It was a celebrity-packed afternoon on London’s iconic King’s Road as guests gathered for the launch of A Covent Garden Christmas, the latest festive children’s book from the ever-popular duo Wendy Turner and Anthea Turner. The event took place at the chic White Coco store, which proved the perfect setting for an afternoon brimming with seasonal cheer, literary sparkle, and familiar faces.
From the moment the doors opened, there was a palpable buzz as fans clambered for signed copies, eager to exchange a few words with the authors and soak up the festive atmosphere. The King’s Road, already alive with Christmas energy, felt even more special as the boutique filled with laughter, conversation, and the unmistakable excitement that only a book launch can bring.
Anna and Wendy
Among those lending their support were 2Shades columnists Dr Anna Kennedy OBE and Steven Smith, both warmly welcomed as they joined the celebrations. Their presence added to the sense that this was not just a publishing event, but a gathering of friends, creatives, and supporters coming together to celebrate storytelling and imagination.
A Covent Garden Christmas is the latest instalment in the much-loved Underneath the Underground series and marks the fourth adventure to delight young readers. This time, the story unfolds with deliciously eccentric flair: a bald Christmas tree, a missing butler, and a runaway red bus ensure that the festive season begins in anything but ordinary fashion. When King Charles and Queen Camilla find their royal Christmas plans descending into chaos, the pair are forced to improvise decorations, shop in disguise, and navigate a series of comic mishaps that will keep children giggling from page to page.
Steven Joins in the festive fun ,
Running parallel to this royal mayhem is a tender and imaginative story set beneath the streets of London. Snowball, a lonely white mouse, escapes his neglectful owner and stumbles into a secret underground world where theatre mice rehearse a magical pantomime at the spectacular London Palladium. It is here that friendship, creativity, and courage come to the fore. When Snowball is suddenly snatched away and the Underground’s handmade Christmas presents mysteriously disappear, it falls to the daring Special Mouse Services to save the day. With teamwork, bravery, and a sprinkling of festive magic, Christmas Day itself hangs in the balance.
Friends join Wendy and Anthea to celebrate their book launch ,
Brimming with humour, heart, and festive adventure, the book introduces a host of delightful new mousy characters while welcoming back many familiar favourites who have already captured the imagination of children everywhere. It is a story that celebrates kindness, resilience, and the joy of working together—timeless messages wrapped up in a thoroughly modern and mischievous Christmas tale.
The guest list reflected the book’s broad appeal. Among the celebrities in attendance were Loose Women panellist Jane Moore, renowned hairdresser Nicky Clarke, and Minder star and acting royalty Gary Webster. Each took time to congratulate Wendy and Anthea, praising the warmth and imagination that have become hallmarks of their writing.
Lisa Allen from the Pink Ribbon charity joins the fund with Anthea and Wendy .
No festive launch would be complete without seasonal treats, and guests were duly indulged with glasses of bubbly and delicious vegan mince pies—an inclusive touch that reflected the thoughtful spirit behind the book itself. Conversations flowed easily as attendees browsed the boutique, thumbed through freshly signed copies, and posed for photographs amid tasteful Christmas décor.
As the afternoon drew to a close, it was clear that A Covent Garden Christmas is set to become a firm festive favourite. With its blend of gentle satire, heartfelt storytelling, and London-centric magic, the book captures the very essence of Christmas—proving that whether you are royal, mouse, or somewhere in between, friendship and imagination can make the season truly unforgettable.
If there is one woman capable of shaking up the Christmas charts, unseating the usual pop titans, and bringing pure chaotic joy to the holiday season, it’s Denise Welch. With Slayyy Bells, she hasn’t just released a festive single — she’s unleashed a cultural moment. A glittery, high-camp, tongue-in-cheek masterpiece that captures everything the British public secretly craves at Christmas: humour, heart, a bit of mischief, and a full-throttle, unapologetic “hun energy.”
Denise has long been adored for her honesty, her warmth, and her refusal to take herself too seriously. That’s why the LGBTQ+ community has embraced her with open arms. She doesn’t perform camp — she embodies it. Whether it’s fiery daytime TV realness, chaotic comic timing, or her glamorous, self-deprecating sparkle, Denise is the kind of icon who walks into a room and immediately becomes everyone’s mum, best friend, and backstage confidante. She is the definition of a British hun: fierce, funny, fabulous, and fearlessly herself.
Slayyy Bells captures that spirit perfectly. It’s a sugary cocktail of festive beats, wink-wink lyrics, and nightclub-ready chaos — the kind of song that would make even the Grinch put on a sequinned jumpsuit. In a chart landscape dominated by perfectly polished megastars like Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa, or Ed Sheeran, Denise offers something the others can’t: pure personality. She’s not trying to be slick, she’s trying to be fun — and that’s exactly what people cling to at Christmas.
Let’s be honest: the UK loves an underdog, and Denise is the ultimate comeback queen. She’s lived a life, she’s told her story, and she has emerged with more charisma than half the industry put together. When she releases a Christmas single, it isn’t just music — it’s a movement. It’s the collective national desire for something joyful, camp, inclusive, and proudly silly.
The LGBTQ+ community in particular knows a gay icon when it sees one. Denise is outspoken, loyal, emotionally open, and effortlessly dramatic. She’s relatable yet glamorous; chaotic yet wise; messy yet magnificent. She’s the woman who will cry with you, dance with you, and drag you out to karaoke at 2 a.m. — the Patron Saint of Huns.
This is why Slayyy Bells deserves to beat the global juggernauts. Christmas Number One shouldn’t always go to the most streamed, the most marketed, or the most algorithmically optimised. Sometimes it should go to the artist who brings the most joy. The one who makes people laugh, sing, and feel part of something bigger.
Denise Welch is that artist. She’s the people’s diva, the hun-in-chief, the LGBTQ+ fairy godmother of festive chaos — and Slayyy Bells is the anthem worthy of her crown.
This Christmas, let’s make history. Let’s give the Number One to the woman who would celebrate it harder than anyone else: Queen Denise Welch.
2Shades Heidi Gammon and Dr Anna Kennedy OBE with Steven Smith at the Hampton Hub
Heidi Gammon presents Dr Anna Kennedy OBE.
The Hampton Hub was buzzing with energy on Friday 20th November as esteemed autism ambassador Dr Anna Kennedy OBE took to the stage as the special guest speaker for the Counselling and Coaching Group. The event was proudly hosted by Heidi Gammon, 2Shades Magazine columnist and Gateway Radio agony aunt, who introduced Dr Kennedy to an enthusiastic and engaged audience.
Dr Kennedy, one of the UK’s most recognised voices in autism advocacy, immediately captivated the room with her warmth, humour, and honesty. She shared her remarkable journey: from a determined mother fighting for the right support for her two autistic sons, Patrick and Angelo, to becoming a national campaigner, charity founder, and distinguished OBE recipient for her services to autism.
Her story began with what she described as “a battle fought with love and necessity.” With limited educational options available for her boys, she took matters into her own hands—eventually helping establish specialist provision and launching her highly influential charity, Anna Kennedy Online, which now supports thousands of autistic individuals and their families across the UK and beyond.
The audience listened intently as she spoke about the evolution of her work, including the hugely popular Autism Hero Awards, which celebrate outstanding individuals who make a positive difference within the autism community. She also discussed her long-running digital platform, Anna Kennedy Online, which provides education, advocacy, and outreach.
A highlight of the evening was her reflection on appearing on ITV’s Lorraine, where she was honoured as a finalist for Woman of the Year—a moment she described as both surreal and deeply meaningful.
The event also shone a spotlight on important collaborative projects. Dr Kennedy spoke about Born Anxious, the anti-bullying campaign that raises awareness of the struggles many autistic children and adults face. As part of the session, the group viewed a touching dance performance video by Freya Prince, whose emotional and expressive choreography moved the room.
Adding festive cheer, former Autism’s Got Talent performer Ty Williams delighted the audience via video with a heartfelt rendition of “Driving Home for Christmas,” receiving warm applause from attendees.
There was also a special appearance by Steven Smith, a former celebrity hairdresser turned author and presenter, who is one of the patrons of Anna Kennedy Online. He shared his personal story of becoming part of the charity’s growing family and spoke passionately about the power of creativity and community in supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. He also highlighted the creation of Autism and Art, an inclusive exhibition held at the Firepit Gallery in London that celebrates neurodiverse artists and their unique perspectives.
The Hampton Hub Counselling and Coaching Group, led by Heidi Gammon and her dedicated team, provided a warm and supportive atmosphere, bringing together people from all walks of life who share a commitment to understanding, compassion, and positive action.
Attendees left energised and inspired, with many commenting on the emotional resonance and practical insight Dr Kennedy brought to the conversation. Her message was clear: with determination, community, and unwavering belief, real change is possible.
The event not only highlighted the vital work being done across the UK for autistic individuals, but also showcased the power of storytelling, advocacy, and human connection.
For more information on the organisations and initiatives mentioned, visit:
2Shades introduces Richard Andrews new column ” Money Matters ” He’s not a financial adviser — but with more than a decade in banking, years of coaching executives, and hands-on experience running his own business, Richard Andrews knows a thing or two about money. As households prepare for one of the most expensive seasons of the year, Richard shares his no-nonsense advice on spending smart, avoiding debt, and keeping Christmas joyful without breaking the bank.
“Finance expert is very kind… but let’s clarify that first!”
Q: Richard, you’ve been described as a finance expert. Is that fair? A: “‘Finance expert’ is very kind, but I’m not a financial adviser. I did spend over ten years working for a high street bank, including as a business manager supporting small businesses. Today, I run my own company and coach executives and individuals to help them achieve the outcomes they want. All of that gives me plenty of real-world insight to share with your audience.”
The Cost of Christmas
Q: Why is Christmas such an important time to talk about money? A: “Because we spend a lot of it. The average UK household will spend around £1,626 on Christmas this year. That includes £350 on food and drink and £181 on presents. But the biggest spend comes from the hidden extras — entertainment, wrapping paper, cards, batteries — all those little things that add up fast. If you’re not careful, the consequences can follow you well into January.”
Teaching children about the value of this is important even at Christmas .
Rule Number One: Don’t Spend What You Don’t Have
Q: What’s your core message for managing Christmas spending? A: “Don’t spend money you can’t afford. I’m not suggesting a gloomy, ‘bah humbug’ Christmas — just decide what you can realistically spend and stick to it. Overspending without a plan leads straight to a miserable January.”
The Credit Card Trap
Q: Many people rely on credit cards at Christmas. What’s the danger? A: “Most of us use them, but the issue is that people often add £250–£500 to their debt at Christmas. That £250 gadget can become £500+ once interest kicks in if you’re not paying it off quickly. Some instalment services like Klarna can help if you can afford them — but remember, they’re not free money.”
Black Friday: Bargain or Illusion?
Q: Are Black Friday deals worth it? A: “Often they’re not. Some retailers raise prices beforehand to make the ‘discounts’ look dramatic. The best thing you can do is track the prices of items you genuinely want. Don’t fall for impulse buys — that’s dead money.”
Cost of Living vs Christmas Spirit
Q: In a cost-of-living crisis, how can people avoid overspending? A: “Plan and budget. The UK will throw away almost £450 million worth of food over Christmas. Don’t get into debt buying food you’re going to bin. Freeze leftovers, plan meals properly, and remember that the real gift is time with loved ones. Debt in January is the fastest way to ruin the joy of Christmas.”
Managing Children’s Expectations
Q: How should parents handle kids’ wish-lists? A: “Kids are smart and constantly targeted by influencers. Be honest, don’t promise what you can’t deliver, and don’t go into debt to keep up with the Joneses — that’s a race you can never win. Set realistic budgets, talk openly, and consider refurbished or discounted-return tech. ‘New to them’ is just as good.”
Short-Term Loans: A Firm No
Q: Are short-term loans ever a good idea during the holidays? A: “Never. A £500 loan over six months can cost you £640 or more. These loans spiral quickly and trap people in a cycle of borrowing. No Christmas is worth that risk.”
Planning Ahead for Christmas 2026
Q: What’s the best strategy for next year? A: “Start in January. Put aside whatever you can each month into a savings account. Christmas Club schemes can help, but make sure you’re not stuck with a single retailer. Buy gifts throughout the year if you spot a good deal and remember that adults don’t need expensive presents — thoughtful tokens count.”
The Real Gift
Q: Any final advice for a calmer Christmas? A: “Christmas is stressful enough without money worries. Don’t add pressure you don’t need. Focus on an affordable, joyful Christmas with the people you love — because that is the true gift.”
Heidi is back, and she’s here to help you get through and enjoy the holiday period.Hear her on Gateway Radio on the Aston Avery Show and on YouTube.Please write to her at 2Shades: spman@btinternet.com if you have a problem.Heidi can only answer so many, but she will try her best. Heidi is back, and she’s here to help you get through and enjoy the holiday period.spman@btinternet.com if you have a problem.Heidi can only answer so many, but she will try her best.
Dear Heidi Hope you are well. My son is coming with his girlfriend for Christmas. She is a lovely girl, but she’s not really my kind of person — though she makes my son happy. Lunch is going to be a problem: she is vegan and we are all meat eaters. Making it worse, she talks about animal cruelty while we’re eating. Now my son has decided he’s vegan too. I will make a nut roast and vegetables for them, but is it acceptable to tell them I don’t want to hear about animals and cruelty while we eat? Diana, Uxbridge
Heidi replies: You’re being considerate by preparing vegan options, and it’s perfectly reasonable to set boundaries at the table. Explain kindly that you respect their choices, but mealtimes need to stay pleasant for everyone. A gentle, “Let’s save the debate for later,” is enough. Mutual respect works both ways. Maybe try having a coffee with her before Christmas, go over the menu, and then explain your boundaries so it doesn’t become a big issue on the day.
Dear Heidi My boyfriend and I like to party and occasionally take drugs. I feel it’s under control on my end — high days and low days, that kind of thing — but I am a traditionalist when it comes to Christmas. He wants to invite two friends over and seems more interested in getting drugs in for after lunch than the food or the day itself. What can I do? I want a white Christmas — not that kind of white one. Mike, Bournemouth
Heidi replies: You deserve a Christmas that feels safe and joyful. Tell your boyfriend clearly that you want a drug-free day and that you aren’t comfortable hosting a gathering that revolves around substances. If he can’t respect that boundary, it’s a sign something needs addressing in the relationship — and perhaps in your habits as a couple. A peaceful Christmas requires mutual respect. Any regular drug use is not only illegal but a sign of addiction; once it’s in your life, it has a habit of resurfacing.
Dear Heidi Can you please help me? My mother is a total control freak and she runs Christmas like a military operation. This year I want to go to my friends’ in Cornwall. I am 19, at college, and have a part-time job. How do I break the news? I hinted at the idea and she brushed it off. How do I tell her? Malcolm, Newcastle
Heidi replies: You’re an adult now, and part of growing up is making your own plans. Be direct, calm and kind: “Mum, I love Christmas here, but this year I’m spending it with friends.” She may protest, but stick to your decision. Set the boundary with respect, not guilt, and give her time to adjust. The sooner you tell her, the better — and be aware she may not stop being controlling, so learning to stand firm now will help.
Dear Heidi Please help. We are going to my fiancé’s for Christmas. His mum is nice, but his dad is awful — he constantly makes crude comments and flirts with me when no one is looking. What can I do? Do I tell my fiancé or just put up with it since we don’t go that often? Tiffany, Leeds
Heidi replies: You should not put up with inappropriate behaviour, no matter how infrequent the visits. Tell your fiancé privately and calmly what has been happening. He needs to know, and the two of you can decide together how to handle it — whether that’s him speaking to his father or setting clearer boundaries. You deserve to feel safe and respected.
Dear Heidi I am going home for Christmas. This summer I came out at university. My parents are religious and it is going to be a shock to them. Should I go down sooner to tell them? I don’t want to ruin Christmas. Paul, Cardiff
Heidi replies: If you feel emotionally ready, telling them before Christmas may ease some of the pressure on the day itself. It gives them time to process without the intensity and expectations of the holiday. Choose a calm moment, be honest, and remember: their reaction is about their adjustment, not your worth. You deserve to be loved and accepted as you are.
This December, Morley Opera School invites audiences to an evening of passion, wit, and reflection with Opera Scenes: CONSEQUENCES, a vivid exploration of human choices and their inevitable aftermath. Under the expert direction of William Kerley and musical direction by Panaretos Kyriatzidis, this production offers a captivating journey through some of opera’s most powerful and emotionally charged moments. With Nicholas Bosworth at the piano and Conor Costelloe crafting evocative lighting design, the performance promises to be both musically and visually enthralling.
The program brings together a diverse range of works, from the Classical elegance of Gluck and Mozart to the modern intensity of Britten and Poulenc. Each scene has been carefully chosen to highlight the theme of consequences—how human decisions, driven by love, pride, fear, or faith, shape the fates of individuals and societies alike.
The evening opens with Gluck’s Paride ed Elena, a lyrical portrayal of the mythic lovers whose choices ignite the Trojan War. Through Gluck’s graceful yet emotionally charged score, the audience witnesses how desire can lead to destiny’s most devastating turns. The theme of secrecy and consequence continues in Domenico Cimarosa’s Il Matrimonio Segreto(The Secret Marriage), where comic misunderstandings and clandestine vows lead to both hilarity and heartbreak. Cimarosa’s sparkling ensemble writing and elegant wit remind us that even the most humorous situations often conceal real emotional stakes.
From there, the performance moves to Mozart’s Idomeneo, a masterwork of the Classical era that delves into the tension between duty and compassion. When the Cretan king must sacrifice his own son to appease the gods, Mozart’s music swells with moral anguish and divine intervention—a striking depiction of how promises made in desperation can lead to unbearable consequences.
The evening then shifts to the haunting world of Benjamin Britten’s The Rape of Lucretia, a twentieth-century chamber opera that reimagines an ancient Roman tragedy. Britten’s sparse, evocative score and stark moral commentary confront audiences with questions of innocence, violation, and redemption. It is one of the evening’s most profound explorations of consequence—where an individual act of violence reverberates through history.
Finally, the performance concludes with scenes from Francis Poulenc’s Les Dialogues des Carmélites, a deeply moving account of faith, fear, and courage during the French Revolution. In this extraordinary work, a community of nuns faces execution for their beliefs, and each character must decide how to confront mortality with dignity. Poulenc’s luminous harmonies and spiritual depth offer a fitting conclusion to a night that examines the human condition in all its complexity.
Opera Scenes: CONSEQUENCES is more than a showcase of operatic talent—it is a reflection on the moral and emotional choices that define us. Presented by the students of Morley Opera School, it demonstrates the artistry, discipline, and dramatic insight cultivated within this renowned institution. Among its talented performers is Jadwiga, a classically trained singer and music graduate who offers private singing lessons in classical, opera, and musical theatre styles https://www.morleycollege.ac.uk/event/morley-opera-school-presents-opera-scenes-consequences/
Performances take place on Thursday, December 11 at 7:30 PM, Friday, December 12 at 7:30 PM, and Saturday, December 13 at 2:00 PM at the Johnny Harris Theatre Studio, Morley College London, 61 Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7HT. Tickets are priced at £10.00 (plus booking fee £11.55 online).
An evening of beauty, reflection, and emotional truth, Opera Scenes: CONSEQUENCES is an essential event for opera lovers and newcomers alike—a reminder that every choice, whether divine or human, carries its echo.
By Guest Writer Manchester based award winning artist and my friend Loveartpix.
November is Men’s Mental Health Month, and as usual, I want to move beyond the usual catchphrases like ‘Talking Helps‘ as it’s far more complex than that. The question I keep returning to (because it’s personal) is this: does our generic, neurotypical framing of “men’s mental health “leave too many men like me behind?
Campaigns, days, and months do matter – they reduce stigma by getting the much needed conversations going and remind us to check in on friends. But what is their impact if suicide rates are still just as high, and some of the men at greatest risk (neurodivergent men) are largely left out of the conversation?
We rarely say this plainly: autistic people face a much higher risk of suicide than non‑autistic people. A large Swedish population study found that autistic adults, especially those without intellectual disability, were around nine times more likely to die by suicide than their non‑autistic peers (Hirvikoski et al., 2016).
Autistic adults without intellectual disabilities are, on average, more likely than non‑autistic peers to experience mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Factors that contribute include chronic camouflaging/masking, sensory overload, social mismatch and stigma, late or missed diagnosis, and barriers to tailored support.
In clinical samples, the picture is even starker: two‑thirds of autistic adults report lifetime suicidal ideation, and about one‑third report suicide plans or attempts (Cassidy et al., 2014). If the risk is this high, why isn’t this part of the headline of our November conversations?
And what about the many who are undiagnosed – men whose autistic traits are missed or misread due to lack of awareness? How many die by suicide after years of the wrong treatment, the wrong framework, or a string of mental‑health labels that never addressed neurodivergent needs in the first place? We don’t track this well enough to know – this, for me, is very worrying.
I’m not speaking in theory. For more than two decades, I repeated the same words over and over, and the responses I received didn’t fit their box – so it was a continuous battle creating more mental health issues.
“Look Dez, you’ve taken every combination of medication we can offer you. What else do you want us to do?” – words you don’t want to hear from the psychiatrist in charge of your mental health and well being!
Even after my diagnosis, I’m basically begging for support in any way possible, but they still don’t have an answer. Right now, no services are willing to accept my case. That isn’t a lack of “talking.”It’s a system that doesn’t understand or accommodate neurodivergent needs.
“Talk to someone.” “Pick up the phone.” “Open up.” These messages are well‑meant—and sometimes they help. But they assume a neurotypical nervous system. When distress is driven by sensory overload, alexithymia (difficulty identifying and describing feelings), shutdown, or the aftermath of masking, being asked to “speak up” on a phone call, or in fluorescent‑lit rooms, with vague questions, can be not only ineffective but also actively dysregulating and even traumatic.
Personally, I often communicate better in text when I go into meltdown (and after), I need time to process, and rely on concrete, direct language and clear communication. Standard CBT delivered at a pace, full of metaphors and homework that assumes neurotypical cognition, doesn’t work unless it’s really adapted. Yet adapted therapy is patchy across the UK, and post‑diagnostic support for adults remains weak at best – if it exists at all! I’ve learned this the hard way: I’ve been “talking” for years. What’s missing isn’t the willingness to speak – it’s services that listen but don’t know how to respond to neurodivergent communication without pathologising it.
Diagnostic waiting lists have exploded. There are now well over one hundred thousand people in England awaiting autism assessments, with many waiting far longer than the 13‑week standard – often 12–24 months or more. Adult ADHD pathways are similarly overloaded. Late diagnosis isn’t just an administrative delay; it can mean decades of inappropriate treatment plans, missed adjustments at school and work, and a build‑up of trauma from being told to “try harder” in systems not built for your brain. Each missed or delayed diagnosis is a missed opportunity for prevention – especially when we know suicidality is elevated in autistic populations.
89% of autistic adults in the UK aged 40-59 are undiagnosed – Kings College London (2025)
This is why the generic approach to “men’s mental health” feels inadequate to me. Awareness months aren’t wrong – they are just incomplete. We can’t keep telling men to “open up” while offering only neurotypical doorways.
Here’s a truth I wish we’d say out loud: it’s a huge barrier when men are already “talking,” but the system still can’t understand what they’re saying. I’ve used the same words for more than twenty years. The approaches offered back haven’t matched my needs – and I am not a unique case! Even after my diagnosis, when I articulate my needs clearly, services have no adapted pathway, no training, or no remit that fits. At this moment, I’m not being accepted by any service. That isn’t impartial; it’s exclusion by design.
Neurodiversity, complex trauma, and racialised stress each demand deep, specific knowledge. Very few clinicians are experts across all three. That’s not a criticism of individuals; it’s a system‑design problem. Our pathways remain separated: autism/adhd/dyslexia over here, trauma/cptsd over there, “men’s mental health” somewhere in a campaign toolkit. Meanwhile, men sit on waiting lists, collecting labels, and learn to mask harder. Many still struggle to speak openly – especially when their experiences don’t match neat, neurotypical scripts of sadness, worry, and recovery.
Campaigns must reflect the facts: men are not all the same, and neither are their minds – neurotypical and neurodivergent.Put neurodivergent men on the list and on the panels. Highlight that autistic burnout is not laziness; that ADHD‑related rejection sensitivity can look like despair; that shutdowns and meltdowns are not misbehaviour. And tell men this clearly: if standard tools haven’t worked, maybe it’s the tool and not you!
And let’s make the suicide data visible, not buried in academic journals. If autistic men face a dramatically higher risk, surely that belongs on the first slide, the first poster, and the first funding line?
We should admit where the evidence base is thin and choose humility. Research is (hopefully) accelerating, but we’re years from fully understanding these intersections. Until then, ‘specialists’ need to listen more to lived experience – with an open mind, and not through the generalised, stereotypical lens that turns nuance into “non‑compliance.” Ask what helps. Believe the answers. Adapt!
None of this diminishes the value of awareness months; it actually refocuses them. If we want November’s messages to be more than posters and hashtags, we have to build services that fit all men, not the imaginary neurotypical everyman. The stakes are life and death. A system designed around the most complex needs will serve everyone better.
‘I have personally reached out to some well-known men’s mental health services and asked how they handle neurodivergent individuals, and I have been met with half-hearted replies and almost snubbed to my face’ – an all too common response in my experience.
Acceptance has been central to how I navigate life now – there isn’t any help out there at the moment, as the research simply isn’t there. Acceptance hasn’t removed the struggle, but it has reframed it for me. I have been ‘speaking up’ for years. I don’t need another generic neurotypical catchphrase. I need services that recognise what I’m saying – and are ready and able to respond with understanding, compassion and a willingness to make reasonable adjustments.
Sources for the statistics mentioned:
– Hirvikoski, T. et al. (2016). Premature mortality in autism spectrum disorder. A population‑based study in Sweden. Findings include markedly elevated suicide mortality, especially among autistic adults without intellectual disability.
– Cassidy, S. et al. (2014). Suicidal ideation and suicide plans or attempts in adults with Asperger’s syndrome attending a specialist clinic. Reports 66% lifetime suicidal ideation and 35% plans/attempts.
When news broke that Lubaina Himid RA, CBE would represent Britain at the 2026 Venice Biennale, the art world let out a collective cheer. At 72, the pioneering British artist—born in Zanzibar, based in Preston—has earned a place among the most influential voices of her generation. Her work, a dazzling blend of history, storytelling, and social critique, has long challenged the narratives that dominate Western culture, shining a light on the contributions of Black figures who have too often been overlooked.
Himid is no stranger to breaking ground. In the 1980s and 1990s, she curated trailblazing exhibitions like Five Black Women (1983) at London’s Africa Centre and The Thin Black Line (1985) at the ICA, putting Black female artists firmly on the map at a time when mainstream galleries barely noticed. Her daring vision earned her the Turner Prize in 2017, and a CBE followed in 2018, honours that recognise not just her artistry but her remarkable influence on the British cultural landscape.
And yet, Himid remains delightfully down-to-earth. On hearing of her Biennale invitation, she laughed, “with both disbelief and pleasure,” before reflecting on the opportunity:
“It is such a great honour and at the same time a brilliant and exciting opportunity to make something particularly special, which resonates with multiple audiences, communicates with complex histories, and looks to a more collaborative future.”
The Path to Venice
Being chosen to represent Britain in Venice is no small feat. The British Council, which manages the UK’s pavilion, conducts a rigorous selection process. Artists are nominated and assessed by curators, critics, and cultural institutions from across the country. Their proposals are scrutinised for artistic excellence, innovation, and international significance—a combination that signals not just mastery of craft, but an ability to spark conversation on a global stage. The final decision rests with the Pavilion Commissioner and the Visual Arts Advisory Group.
It’s a recognition that places an artist at the very pinnacle of contemporary British art, transforming their career and showcasing their vision to a global audience. For Himid, whose work thrives on dialogue, this platform offers a chance to create a profound, immersive experience in Venice’s historic spaces.
Reimagining the British Pavilion
Himid is renowned for pushing the boundaries of painting, sculpture, and installation, fusing textures, narratives, and sound to construct spaces that feel alive, vivid, and socially urgent. Emma Dexter, Director of Visual Arts and the British Council Collection, describes Himid’s approach as “a radical optimism combined with incisive social critique,” noting that her exhibition will transform the Pavilion into a journey of discovery.
For Venice 2026, Himid’s work promises to be both playful and profound, intimate yet expansive—a conversation across centuries and continents, a reminder that history is never neutral, and that art can illuminate the stories we have forgotten.
From her early curatorial triumphs to her recent global recognition, Lubaina Himid has always worked at the intersection of history, identity, and imagination. Venice will be the latest—and most spectacular—stage for her audacious vision, a moment that promises to resonate far beyond the gilded canals and crowded pavilions of Italy’s floating city.
In 2026, the British Pavilion will not just exhibit art—it will tell a story, vibrant and urgent, through the eyes of one of Britain’s most brilliant and fearless artists.
We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news — Firepit Art Gallery and Studios CIC has received our very first grant as a Community Interest Company! Thanks to the Greenwich Healthier Communities Fund, we’re able to bring an inspiring new initiative to life: FIREPIT FEELS.
This milestone marks an exciting step forward in our mission to make creativity accessible, inclusive, and nurturing for everyone. With the support of this grant, we’re launching a pilot programme of free and pay-what-you-can workshopsdesigned to foster creative health and wellbeing within our local community.
About FIREPIT FEELS
FIREPIT FEELS is a culturally-rooted series of workshops taking place in Greenwich Peninsula, created to support and uplift individuals from Global Majority, LGBTQIA+, and Neurodiverse communities, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Our aim is to offer a welcoming, affirming space where creativity, culture, and connection come together to enhance emotional and mental wellbeing.
We warmly invite you to take part in any — or all — of our upcoming sessions:
November 12th, 7–9pm – 🎨 Inhabiting Uncertainty on the Canvas — Painting Workshop
November 23rd, 1–3pm – 🧘♀️ Unfold: Movement & Meaning — Yoga & Journalling
December 14th, 1–3pm – 🧵 Chinese Knotting Jewellery & Mindfulness
January 8th, 7–9pm – ✏️ Our Art Circle — Drawing Workshop
January 22nd, 7–9pm – 📚 Queer Narrative — Collaging and Storytelling
Every aspect of FIREPIT FEELS has been developed collaboratively, with guidance from an Accessibility Consultantand a Psychotherapist, ensuring that the programme is inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming, and trauma-informed.
Each session is relaxed and supportive. We’ll provide sensory aids for those who find them helpful, and a dedicated welfare support guide will be on hand to make sure everyone feels safe, comfortable, and welcome throughout.
About Firepit Art Gallery and Studios CIC
Located in the heart of Greenwich Peninsula, Firepit Art Gallery and Studios CIC is a community-led art hub that celebrates creativity in all its forms. Our mission is to make the arts accessible, inclusive, and sustainable by hosting co-created workshops, exhibitions, and events that reflect the diverse voices of our community.
Run by local artists, we believe in the power of art to connect people, spark dialogue, and support wellbeing. Whether you’re a seasoned creative or a complete beginner, Firepit is your space to explore, express, and belong.
To stay updated on our events, projects, and exhibitions,
Together, let’s make Firepit Feels a space where creativity truly heals, connects, and inspires.
Zohran Mamdani: A New Dawn for New York — and a Setback for Trump’s America
By Steven Smith
Let’s get one thing straight: Sadiq Khan is a terrible mayor — but not because he is Muslim. He’s a terrible mayor because, quite simply, he hasn’t done the job well. Faith has nothing to do with competence.
I would like to think I ever judge anyone by their religion. Yet when I hear from certain extreme right-wing Christians, my instinct is that they’re often deeply uncomfortable with the LGBTQ+ community. Many cherry-pick verses from the Bible to justify their prejudices, conveniently ignoring the passages about kindness, humility and turning the other cheek — a principle that seems to have lost all meaning for them. As are extreme Muslims and many other religious devotees. I do not want them in power.
And how many of these self-proclaimed moral crusaders have later been exposed as hypocrites, caught in scandals that betray the very values they preach? No one wants to live under Sharia law, but equally, most of us are not rejecting Eastern culture or faith. Jewish politicians, for instance, aren’t out trying to convert everyone. The truth is simple: people should be judged on their integrity, their empathy, and their ability to lead — not the faith they were born into.
Historically, the right wing has struggled with LGBTQ+ acceptance. Look at Reform’s Ann Widdecombe, a devout Christian who remains openly opposed to gay rights, or Nigel Farage, who rails against same-sex marriage yet hasn’t exactly been a shining example of domestic harmony himself.
So, why shouldn’t New York — one of the most diverse cities in the world — have a Muslim mayor? The measure of leadership isn’t found in the label of one’s faith but in the breadth of one’s humanity.
When Zohran Mamdani swept to victory as New York’s new mayor, he didn’t just win an election — he ignited a cultural and political shift. At just 33, the Ugandan-born, Queens-raised son of Indian immigrants and the first Muslim to hold the office, Mamdani represents a fresh, progressive vision of leadership grounded in empathy, equity, and inclusivity. For women and LGBTQ+ citizens, his victory signals something powerful: a mayor who sees diversity not as a slogan, but as the city’s greatest strength. And for Donald Trump and the hard-right movement that thrives on fear and division, Mamdani’s rise is a direct ideological defeat.
Mamdani’s political roots run deep in social justice. Long before his mayoral run, he made his name in the New York State Assembly by fighting for tenant protections, affordable housing, and workers’ rights. But what sets him apart is his understanding that social equality must include gender and sexual equality. His policies go beyond token representation — they promise tangible protections and support for women, LGBTQ+, and trans individuals who continue to face discrimination and economic barriers in one of the world’s most diverse cities.
During his campaign, Mamdani declared: “New York must be a sanctuary — not just for immigrants, but for every person whose existence has been politicised.” That message resonated strongly with LGBTQ+ voters and women’s advocacy groups, weary of years of policy rollbacks and toxic rhetoric at the national level.
His mayoral platform includes one of the most comprehensive pro-equality agendas ever proposed for New York City. At its heart are three major commitments: establishing an Office for LGBTQIA+ Affairs to coordinate inclusive policies and investigate discrimination; pledging $65 million for gender-affirming healthcare and reproductive rights clinics; and strengthening women’s economic and reproductive rights through expanded paid family leave, subsidised childcare, and increased funding for domestic violence shelters and legal aid. These policies represent not just symbolic progress but systemic reform, tackling the intertwined roots of inequality and positioning New York as a beacon for progressive governance in a deeply divided nation.
Some observers initially wondered whether a devout Muslim mayor could fully champion LGBTQ+ and women’s rights. Mamdani’s leadership has already answered that question decisively. He has stated repeatedly that his faith teaches compassion, justice, and respect for human dignity — values entirely consistent with protecting the vulnerable. By separating personal belief from public duty, he embodies the pluralism that defines modern New York. His election sends a potent message that faith and equality are not mutually exclusive.
To understand why Mamdani’s victory is such a blow to Donald Trump, one must look beyond New York’s borders. Trumpism thrives on nostalgia — a yearning for a rigid, exclusionary version of America defined by dominance and division. Mamdani represents the opposite: a confident, multicultural future where inclusion and equality are strengths, not threats. Under Trump, the federal government rolled back protections for transgender people, restricted abortion access, and emboldened hate groups. Mamdani’s success proves that this politics of fear no longer holds sway everywhere — especially not in America’s largest city.
What happens in New York often echoes nationally. Just as Fiorello La Guardia’s social reforms and Michael Bloomberg’s urban policies shaped national conversations in their eras, Mamdani’s agenda may set the tone for a new wave of progressive mayors. His approach fuses social justice with fiscal realism — leveraging the city’s enormous budget to create measurable improvements in equality and opportunity. His administration’s first-year priorities include making the Metropolitan Transportation Authority free for students and low-income riders, expanding affordable housing projects on city-owned land, increasing investment in public schools with inclusive sex education, and introducing gender-balanced representation in city boards and commissions.
Mamdani’s election is also a cultural moment — one that renews New York’s identity as a sanctuary for those who dream of freedom in all its forms. From Stonewall to suffrage, the city has long been a crucible of progress. His leadership promises not only policy change but also a revival of civic optimism: a belief that governance can be both compassionate and competent. His first speech after victory captured this perfectly: “We are not here to manage decline. We are here to imagine abundance — for women, for queer and trans people, for every New Yorker who has been told to shrink their dreams.”
Let’s get one thing straight: Sadiq Khan is a terrible mayor — but not because he is Muslim. He’s a terrible mayor because, quite simply, he hasn’t done the job well. Faith has nothing to do with competence.
Nor would I ever judge anyone by their religion. Yet when I hear from certain extreme right-wing Christians, my instinct is that they’re often deeply uncomfortable with the LGBTQ+ community. Many cherry-pick verses from the Bible to justify their prejudices, conveniently ignoring the passages about kindness, humility and turning the other cheek — a principle that seems to have lost all meaning for them.
And how many of these self-proclaimed moral crusaders have later been exposed as hypocrites, caught in scandals that betray the very values they preach? No one wants to live under Sharia law, but equally, most of us are not rejecting Eastern culture or faith. Jewish politicians, for instance, aren’t out trying to convert everyone. The truth is simple: people should be judged on their integrity, their empathy, and their ability to lead — not the faith they were born into.
Historically, the right wing has struggled with LGBTQ+ acceptance. Look at Reform’s Ann Widdecombe, a devout Christian who remains openly opposed to gay rights, or Nigel Farage, who rails against same-sex marriage yet hasn’t exactly been a shining example of domestic harmony himself.
So, why shouldn’t New York — one of the most diverse cities in the world — have a Muslim mayor? The measure of leadership isn’t found in the label of one’s faith but in the breadth of one’s humanity. rise represents a decisive shift away from the politics of grievance and exclusion. His administration promises to put women’s rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and social justice at the heart of city governance. For a nation still grappling with polarisation, his victory is both an inspiration and a challenge: proof that diversity can win, compassion can govern, and inclusion can be a source of strength rather than division. For Donald Trump and those who profit from cultural conflict, Mamdani’s triumph is a warning shot: the future belongs to those who build bridges, not walls. He is a mayor for all and a flash that thinking Americans have had enough of the red hat .
2Shades Magazine 