Community Noticeboard
This page gives information that maybe of interest to people across Hertfordshire. If you would like to advertise on this website and the Facebook page, please do get in touch.
Rickmansworth Aquadrome
The Rickmansworth Aquadrome car park, Frogmoor Lane (off Harefield Road), Rickmansworth, WD3 1NB, closing hours have changed for the spring and summer. From 1st April – 30th September the car park opening times will be 8am – 9.30pm. Please be aware that the car park will be locked after these times. The toilets close 30 minutes before the gates.
Meningitis: Guidance and Information
Important information and guidance regarding meningitis from Hertfordshire’s Director of Public Health click here
Repair Cafes
Repair cafés, also known as repair shops, are places where skilled individuals volunteer their tools and materials to help fix cherished items that are no longer functional or are damaged. There are a variety of items that can be fixed for free or at little cost, such as a bicycle’s broken chain, a worn-out teddy bear, a toaster that fails to pop up and more. Find your nearest Repair cafe click here
Open Poetry Competition
The 28th annual Ware Poets Open Poetry Competition is now open for entries. There are cash prizes for the best poems, the best sonnet, and the best poem by a resident of Hertfordshire, as well as the chance to have your poem published. Whether you are a seasoned poet or feel inspired to write your first poem, the competition is open to everyone. Poems can be on any subject. They must be in English, be your own original work and no longer than 50 lines. The entry fee is £5 per poem, and the closing date is 30th April 2026. Entries can be submitted and paid for online, or by postal form and cheque if preferred, full details on the Ware Poets website click here
What is an EHCP
An EHCP can help make sure children with SEND get the support they need in education, health, and care. If you are unsure whether your child may need one, you are not alone, support is available. Call 01442 916 308 or email keirabw@sendwise-info.com
Bushey and Oxhey Round Table
Round Table is a social group for 18-45 men. They aim to meet twice a month and just have some fun. Joining up gives you access to local area, national, and even international opportunities and friendships. So why not give it a go.
Help to Manage the Cost of Living
There is a range of support, advice and services to help you manage the cost of living. Worrying about Money Find out what’s available to you. Find all Financial Support – Hertsmere Borough Council. Cost of Living Toolkit If you need help or advice about the support you could receive with the cost of living, please visit Help to manage the cost of living | Hertfordshire County Council Food Aid Providers Use the Hertfordshire directory to find food support near you: Hertfordshire Directory – Food Support. Pension Credit Support If you are over State Pension age, you may be able to claim Pension Credit to top up your income. To find out if you are eligible for Pension Credit, contact Age UK Hertfordshire on 0300 345 3446 or email info@ageukherts.org.uk. Mental Health Support Advice and support for your happiness, wellbeing and mental health. See what other services are available to you by visiting Cost of Living or calling 0300 123 4044.
Watford Miniature Railway
Watford Miniature Railway will be open again from Saturday 14th February. You can then come for a train ride every weekend and during school holidays throughout the year until they close for a few weeks in November. As always their opening dates and times are weather permitting.
Jigsaw Performing Arts School
At Jigsaw Stevenage, we believe every child deserves to find a place to belong, to grow, express themselves, and shine. We are proud to offer high-quality performing arts classes for children aged 3 to 18 right in the heart of the community. Our sessions take place on Saturday mornings at Stevenage, SG2 9SR. For further information click here
Hertfordshire Health Walks
Do you want to include more walking in your day? If so, join a friendly and safe Health Walk. All walks are free with no booking required. Just turn up at least 10 mins before the start time shown, as they set off promptly and there will be a pre-walk briefing. For further information click here
Advice on Donating Safely
Donating to charities helps fund the important work that they do, however you want to be sure that you are donating safely, and to a legitimate charity. For more advice on donating safely click here Find out more, or get in touch if you have any questions or concerns click here
Charlie Hodgson Guitar Tutoring
Whether you are starting from scratch, looking to refine your skills, you are already a pro, or just wanting to explore the world of music, these lessons are 1:1 and tailored to you. Charlie Hodgson is DBS checked, insured with 20+ years full-time professional teaching experience, teaching all abilities and ages 4+ all the way to senior. Based in Kings Langley and surrounding area you can message Charlie if you are interested or want to book your spot: 07709 118932, email charliehodgsonmusic@gmail.com or click here
One Voice Watford Community Choir
One Voice Watford Community Choir invite you to join their friendly and relaxed singing group. Singing with others is uplifting, joyful and good for your overall wellbeing. So, if you enjoy singing and meeting people, then come and join them, there are no auditions and you do not need any previous singing experience. They sing a wide variety of songs including pop, west end musicals, folk, rock and gospel and they also perform locally. Everyone is very welcome and for new members your first taster session is free. They meet on Thursday evenings from 7.30pm to 9.00pm during term time at The Clarendon Muse Building, 70 Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD18 7JA (free parking available). For further information click here or click here
Living Well centres
Discover the confidence to live well with your illness at the Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care, Living Well centres in St Albans and Watford. Join them for exercise and wellbeing classes, emotional support and complementary therapies such as massage and reflexology. All in a warm and welcoming space. For people with Parkinson’s, incurable cancer, progressive neurological or respiratory conditions, and heart failure. For further information click here
Dehydration
In hot weather make sure you keep hydrated. Babies, children and older adults are more at risk of dehydration. For further information click here
Spotting a Scam
At Community News Hertfordshire we go to great lengths to make sure we only promote legitimate events on our website and Facebook page. We never ask for you to send money or ask you to be a stall holder at any of the events we feature. Nor do we ever ask you to send us money. However we do ask you to be vigilant, as we are also vulnerable to scams. Please do your homework before booking into any events and make sure the person advertising such events is a genuine organiser. (We are not an organiser, we are simply a promotional site) Call the venue first and double check the event, before parting with any money. If you spot an advert on our social media pages and think it may be a scam, please let us know, so that we can remove it from our listings.
Signs and Symptoms of Cancer
Find easy to understand cancer information about signs and symptoms by clicking here This link covers some of the key signs and symptoms of cancer, which could help you spot cancer early. Spotting cancer at an early stage saves lives, so tell your doctor if you notice anything that is not normal for you.
Watford Brass Band
If you want to join a thriving third-section band, please get in touch with Karen on 07796 175838. They would love to hear from you.
Be Water Aware
The water may look inviting but even on a warm day the water can be cold. It does not matter if you are a strong swimmer. Jumping into the water to cool off can lead to cold water shock, which can result in drowning. For further information click here
Potters Bar Community Music School
Potters Bar Community Music School (PBCMS) is based at Mount Grace school, Church Road, Potters Bar, EN6 1EZ, on Saturday mornings from 8.30am – 11.30am in term time. They give termly concerts in the main Hall of the school which are open to the public. You are welcome to try them out for a week before committing, or just pop in and look round. For further information click here
Herts Connected
Get connected with what is happening in your local area, keep up to date and have your say in what goes on where you live or work in Hertfordshire. You will also be able to choose who you would like to receive messages from – including the Police and Crime Commissioner, Neighbourhood Watch and Action Fraud. It is quick and easy to sign up click here
Reuse Shops
Reuse Shops sell quality household bargains that have been dropped off for reuse at recycling centres. You can drop off items for reuse at any recycling centre. You can buy items at a Reuse Shops, all shops accept card and cash payments. Check your drop-off point click here
Watford Healthy Hub
Looking for ways to stay healthy, meet new people, and feel your best? The Watford Healthy Hub has got a fantastic selection of free sessions designed to support your health and wellbeing. Whether you are looking for advice, support, or ways to lead a healthier lifestyle, or just looking for social activities to meet others and stay connected, the healthy Hub can help. For further information click here
Shopper Bus
Communities 1st Shopper Bus will take you from your door to the local supermarket where volunteers can help you carry bags, fetch items, and board on and off the bus. It is a door-to-door service for people who have difficulties using public transport to go shopping. The low-floor accessible mini-bus is ideal for wheelchair users and people who have difficulties with steps. To book this service Phone 01727 649 980 (telephone lines are open 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday), Email travel@communities1st.org.uk For further information click here
Hertfordshire Welfare Assistance
Hertfordshire welfare assistance is a support scheme that can provide help to Hertfordshire residents facing an immediate financial crisis. If you are struggling with buying essentials, you can apply for a welfare assistance payment to help with living expenses such as food, gas or electricity. For further information click here
Family Support Service
The Family Support Service has reintroduce a small fee for Little Herts sessions which include Baby Group, Physical Fun, Active Rhyme Time, and Stay and Play. This change will help them continue to deliver the high-quality services you and your child enjoy. To support families, they are also bringing back the Loyalty Card Scheme. Your first session will be free, and for every five sessions attended, your sixth session will also be free. For families experiencing financial challenges, please contact your nearest family centre at 0300 123 7572 for support.
Hertfordshire Childcare Finder
Use Hertfordshire’s childcare finder to filter your search and find a childcare provider near you. The tool will allow you to find childcare in Hertfordshire that meets your needs. click here
NHS Health Checks
The NHS Health Check is a health check-up for adults in England aged 40 to 74. It’s designed to spot early signs of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease or type 2 diabetes. As we get older, we have a higher risk of developing one of these conditions. An NHS Health Check helps find ways to lower this risk. For further information click here
Community Spaces and Free Activities
There are many free or low cost ‘warm spaces’ across Borehamwood, Potters Bar and Bushey this winter. Check out the posters below for further details. With thanks to Hertsmere Borough Council.
Staying Carbon Monoxide Safe
Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that cannot be detected by human senses. Basic household appliances such as cookers, boilers, stoves and fireplaces can all produce carbon monoxide. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to stay safe, and help is at hand, if you suspect carbon monoxide, call 0800 111 999.
Hertfordshire Highways
Want to know what roadworks are happening in your area? You can find out more about roadworks and road closures in Hertfordshire and more click here
The Countryside Code: Advice for Countryside Visitors
The outdoors is great for your wellbeing. It is a place for relaxation, peacefulness and activity. Your guide to enjoying our parks and countryside. click here
Childcare Support
Your 2-year-old could be eligible for 15 hours of Childcare Support per week if you receive additional support from the government. Read through the eligibility criteria and apply today via their website click here
Family Centre Service: Healthy Start Vitamins
The Family Centre Services offer free Healthy Start Vitamins to: Pregnant women, Breastfeeding mothers, Babies aged 1 month and older (excluding those who consume over 500mls of formula per day) and Children between the ages of one and four years. You can obtain the vitamin tablets or drops from your nearby Family Centre hub or child health/well baby clinic. Prior to visiting, we recommend calling 0300 123 7572 to confirm availability.
What can I recycle? A-Z
Batteries should never be disposed of in household or kerbside bins and many other items are the same, to find out what you can recycle and your nearest recycling point click here
The King’s Coronation in Pictures
The King’s Coronation was on Saturday 6th May 2023, click here for some of the best pictures from spectacular coronation day, and click here for more amazing pictures.
Recycling Centres
Due to rising costs associated with our recycling centre services, it has been decided to restrict access to Hertfordshire residents only. People wishing to use recycling centres will need to bring a driving licence or Council Tax Bill or a utility Bill as proof of address. For further information click here
The Queen’s Funeral In Pictures
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II State Funeral was on Monday 19th September 2022. By clicking here you can view some pictures of the day. For more pictures click here
Home Fire Safety
Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service offer a free safe and well visit. To book an appointment call 0300 123 4046 or click here
Watford Market
Watford has had a market since the 12th century, and it is an important part of the town that has changed and adapted over the years. The current market is housed over two-storeys with an iconic canopy roof and stalls down the High Street. (Watford House Lane, Watford, WD17 1BJ) For further information click here
