Need to detox from Brexit? Try these five ways to unwind

If the febrile political atmosphere is getting you down, here are five ways to focus on healthier things

By Ernest Richardson

Few would deny that the UK political scene has taken a nasty turn. With the House of Commons resembling a “bear pit” and MPs apparently unable to reach any consensus on Brexit or the direction of our nation, engaging with the news can seem a thankless task.

    ...reports suggest that wall-to-wall Brexit coverage is adversely affecting mental health,...  

As reports suggest that wall-to-wall Brexit coverage is adversely affecting mental health, now is a good time to seek distraction. Let’s face it, nothing much is going to change if you take a few days away from the newspapers.

So do yourself a favour by following our ideas for a Brexit detox. You’ll feel a lot better for it.

1) Read a good book

It can be easy to devote every spare minute to consuming the news: on your phone, in newspapers, on the radio and on TV.

But how about spending your idle moments engaged in a more wholesome pursuit? Pick up a good book, one without any connection to contemporary politics, and lose yourself in a world of imagination.

Political memoirs are off limits, right? But something like Tim Pears’s The Horseman could be just the ticket. Its soothingly detailed renderings of the rhythms of rural life are exactly the sort of thing to distract you from the parliamentary mayhem.

2) Rediscover your love of music

How many of us get in the car for the daily commute and automatically turn on the news? We think we ought to engage with current affairs, even though it raises our stress levels by making us feel powerless or anxious.

So why not turn on the stereo instead? Whether you’re streaming MP3s or listening to CDs, spend some quality time with your favourite records and you’ll feel much better about the world.

This is a chance to rediscover your favourite artists or find new ones to admire. Either way, you can lose yourself in some melodic pleasures. Brexit will still be there when you get back. Of that you can be certain.

3) Get outside

Few things can rival fresh air for clearing your head and making you feel better about life.

    It may only be a temporary respite, but the benefits of spending time outside are unrivalled.  

Rather than fretting about Brexit or assiduously following the BBC’s live news feed, leave your phone at home and get out for a walk.

If you live or work near a park or open countryside, take the time to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. Pay attention to the comings and goings of birds and wildlife as they prepare for winter. Listen for the sounds of nature. Enjoy the sight of small children playing, carefree and unencumbered by grown-up angst.

It may only be a temporary respite, but the benefits of spending time outside are unrivalled. Go on, breathe.

4) Learn a new hobby

Take up the piano, become a writer, get into fishing. It doesn’t matter what you do, but now may be just the right time to develop a new interest.

Focusing on acquiring a new skill or body of knowledge proves a great distraction from stress. You’ll be so engrossed in perfecting your talent that you won’t for a minute think about what’s happening in the House of Commons.

Even better, you’ll be learning how to do something new. Which means you’ll have hours of entertainment and satisfaction ahead of you, and the perfect way to unwind from life’s pressures.

5) Spend time with the people you love

It sounds corny, but there are few better ways to recharge and relax than hanging out with your nearest and dearest.

Use the weekend to arrange a barbecue with friends or meet up for a pizza. Grab a post-work pint with some buddies or head to a café for Sunday brunch. Go for a walk in the park or visit the zoo.

There’s just one rule: any talk about politics is off limits. This is a time to reconnect, to enjoy each other’s company and remember the important stuff.

One way or another Brexit will eventually be over. The people you love, on the other hand? They’re for keeps.

Published: 27 September 2019

© 2019 Just Recruitment Group Ltd

If you enjoyed this article, you may like: Fleabag stage show: review (NT Live screening)

You may also enjoy: Can you separate the artist from their acts?

Jobs currently available

New job
Customer Service Advisor
Sector: Sales
Salary: £12.00 per hour
Location: Haverhill
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary to Permanent
Job ref: JT-HAV-CSA-0225
About the role

Just Temps seeks an enthusiastic and customer-focused Customer Service Advisor for a company based in Haverhill, Suffolk.

This is a temp-to-perm opportunity role!

About the role:

  • Supportive, friendly team environment – work alongside a team that values collaboration and customer satisfaction.
  • Career development – the chance to grow and advance within a thriving company.

Hours of work:

  • September to February: Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm.
  • March to August: 8-hour shifts between 8.00am to 6.00pm (shift patterns may vary), including Saturdays and bank holidays on a rotational basis.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Customer service excellence: Manage customer inquiries via phone, email, and online chat, ensuring each interaction is smooth and positive.
  • Order management: Process orders accurately and provide customers with timely delivery updates.
  • Data and reporting: Maintain accurate records in Excel and generate reports when needed.
  • Team coordination: Work closely with the transport team to ensure smooth delivery operations.
  • In-person assistance: Provide face-to-face customer service when needed to enhance the overall experience.

What we’re looking for:

  • Experience in customer service, administration, or sales is a plus.
  • Comfortable using Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Word.
  • Detail-oriented with excellent organisational abilities.
  • Able to thrive under pressure with a proactive, can-do attitude.

What’s in it for you:

  • Competitive salary and benefits.
  • A dynamic role with opportunities for growth.
  • A chance to become part of a permanent team after the probation period.
  • A friendly, engaging environment where you're valued and supported.

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. 
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
New job
Forklift Driver
Sector: Warehouse
Salary: £11.82 per hour
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary
Job ref: JT-SU-FD-0225
About the role

Just Temps seeks a reliable and experienced Forklift Driver for a company based in Sudbury Suffolk.

This is a temp-to-perm opportunity role, offering excellent long-term career prospects.

Working hours: Monday to Thursday, 5.00am to 3.00pm.

Key responsibilities:

  • Safely operating a Counterbalance (CB) and Combi forklift to transport goods around the warehouse.
  • Loading and unloading deliveries.
  • Organising stock in the warehouse, ensuring all goods are stored correctly.
  • Assisting with inventory checks as required.
  • Maintaining a clean and safe working environment.

Role requirements:

  • Valid FLT Counterbalance (CB) and Combi forklift licences.
  • Previous experience operating CB and Combi forklifts.
  • Ability to work efficiently and effectively within a team.
  • Strong attention to detail and a commitment to health and safety.

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. 
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
New job
CNC Machine Setter/Operator
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Salary: £19.95 - £22.61 per hour
Location: Halstead, Essex
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary to Permanent
Job ref: JT-HAL-CNC-0225
About the role

Just Temps seeks an experienced CNC Machine Setter Operator to join a well-established production company in Halstead, Essex.

This is an excellent opportunity for skilled CNC professionals looking to work with high-quality machinery and expand their career in a stable, fast-paced environment.

Hourly rates:

CNC Machine Setter: £17 per hour + 33% shift allowance
CNC Machine Operators: £15 per hour + 33% shift allowance

Shift patterns:
Monday to Thursday, night shift 10.30pm to 6.30am.
38 hours per week with a 30-minute paid lunch break.

Job summary:

As a CNC Machine Setter Operator, you will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machines to produce precision parts. You will work closely with the Production Supervisor to ensure that machinery operates smoothly and that products meet the required specifications. You will also perform quality checks, troubleshoot machine issues, and ensure safety and efficiency on the shop floor.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Set up and calibrate CNC machines to start production cycles
  • Operate and adjust machine settings (e.g., speed) to ensure optimal performance
  • Feed raw materials into machines and monitor production processes
  • Inspect finished parts for accuracy using precision measuring tools
  • Troubleshoot and resolve any machine-related issues during shifts
  • Maintain accurate records of production, defects, and final products
  • Ensure machines are properly maintained and clean
  • Comply with health and safety regulations and maintain a tidy work environment

Key skills and experience required:

  • Proven experience as a CNC Machine Setter Operator / Programmer
  • Strong understanding of factory/machine shop practices
  • Ability to read and work from engineering drawings
  • Experience with CNC multi-spindle machines
  • Good problem-solving and decision-making skills
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
  • Ability to adapt to change and work in a fast-paced environment
  • Good communication and teamwork abilities

Additional information:

  • Flexibility to work overtime or night shifts when required
  • The role involves working within a safety-conscious and team-oriented environment

Why apply?

  • Competitive pay rates with attractive shift allowances
  • Potential for contract extension based on sales volume
  • Join a well-established, reputable company that values safety and quality

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
New job
Sales Support Administrator
Sector: Sales
Salary: £11.44 - £13.00 per hour
Location: Witham, Essex
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary to Permanent
Job ref: JT-WI-SSA-0225
About the role

Just Temps has an exciting opportunity for a Sales Support Administrator to play a pivotal role in a growing and dynamic company based in Witham, Essex.

Full-time hours: Monday to Thursday, 08.30 to 17:00 | Friday 08.30 to 16.30.

What’s the role about?

As a Sales Support Administrator, you will be the driving force behind managing quotes and orders, making sure each one is handled from start to finish. Your attention to detail, strong communication, and proactive nature will ensure that both internal teams and customers are kept in the loop.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Quote and Order Management: Process orders and quotations using the company’s systems.
  • Communication Champion: Be the liaison between teams to ensure seamless workflow across departments and provide timely, clear communication to customers.
  • Customer-Centric: Deliver outstanding customer service by handling queries, maintaining accurate records, and managing customer expectations.
  • Sales Support: Assist with lead management with updating the sales team on progress, and attending internal sales meetings.
  • Team Player: Support various functions across departments, ensuring tasks are completed in a timely manner and ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Role requirements:

  • Proactive and Initiative-Driven: You take ownership of your work and are eager to get things done!
  • Excellent Communicator: You’re confident on the phone and comfortable speaking with both customers and team members.
  • Tech: Proficient in Microsoft Office and able to juggle multiple inboxes.
  • Sales/Office Experience (Desirable): Experience in pricing, quotations, or sales would be a plus, but the client is open to training.

The role offers:

  • Comprehensive Training: You will be trained on everything you need to know about the company’s in-house systems and processes.
  • Collaborative Team Environment: Work alongside a dynamic and supportive team, where every day brings new opportunities to learn and grow.
  • Competitive Pay: Earn between £11.44 - £13 per hour, with potential for growth as you develop in your role.

What else should you know:

This is a full-time role with a one-hour lunch break, and you’ll have the opportunity to work in a role where you’re constantly learning and contributing to a business’s success—no two days will be the same!

If you’re someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, loves to take initiative, and has a knack for customer service, we want to hear from you!

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
New job
Trainee Engineer
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Salary: £11.44 - £13.00 per hour
Location: Ipswich, Suffolk
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary to Permanent
Job ref: JT-IP-TE-0225
About the role

Just Temps has an excellent opportunity for a Trainee Engineer to join a well-established company based near Ipswich, Suffolk.

This is a dynamic role that combines technical expertise with customer service. You will have a passion for working with machinery and solving problems on the spot.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Service and maintenance: Supply, fit, service, and maintain compressors, pipework, receivers, dryers, and more!
  • Troubleshooting and repair: Diagnose faults, carry out temporary repairs when necessary, and ensure machines are running efficiently and effectively on-site.
  • Customer-focused: Engage with customers directly to discuss the best options for each job, offering expert advice and solutions. Once trained, you will become the face of the company, so a friendly and professional approach is essential.
  • Safety and PPE: Wear provided overalls and PPE (personal protective equipment) while working on various sites, some of which may be dusty or dirty.
  • Team collaboration: Work as part of a small but skilled team, sharing knowledge and ensuring jobs are completed to the highest standard.

What’s on offer:

  • Full training provided: No experience? No problem! We will train you to become an expert in servicing, including pipework, receivers and more.
  • Competitive salary: Dependent on experience.
    24/7 Breakdown callouts: Once trained, you’ll rotate on callouts to assist customers in their time of need.
  • Company vehicle: After training, you will be provided with your own van for work travel. Until then, you'll travel with colleagues.
  • Work schedule: Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm (with flexibility depending on job requirements). No bank holidays or nights away!
  • Generous holiday: Enjoy 25 days of annual leave once perm.
  • Company mobile: After completing your training, you'll be provided with a company mobile phone.
  • Uniform and PPE: All are provided once training is complete.

Essential requirements:

  • Full UK driving licence: Required for the role, as you will need to travel to various sites.
  • Ability to work at heights: Essential for some tasks.
  • Manual handling: The ability to lift and handle heavy items.
  • Technical mindset: Thorough knowledge of machinery, with the ability to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain compressors.
  • Excellent communication: Completing job sheets, communicating with customers, and signing off tasks on-site.

What’s the role like?

This is a practical, hands-on role where every day is different. From performing repairs on-site to assisting customers in getting their machines back up and running, no two days will be the same. If you enjoy solving problems, working with machinery, and meeting customers, this role is perfect for you.

Interested? Apply today and take the first step toward joining a well-established team.

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more