I am… on universal credit

24/11/2017 | Reform 1

‘If it wasn’t for my kids, I might have killed myself. This system is just horrible’

I waited nine weeks for universal credit. They told me they didn’t get the form they needed, so I sent it off again. Then … Read More

Jumble sales of the apocalypse: Happy Festivus

24/11/2017 | Reform

Simon Jenkins discovers the Festivus Pole

I must admit, I’m a sucker for Christmas traditions. The jingling of sleigh bells, the singing of carols, the obviously fake beards of the Santas, the Christmas pudding dense enough to trigger a black … Read More

On the pilgrim way: ‘I have been struggling with sadness’

24/11/2017 | Reform

Sheila Maxey wrestles with sadness

Death and dying seem to be all around me, echoed in the falling leaves and morning mists. I have been struggling with sadness and loss, and trying – perhaps foolishly – to make some kind … Read More

Commitment-Phobe: Blessing a marriage

31/10/2017 | Reform

I volunteered to bless a marriage. How do I do it?

I went to a good friend’s wedding a few weeks back. He was marrying the love of his life, a man from Wales. It was the wedding party of … Read More

Jumble sales of the apocalypse: Halloween

31/10/2017 | Reform

Don’t get spooked by Halloween, advises Simon Jenkins

Imagine there was a time of year when everyone stopped thinking about everyday things such as shopping, Bake Off, what to wear, and green vs blue top milk, and instead gave some … Read More

Chapter & verse: Psalm 71

31/10/2017 | Reform

Sheila Telfer appreciates the contribution of older people

At a recent church meeting, conversation turned to the social events we host for our over 80s, and it was noted that a number of invited guests had not attended. Someone remarked … Read More