Tips for Avoiding Political Disagreements and Family Tensions Over Christmas

Tips for Avoiding Political Disagreements and Family Tensions Over Christmas

How to keep festive feuds at bay and enjoy a peaceful holiday season

With Christmas approaching, the prospect of navigating family gatherings amid political tensions can feel daunting. Whether it’s lingering debates about the controversial Tory Christmas party or past images of public figures, like Matt Hancock, family members may not see eye to eye. Add in the festive alcohol and extended time together, and the stage is set for potential clashes.

Peter Saddington, a counsellor with Relate, the UK’s largest relationship charity, highlights that this is a common problem, especially during the Christmas period when routine is disrupted. “There’s no structure, work is on hold, and alcohol is often flowing,” Saddington says. “We’re not used to spending so much time together, and when expectations are high, frustrations can quickly lead to arguments.”

A 2019 survey by Relate revealed that one in five Britons anticipated political disputes during the holiday season. To help avoid family bust-ups, Saddington and psychotherapist Murray Blacket offer strategies for maintaining harmony over the festive period.

Preparation is Key
Saddington advises proactive planning to handle potential conflicts. “Talk to your partner ahead of time to make a contingency plan if tensions rise. If one person tends to stir things up, plan an activity to distract them—like asking them to help in the kitchen or take a walk.” Blacket also recommends strategic seating arrangements to prevent any individuals from clashing. “Avoid seating people next to each other who tend to wind each other up.”

Set Boundaries
It’s important to communicate your limits to avoid uncomfortable situations. Saddington suggests informing your partner if you feel uneasy about spending time with certain relatives, establishing a time limit for your visit. Blacket adds that, often, women bear the brunt of managing family dynamics, so couples should address this together in advance.

Acknowledge Family Baggage
Recognising that everyone carries personal baggage from the year is key to maintaining empathy. Blacket points out that the holidays bring together people with varying struggles, such as divorce or job loss, which can influence family dynamics. Understanding these pressures can help prevent misunderstandings.

Stay Alert for Tension
Saddington stresses the importance of noticing when a disagreement is about to escalate. “If someone seems upset or the conversation is headed in a heated direction, it’s better to defuse it early before it explodes.”

Limit Alcohol Consumption
While a glass of wine might seem like the perfect way to navigate awkward moments, moderation is crucial. “Be mindful of alcohol intake,” says Saddington. “If everyone is helping themselves, it can quickly get out of control. Serve alcohol in smaller amounts and encourage moderation.”

Keep Busy
Sitting idle can increase the chances of conflict, particularly for children or teenagers who might become restless. Saddington suggests incorporating activities like walks, games, or even simple tasks like peeling sprouts to keep everyone occupied and reduce tensions.

Give Everyone a Chance to Speak
Family gatherings often feature individuals who dominate conversations, leaving others feeling sidelined. Blacket recommends a simple game, like “pass the spoon,” where only the person holding the utensil can speak. This ensures that everyone has a chance to voice their thoughts.

Take Time for Yourself
Sometimes, stepping away from the crowd is essential for preserving your sanity. “It’s okay to take a break if you’re feeling overwhelmed,” Saddington advises. “Let your partner or another ally know that you may need some time alone to recharge.” Don’t feel guilty about taking this time; it’s vital for your well-being.

Walk Away If a Row Starts
If an argument escalates, the best approach may be to simply walk away. “When a situation turns heated, it’s unlikely a resolution will come from continuing the fight, especially if alcohol is involved,” Saddington says. “Instead, move away from the situation, get some physical distance, and allow yourself to cool off.”

Jarrod Bowen Confident West Ham Will Regain Their Form Over the Christmas Period

Jarrod Bowen Confident West Ham Will Regain Their Form Over the Christmas Period

Despite recent setbacks, Bowen believes a positive response is within reach for the Hammers

Jarrod Bowen is optimistic that West Ham can use their spirited second-half display against Tottenham as a catalyst to restore their Premier League form. The Hammers were eliminated from the Carabao Cup by Spurs in midweek but showed resilience after the break, dominating large parts of the second half and unlucky not to score an equaliser.

The performance was even more commendable considering the number of key players unavailable, with several defenders sidelined due to injury or suspension, and Michail Antonio testing positive for Covid.

Despite a difficult run, with only one win in their last six Premier League matches, West Ham remain in fifth place. That single victory came in an impressive 3-2 triumph over title contenders Chelsea.

Bowen, who netted a brilliant goal at Tottenham, is hoping the team can build on their second-half performance to regain confidence and momentum as they face Southampton, Watford, and Crystal Palace over the festive period.

“We’ve not been performing at the level we expect, not just this season but also last season,” Bowen admitted. “We set high standards for ourselves, and to fall below those expectations isn’t good enough. The Tottenham game was about changing that mentality. The players fought hard, worked together, and gave it everything, but we couldn’t find that second goal.”

“We’re still in a strong position in the league, even though recent performances have been disappointing. With three important Premier League fixtures ahead, we are determined to take maximum points. It’s time to use this as a platform for the next few matches and get back on track.”

Sky Glass: The Ultimate Fusion of Style and Innovation for Your Living Room

Sky Glass: The Ultimate Fusion of Style and Innovation for Your Living Room

A TV that blends sleek design with cutting-edge technology for a perfect home entertainment experience

Television has come a long way over the years, but for the most part, it still struggles to balance both form and function. Until now. Sky Glass is here to revolutionise your viewing experience, offering a perfect blend of sleek design and sophisticated technology that will elevate any living room.

With no need for a satellite dish or external box, Sky Glass is the first TV to feature Sky built directly into the screen. Setting up is as simple as plugging it in, pairing it with your device, and you’re ready to start enjoying its impressive display and immersive sound immediately.

Sky Glass comes with access to Sky’s extensive library, offering over 140 channels, exclusive Sky Originals, and an array of popular apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime. The TV’s design is centred around the idea of the Playlist: save all your favourite shows and films in one place and have them automatically queued up when new episodes or seasons are released. If you’re not sure what to watch, just ask! Sky Glass features voice control, allowing you to simply say, “Hello Sky, what should I watch?” and let it recommend tailored content based on your preferences.

When not in use, Sky Glass is as much a piece of art as it is a functional TV. Its sleek, modern design complements any living space, available in a wide range of colours—from bold dusky pink to classic anthracite black. It even comes with a colour-matched stand and remote, making it not just a TV but a personalised design element for your home.

The aesthetics aren’t just skin deep; Sky Glass is the first TV to be certified carbon-neutral, with a range of energy-efficient features that ensure it’s both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. A truly modern piece of technology that blends into your home and your life.

When switched on, Sky Glass brings your entertainment to life with Ultra HD and Quantum Dot technology, offering over a billion colours in stunning detail. The built-in Dolby Atmos 360-degree sound makes it feel as if the action is unfolding around you. Whether you’re watching the vivid colours of a wildlife documentary or the heart-pounding excitement of a live sports event, every experience is enhanced with immersive visuals and sound.

Sky Glass is also available for purchase with flexible monthly payments, allowing you to buy it just like you would a mobile phone. The process is simple, with delivery straight to your door and Sky even handling the recycling of packaging. It’s a TV and buying experience like no other, crafted by Sky to make your entertainment seamless and stylish.

The Heroes and Villains Who Defined 2021

The Heroes and Villains Who Defined 2021

A year of triumphs and scandals, where some shone and others faltered

2021 has been a year unlike any other, full of highs and lows that have left us questioning the state of the world. For some, it was a year of incredible achievement and personal growth, while for others, it was a season of controversy and missteps that grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. From uplifting heroes to infamous villains, here’s a recap of the year’s key figures and moments that shaped 2021.

Heroes

Strictly Come Dancing: The 19th season of Strictly provided the UK with an emotional and inclusive finale, lifting spirits at a time when people needed it most. Despite injury setbacks, the finalists, including Rose Ayling-Ellis and John Whaite, delivered a performance that moved millions of viewers. Rose’s victory, in particular, was a powerful moment for representation in the media.

The Oxford Vaccine Team: The brilliant minds behind the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine have saved countless lives. Professor Sarah Gilbert and her team were recognised worldwide for their tireless efforts, with Brian Pinker becoming the first person to receive the vaccine in January, paving the way for millions to follow.

Oprah Winfrey: Oprah’s interview with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry was one of the year’s defining moments. Her iconic question, “Were you silent, or were you silenced?” sparked widespread discussion, highlighting Oprah’s power to break through barriers and create global conversation.

Gareth Southgate: England’s football manager embodied leadership in 2021, guiding the team to the Euro 2020 semi-finals with resilience and stoicism. His response to racism in football, supporting his black players with unwavering solidarity, made him a national hero.

Soma Sara: Founder of Everyone’s Invited, a platform that allowed people to anonymously share their experiences of sexual harassment in schools. Soma’s work this year gave many victims a voice and shed light on a deeply ingrained issue within society.

Virgil Abloh: The unexpected passing of Virgil Abloh, the artistic director of Louis Vuitton, left the fashion world heartbroken. Known for his creativity and kindness, Abloh’s influence extended far beyond fashion, as he was remembered as a mentor and trailblazer.

Emma Raducanu: At just 18 years old, Raducanu made history by winning the US Open, captivating the world with her poise, talent, and determination. She was named Sports Personality of the Year and is set to become one of tennis’ greatest stars.

Marcus Rashford: The Manchester United footballer led the charge for free school meals for vulnerable children, raising £20 million and helping to distribute millions of meals to those in need. Rashford’s unwavering commitment to charity and social justice made him a true hero of 2021.

Tom Daley: Daley’s gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics was just the beginning of his year as he became an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ rights, body positivity, and mental health. His honesty and openness about his life have made him a role model for many.

Italy: After a difficult start to the year, Italy bounced back with victories in football, baking, and music. From winning the Euros to dominating Eurovision, the country proved it was resilient and full of talent.

Villains

Elon Musk & Jeff Bezos: While most people were struggling through the pandemic, Musk and Bezos found themselves locked in a space race. Rather than focusing on global issues, these billionaires spent millions on space exploration projects, earning scorn for their excess while many continue to suffer from poverty and inequality.

Salt Bae: The famous chef’s London restaurant sparked outrage when it charged extortionate prices, including £660 for a steak. His arrogance in displaying his extravagant lifestyle earned him the title of “insult to humanity” by many, highlighting the stark contrast between excess and the economic struggles of ordinary people.

GB News: This British news channel launched with great fanfare but ended the year with a dwindling audience and chaos within its ranks. Its controversial content, alongside poor management and embarrassing technical mishaps, led to its rapid decline.

Christine Quinn: Known for her role in Selling Sunset, Quinn became one of the most disliked reality TV stars of the year. Her dramatic antics, constant stirring of conflict, and cold persona made her a villain in the eyes of many, despite her undeniable success.

Matt Hancock: The former health secretary became a symbol of hypocrisy after his affair was exposed in a public scandal. His actions during the pandemic, along with the controversial resignation that followed, made him one of 2021’s most unpopular figures.

50 Cent: The rapper took aim at Madonna over a controversial Instagram post, mocking her for her appearance and age. His ageist comments were widely criticised, leading to a public spat with the Queen of Pop.

Ben Affleck: Affleck attracted negative attention when he publicly blamed his ex-wife, Jennifer Garner, for his struggles with alcoholism, suggesting that their divorce was the reason for his recovery. His remarks were widely considered insensitive, sparking outrage among fans and critics alike.

France: In 2021, the UK was forced to face the reality of its fractured relationship with France, particularly as Covid-related travel restrictions became more unpredictable and disruptive. The year saw a deterioration in Anglo-French relations, culminating in frustration and resentment.

Tom Wambsgans: From Succession, Wambsgans epitomised the scheming, backstabbing character that viewers love to hate. His actions, including betraying his wife, made him a villain in the eyes of many fans.

Covid Variants: The new Covid variants caused further chaos in 2021, leading to more lockdowns, travel restrictions, and devastating losses. These mutations were a constant reminder of the ongoing global health crisis and its personal impact on millions.

Rising Living Costs Highlight the Consequences of Political Failures

Rising Living Costs Highlight the Consequences of Political Failures

As inflation soars and wages stagnate, the poorest face increasing financial strain and limited government support

For many families, the looming cost of Christmas is adding to an already challenging financial situation, with inflation at a decade-high and consumer goods prices climbing rapidly. For those already struggling, providing a festive meal is a significant challenge, and the emotional burden is just as heavy as the financial strain. What was once a yearly concern is now compounded by rising everyday living costs, with further hikes expected in the coming year, especially affecting the lowest earners.

In April 2022, a planned rise in national insurance is expected to hit low-income earners hardest, as a 1.25 percentage point increase will disproportionately affect those on lower hourly wages or part-time jobs, while those with higher incomes will barely notice the change. This move follows the controversial decision to end the £20-a-week increase in universal credit benefits, which had been providing vital support to low-paid workers. The government’s actions have drawn criticism from across political lines, including from members of their own party, who argue that these measures undermine the so-called “levelling up” agenda.

Energy costs are set to soar in the coming year, with average bills expected to reach £2,000 annually, a significant portion of which will be borne by those on minimum wage. This rise comes alongside increasing fuel costs, which are especially burdensome for low-income workers who rely on transportation to access employment.

Housing costs are also rising, particularly for social housing tenants. Around 4.75 million families in England could face a 4% rent increase next year, adding an additional £202 to their annual expenses. As inflation peaks in April, these increases are likely to exacerbate financial pressures on already struggling households. The situation is made worse by the fact that many low-paid workers, including those in retail, care, and hospitality, have borne the brunt of the pandemic and now face even more uncertainty.

The financial strain of the past two years has only widened the gap between the wealthiest and the poorest, with homeowners benefiting from reduced housing costs while the poorest face escalating rents. Social housing tenants now spend nearly 20% of their income on housing costs, while homeowners, who typically earn higher incomes, spend only about 9%. The ever-growing disparity between these groups has made the divide between the wealthiest and the poorest even more pronounced.

The question remains: why aren’t social landlords taking action to prevent rent increases? Housing associations, while operating with a social mandate, are primarily commercial entities focused on their bottom lines, making it difficult for them to prioritise the needs of their tenants. The government’s failure to act, compounded by a series of poor political decisions, including Brexit, has left families caught in a cycle of inflation, restrictions, and rising costs.

To alleviate some of this pressure, the government could reconsider its national insurance increase or intervene in rising energy prices. However, given the government’s lack of compassion and its failure to address the ongoing cost of living crisis, many are left wondering whether this will lead to more long-term damage to the country’s most vulnerable.

Business Travel Declines as Omicron Forces Stricter Restrictions Worldwide

Business Travel Declines as Omicron Forces Stricter Restrictions Worldwide

The Business Travel Association criticises the lack of targeted support for the sector amid the rise of Omicron cases

New data reveals that business travel has significantly dropped in December as countries tighten restrictions in response to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. This comes as the business travel sector continues to recover from the setbacks caused by the pandemic, with remote meetings becoming the norm as companies increasingly rely on platforms like Zoom and Google Teams for international dealings.

Prior to the emergence of Omicron, business travel had shown signs of recovery, though still lagging behind pre-pandemic levels. However, the recent surge in cases and new travel restrictions have reversed some of this progress, according to figures from Travelogix and the Business Travel Association (BTA).

The data indicates a decline of 22,452 UK business trips during the second week of December alone, compared to the previous week, primarily due to tightened restrictions linked to the Omicron variant. International business travel from the UK was down nearly 77% when compared to 2019 levels.

Clive Wratten, CEO of the BTA, voiced his disappointment with the government’s £1 billion emergency support package, which he said failed to offer direct help for the business travel sector. Wratten highlighted that business travel, an integral part of the UK’s economy, had been overlooked in the new support measures.

The impact of Omicron has led several nations to impose further restrictions, with the Netherlands going into lockdown and Israel preparing to ban travel to the US and Canada. This comes just after the postponement of the Davos Economic Forum, a key event for global business and political leaders, which was delayed due to concerns over the spread of the virus.

The World Economic Forum acknowledged that despite stringent health protocols, the spread of Omicron and its effect on global mobility made the event’s deferral unavoidable.

Fauci Demands Watters’ Firing Over “Kill Shot” Comments

Fauci Demands Watters’ Firing Over “Kill Shot” Comments

Fox News Defends Host Amid Controversy Over Remarks Directed at Dr. Fauci

Dr. Anthony Fauci has called for Fox News host Jesse Watters to be dismissed after the latter made controversial remarks about confronting Fauci with an “ambush” interview, during which he used the phrase “kill shot.” Watters, known for his aggressive interviewing style, addressed a group of young conservatives, urging them to question Fauci about his alleged involvement in research funding at a Wuhan lab, where the COVID-19 virus is thought to have originated.

Watters suggested that the interviewer should accuse Fauci of lying about the matter, followed by an intense questioning designed to leave Fauci “dead” politically. His exact words were: “Now you go in for the kill shot, the kill shot with an ambush, deadly, because he doesn’t see it coming.”

The remarks, which quickly went viral, were widely criticised, with some commentators speculating that Watters was inciting violence. Fauci, when asked about the comments on CNN, expressed his concern, stating, “What kind of craziness is there in society these days? That’s awful what he said. And he’s going to go, very likely, unaccountable.” He added that Watters should be fired immediately for his comments.

However, Fox News defended Watters, claiming his words had been “twisted completely out of context” and that he was simply using a metaphor to advocate for tough questioning. The network also downplayed the incident, despite the backlash over the inflammatory language.

Fauci has faced numerous threats and harassment in the past, especially as a prominent figure in the fight against COVID-19, and has even required security detail due to the nature of these attacks. The controversy comes amid ongoing criticism of Fauci from conservative figures and networks, including Fox News, with other hosts having compared him to notorious historical figures.

Despite the uproar, it remains unclear whether Watters will face any consequences for his remarks. Meanwhile, Fox News has not publicly addressed other controversial comparisons made by its hosts, including those from Tucker Carlson and Lara Logan.

Arteta Faces Tough Decisions as Arsenal’s Frontline Shows Promise and Frustration

Arteta Faces Tough Decisions as Arsenal’s Frontline Shows Promise and Frustration

Inconsistent Performances from Nketiah, Balogun, and Pepe Provide Arteta with Selection Dilemmas

Mikel Arteta is facing significant decisions regarding his attacking options, as Arsenal’s frontline continues to display both exciting potential and frustrating inconsistency.

Eddie Nketiah, who is due to become a free agent in the summer, once again showcased his poacher’s instincts with a clinical hat-trick in the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Sunderland. The 22-year-old took his tally in the competition to 10 goals in nine games, proving his value to the team as Arsenal cruised to a 5-1 victory. However, with just weeks left before he can start negotiating with foreign clubs, the future of Nketiah remains uncertain. His contract situation could prompt Arsenal to make a renewed effort to secure his services beyond this season.

Nketiah’s goals were typical of his style: three well-taken finishes from inside the box, including a neat flick for his third. It was a reminder of the qualities he brings as a “fox in the box” striker—something many clubs, including Arsenal, could find useful in the second half of the season. Despite his promising performance, Nketiah’s situation will need careful management as the club weighs whether to offer him a new contract or risk losing him to another Premier League side, with Crystal Palace having been close to signing him in the summer.

Meanwhile, Folarin Balogun, who also had an opportunity to shine against Sunderland, endured a far less successful night. The 20-year-old, primarily playing for the under-23s this season, struggled with his chances in the first team, squandering two decent opportunities. He was substituted before the 60-minute mark, and his performance highlighted the need for a loan move to gain more senior experience. A spell in the Championship could provide valuable playing time and development for the young forward.

Nicolas Pepe’s performances, too, remain a source of frustration for Arteta. The Ivorian winger displayed his characteristic inconsistency in the match, offering moments of brilliance, such as his well-taken goal and assist for Nketiah’s third, but also lapsing into poor decision-making, as evidenced by his giveaway prior to Arsenal’s third goal. While Pepe has flashes of quality, his inability to sustain a high level of performance makes him a difficult player for Arteta to rely on regularly.

As the season progresses, Arteta will have to balance these competing factors—Nketiah’s potential value, Balogun’s need for development, and Pepe’s inconsistent form—when making key decisions about his frontline. With the January transfer window approaching, the manager’s choices will be critical to Arsenal’s ambitions for the rest of the season.

Biden Acknowledges Delay in $2 Trillion Bill but Remains Optimistic for 2022 Passage

Biden Acknowledges Delay in $2 Trillion Bill but Remains Optimistic for 2022 Passage

President Says Compromise with Senator Manchin Will Lead to Progress on Key Domestic Policy

President Joe Biden has admitted that negotiations surrounding his extensive $2 trillion domestic policy bill will likely stretch into the new year, as the Senate remains short of the votes needed to move the legislation forward.

Biden’s acknowledgment came on Thursday as it became evident that the Democrats would not meet their self-imposed deadline of passing the bill by Christmas, largely due to the ongoing resistance from Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia.

In a statement, Biden confirmed that he had briefed both House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer about the latest discussions with Manchin, who has repeatedly stated his support for the framework of the bill. The President expressed his confidence that the differences would be resolved, saying, “We will bridge our differences and advance the Build Back Better plan, even in the face of fierce Republican opposition.”

The President’s remarks were seen as a necessary intervention, providing Senate Democrats with a pathway to continue negotiations after months of impasse. Biden also emphasised that talks would continue next week, as both he and Schumer remain determined to bring the bill to the Senate floor as soon as possible. “We must — we will — get Build Back Better passed,” Biden insisted.

Alongside the stalled social and environmental legislation, Biden also stressed the importance of progressing with voting rights legislation, which faces its own set of challenges in the Senate.

Meanwhile, Senate Democrats faced setbacks when the Senate parliamentarian ruled that immigration law changes, which had been heavily negotiated, could not be included in the package due to Senate rules. Democrats expressed strong disagreement with the ruling, pledging to explore all avenues to ensure a path to citizenship remains part of the bill.

Senator Manchin, who has played a key role in negotiating the terms of the bill, has continued to press for cost reductions and the removal of certain provisions. He has notably called for the child tax credit, a key part of the legislation, to be excluded or limited, which has sparked significant backlash within the Democratic Party.

The delays and disagreements surrounding the bill could have serious implications for the Democrats heading into the 2022 elections, as Republicans have accused them of inefficiency and failing to meet their legislative goals.

Despite the hurdles, Biden and Democratic leaders remain hopeful that a compromise will be reached and that the bill will pass in the new year, with crucial provisions for healthcare, climate change, and social welfare still on the table.

UK Hits Milestone as Half of Adults Receive Covid Booster Dose

UK Hits Milestone as Half of Adults Receive Covid Booster Dose

Accelerated Rollout Reaches 26.3 Million as Omicron Threatens to Surge

The UK has achieved a significant milestone, with half of its adult population now having received a Covid-19 booster dose, following the swift acceleration of the vaccine rollout in response to the Omicron variant.

As of this week, 26.3 million people aged 18 and above have received their booster shots, with the government touting the UK’s booster programme as one of the fastest in the world.

Boris Johnson celebrated the achievement on Twitter, announcing a record number of 936,480 people received their vaccine doses in a single day. He urged the public to continue supporting the vaccination efforts, writing: “That means 50% of adults have now received a booster dose. Our NHS is working flat out getting lifesaving booster jabs into arms. Please play your part and Get Boosted Now.”

Booster bookings have been expanded to all eligible adults, with online appointments and walk-in clinics now available across the country, including at hospitals, pharmacies, and pop-up sites at football stadiums.

In addition, 750 members of the armed forces have been deployed to assist the NHS and thousands of volunteers in ensuring the smooth operation of the expanded booster programme.

The rapid rollout aims to protect the public and prevent the further spread of Omicron, as experts continue to monitor the situation.