create a space that will rival a boutique hotel. Update your bed with this contemporary Dappled Dots bedding set from Cozee Home, add a sleek K by Kelly Hoppen mirror to open up the space, lay down a sumptuous shaggy rug and dress your bed with a gorgeous Cozee Home throw. Or, why not hang up these gorgeous Home Reflections light strands to brighten up your room or add a touch of serenity to your space with this Buddha statue?

If your tech could do with an upgrade, then how about treating yourself to the Amazon Echo Show? Now’s the time to have a play around and enjoy it while you’re at home on holiday. Our Cook’s Essentials coffee machine is a great one to add to your kitchen, it’ll save on all those coffee runs to the local coffee shop too!

For the ultimate in chic storage, try these BundleBerry by Amanda Holden trunks or K by Kelly Hoppen ottoman – perfect for clearing away unsightly clutter and making your space a calm place to chill out in. All you need to do now is switch off your phone, close the door, aaaand relax.

Your garden oasis

Hopefully we can look forward to some good weather in the coming months so you can use your garden as a welcome retreat to relax in and entertain friends during your summer break. This rattan chair is so pretty and this comfy lounger is a must for laying back with a good book and sipping your favourite tipple. Create a chic oasis with these outdoor tea-lights and stylish planter, and you’ve instantly got a space you’ll love to be in!

Eating al fresco is great fun and we’ve got a selection of products that can take your garden picnic to the next level. Sit back on this versatile Home Reflections rug (great for indoors and outdoors), throw on this fun, tartan throw and you’ve got a cosy area, add some paper plates and delicious snacks and you’re on your way to enjoying food and fun with the family – outside!

In the evenings you can make this same area a little more grown-up. Fire up the barbecue with this brilliant design from Kalorik, play some great tunes on your speaker, or sit back with a glass of something chilled, dessert and some gorgeously decorative lanterns for a little ambience. Really make your space one you can enjoy every day.

And if you’re after something a little more special for entertaining, then this glass bowl and stand is a real show-stopper! It’ll look amazing filled with ice and piled high with drinks for your guests to enjoy. This lovely serving platter set and bamboo glasses are also ideal for a garden party and will look great on your table.

Time to hit the spa

If you crave some me-time or are just missing the pampering of a spa session, why not recreate one at home? We recommend making sure you have some time and space to yourself in the evenings when the kids are asleep, or possibly after you’ve bundled everyone off on a walk.

Switch off your phone and light some delicious candles; we love this Neom set blended with aromatic essential oils, and enjoy a lavish bath with all your favourite goodies like this Molton Brown trio. Treat your skin to some all-over care with fragrant oil from Elemis and indulge in a full skincare regime with this Elemis Pro-Collagen Heroes collection or a luxe Gatineau set. It’s the perfect way to close the door to the demands of your day-to-day.

While getting away on holiday might not be possible for us all this year, we can still aim to enjoy ourselves at home. We hope we’ve inspired you, find even more in our full staycation range here.

The post How to make your at-home holiday special! appeared first on Stories.

Since launching, they’ve answered over three million calls and it costs the charity £6 to answer each one. A Switchboard volunteer listening shift lasts three hours, with an average of five calls per shift, so that means it costs £30 to support just one volunteer shift.

We had a virtual catch up with Stephanie Fuller from the charity to find out more.

Can you tell us a bit about Switchboard and the work that you do?

Switchboard is one of the UK’s longest running charities serving the LGBT+ communities. As a national helpline, we serve on average 18,000 callers a year across phone, instant messaging and email, all our calls are handled by trained listening volunteers. However you need to reach us, you can, from 10am-10pm every day.

Why are charities like Switchboard still important today?

Whilst we were established to provide vital signposting and information to LGBT+ communities, we are a service open to all. Every call is unique, and Switchboard prides itself on responding to the changing needs of our communities by providing a service that’s continually evolving and relevant. Sadly, we are receiving an increasing number of calls across all our platforms and we know that there are still many people that have not yet become aware of the support our service could offer them.

What are the key themes/issues raised by those who contact Switchboard?

We talk to people from all across the UK, wishing to discuss issues ranging from sexuality, gender identity, mental and sexual health, isolation and more. Whether this is a personal challenge or one facing a friend or family member, we are a confidential, non-directive service – we don’t tell people what to do and we don’t judge. We’re here to listen and support people to make informed decisions for themselves.

What would you say to someone who is finding it hard to take that step in reaching out for support?

Do give us a call, we’ve been here since 1974 and have spoken to millions of people, and we are here for you too. Without judgement, just here to listen across phone, email and instant messenger.

As a friend/partner/family member of an LGBTQ+ identifying person, how can we help them feel supported day-to-day?

Include them, as many people from our community experience rejection. Support them by using their preferred pronouns when appropriate, and celebrate the good days with them just as you would anyone else. Be supportive of events such as Pride Month, LGBT History Month and call out LGBT+phobia when you encounter it.

If you want to find out more about Switchboard visit their website and look out for our Inside QVC Podcast coming up in July too, where we’ll be chatting to Natasha Walker from Switchboard in the first episode of our Making a Difference Together mini-series.

The work that this charity carries out is vital for so many within the LGBTQ+ community and their family and friends, and donations are much needed. So do join with us to support Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline and help in any way you can.

The post Stephanie from Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline chats to us appeared first on Stories.

Whether you’re off on a road trip with the kids or planning a quiet retreat for two, it’s time to swap the video calls for fun outdoor adventures and replace the loungewear with chic holiday fashion. The break you deserve is no longer on ice!

But where to start? If you’re feeling a bit clueless about what to pack (it’s been a while, right?), we’re here to help with a few holiday essentials that should be on your list.

Travel in style

If you’re heading off in a car for hours on end, comfort is key so make sure you pick the right outfit for the journey. There’s nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable in too-tight jeans or overheating in chunky knits. Think light layers you can mix and match to keep you cool and comfy, while always staying stylish. You’re on holiday after all, so you want to look your best.

These Kim & Co jersey trousers offer the ideal smart casual look. They come in an array of vibrant block colours and have a comfy stretch waistband and narrow leg shape. Team them with a classic tee like this one from Gok Wan or this cute slogan T-shirt from Ruth Langsford to complete your look.

A jumpsuit is always an easy, one-piece outfit option which we love. So simple to throw on, why not go for this Kim & Co design with gorgeous fluted sleeves for a flattering look? Or try this loose fitting gaucho style or a petite one that’s sleeveless for warmer weather, both in gorgeous prints that are made for holiday season!

Your holiday wardrobe isn’t complete without a go-to summer jacket to pop on for chillier days. Ruth Langsford‘s collection offers so much choice with her classic denim jacket that comes in a Mid Wash or Dark Indigo, the suedette biker jacket that’ll give any outfit a bit of edge and an animal print bomber jacket that’s so on-trend.

Don’t forget some key accessories too. A large ‘throw everything in’ handbag is so useful for holidays. This Radley shoulder bag looks really smart and is perfect for stashing your phone, kids’ snacks, sun cream and so much more. Or if you prefer to go hands-free, try this Kipling cross-body bag. These gorgeous scarves from Frank Usher and MarlaWynne are soft and sheer, perfect for summer days, to add a bit of colour to your outfits.

Make sure you take some comfy footwear away with you. If you’re out walking lots, you won’t want to be worrying about cold, wet feet (it’s OK, we’re sure it won’t rain, promise!). We love the look of these Skechers trainers that are so stylish, lightweight and comfortable.

Your bags don’t need to be bursting at the seams. As long as you’ve got a few key pieces with you to create a capsule holiday wardrobe, you’ll be fine.

Keep everyone entertained

Taking kids on long journeys can be challenging to say the least! Frequent loo stops, I Spy on repeat and plenty of snack requests are to be expected. So make sure you think ahead and plan a few treats to keep them entertained in the car or on the train and when you arrive at your destination. They’ll need some quiet down time… and so will you!

The Amazon Kids Fire tablet is brilliant! It comes with a sturdy kid-proof case and a year’s subscription to Fire for Kids Unlimited, meaning you can leave them to it to choose whatever game, app or book they’d like to use safely, within their own profile. It’ll give you some much-needed chill out time in the evenings and peace and quiet on the journey.

Invest in some good headphones or earphones too, like these sleek Apple AirPods or these ones that come with a wireless charging case. If you want to just kick back and shut out the rest of the world, opt for these noise cancelling headphones from Beats that offer up to 22 hours of battery life so you can switch off and listen to your favourite tunes or podcasts all day long.

When you reach your holiday home, take your smart home and trusty Alexa with you! This Amazon Echo Studio Smart Speaker is fab and will keep the whole family entertained. The Amazon Fire TV Stick is great and so portable too – just plug it in and stream all your favourite content wherever you are.

Keeping your devices charged up and ready to go when you’re away is a must. This handy Energizer docking station comes with two power banks, giving you portable power when you’re out and about. We also love the Rush Charge Trident portable charger for using with iPhone and Android phones, it’s so easy to use!

Holiday must-haves

We all know the British weather can be rather unpredictable at any time of year, but let’s think glass half full and keep our fingers crossed for some sunshine at least this summer! It’s best to be prepared anyway and sun protection is so important.

So why not stock up on some essentials from Ultrasun? If you’ve got sensitive skin and need high protection then try the Extreme SPF 50+ or for regular family sun care go for this SPF 30 duo. Don’t forget to protect your face too with this Face SPF 30 set and for the sports types out there, this Sport Gel collection, complete with Ultralip is for you. We also can’t get enough of this gorgeous Glimmer SPF 20 duo that leaves a subtle shimmer, great for glowing summer skin!

Staying with the sunshine theme, these sunglasses readers are ideal. They come in a range of magnifications and cool designs too. Or if you prefer a fit-over style, these JPE Fitover Catty Sunglasses boast UVA and UVB protection with polarized lenses and easily fit over your regular reading glasses. Or for a more vintage style, try this JPE design.

Another warm weather essential for your trip is this handy portable fan. It’s rechargeable and small enough to pop in your bag on days out, to keep you cool and comfortable if the weather gets too hot.

Keep up with your beauty regime when you’re away with this handy Tili vanity mirror. It has LED lights and comes with a cute pink travel bag too! And this gorgeous Molton Brown set is perfect for a bit of holiday pampering.

Travelling with pets?

Well, we can’t forget the most important members of the family now, can we! We’ve got a great range of travel accessories for you if you’re travelling with your pets. This water bottle duo is ideal and features two large bottles, each boasting a fold-out bowl and a wrist strap. They’re so great and mess-free. Perfect for keeping your furry friends hydrated on long walks or in the car.

Keep small dogs or cats safe and comfortable in this carrier. It has a removable padded mat and secure strap too. If you’ve got an excitable pooch that loves to jump around the car, this seat barrier could be just the thing for you. It helps keep your dog in the back and stops them for jumping into the front. What a win!

Make sure feeding your pets on the go is as easy as possible when you’re on holiday. This set of two fold-away bowls is ingenious! They come with handy clips to attach to your bag and can be used for food and water and then easily fold away afterwards.

If you need more inspiration, head over to our Summer Shop for everything you need for your getaway this summer.

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