Achieve Magazine Issue 7

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Issue 7

Gifts

Pregnancy

Education

Magazine

toes

TINY

Fabulous fashion for little feet

Birth & Beyond Top tips and products for new parents and mums to be

Snugglebundl Lift and lay your new bundle of joy safely, snuggly and close to your heart with Snugglebundl

Superb Shopping | Unbeatable Savings | Expert Advice

Book Advance Tickets & Save Up To 40%* – Quote ‘ACHIEVE’

thebabyshow.co.uk Our Official Charity

*Saving based on standard ticket price of £20. To book by phone call 0871 231 0844, calls cost 10p per minute from a BT landline, other networks may vary. Advance Booking closes 14/05/2015, £2 transaction fee applies per booking. For more information on the products featured visit www.thebabyshow.co.uk.

CONTENTS some innovative interior decor and a little imagination A Royal Arrival We’re eagerly awaiting a new royal baby, have a look Outdoor Fun Make the most of the summer sun and get outdoors at our best picks for your little Prince together for some family fun or Princess’s arrival

Fit For A Royal

Perfect Royal Gifts Whether you’re friends with the royal couple or not, make sure your baby gifts are fit for a King or Queen with our selection of perfect baby gifts.

A Slice of Paradise

Luxurious retreat at Eastham Make your holiday one to remember with a trip up to Leafy Lytham and a stay at the award winning Eastham Hall Summer Holidays Six weeks to fill Baby Boom with fun and frolics? Never fear, we’ve COVER: Snugglebundl Carry your got some ideas to keep you going all new bundle of joy safely, snugly and close to your heart with Snugglebundl summer long Tiny Toes Keep tiny toes on trend with Accessible Holidays Holidays for everyone to enjoy, whatever you’re our choice of fabulous fashion for dream holiday is from kayaking to little feet sunbathing we have the best in Birth & Beyond Take some of the accessible holidays for you to stress out of expecting with our top tips and products for new parents and choose from Emigration If you never want to the mums to be sunshine to leave, we’ve got some hint Kids Rooms Make your children’s and tips to finding your family’s dream room a space they want to be in with lifestyle abroad

Tomorrow’s Talent

Reading Aids Get reading with your little ones with these fun reading aids to help make learning fun and fruitful Award winning OLCS Check out the latest news from the award winning Our Lady’s Convent School and find out about their newest accolade.

Autism Awareness

Spotlight on Anna Kennedy Check out our favourite twinkle-toed philanthropist and find out about her protégés talents and how you can let your light shine for autism World Autism Awareness Week 27th March – 2nd April we’re showing our support for everyone affected by and working with autism. Show your support too and #LightItUpBlue

Company Director: Jenny Cross - jenny@crossproductions.co.uk Head of Operations: Leanne Baker - leanne@crossproductions.co.uk Design: Rachael Bambrough - design@crossproductions.co.uk Journalist: Sarah Bladen - editorials@crossproductions.co.uk Media Account Manager: Emily Davison - emily@crossproductions.co.uk Media Account Manager: Emma Cross - emma@crossproductions.co.uk Media Account Manager: Sally Smith - sally@crossproductions.co.uk Media Account Manager: Tania Hollingsworth - tanya@crossproductions.co.uk Media Account Manager: Sharon Hodges - sharon@crossproductions.co.uk Postal Address: Cross Productions, 17 Mandervell Road, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 5LR Distribution: Media Matters Direct www.mediamattersdirect.co.uk Published by: Cross Productions Ltd www.achieve-magazine.co.uk Email: info@crossproductions.co.uk Telephone: 0116 2712573

Achieve 03

Fit for a royal Burble Baby

Royal Hamper!

Burble Baby offers a gorgeous range of hampers; only the best will do for our handsome princes and pretty princesses! www.burblebaby.co.uk

Star Product Day to Night Training Potty LumiPotti doesn’t stop when the night draws in. It’s special movement activated night light helps children master night dryness. www.lumipotti.com

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Get ready for Easter!

We love this fun and gorgeous Easter gift from Cocoa Libre which is free of gluten, dairy, nuts and wheat, and suitable for vegans and coeliacs!

Another Royal Arrival

…we cannot wait

We’re very excited that during this issue there will be another ultra-cute addition to Kate &

Will’s little family. Their second baby is due in

April and we’re hoping that the rumours are true and Prince George will soon have a little sister

to add to the picture perfect family. With Prince Charles openly hoping for a granddaughter

the whole family are eagerly awaiting the new sibling for the gorgeous Prince George.

The expectant Kate was forced to cancel several appearances due to the acute morning sickness (Hyperemisis Gravidarum) she’s suffered with

Photo: © Getty Images

both pregnancies and was rarely seen for over 2 months during her first trimester; however things seem to be improving and the dedicated “Dad to be” has been keeping Kate comfortable. Kate and William have taken holidays throughout the pregnancy, including a jaunt to the Caribbean – the second visit for Prince George within his 2 short years, and Kate has booked herself in for a stay in Bucklebury for a few home comforts leading up to the birth; it just goes to show that everyone feels better with their Mum by their side.

It has been no secret that both Will and Kate share Prince Charles’ wish for a baby girl in the family, with gossip columnists writing about pink nurseries and girl’s names from the outset. And, although the sex of the baby is yet to be confirmed the bookies and columnists alike have been placing their bets on potential names; with Charlotte in the running for a potential Princess and James as the favourite for a brother to Prince George.

Whatever the new royal is named we’re sure they’ll be as gorgeous as little George.

At recent engagements Kate revealed "It's moving all the time. I can feel it kicking now!", but it seems no matter what the little Prince or Princess is getting up, Kate is still as stylish as ever and has continued to cause items to sell out in minutes whilst sporting her baby bump in her uber-chic outfits.

If you are soon to be parent, or your little Prince or Princess has already arrived, we’ve got loads of things for you to browse through from baby clothes and accessories through to the perfect nursery decor to help you savour those fleeting moments of rest!

Achieve 05

Handmade in East London Soothe-me is a beautiful selection of handmade skincare remedies, made using only the best

natural, organic and bio-active ingredients and a large helping

of passion, all sourced here in the UK. These artisan products

are particularly useful for sufferers of sensitive or dry skin and eczema conditions and are 100% pure.

Award-Winning Organic Skin Care That Promotes the Parent-baby bond Tiddley Pom Baby Spa is a unique and award-

winning range of organic baby skincare products that nurture the bond between parent and child.

It offers complementary organic toiletries and gifts that combine aromatherapy, music and

Best selling 'Dry skin Fix' cream, £14.

A natural, organic cream for eczema 100% FREE from Parabens and Petrochemicals . Especially formulated to help improve the health of dry skin and eczema with Shea, jojoba & plum kernel oil.

Award Winning Super Baby Oil, Fair Trade & Cold Pressed oils, £14.

Beautiful oil for baby massage that naturally helps eczema and dry skin.

Part of every sale of this oil helps ‘Baby Tess Heart Fund’.

w w w. s o o th e -me . c o m

s u z ie @s o o t h e - m e . c o m

baby massage.

The company was founded by Emma Nash - a natural oils expert. She launched the Tiddley Pom range after using natural and organic ingredients to alleviate her own new-born daughter's eczema.

Each of Tiddley Pom's products has been developed through extensive research into the use and effectiveness of natural and organic ingredients. They have also been tested on mums, not animals. This allows this ethically aware company to offer a truly safe alternative to the harsh chemicals often found in skin care products, such as parabens, SLS and mineral oils, so parents can be confident they are not harmful to their baby.

The range includes: an Organic baby Wash; Organic Soothing Lotion; Organic Baby Massage Oil; and Organic Nappy Balm; as well as gift sets, soothing music and an instructional baby massage DVD. To find out more about Tiddley Pom and to follow its four step process for soothing and calming babies with organic products and baby massage visit www.tiddley-pom.com.

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Mama’s natural choice for Bump, Birth and Baby

Natural, organic and practical products for each stage of the baby journey.

Covering everything needed for bump, birth, baby and beyond, from natural health & wellbeing products, home birth supplies and baby carriers, through to the most design and environmentally conscious bedside cribs and travel necessities.

www.mamanatural.co.uk

10% off first order - code AC10

Comfort only a babe could dream of Founded in 2006, this multi-award winning bunny has done it again, this time winning the Achieve Award for Mums in Business Best Product 2015.

As any parent will appreciate, dummies can be a godsend for comforting your little one and helping to lull them off to the land of slumber; conversely, if that dummy strays it can cause all sorts of chaos as your baby cries out for it’s safe return (usually circa 3.00am!). This is a problem Lucy, Sleepytots inventor, was all too familiar with and she was determined to find a solution to extend that precious sleep.

“When my son Laurie was about 5 months we found that whilst he was sleeping better through the night he still woke every time he couldn’t locate his dummy instantly, which meant I had to wake and find it for him!” Lucy explained The Sleepytot Bunny Comforter is the solution

for all parents facing this same dilemma.

Rather than taking the dummy away absolute, Sleepytot is designed to help your baby to use their soother independently. These comforters provide a consistent feeling of security for your little one when you’re not there and are invaluable for babies in their younger stages whilst they fluctuate between dependence and independence.

“We love our sleepytot, and it is without doubt the best thing we bought for our son. Wonderful product and would highly recommend.”

Maria Carter Owned and managed by Julie and Jon from Mini Moo & Co Ltd, who have experienced plenty of sleepless nights themselves with 3 small children, this dynamic duo have taken the Sleepytot idea and expanded it into a beautiful range of safe, soft bunny comforters

pop their baby into a wrap to enable them to carry on with things. Buying some fabric from her local East London market, Shabs set about recreating a similar item to help her.

. . . helping you bond with y o ur little one whilst keeping ‘the plates’ spinning When the creator of AmaWrap suffered a traumatic birth with her first child she struggled, like many mums, with the aftermath of a C-Section whilst trying to care for a newborn.

Lifting the buggy, baby and numerous bags up and down the stairs to leave Shabs’ apartment was extremely difficult with 25 stitches travelling across her stomach, and this is when she decided to try and find an alternative and the prototype for the AmaWrap was born.

With roots in Africa, Shabs recalled the traditions of her family’s home when it came to caring for their newborns; where it was commonplace for mothers to

Shabs’ intention to make carrying her baby from place to place easier and less painful was immediately satisfied, but she could not have foreseen the added benefits her simple creation could provide. By carrying her daughter close to her chest, not only was Anara secure and warm but was comforted by her mother’s heartbeat, scent and breathing. Much to Shabs’ joy, the wrap helped her to establish that crucial motherdaughter bond which she felt had been lost as a result of such a difficult birth.

For the first time, Shabs began to feel like a mummy and wanted to give other parents the same opportunity to enjoy their newborns; “When you look down and find that your baby has fallen asleep on your chest, you feel the most amazing sense of peace.” Shabs told us.

in a selection of colours to suit any sleepy tot (including the introduction of the new pink and blue bunnies in 2014).

“It's very cute! I love the idea that when it is time to give up the dummy, that he will still have a cuddly friend with him!” Josh and Amberley Now a firm favourite with parents, babies and the industry alike; Sleepytot bunnies have soft Velcro paws to cling to the cot bars, so he is always on hand to help your little one back to slumber land. And, we’ve got a scoop and some more great news for tired parents everywhere as Sleepytot continue to diversify and innovate, keep a look out for their new character coming this Spring to join the ‘dream team’ for your baby.

www.sleepytot.com 0845 009 4405 info@sleepytot.com

After a group of fellow mums cottoned on to her creation the orders starting coming in and Shabs was able to establish a successful business creating AmaWrap wraps for mums and dads to use everywhere and anywhere. Eventually Shabs found herself in the wonderful position to have a fabric exclusively created for AmaWrap which offered her the ideal product for her rapid expansion.

The AmaWrap is now supplied to charities and hospitals for use with premature babies, and in their neo-natal units, and has seen Shabs become a Babywearing Consultant and part of the MSLC (Maternity Services Liaison Committee). And so, from a difficult start the story of AmaWraps has been the catalyst which has turned so many traumatic birth stories around and boosted baby bonding for mums and dads across the country.

To see the full range of AmaWrap wraps visit the website at www.amawrap.com and find the ideal way to strengthen your parental bond whilst getting on with daily life.

Achieve 07

Move your baby without waking them up Discover more at www.snugglebundl.co.uk 10% discount online with code ACH3 or on the telephone 01273-958703

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Letting baby’s snooze while Mum’s on the move Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best.

The Snugglebundl has been rumoured to be one of the best new baby products on the market since its launch in 2011. The idea came about when new dad, David Solomons, needed a simple solution to help him and his wife lift their baby; as both he and his wife suffered with back problems, and their new daughter would wake easily when moved: something that many new parents will empathise with.

The Eureka moment David discovered that lifting his baby on a blanket made it easy to move her as she slept and meant that they didn’t have to stoop to lift.

That was the “Eureka” moment, and he begun to work on the concept of a blanket that could safely lift a baby as they slept.

The Snugglebundl is essentially a baby wrap blanket with two soft strong handles. As you gently lift, the blanket forms a sort of hammock that fully supports your baby’s head, neck and spine and the padded hood carefully protects the baby’s delicate crown. The movement is so gentle that baby’s don’t know they’re being moved, so they stay sleeping: priceless.

Also when you use the handles on the Snugglebundl to lift or lay your baby down it reduces the amount you need to bend, so it really helps post birth recovery time, even after a C section.

(because we all know babies aren’t as light as they look!) You can even use it as a discreet breastfeeding cover.

Using the strong support handles enables parents to lift their little bundle with just one hand; a parent with spare hands, it’s true!

"Hands down my favourite new baby product this time around" Karin Joyce - Author of Cafe Bebe Because this is a wrap, the Snugglebundl will easily fit into cots and carry seats so you can keep your baby wrapped up and warm wherever you are and transport them easily to and from pushchairs and cribs without needing to disturb their reverie.

This multi-award winning wrap has received fantastic reviews from parents, press and other professionals with one industry insider claiming “Not sure how I survived without one. I love it to bits!" Fiona Barclay - Pushchair trader. This kind of testimony combined with the Achieve Mum’s own rave reviews, and the odd celebrity fan, are the reason we are so happy to award Snugglebundl another well-deserved accolade as winners of the Achieve Awards Mums Choice for Best Baby Product 2015.

"I absolutely love it.

Thank you Snugglebundl!" Amanda Holden - TV personality Get your baby all wrapped up with a visit to www.snugglebundl.co.uk

"A baby and Mummy must have!" Jo Tantum UK's leading baby sleep expert.

How does it work?

The beauty of this seemingly simple invention is its versatility; a wrap that ties at the front to keep your baby snug and content, a safe rocking tool to lull your baby to sleep, a lifting device

www.snugglebundl.co.uk 01273 958703 team@snugglebundl.co.uk

Achieve 09

For belly..

Preparing for Baby!

From the moment you see that life changing line on the pregnancy test your whole life will be dedicated to getting ready to hold that growing bundle of joy in your arms.

However, as tempting as it may be to go out and buy everything that you could ever possibly need, or not need

birth..

Prices star t at £9.99 with FREE UK deliver y

breast feeding and beyond

Gownies ™ - Breastfeeding - Bags - Baby See the range at

www.theprettycompany.com

as is far too often the case, there are just a few essential items that are a must...

• A pram/pushchair/car seat is essential if you want to go

anywhere with baby! These days you can find some great travel

systems which incorporate a car seat, pram and pushchair all in

one with interchangeable options. They don’t really come cheap but a good one will last you from birth up until walking age and beyond.

• A cot is a big purchase. It’s likely you will want to start out

with a Moses basket or small crib in your room until they can go in their nursery and sleep in a cot but it’s a good thing to have ready and waiting in the nursery before baby is born. A good

idea is to invest in a cot bed which will take the baby through

all its baby months and last until the late toddler years as you remove the sides and change it to a bed.

• Clothing is one of the most fun aspects to newborn

preparations. You will need a fair amount of vests and grows, a few blankets, hats, socks and a million muslin squares as they are so very handy. Don’t go too crazy on clothing before your

baby arrives though as it’s likely babe will get a wardrobes worth from friends and family when he or she is born!

• Toiletries complete the essentials list but a small baby wont

need a great deal as they cant have much on their delicate skins in the early weeks; so choose your nappies and opt for natural products which are gentler on their skin so that when you can start using them they arent too harsh!

There are other 'essentials' of course but they are more of a

personal parenting preference and the important thing to keep in mind is that all those shops will still be open once babe is born so don’t panic pre-birth too much!

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www.lumiere-photography.co.uk Tel 077 63 06 44 97 or 01509 556 276

Achieve 11

Putting the ‘funk’ into functional

As fans of anything functional that helps to maintain our fashion credentials, Funky Little Bugs has been awarded the Achieve Award in Excellence for Women in Business 2015 in recognition of her fashionista and business credentials.

Funky Little Bugs are a firm favourite at the Achieve offices; the Achieve Mum’s are all too familiar with the lack of bags on offer that provide all the functionality you need when you are with your little ones that were a little bit more stylish for yummy mummies!

Inspired by just this dilemma Funky Little Bugs Founder, Steph, decided to give her creative side a showcase and began designing changing bags from some amazing materials.

“I remember looking for a nappy changing bag when I had my son and couldn't find anything I liked. They all seemed so run of the mill unless I was willing to pay a lot of money for a designer bag.” Steph recalls And so, Funky Little Bugs began. Steph created designs using her own experiences to incorporate everything a Mum might need and launched a set of bags in bespoke designs to enable Mum’s to benefit from experience and exclusivity.

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[

all of the bags I make are completely unique and exclusive to you!

[

“Most of the fabrics I use are reclaimed and only

and Jean bags...put simply, Steph’s continued

innovate and evolve her creations with new lines

available in small amounts. This means that all

innovation means that Mum’s everywhere are

being added regularly, Steph also welcomes

of the bags I make are completely unique and

equipped for every eventuality and look great

bespoke orders, so if you have an idea of what

exclusive to you!” Steph told us

doing it!

you want but cannot find it, Funky Little Bugs are

Materials are sourced on request or by chance

“The toddler bag is great for taking

and have included Lego, Minions and Marvel

spare clothes to nursery and for

“I love what I do and I love creating something

to elegant roses or polka dots dependent on

sleepovers with Granny. They all fit a

so personal for so many people. Since starting

a great place to start.

the customer’s preference and the little one’s personality!

The beauty of Funky Little Bugs is not only Steph’s original creativity but that as her five (yes five!) little ones have grown, so have her needs and consequently so has the range at Funky Little Bugs. Now providing Changing Bags, Toddler Bags, Wet Bags, Face Cloths, Bibs, Charms, Wallets and much more; and for Mum she has also launched a range of Tote

full change of clothes with a little extra space for a favourite toy to

I have sent bags as far afield as Canada, America and Australia. It's exciting to see

come along too.”

that my bags have worldwide appeal. No

The unique styles and tailor made functionality

accessories to you.” Steph enthused.

matter where you are I can post my bags and

have attracted attention from across the UK and further afield with Funky Little Bug products distributed across the globe including Canada, America and Australia. With an unquestionable passion, Steph is constantly looking at ways to

www.facebook.com/funkylittlebugs Tel: 07932 990981 Email: funkylittlebugs@hotmail.co.uk

Achieve 13

p i r t y r e v e e k a T in style Buying your pushchair is a major investment for any parent to be. Not only is it a financial investment, and one of the biggest you’ll have whilst getting baby ready, it is vital for you to feel comfortable with your pushchair, for it to reflect your personality and above all for it to be safe and secure for your baby; after all, you’ll both be spending a considerable amount of time with this one accessory, so make sure it’s a great one!

Bugaboo is a Dutch mobility company, with Headquarters in Amsterdam. The brainchild of designer Max Barenburg and physician Eduard Zanen, Bugaboo was founded in 1999 and have been servicing parents with stylish mobility solutions ever since.

The exquisitely conceived range of pushchairs (and everything to accompany them) from Bugaboo are designed to inspire everyone to get out and about exploring the world with their little adventurers. Not only is their standard range beautifully crafted and packed with the advantages of the latest technologies, they offer the progressive parent the opportunity to

The Concord Reverso from Concord is a new and adjustable reboardcar seat for new borns, which has exceeded the expectations of many specialists.

It impresses, thanks to its broad range of applications, such as, a separately cushioned inlay. The car seat is suitable for babies aged three- to five months and without the inlay it can seat children up to 105 cm in height.

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configure the perfect pushchair just for them.

Whether you prefer pink or blue or need extra storage for those longer adventures, the opportunity is there for you to perfect your pushchair to suit your functional requirements as well as your personalities.

Bugaboo’s mission is “to excite every person on the move and make products that inspire people to get out and explore the world” and their constant innovation and dedication to using only the highest quality, highly fashionable materials mean that they fulfil this mission each and every day.

You have lots of options when finding your perfect pushchair; opt for one of their special editions or personalise your pushchair, as much or as little as you like. Their interactive website can guide you through the customisation to get the perfect pushchair you’ve always envisioned, and add accessories to help make

your travels as smooth as possible; they’ve got an eclectic range from car seat adapters through to parasols and changing bags, there is something for everyone at Bugaboo.

Their style and versatility are not their only selling points though; made from fantastic quality components, a Bugaboo pushchair is a real investment that you can use for many years to come (and many children to come if you wish!). And once you have passed your baby days they offer an excellent resale value, so another family can experience the same passion for their pushchair.

Everything at Bugaboo oozes parent chic and practicality; it’s a heady mix, but a visit to www.bugaboo.com is sure to excite any expectant parents or those looking for a stylish upgrade and will inspire you to get out and about with your little one to display your fashionable little family!

Twister Trio Set

Lift Up 3

Let's twist again - and turn pram, car seat or seat unit by 360째 using only one hand. With its stylish chassis and high-quality materials, the Twister will certainly stand out in a crowd.

This lightweight stroller has a comfortable wide seat and kids will enjoy the generous space and freedom of movement. The back and footrest can be adjusted and for added comfort there is a removable seat pad in a contrasting colour. The soft touch handle is height-adjustable and the extendable hood provides protection against all weathers.

The carrycot with soft

Guardfix

Baby Park

mattress creates a safe environment for newborns whilst the Zero Plus

- Group I Car Seat (9-18kg)

This Baby Park offers a variety

Comfort 0+ car seat

Twister Trio Set

offers an innovative side impact protection system.

of options from playpen, fire guard, stair gate to barrier for large living spaces, to secure your

The playpen has a diameter of 61 cm so there

is plenty of room for favourite toys. The soft play

An agile city runabout that will amaze with its sophisticated folding technique! Folds in seconds with just one hand. Pull the release loop in the middle of the seat unit and the stroller folds in half, also acts as carrying handle.

mat can be used inside or outside the playpen. both directions, the two-fold, manual locking

allows you to keep an eye on your child.

The soft touch handle, incorporating a cup holder, can be adjusted in height to suit either parent.

a 5-point harness, a seat shell adjustable to 3 positions and a soft seat pad.

As a fire guard, stair gate or barrier, attach

Side Protection

total length of 3.66 m, it ensures your child or pets can move only in the restricted

Guardfix

our proven Extended System (ESP) which provides an additional layer of memory foam in conjunction with the styrofoam insert in the

seat. Extra reinforced side areas, accessible The Varioguard with Isofixbase for children from 0 months to 18 kg of weight. through the impact zones on the outside of the

barrier door. shellwith increase safetywhich in the can event a The Varioguard is an amazingly flexible car seat Isofixbase beofused for many years. It provides you and your child with the latest technology and the side impact. highest level of safety. This car seat is ECE 44/04 approved (current car seat Baby Park standard) and meets all the requirements to transport your baby safe and secure.

phone: 01978 664 362

01978 664362

It has a 6-position height-adjustable head rest,

The GUARDFIX has

back and footrest to reach a favourite full protection, whilst the viewing window

using an innovative EASY SNAP SYSTEM.

mechanism is reliably childproof.

comfort and plenty of space, with an adjustable position. A large, extendable hood provides

facing and suitable for vehicles with ISOFIX,

Two car seats in one

It has five panels and a door which opens in

the Baby Park on two adjacent walls. With a

With its wide, padded seat the Lift Up offers

safety, handling and functionality. It is forward

Varioguard house in a child-friendly manner.

Lift Up 3

The GUARDFIX provides new standards for

mail: info@hauckuk.com

info@hauckuk.com

web: www.hauckuk.com

www.hauckuk.com Achieve 11

Baby Boom!

Small Prints Photography

Fox Organic Kids; UK Babies and Kids Bedding Specialists release cheeky new collections!

Quick Brown Fox of Dulwich has been selling high quality, print-led babies' and kids' bedding since 2009, when it was founded in East Dulwich, south London.

The company's original tagline was 'Babies Bedding with a touch of mischief', and 'Fox Organic Kids' is set to carry on that ethos with its cheeky new collections, which are available on their new website www.foxorganickids.co.uk Explaining the decision to 'go organic', their MD comments: Organic cotton is not new to us – we've been producing babies and kids bedding made from organic, as well as conventional cotton, since 2010. We made the call to use only organically grown cotton because it just felt right – better for the kids and better for the textile workers!

Fox Organic Kids textile products are all made in Europe and carry the Oeko-Tex-100 certification.

“We are a small team and absolutely love what we do, but we don't take ourselves too seriously. Whatever we release has to be kidfriendly, without offending parents' sense of style. We take colours and motifs that that reflect the joy of childhood and then give them a cheeky and original Fox twist.

We like to sell directly to our customers. By keeping our supply chain simple & short, and by dealing only with reputable European suppliers – we are able to offer a high quality product and excellent value for money.”

Heather Lizamore, owner & Managing Director

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Treetop Slumber Transform little ones' bedtimes into an exciting adventure with the new Christopher Treehouse cabin bed from online children's bed boutique Noa & Nani. A great space-saving solution, the elevated tree house design is ideal for a creative playtime whilst also offering a comforting and secure place for slumber. Beautifully crafted from solid pine and finished in a crisp white lacquer, this playful yet uber-stylish design will delight and enchant children whilst also appeasing parents by encouraging wayward sleepers to stay in their own bed. With its country-style cladding and traditional pitched roof, the design features cutout windows and a skylight to brighten the interior space, which can be easily accessed by a sturdy ladder. Hours of fun are to be had

www.noaandnani.co.uk

underneath the bed's canopy, which can also double as storage space for toys, ensuring that every inch of floor is utilised.

Achieve 17

bold & Bright

kids rooms Wall stickers are an ideal way to brighten up a room with minimal effort, cost and time!

This colourful Rainbow Fox Giant Wall Sticker will make a fun addition to any child's bedroom or play area. Made up from a variety of fanciful, kaleidoscopic dots, this beautiful fox sits elegantly on the wall and will add a splash of colour to any space! £16.99 from www.beckyandlolo.co.uk

Give kids a lesson in typography with the new range of Alphabet tableware and bedding from creative Danish brand Design Letters, new to Nubie.co.uk!

Beautiful bespoke posters designed and made in the UK, perfect for children’s bedrooms and nurseries.

Achieve readers get a 25% discount and free P+P when you buy 2 or more posters.

Use code achieve25%

Petit Home aims to make the child’s space a unique and beautiful place to dream, grow, work & play.

www.petithome.co.uk contact@petithome.co.uk

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www.reallygiantposters.com Call 0800 180 4572 or email sales@reallygiantposters.com

Not just Mum’s choice, our choice too!

From toddlers to teens we all love the feeling of snuggling down in our duvet; safe, warm and content. Snuggle Sac are the original (and in our humble opinion, best) combination of duvet and sleeping bag, providing all the comfort of a duvet with the portability and practicality of a sleeping bag.

The invention of Tina Lane, Snuggle Sac arose from her own son’s experience, as Tina told us “My young son kept waking up cold during the night with his covers on the floor and then not wanting to stay in his own bed. I realised if he felt some connection with the sleeping bag, in much the same way as a teddy bear, he’d want to take it to bed and hopefully stay there.”

Tina’s solution: The Snuggle Sac, a funky, fun and functional sleeping bag which her son could take everywhere and anywhere, allowing him (and her) a peaceful, undisturbed night’s sleep.

night, he also enjoyed a daytime nap and carried this home from home bed with its attachment security and comfort to day nursery, his grandparents, on car journeys and holidays.”

Tina explained The importance of a restful night’s sleep for children’s mental, emotional and physical wellbeing cannot be underestimated as Vicki, Sleep Expert and Founder of The Children’s Sleep Charity told us, “The Snuggle Sac is a great product and can help children to feel more secure at night time, providing children with a consistent sleep environment which is essential for a good night’s sleep. Familiarity and routine is also important for children to sleep well ...”

“It was an instant success, not only did he want to remain in his own bed at

Since its official launch in 2000, Snuggle Sac has sold hundreds of thousands of gorgeous, exceptional quality, sleeping bags and accessories across the world and has won the hearts

of parents and children everywhere; which is why we had no hesitation when choosing Snuggle Sac as the Achieve Award’s Mum Choice for Best Online Retailer 2015.

The Snuggle Sac is perfect for travelling, sleepovers and lazy Sunday afternoons; available in a variety of designs and sizes from My First Snuggle Sac for children from 12 months, through to The Original Snuggle Sac which caters right up to teenagers, there is a Snuggle Sac waiting for everyone to cosy up in.

To find out more about the ranges of Snuggle Sacs available as well as their blankets and bed tidies, all made to the same exacting standards and beautiful designs, visit their website www.snugglesac.com or find them on Facebook and Twitter (@snugglesac)

Children's Furniture Specialist Eco friendly high quality imaginative and modular beds to grow with your child, and large selection of practical storage. Estabished for over 40 years.

Crafty Kate: hand-crafted, hand-painted toy boxes, generously sized and made with love.

Choose your own design or let Kate help you create a beautiful, durable treasure box to enhance your little one’s playroom.

Contact us on 01727-821222

Visit our showroom or website www.lifetimefurniture.co.uk

Discover Crafty Kate at www.craftykate.net, email contactmenow@craftykate.net

Achieve 19

Vintage & Floral

Spring/Summer 2015 Children's collection Vintage and Floral has launched its much anticipated Spring/

Summer 2015 Children's collection. These exquisite limited edition handmade quilts, are inspired by the bold geometric lines and solid colour of American Amish designs and have a timeless

contemporary look. Available in three stunning patchwork designs; Little Log Cabin, Little Centre Square and Alabama. Each design comes in a choice of two vibrant colours.

Vintage and Floral quilts are all handmade in the UK with a double bound edge for durability and finished with hand stitching. They

are made from 100% pure natural materials including linen, cotton

and bamboo making them antibacterial to aid a good nights sleep.

These beautiful quilts are cool in the summer and provide an extra layer in colder months. Cot and toddler bed sizes are available. vintageandfloral.com When you are re-styling your home or simply replacing tired furnishings it is the accessories and small touches which will make all the difference in giving your house that perfect finish. The choice of window covering is one not to be taken lightly, not only does the style need suit but the curtains or blinds you choose need to meet a function.

David Bennifer and his team pride themselves on the quality of their blinds and installations as well as giving customers the best possible advice and aftercare service available; experts in their industry Countesthorpe Blinds can cater for any window type or shape with each blind or shutter made to measure to ensure the highest standard of workmanship and commitment.

A family run business, providing high quality blinds to households and businesses across Leicestershire since 1987, they produce and fit a full range of blinds for any type or size of window from vertical blinds to conservatory blinds, Plantation Shutters and Patio Awnings.

“We chose Countesthorpe Blinds when we wanted 3 new roller blinds for our children’s rooms. We knew they were perhaps not the cheapest on the market but the quality is exceptional and the service was fast and efficient and we have peace of mind that the kid’s rooms are safe as well as stylish!” Jenny, Cross Productions Director said.

From concept to design and then the finished fitted product, you are assured the very best attention and service. For a free, no obligation quote available and simple, stylish options to brighten up any room, contact Countesthorpe Blinds and get the best advice from the experts.

Find out more about how to create your perfect finish; visit www.countesthorpe-blinds.co.uk or call the team on 0116 277 6749.

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Starting style early For busy parents the world over online shopping can be a godsend, allowing you to browse a huge variety of products and services from the comfort of your settee and get items delivered direct to your door.

“As parents ourselves we understand that whilst parenting brings much joy to our lives it also makes us time poor! We therefore want your shopping experience to be a quick and pleasurable one.” Amanda explained This year we chose Nubie as our Mum’s Choice Best Children’s Furniture award winner because well, we couldn’t think of a worthier winner, and because they showcase gorgeous, usable furniture; offering Mums and Dads flexibility and choice without compromising quality or style.

Nubie.co.uk is the perfect online boutique for Mums and Dads looking to equip their children’s rooms and nurseries with great quality furniture which is not only reflective of your little one’s personalities and your style but is funky, functional and fun.

Launched by Amanda, a Mum herself, Nubie have been showcasing beautifully designed and exceptionally stylish products for over 7 years; making children’s spaces special and unique wherever you call home.

“I started Nubie with a friend from my NCT group because we wanted to provide people with stylish children’s furniture and accessories.

I really struggled to find pieces on the market that suited the Scandinavian style of home décor that I loved and knew I couldn’t be alone in that. Having children shouldn’t mean that you

have to compromise on the style you love. In fact, it can give the excuse to simply have more fun with it!” Amanda said What’s great about Nubie is that despite their continuing growth, the team behind it remains small enough to retain a personal service for all their customers but big enough to ensure that the support you need is always available.

Nubie’s products are sourced from around the globe, in particular Scandinavia who are renowned for their sleek designs and innovative furniture; in fact a lot of their products have been created or recommended by customers and parents, so if you see anything that you’d love to share with other parents and their kids get in touch!

“I want to bring pieces to the public that reflect a tasteful look like the rest of your décor but that had the fun factor and personality that kids look for in their rooms too.” Amanda enthused With an ever-changing selection of the best kid’s furniture we’ve seen, keep an eye out for www.nubie.co.uk and make sure you never miss a chance to be stylish!

Achieve 21

Fit for a royal

Gifts

Navy Star Snuggle Sac - indoor sleeping bag for children. £45 from www.snugglesac.com

Hand Engraved Floral Heart Gold Locket £259.00 from www.thelockettree.co.uk

Piccalilly London Bus Playsuit £20 from www.thenewbornbabycompany.co.uk

Pony Snuggle Sac - cosy sleeping bag for children £45 from www.snugglesac.com

Sheep Print Baby Jumpsuit £17.99 from www.littlechickie.co.uk

Bliss Small Chubby Bear Star £18.99 from www.butterflyoccasions.co.uk

Cream soft leather baby shoes with lovely brown deer. £9.99 from www.cherrykids.co.uk

Ready to Pop Pyjamas Gift Box £19.99 from www.bluebirdshop.co.uk

Beautiful Early Days shoes £25 from www.thechildrensshoecompany.co.uk

White Tuxedo Ponchlin Prices start at £11.99 from www.new-additions.com

Personalised Character Bean Bag Prices start at £35 from www.teenybeanies.co.uk

Zawadi the Elephant Fairytale Chairs £60.00 from www.fairytalechildrensfurniture.co.uk

Cardigan in stone/plum (£28.00) & Pansy playsuit. (£31.50) www.pigeonorganics.com

Adventure Hangout Cottage Bunk Bed Priced from £1830 at www.lifetimefurniture.co.uk

Cheers Baby Bottle £12.99 from www.thegiftoasis.com

Antonio Juan Noa Gorro Scarlet 55cm Toddler Doll

22

£69.99 www.petalinadolls.co.uk

Gifts almost too good to give

Since our last meeting with the lady behind By

high standard of craftsmanship on each and

“I got the personalised family cushions for my

Victoria, Victoria Robinson, her Mumpreneur

every item.

Mum and Mother in Law for Christmas. So, so pleased with them and can’t wait until they are

award winning streak has continued, earning her another coveted award from Achieve’s

“I could not recommend this product higher.

opened on Christmas Day!” Nichola (December

Women in Business as well as recommendations

It was fantastic and absolute perfection in

2014)

on The Mummy Pages and membership to the

personalising it - all round amazing. I couldn’t

Professional Crafters Guild, it’s certainly been a busy winter for this crafty lady.

For those readers who haven’t heard about the amazing gifts Victoria produces; By

“Where your only limit is your imagination”

be happier, thank you!”

With non-seasonal ranges including fairies,

Catherine (January 2015)

pirates and space adventures for the kids and a variety of home wares and clothing for the

Victoria certainly lives her

adults, By Victoria caters to every taste, every

strapline “Where your only

budget and every occasion with a beautifully

limit is your imagination”

crafted, personalised gift to be enjoyed for

as she continues to

years to come.

Victoria was born as the result of some friendly

innovate and introduce products to delight

encouragement and an exceptional talent.

her customers, young and old. Recently

Pregnant with her second child Victoria suffered

introducing Christmas themed items which

the strain of redundancy and job-seeking in the

received much acclaim from

volatile UK employment market. Unsuccessful

customers across the UK, she

(thankfully), Victoria gave birth to a beautiful

also continues to craft her

son and it was whilst caring for him she

traditional items to ensure the

for her special day.” Emma

rediscovered her childhood hobby; knitting and

likes of Tom, Kim and Emily

(December 2014)

sewing on her aunts borrowed sewing machine.

have plenty of goodies in

“I used to knit and sew with my Grandmother

supply!

as a child and felt like doing something creative again.” Victoria told us

“I ordered the bunny with subway style print for my niece’s christening. Absolutely delighted with them! The bunny is even cuter in the flesh and the embroidery is just beautiful; a lovely keepsake

For beautifully hand-crafted gifts or just a designer addition

“My soft toy and clothing range became incredibly popular which

Based in a small country village with her two

resulted in me providing items for Emily Blunt’s

sons and a menagerie of 3 dogs, 2 cats, 2

new baby, Tom Cruise and Katie Holme’s

bunnies and a hamster; Victoria designs and

Daughter, Siri and for Kim Kardashian’s new

makes all her pieces, meaning you can be

baby!” Victoria enthused

to your home décor, check out the ranges available at www.byvictoria.co.uk or speak to Victoria

about taking your imagination and making it into a bespoke piece for you to treasure.

assured of her personal touch and the same

Achieve 23

Engaging, award winning

…amazing The combination of those extra special

It may be hard to imagine that your baby could

with her clients in a business based upon

be any more perfect but with the expertise of

interacting with others as an integral

the talented Donna Gray you can capture those

part of the work they do. We

perfect moments in a way you could not even

found her to be such a worthy

for the perfect photography shoot

have dreamed of. Donna is simply an amazing

award winner that this January

for you and your baby, and you

photographer, as a self-confessed perfectionist

she was also selected as the

don’t need to take our word for it.

she’s worked tirelessly to master her art and

overall winner of the Mum’s

to provide families with cherished keepsakes

Choice Keepsake Award 2015.

small touches in her service and Donna’s exceptional talent provide

“Part baby whisperer, part photographer and completely

of those all too fleeting newborn

amazing!” Paul, Happy Dad

Undoubtedly a talented artist

moments.

what differentiates Donna from Visit www.smallprintsphotography.co.uk to get

the plethora of photographic

“Donna is an absolute natural with babies, a true

services available today,

a glimpse of some of the work Donna’s already

professional and all round

is her; her talent and her

provided for happy Mums and Dads and read

nice person. We loved

innovative, attentive yet simple

her numerous rave reviews!

the experience” Joshua’s

approach.

Parents "It's a lot more than a photography session. It is an amazing experience

In November 2014, Donna was

with your baby that will stay with your

the proud winner of the Mumpreneur ‘Engage’ award, recognising her close contact

www.smallprintsphotography.co.uk info@smallprintsphotography.co.uk Tel: 07729 183 957

forever" Mayans’ Mummy

Our handmade wooden hearts and plaques are treasured reminders of a special occasion.

www.bloominfab.co.uk Ge t 10% off w ith d is count cod e ACH15

We love!

Sarah-Jayne's stocks a wide range of earth-friendly products to help reduce the impact modern living has on the environment. We stock a wide range of reusable and biodegradable products including cloth nappies, ecofriendly disposables, reusable and biodegradable menstrual products, earth friendly laundry / cleaning products, organic baby clothes and toys and toiletries for all the family.

www.sarah-jaynes.com Email: sarahjaynes@btconnect.com Telephone: 07500044094

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This cute elephant comforter is the perfect playmate for little ones. Luxuriously soft and made from organically grown naturally coloured cotton, complete with crinkly ears.

Priced at £14.00, you can purchase from www.sarah-jaynes.com

Teeny Beanies are UK made personalised textile products for babies and children. With lots of fun animal characters to choose from in the form of Bean Bags, Cushions, Nursery Bags, Toys and Wheat Hotties. We also offer personalised Baby Bunting and our personalised Bunny Hamper range make great New Baby gifts.

Visit our website www.teenybeanies.co.uk or call us on 01952 405721

GET 20% off using discount code ACHIEVE20

BUTTERFLY OCCASIONS ONLINE CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE Are you looking for truly unique toys, gifts and furniture without the hassle of the high street? Then visit www.butterflyoccasions.co.uk, a beautiful online children’s boutique. We search the UK and beyond to bring you fresh and exciting ideas from smaller, independent suppliers and talented designers that you won’t find on the high street.

www.butterflyoccasions.co.uk ButterflyOccasions

@JoyFilledPlay

Enter the code ACHIEVE when placing an order for your 10% discount!

Baby hammocks ar e the best way to give your baby the perfect nights sleep!

featuring the East Coast Alaska Cot Bed

The Poco Hammock is the perfect transition from the womb to the outside world. In this snug and tactile enviorment your baby will be comfortable, safe and secure enabling baby and you to thrive and sleep well. Suspended from a spring the Poco Hammock has a gentle motion and gives a wonderful sense of floatation and relaxation giving baby the best sleep possible.

Visit our website for more information and find a stockist near you

www.pocobaby.co.uk 0845 338 1866

The new range from East Coast Nursery, featuring The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

For more information:

East Coast Nursery Tel: 01692 408802

www.eastcoastnursery.co.uk EastCoastNursery

@EC_Nursery

Achieve 25

Sets of 3 £14.99 + Free P+P

LumiPotti - The only potty for both Day and Night

LumiPotti is set to be the No.1 choice for toilet training in 2015 having won Gold ‘Loved By Parents’, Silver ‘Bizzie Baby’ and Consumer Choice & Silver in ‘Mumii’s Best Baby and Toddler gear’ during 2014.

Designed, Patented and manufactured in the UK; LumiPotti is the first potty to actively help with night toilet training, through the use of the integrated ambient light and movement sensitive night light.

LumiPotti’s night light comes on as the child sits up in bed and turns off automatically 60 seconds after the last detected movement. With night dryness achieved, LumiPotti’s light is removable providing the ideal portable light for those independent bathroom trips. The LumiPotti pot is a good size with a high pee guard, wide base and good back rest and it is made from Anti-microbial plastic for extra cleanliness.

LumiPotti is available online at Argos, JoJo Maman Bébé and through independents nationwide; see website www.lumipotti.com or call +44(0)2392 735482 for more details.

Coochy Coo Nappy Cakes® Adorable, affordable nappy cakes and new baby gifts.

Our gifts are available in various sizes, so if you want a small gift from yourself or if you are clubbing together as a group, our designs make an ideal present to give as a pregnancy gift, at a baby shower, or as a gift for a colleague that is leaving work to go on maternity leave. www.coochycoonappycakes.co.uk

info@coochycoonappycakes.co.uk 07580 058 471

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Clothies®: A Modern Mum’s Must Have Accessory!

Made from micro fleece in a selection of gorgeous, funky designs these stylish burp cloths are a great alternative to the grubby muslin you’re hiding away. They are superabsorbent (for those milky bubbles), lightweight and small enough to squeeze into any overflowing changing bag.

These washable, 100% cotton cloths are beautifully soft for precious faces and beautifully chic for modern Mums. A definite must have for practicality with a touch of individuality every baby day!

www.clothies.co.uk

Award winning service from parents for parents When it comes to looking for the essentials as a new parent, who better than parents themselves to consult with? As new parents Cathy and Ed Morgan went through the mind blowing processes associated with kitting out your little ones they immediately saw a gap in the market for honest, experience-led advice and products for parents to turn to.

“As new parents we were bemused by the choice available and ended up buying what sales people suggested rather than what really would have really suited us.” Ed recalled Set up in 2009 with this husband and wife duo at the helm, Babe-Equip provide a plethora of choice and advice for new parents buying baby and nursery equipment. From pregnancy through to birth and beyond Babe-Equip offers new parents the reassurance they need that the products they sell are tried, tested and recommended by parents.

“We only sell products that we would use for our own children.”

Ed told us Cathy and Ed spent 9 months or so researching products initially for the launch of Babe-Equip and the process is continuous to ensure

that parents are offered the best in innovation, practicality and price when looking to equip their babes.

“Babe-equip aim to make it easy for parents shopping on line to find the right products for them.

We offer products that we believe to be the best in their category based on quality, value for money and ease of use.” Ed explained Keen to do ‘their bit’ not only for parents but for the environment their children will be growing up in; Babe-Equip are committed to finding great eco-friendly products for parents to try. From biodegradable feeding sets to FSC wooden toys, toothpaste and much more. With Babe-Equip eco-savvy parents have the ability to shop their eco-friendly and organic category and find all their products in one place, allowing them to be conscientious without it taking up their already busy lives.

“We don't stock a massive range that you have to spend hours sifting through. We stock products that we believe in and either did or would have used ourselves. We ask friends to try them out and give us a review that we can pass on to you. We also try and give you the information that you need to make informed decisions. Let us know if you think we have missed anything

would like to tell other parents about please let us know and we will try and stock it.”

Babe-Equip are the perfect online emporium for parents to explore, get new ideas and try alternatives they may not have considered or seen on the High Street. Boasting a 98% customer satisfaction score, the team’s commitment to making life that little bit easier for parents everywhere is one of the many reasons we wanted to recognise them with the Achieve Mum’s Choice Award 2015.

Ed and Cathy believe that it’s not rocket science just simple, common sense combined into one resource to make parent’s lives easier. If you are about to, or have, become a parent then this is a great place to start your journey.

www.babe-equip.co.uk Email: info@babe-equip.co.uk Tel: 01977 663306

If you have found a really great product that you

Achieve 27

Find a beautiful, hand-picked collection of lockets at The Locket Tree.

Whether you want to commemorate an important event in your life, or to keep that special person close to your heart, or even to capture a magical moment, lockets make the perfect gift.

Only the best will do for handsome princes and pretty princesses!

Beautifully presented in a gorgeous keepsake box, Burble Baby has just the collection of royal delights for little baby HRH's!

www.thelockettree.co.uk 01202-331675 28

The My Little Princess Hamper (pink) and My Little Prince Hamper (blue) are available up to 12 months.

www.burblebaby.co.uk

Shopping

Create a Lasting Impression Individual handmade charms in precious silver creating a lasting impression of the shining light in your life.

Individual handmade charms in precious silver creating a lasting impression of the shining light in your life.

Catch that dribble the

stylish way with the help

Ideal gifts for those special occasions; the

list is endless, ageless and timeless. bandana bibs made in Nottingham by caring grannies of Bibbles Bandana Bibs!

With their wide collection of

you are sure to find something you will love!

Ideal gifts for those special occasions; the list is endless, ageless and timeless.

Thinking about co-sleeping with your little one?

Concerned about keeping your Create a Lasting Impression baby safe while they’re in your bed? Our ingenious Bed Bumper, the awardhandmade charms in precious winning bed guardIndividual from Purple Daisies, is silver creating a lasting impression a soft foam wedge that you just pop under the of the shining light in your life. sheets whenever baby is in with you. No roll-outs or rollovers! And it’s ideal for travel too. Priced from £6.99.

Our jewellery and

Ou ke

yo fo wr

life

keepsakes encapsulate

Ideal gifts for those

child’s footprints, handprints, Our jewellery and www.bandana-bibs.co.uk www.purpledaisies.co.uk special occasions; thekeepsakes encapsulate your child’s handprints, For orders over £75 please quote FAMILY2013 toyourreceive a 10

Get 10% off your first order enter ACHIEVE at the checkout

footprints, drawings and drawings list is endless, ageless and writing in silver giving a lifelong memento. writing in silver giving a and timeless. lifelong memento.

Get 10% off with code AM10

For orders over £75 please quote NEWBORN2014 to receive a 10% discount For orders over £75 please quote FAMILY2013 to receive a 10% discount

Call for more 07884 438757 or Or visit us at www.touchonsilver.co.uk Or visit Call for more information 07884 438757 or 07775 873458

Create a Lasting Impression

Create a Lasting Impression

Beautiful Baltic Amber Jewellery for children and adults.

www.touchon

12% off all items with code Achieve

Individual handmade charms in precious silver creating a lasting impression of the shining light in your life.

www.loveamberx.co.uk

For orders over £75 please quote NEWBORN2015 to receive 10% discount

Skibz add a patriotic design to their ever growing range of baby bandana dribble bibs.

With the usual Skibz absorbency, its 100% cotton and 100% reliable, made exclusively in the UK and with an adjustable fastening,

A beautiful store for mum, baby and beyond…

ensuring a comfortable fit.

From baby clothing, including soft organics,

Check out all our designs at www.skibz.co.uk

to special keepsakes that will be treasured forever, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to that perfect gift.

www.pigletandme.co.uk info@pigletandme.co.uk

01422 824140

Achieve 29

Petal na

Growing up with dolls

At

Delicious.

Beautiful.

Dairy free

Petal na

you’ll find traditional dolls for every age.

Visit: Petalina.co.uk

At Cocoa Libre we make beautiful, artisan dairy-free chocolates which are a tasty bit of heaven for both adults and children to enjoy.

Also free of gluten, wheat and nuts and suitable for coeliacs and vegans.

To receive 10% off your first order please enter ACHIEVE during checkout.

Get 10% off your order when you use code achieve10

Offer expires May 30th

www.cocoalibre.co.uk

Toys with a Tale

Let our beautiful collection of 100% cotton, hand embroidered and appliqued playhouses & accessories create the perfect backdrop to all the fun your children can have...whatever magical tales of makebelieve they choose to explore!

www.wingreen.co.uk 020 8295 5413 30

Ethical

Natural

Organic

All ou r toys a re ha ndmade by the women of ethica l Kena na Knitters in ru ra l Kenya, providing them with a way of su pporting the ir fa m ilies through dignified work.

Read more a nd shop the ra nge on ou r website.

www.wildlywoolly.co.uk

Top 5 Outdoor Toys!

As the days lengthen and the weather warms, children’s thoughts turn to fresh air and freedom. What better way to encourage activity and stimulate their imagination than traditional role play and wooden toys? Here are the top 5 recommendations from Janod, producers of quality, quirky and hardwearing toys that span generations of sun soaked play.

Bikloon Trikes and Balance Bikes Sturdy, colourful and a childhood essential. The Bikoon range has trikes for beginners, cool retro scooters, and balance bikes with matching helmets. This year hails the arrival of the Little Balance Bike for riders from 2-4 years for an early start to years of outdoor enjoyment to come.

Garden Tools Whether playing at make-believe or showing early signs of a budding horticulturist these mini garden tools will have them exploring every corner of the garden and greenhouse. Two sets that mix and match in bright colours, perfect for ages 3-8.

Hook a Duck All the fun of the fair can be had with these six brightly coloured ducks. And when temperatures soar, fill with water and squeeze for extra fun water games.

Just add paddling pool!

Traditional Lawn Games Classic lawn games that make the most of the great outdoors.

Boules, skittles and skipping ropes are all timeless entertainment for any child. In a high-tech world it’s always good to go back to basics and the simple pleasures that good old fresh air and free time can bring.

Picnic Set Gather your friends and your favourite bears, and serve them in style with this Picnic Hamper. If you do go down to the woods today, won’t you look the part!

Please contact us for your nearest stockist

Juratoys UK Ltd 32 HighPark Road Kew Gardens Richmond TW9 7BD

T: 020 8878 2133 E: sales@juratoys.co.uk

Achieve 31

Counting down to fun WOW toys have taken the toy world

with each other and they can be mixed and matched to create fun and

by storm since their launch in 1997

fantastic worlds.

globe, delighting children and parents.

Counting down the days

and can now be found across the

Exclusively designed for children from 12 months to 5 years, WOW Toy’s

colourful and characterful toys will feed a child’s imagination through play and your little one will be captivated whilst developing important skills such as

motor and social skills, problem solving and having a whale of a time in the process!

With their bright colours, motorised sounds and great shapes to hold, WOW Toys provide visual, auditory and tactile stimulation for your child; and with their unique designs and special toy features such as secret compartments and surprise cause and effect actions, a WOW toy can be played with right through their early years as they work out different and new methods of play, using newly learnt and developed skills that literally enable the toys to ‘grow’ with your child.

WOW Toys are an extensive range of fun, developmental toys that toddlers love. They are given consistent 5 Star Amazon reviews and are collected and loved by both children and their parents. Toys such as Flip n’ Tip Fred, WOW’s very own recycle truck and his best friend Stanley Street Sweeper who does exactly what his name says, can be played with together or individually, keeping their world clean whilst fuelling little ones with ideas for imaginative play. There are toys for every young preference including Emergency Rescue themes, Farm, Construction, Fantasy, Town, Holiday, Adventure, Easter, Christmas, Dinosaur and Racing to name a few. To add to the excitement, all WOW Toys are compatible

32

This year WOW Toys have done it again, delighting children and parents with superior quality, innovative design and educational toys, all without the need for batteries to make them work. Known for their safe, durable, carefully designed and beautifully made timeless toys, they have just launched yet another innovative, fun and educational toy range.

Toy filled Countdown Calendars have been created

by WOW especially for young children who are looking forward to or may be apprehensive about a special forthcoming day or event in their young lives.

Exclusively designed for the under-fives, there are four themed Countdown Calendars to choose from, each one with a ten day countdown to the arrival of special day. Children can now countdown the days to their Birthday, going on Holiday, starting Preschool or nursery or any Special Day in their young life.

Each day in the countdown gently steers a child to their big day, helping them to understand the passage of time in the process.

Each numbered calendar window when opened contains a surprise toy that can be played with immediately. Over ten days, the child is able to collect a themed play set that can be played with long after their special day has passed. Each calendar also has an in-built slide for the figures to slide down and they all include a themed activity sheet. To make the calendars extra special, they can be personalised with your child’s name and favourite photograph if you wish, to make them their very own.

To find the best way for you to get your hands on some WOW Toys for your children visit www.wowtoys.com/stockists

Achieve 33

Sports Day essentials

Egg & Spoon Race Set, £12.95

Sack Race Set, £16.95

ready set go!

As the summer time (and hopefully weather) approaches it’s great to get outdoors with your kids and have some fun. We’ve got some great toys and ideas to help you make the most of the fair weather, whatever your children’s favourite pursuits may be.

Popular with adults and children alike are the series of large outdoor variations on popular games like Jenga™ or ConnectFour™, they also have the added benefit that the competitive among you can have a practice indoors before the real play starts! Or, looking for something more traditional why not invest in a paddling pool; fun and functional, if it ever gets warm enough to need a cool down!

Hoops Game, £4.95

www.dotcomgiftshop.com

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If you, like many parents, will have their very own tribe of energetic tots to entertain this summer, take some inspiration from school and set up your own sports day. All you need are some eggs, spoons, room to run and maybe a sack or two and your entourage can expend all that summer energy in a fun, affordable day filled with races and lots of laughter.

A Welsh Wonderland If you’ve ever watched the 2007 fantasy comedy film Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium then you’ll be delighted that we’ve found a real life toyshop with all the magic minus the special FX. Which is why we’ve awarded Eve’s Toy Shop the Achieve Mum’s Choice Award for Best Retailer 2015.

Eve’s Toy Shop is a traditional toy shop based in the Welsh town of Llandeilo, Camarthenshire; this award winning retailer have been delighting children and parents since 2002 with a wide array of fun and educational toys and games for children of all ages.

“Allow them to be children they're only little for a very short time!”

Open Monday to Saturday from 10.00 – 17.30, Eve’s Toy Shop actively encourage children to visit the store and experience the magic for themselves. Sourced from across Europe the store stocks everything to entertain your

children (no matter how big!) from puzzles and pens through to dolls and night lights; all built to last your little one through their childhood years and beyond.

The beautiful toys are all specially selected by the team at Eve’s Toy Shop to ensure the highest quality and best fun factor in each and every item.

“Each toy is carefully selected for its charm, educational and enjoyment value.

Our beautiful toys are sourced from throughout Europe are safe and made to last.” Eve’s Toy Shop explained

"You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have." Maya Angelou

Teaching your children through play is of proven benefit for your aspiring policemen, astronauts or vets and so Eve’s Toy Shop has carefully selected toys with educational value to help inspire your children and fuel their imaginations.

And, for the more creative kids, or those growing out of dolls and Lego™, their lovely

My First Balance Bike My First Balance Bike teaches balance, steering and

coordination skills before the upgrade to peddle power.

Suitable for children aged 3 and up. £59.95 www.evestoyshop.com

art ranges are a sure fire favourite including some great sets for all types of aspiring artists in different mediums such as paint, pen, graffiti and foil. Look out for some new works of art starting to adorn the walls of your homes and bedrooms!

For a lovely day out and a real treat for kids and parents, we would highly recommend exploring the treasures nestled in this enchanting store.

We promise visitors of any age cannot help to be immersed in the magic of childhood once you cross the threshold.

To find out more and plan your visits go to www. evestoyshop.com or find them on Facebook.

Sunken Trampolines, great for all the family to have fun and exercise on.

We work all over the UK and tailor all our installations to you and your garden making an ugly eyesore into a thing of beauty.

www.sunkentrampolines.co.uk Call Joel or Angus on 07801 573278 / 07765 256537 Email: sales@sunkentrampolines.co.uk Achieve 35

Little fashionista Kozi Kids

London based ethical babywear brand on a social mission to give back to Indian communities Darlo is a new babywear brand with a serious ethical conscience.

A brand that is truly different to anything else on the market, motivated by a social mission. With every purchase of their baby clothing, Darlo will provide a whole week’s worth of meals for a child in India.

The Darlo range is produced from Indian organic cotton and manufactured in Indian GOTS (global organic textile standard) accredited factories to further enhance their ethical credentials. The desire to give back to the community where the clothing is made was a key reason for Darlo supporting children in India. Furthermore, UNICEF report that one in three of the world’s malnourished children live in India: this is what inspires and motivates Darlo founder Chloe Hoole every day.

The Darlo range is now available in various boutiques around London as well as online at www.alittlegiving.com & notonthehighstreet.com. From newborns to 12 months their super soft organic cotton comfies range comes in bright, positive colours inspired by the children they met in India: “They are full of smiles, laughing and joking with each other. The Project Crayons home is not sad, it’s bright and cheerful. It’s filled with amazing characters who haven’t had the easiest start to life but yet they all have such a warming aura. We hope our range represents positivity and brings happiness to all.” www.alittlegiving.com

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When pink and blue is just not good enough...

Guess How Much I Love You - Booties Set - From the endearing Guess How Much I Love You picture book these adorable Little Nutbrown Hare booties are made from super soft plush with cute embroidered features and a rattle in each toe. The Booties are safe from birth. RRP £12.99 available from Amazon and all good independents

15% off with code ACHIEVE15

A bespoke baby boutique that offers unique newborn baby gifts, clothing and accessories from birth.

We also like to look after our little friends and stock clothing and gifts up to 3 years. We pride ourselves on stocking Made in UK, organic and fairly traded brands.

11 Deans Court, Bicester, OX26 6RD 01869 388190 www.thenewbornbabycompany.co.uk

Pigeon

beautiful · ethical · organic

20%

welcome offer for Achieve readers Just enter AC20 when you place your order (and press “update”).

View our collection at www.pigeonorganics.com

Offer ends 31st March 2015 Offer open to non-wholesale customers only

Achieve 37

Darlo was set up to make a difference.

According to a Unicef report, of all the malnourished children in the world 1 in 3 live in India. A staggering 40% of India’s children receive less food than required for healthy physical and cognitive development. These children are deprived of the source of energy which keeps us ticking every day!

One Darlo product provides one child’s meals in India for a whole week. www.alittlegiving.com

But if your looking for personal, Papucci is the ultimate destination for high quality, yet affordable, personalised baby gifts. We love this luxury royal robe and slippers set! www.papucci.co.uk

finger o fudge

15% off with code LCACHIEVE15% Little Chickie is a family-run, independent baby and toddler online clothing boutique. We offer a range of gorgeous clothes and gifts, bringing unique and fashionable brands to the market, ensuring they are distinctive and that quality is paramount.

www.littlechickie.co.uk enquiries@littlechickie.co.uk

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Award winning boutique Little Bevan design and produce mini luxe childrenswear for every special occasion: weddings, christenings, birthdays…clothes to treasure that children love to wear!

020 7821 9499 info@littlebevan.co.uk

www.littlebevan.co.uk

Floral fash i o n Take a look at the pick of Floral Jean From £16 M&S

our favourite floral pieces to get Spring started!

Printed Floral Playsuit and T-Shirt Set from £12 Hair Clips £3 for set of 4 M&Co

Floral headband £6.00 Next

Baby Flower Detail Walker Sandal £14.00 from Monsoon Rose print dress £20.00 Next

Delicious designs for your little Princesses Finger O Fudge are the perfect online boutique for all the expectant Mums and Dads out there (including Wills and Kate) looking for something stylish and unique for their little Princesses to wear. Based in Solihull, West Midlands, Finger O Fudge work with a multitude of independent designers to bring a stunning selection of children’s clothes all ‘under one roof’.

Founder of Finger O Fudge, Danielle, has a 4 year old daughter herself and using her as inspiration she began to seek out kids fashion items which offered style, comfort and affordability for fellow parents; with brands like Wolf & Rita, Patachou and Rachel Riley. All tried and tested by Danielle and met by rave reviews from her own friends. Their designers are sourced from across the globe by the team behind Finger O Fudge and you’ll often see them hunting down new talent at shows like Bubble London and Playtime Paris, to name a couple.

Finger O Fudge work hard to forge partnerships with the right designers for their brand, and their customers; in return offering an invaluable showcase for up and coming brands, or just those without the exposure of the high street. Rachel Riley is probably the best known designer as a favourite of Kate Middleton, and if she meets with the approval of the Princess, known for her style and elegance, that’s testimony enough for us!

This season Finger O Fudge are excited to welcome a new designer into the fold, NUNUNU, a favourite with another Princess, albeit Beyonce the Princess of Pop! Together they will continue to delight customers and their daughters, broadening their range of gorgeous girls clothing with items you are unlikely to see anyone else sporting in the playground or at the party!

Finger O Fudge offer fashion conscious parents the chance to adorn their little fashionistas in the latest trends with high quality, accessible and affordable designer looks: what more could any little Princess ask for!?

Finger O Fudge are soon to launch their new website as well as a range of boy’s clothes (just in case the rumours of a new daughter for our favourite Royals are wrong) ensuring every little Prince and Princess’s outfits will be as beautiful and unique as them!

Have a glimpse of their current selection on our site or Pinterest and keep an eye out for the announcement of their new website, a haven for parents with a designer eye everywhere!

Achieve 39

Shopping

Potty Training?

Bright bots washable training pants have been developed with an absorbent layer to assist your toddler in toilet training. They’ve been designed to look and feel just like the underpants that “bigger kids” wear and so encourage your child to progress through training.

Available in 4 sizes and 12 colours!

Telephone 01295 810008 Email merrygorounduk@btconnect.com www.merrygorounduk.co.uk

Heritage specialises in Occasion wear and Christening gowns for baby girls and boys.

Dresses are lined in a soft 100% cotton fabric, making it comfortable and kind to babies skin.

25% discount with code SS15

www.heritagechristening.com

We're an online gift store that sells the type of fun, quirky and totally awesome gifts that you won't find on the high street. You can find the ideal gift for anyone in the family, especially those who are difficult to buy for! +44(0)1442 822452 www.bluebirdshop.co.uk

+44(0)1442 822 www.bluebirdshop

www.thegiftoasis.com Facebook.com/thegiftoasis

Crib dribbler £6.99

@thegiftoasis

Beautiful, practical and unique....

Bluebird baby gifts have the ‘ wow’ factor – making them perfect for welcoming a new baby into the world!

10% off These gorgeous and affordable gift sets, made in the UK,

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Bluebird baby gifts have the ‘ wow’ factor – making Bluebird baby gifts have the ‘ wow’ fa Enterthem Bluebird babyfactor gifts have the ‘ wow’ factor – making them Bluebird baby gifts have the baby ‘ wow’ – making them Enter perfect for welcoming a new into the world! perfect for welcoming a new baby in Enter A15 perfect for welcoming a new baby into the world! on our Bluebird giftsa new baby into the world! perfect welcoming parent.forbaby parent. PP15 on our websitefor for These gorgeous and affordable gift sets,any made in the UK, These gorgeous and affordable gift se are guaranteed to surprise and delight proud new are guaranteed to surprise and deligh website These gorgeous and affordable gift sets, made in the UK, 10% off off 10% are guaranteed to surprise and any proud new are guaranteed to surprise and deligh have the ‘wow’and factor – delight These gorgeous affordable gift sets, made in the UK, UK, These gorgeous and affordable gift se These gorgeous and affordable gift sets, the are guaranteed to made surpriseinand delight any proud new parent. parent. are guaranteed to surprise and delight any proud new parent. perfect them for welcoming a new perfect for welcoming a new baby in making perfect forbaby into the world! parent.

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During these cold winter months, keep your Little One's chest dry and dribble free - helping to prevent soreness, dribble rash and infection. Our discreet Dribble Stop protection hidden inside our tops acts as a barrier to stop dribble soaking through to baby's delicate skin!

www.bluebirdshop.co.uk www.bluebirdshop.co.uk +44(0)1442 822452 +44(0)1442 822452

Beautifully made to www.bluebirdshop.co.uk +44(0)1442 treasure for years. 822452 Children’s chairs each with their own illustrated story book. Sure to provide hours of fun, reading, rocking and imaginative play.

10% off with code ACHIEVE10

For 40% special discount until 4th July 2014 quote AM40

www.dribblestoptops.co.uk

www.fairytalechildrensfurniture.co.uk

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www.bluebirdshop +44(0)1442 822

wearable wildlife

Monster hi top £12.00, Next

Take a look at our pick of the best in wearable wildlife

From tigers to bumblebees we have the best the animal kingdom has to offer for some ferocious fun this spring summer.

Yellow crocodile t-shirt £6.00 Next

Lion Jumper £10 Marks and Spencer

Stripe Butterfly Long Sleeved T-Shirt £10 M&Co

Bee Wellington Boots £12 Marks and Spencer

Funky, functional and environmentally friendly For parents everywhere the task of juggling new babies with everyday lives is monumental enough and the thought of trying to find alternatives to the products on the supermarket shelves can leave you baffled. But, as many of us get more and more aware of the environmental impacts of our daily consumables and are hunting for something unprocessed, natural and affordable to use with our children, companies like Funky Monkey Pants are a dream come true (and we love the name!).

Emma, a Mum herself, and one passionate about looking after her own children and her own environment launched Funky Monkey Pants; offering fellow parents’ advice on nappies, wraps, toiletries and all those little essentials every mum or dad needs.

A unique range of handmade furniture, vintage sleepwear and adorable slippers – where your child can dream with open eyes!

www.hectorandqueen.co.uk Tel: 01285 800085

The range from Funky Monkey Pants has continued to expand and develop as Emma’s initial concept has received so much interest, proving parents want to be conscientious for their kids and their environments providing it’s accessible and affordable for them to do so. Which is why it gives us great pleasure to award Funky Monkey Pants the Mums in Business Green Business Award 2015 for keeping our little monkeys funky, functional and environmentally friendly?

To see the full range and ask Emma what your options are visit www.funkymonkeypants.com or drop them an email at emma@funkymonkeypants.com

Achieve 41

Funky, l ona i nct u F & Fun!

Running around keeping little people presentable can be a full time job but there are ways to lessen the running and funk up an outfit with simple, practical hold up solutions such as belts and braces which are invaluable for young children and can add a bit of quirkiness to any outfit.

“My daughter tried a pair of the tartan braces first and they looked so cute, she absolutely adored them and didn’t want to take them off; I think she’d have happily worn them with every outfit every day!”

Cross Productions Company Director Jenny Cross To check out the full collection visit www.holdthemup.co.uk or call 01963 31825 for information.

www.holdthemup.co.uk 42

ti ny toes Make sure your tiny toes aren’t too tight.

• From 1st walkers to teens •• From 1st walkers to teens Made-to-last school shoes •• From 1st walkers to teens school • Made-to-last Measuring and fittingshoes service •• Made-to-last school shoes and fitting service • Measuring Nearby parking •• Measuring and fitting service Nearby parking

We all know the drill, you buy shoes for little feet and they don’t stay little for long. But, getting the right fitting shoes for your sets of tiny toes is important to make sure their feet have plenty of support for all that growing!

PETASIL

Take a look at some of our super shoes from

PETASIL

baby’s first walkers through to hard wearing

PETASIL

school shoes for the new term.

• Nearby parking

t: 0116 319 0606 e: shoes@stompfootwear.com t: 0116 319 0606 e: shoes@stompfootwear.com t: 0116 319 0606

We’re committed to offering a great fitting service, only fully trained staff will We’re committed to measure offering and fit shoes at Stomp. a great fitting service, only We’re committed to measure offering fully trained staff will a great fitting service, only and fit shoes at Stomp. fully trained staff will measure and fit shoes at Stomp.

L L

e: shoes@stompfootwear.com

L

we love little feet we want you to have choice, fun & know your shoes fit perfectly. @childrensshoeco thechildrensshoecompany

fo 18 da an W tim sh w sty yo th

Come see us: 14 Oxford Road, Marlow, SL7 2NL or call us: 01628 290212

www.thechildrensshoecompany.co.uk Achieve 43

w

Functional Fashion Summertime officially comes but

we all know that there is no guaranteeing the weather, and you are also entering peak wedding and party season. So,

sundresses and shorts aside we’ve found some great summer fashion for your kids DIDRIKSONS’ BOARDMAN KID’S SET Poppy red is bright and fun for all little people. A great all round, high quality waterproof set in 100% PU outside with polyester tricot inside. A high level of dryness and warmth throughout with welded seams, and waterproof and windproof fabric – keeping your little one warm and dry when on the water or running about outside.

to try out as well as making sure you’re prepared for any occasion.

Just because it’s raining doesn’t have to

mean play time is over, we’ve got some oh so cute raincoats and wellies, adorned

with your little ones favourite characters so

nipperskipper.co.uk

you don’t have to stop play like the cricket every time a cloud comes out.

1.

Most of all, whatever the weather your must have accessory has to be sun

3.

protection. Keep little ones covered

during peak hours with a lightweight top

and make sure you apply lots of sunscreen of SPF30+ to make sure the soreness of sunburn doesn’t ruin their summer fun this year.

2.

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1.Powell Craft Robots Rain Mac £28.00 from www.thenewbornbabycompany.co.uk 2. Didriksons Helge Hat – Amethyst £22.00 from Nipperskipper.co.uk 3. Yellow rain mac £22.00 from Next

www.kozikidz.com

Designed for playing outdoors

Fresh air and spending more time outdoors is good for your child’s welfare and development and very much the philosophy behind children’s clothing brand Kozi Kidz. Inspired by the Scandinavian approach that there is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing, Kozi Kidz is a range of warm, wind and waterproof gear designed especially for kids.

Kids love the bright colours and designs as well as the small details such as thumb holes; parents love the practicality of all items being machine washable as well as the peace of mind provided by the safety features e.g. reflectors for visibility in the dark.

www.kozikidz.com

Achieve 45

With the summer holidays fast approaching now is the time to brandish the water wings and start learning to swim with your very own water babies.

Learning to swim is a great way to help your child increase their confidence and gives you added peace of mind when they’re enjoying a splash about on the beach this summer. Best of all, it’s a skill you can get involved in teaching your children, whether they are babies or beyond. Getting your child to love the water is beneficial not only as a great form of exercise but also for their confidence and water safety, as well as providing countless hours of one to one time at an affordable price.

Many local swimming pools run a programme of learn to swim classes for children and adults throughout the summer holidays which offer the perfect opportunity

46

for you and like-minded parents to get your kids prepared pre-beach holiday and ensure they can make the most of the cool pool wherever you while away your holiday time. The great thing about swimming is that children of any age, size or ability can take part meaning you can entertain the whole family for less than the price of a cinema ticket and get their daily exercise dose into the bargain.

Start with play and getting your little mermaid or merman comfortable in the water, you may have a little Olympian on your hands but confidence will be the key. So, get yourselves some cozzies and dive into swimming with some awesome accessories so you will be the coolest crawlers in the pool or enjoying a bit of backstroke on the beach.

If you’re looking for some ideas to show off newly found strokes a firm favourite of

Splash About

Swim swim swim

ours are Swim Fins which look like you’ve brought you’re very own shark to swim with but double up as a vertical swimming aid for children from 2 years upwards; but be careful not to clear the beach on your holidays with this one! Or for the little fashionistas in our midst why not treat them to a snazzy swimsuit to make their trips to the pool even more exciting. After all who doesn’t love the chance to don their favourite outfit; no one said that couldn’t be a swimsuit!

And remember the sun screen. With kids running in and out of the water it’s important to get a good children’s sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, or try looking for some swimwear which offers UV protection inbuilt, great for days on the beach or by the pool without the hassle of re-applications mid playtime!

layer of protection, Splash About has a liner and reusable Nappy Wrap which is worn underneath.

Parents and swim instructors have recommended the multi-award winning Happy Nappy for over 10 years and now it has been incorporated into cute swimming costumes, cool board shorts and the award winning BabySnug wetsuit.

Trusted by parents and loved by kids, Splash About is the UK’s leading safety swimwear brand for babies, toddlers and children.

Splash About is home to the UK’s best selling neoprene swim nappy, the Happy Nappy, which is insisted on and recommended by over 90% of UK swim schools because it’s so effective at preventing leaks of poo into the pool. Accidents in the pool are not only inconvenient but they pose a potential health risk to all swimmers.

The Happy Nappy is an essential item for your baby’s swim kit – it can be worn on its own or for those swim schools which insist on an additional

The benefits of baby swimming are well documented; from bonding with your little one to teaching your child an essential life skill early on. That said, there is nothing worse than leaving a swimming lesson early because your baby is cold and miserable. Warm babies are happy babies in the water – fact! Splash About’s range of wetsuits is designed to keep babies and toddlers warmer and therefore happier in the water for longer.

The BabySnug is the perfect starter wetsuit for baby swim lessons as it has a Happy Nappy built-in; the BabyWrap is designed to maintain body temperature and it opens flat for easy dressing with a subtle stretch for a snugger fit

for longer. The Warm-In-One with its fleece lining ensures little bodies are kept toasty and warm – it even keeps barrier creams in place, ideal if your baby suffers from sensitive skin, including eczema.

For little ones learning to swim, Splash About Float Suits and Float Jackets are perfect; with unique adjustable buoyancy floats centred round their middle, children are properly positioned in the water for learning to swim. The floats can be gradually removed as your child begins to swim independently.

All Splash About products have a UPF 50+ sun protection rating as standard (UPF is the clothes equivalent to SPF) making them perfect for the pool or the beach – both in and out of the water.

Visit www.splashabout.com to view the collection.

Clean pools for healthy happy babies! (& for parents too!)

UK’S NO 1 SWIM NAPPY

OUR PRODUCTS

AWARD WINNING DESIGNS

As the UK’s leading safety swimwear specialists, Splash About understands the importance of keeping children safe in water.

Accidents in the pool can be messy, embarrassing & ruin your baby’s pool time.

Splash About’s Happy Nappy products are designed to fit your baby snugly & securely. Made from supple 1 mm neoprene, with super soft deep bands of high rubber content fabric.

Splash About works hard in designing & manufacturing the very best products, which is why our Happy Nappy range is award winning in its ability to protect children & parents alike from nasty leaks in the pool.

Recommended by over 90% of UK swim schools, our Happy Nappy range is the most effective on the market for keeping poo out of the pool and ensuring a happy leak-free swim for your baby.

A RANGE OF SIZES

The Happy Nappy

We believe that everyone should have the chance to enjoy the water and be safe from accidents that’s why our products are also available in child & adult sizes.

Happy Nappy Board Shorts

For more information visit: www.splashabout.com

Our range includes:

Happy Nappy Costume The BabySnug wetsuit

Join in:

Achieve 47

Safe swimming in the sun!

What is it about water that children love so very much? They

On top of these basic guidelines there are some great products

would happily enjoy hours and hours of fun splashing around

out there which include swim floats, that incorporate floating

wouldn’t they? Holidays with the children will inevitably involve

devises within a costume, UV swimwear, eye protection and

water, a swim in the sea or pool is all part of their holiday

floating devices which allow for easy swimming as they learn or

enjoyment and they love it! Its a great way to entertain the

develop their swimming skills. The key is to prep them enough

children as you relax in the sunshine but it can mean a whole

so that they, and you, can relax and let them enjoy the water and

set of parental concerns. However panic not as these concerns

sun safely.

can easily be reduced by preparing in the right way. Its important to ensure you are prepared to protect them from the elements, both sun and water, and that means floats and suits as well as sunscreens to protect them from the sun's UV rays and keeps them water safe too.

There are plenty of guidelines for safety in the sun: • Try to keep them out of the midday heat as this is typically when the day is at its hottest. This can be tricky on holiday when you are usually out in the sun all day every day, but it is a great

Gorgeous Dip dye sunglasses, £7.50 from Next

time to grab some lunch inside or in the shade to re-fuel for more afternoon fun in the sun!

• Make sure they stay hydrated; it can be easy to neglect this one if they are busy having lots of fun but try to remind them regularly to drink something, particularly if they are doing lots of

Girls Floral Cap £7.00 from M&S

swimming and running around.

• Be sure to protect them with a good sun hat, a good idea is to let them choose one so that they love it and want to wear it (half the battle!)

• Above all, apply vigilant supervision especially for those children who aren’t water confident.

3D Frill Tankini £12 from M&S

48

SPF:

How high is high enough As parents we are told to reach for the highest SPF, but does an SPF50 really offer twice the protection of an

SPF25? No! In fact an SPF25 lotion offers 96% protection against UVB rays, while SPF50 offers 98% protection against UVB – just a 2% difference.

SPF ratings higher than 30 are primarily used by

companies as a marketing tool, and take advantage of the public's misconception of what protection ratings

really mean. Whilst SPF's protect from UVB skin burning, they dont

relate to UVA rays which cause long-term damage in the deeper layers of the skin. It is more important to apply regularly and liberally than to choose a very high SPF sun cream.

All Organic Children products are suitable for those prone to eczema, psoriasis and other skin allergies.

Products are available through selected John Lewis stores, Independent Health stores and online at www.greenpeople.co.uk and Ocado.com

C

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CM

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SWIM SAFELY WITH JAKABEL Jakabel has a stylish, eye catching and easy-to-spot range of UV50+ swimwear and accessories, including the highly acclaimed Swimsafe floatsuits – the only ones with an anti-tip neck ring. High-quality, resilient and chlorine-safe, they look good on all the family!

Sizes from 0-13yrs plus adult sizes. Delivery 2-3 days all year round.

Email: info@jakabel.com Tel: 020 8715 2385

www.jakabel.com

Achieve 49

Equipping you for family fun Travelling with babies and small children has a definite knack to it. One which Fiesta Tot’s founder, Alex, is more than familiar with after forging a successful career in Cabin Crew and Ground Staff, observing other parents’ travel experiences (both good and bad), and raising her own 3 children.

Based in Horsham, West Sussex, Alex and her husband were avid travellers pre-children and were keen to continue their adventures whilst inspiring their little ones to do the same. After attending several events and experiencing the ‘parental panic’ when you realise you are not fully equipped, Alex was inspired to combine her 3 loves; children, travelling and shopping into a business idea.

So the Fiesta Tots dream was born: to make available baby and young child essentials at events such as air shows and festivals and online.

“Getting out and about should be fun and most definitely as easy as possible on parents; hence

clever ideas that save time, or even space in the change bag! As a family, we love our days out and travelling to new places. It’s the perfect way to let off steam and spend quality time together without the stresses of home life and the distractions of the TV & computers.” Alex told us

Launching the initiative with their website and attending as many family themed fairs, shows, festivals and events as possible, Fiesta Tots swiftly became a name to trust as specialists in travel equipment and accessories for babies and toddlers. Fiesta Tots not only provide you with the goods you’ll need but with some key advice for parents; whether your journeys take you by plane, train or automobile their experienced team have some invaluable insights into making your family travel that bit easier.

Following the success of their initial venture, Fiesta Tots took the decision to launch their own retail base in their hometown of Horsham. The specialist independent nursery store caters for everything your mini-travellers may need from baby carriers to ear defenders, bags to potties and much more as they continue to develop and expand their product ranges.

“We will stock all sorts of products to cope with rain or shine...Rain covers, wet weather clothes &

water-proof bags for the wet and buggy & car seat sun shades for when it's shining. Then there are the travel products to keep little ones cool, entertained, fed and watered.” Alex told us

Not forgetting parents to be, Fiesta Tots compliments their baby equipment with a fantastic range of maternity clothes in store too as well as feeding tops and underwear, which we think makes them Horsham's only maternity-clothing shop and definitely worth a look!

Whether in store or online, Fiesta Tots is a great place to start preparing for your summer outings, and to make sure you all enjoy your day trips and holidays fully equipped for fun.

www.fiesta-tots.co.uk Tel: 01403 217656

38

Email: sales@fiesta-tots.co.uk

industry awards like her Scratch Magazine STARS 2014 Industry Innovator Finalist Award.

With BruzZ

we’ve got it nailed!

Emma Myers: Inventor, Mum and Entrepreneur spotted a gap in the nail care and beauty market and with a potential of 1.4 billion households as customers, she set about creating an innovative product which fulfilled the needs of people everywhere and helped bring the old fashioned nailbrush bang into the 21st century with a funky, unique product which offers you the cleanest nails you’ve ever had.

Emma founded BruzZ in November 2013 and has seen phenomenal growth ever since.

We thought of Emma as soon as we started considering nominations for this year’s awards and it was no surprise that BruzZ won her an Achieve Award for Mums in Business Most Innovative Product 2015, to display alongside

BruzZ combines function and style with cutting edge design which allows you to clean the top, underside and tip of the nail in one simple action: no spray, no mess, and no more germs. It also doubles up as a finger cleaner to ensure the cleanest hands you’ll ever have. The unique, ergonomic shape with three dimensional vanilla scented bristles make BruzZ the number one in nail care in our opinion!

BruzZ is the new generation in nail care, for families and professionals who have a love for all things ingenious and are always on the lookout for stylish, effective gadgetry to make your life just one step simpler.

Recognising the needs of billions of people in the UK alone, this entrepreneurial Mum has just solved the problem of getting a hygienic clean, easily for all ages. BruzZ provides an enjoyable and pain free cleaning experience for the all the family, including those times when your nails and hands look particularly grim; like when you have just been gardening, working hard or for tackling your toddlers play time hands!

Find out more and order yours today simply by visiting www.bruzz.com or call their extremely clean team on +44 (0) 208 677 7777!

“There were so many times that my whole family needed a good nail scrub and the existing brushes just never seemed to complete the job, soap debris would spray everywhere and after only a couple of uses the bristles would become misshapen and even go a bit mouldy! I invented the BruzZ to bring the nail brush into the 21st Century and I think that’s exactly what it does!”

Emma enthused.

Motherhood and work balance...

These days us mums need to be able to do it all and that means bringing up the children, holding down a job and taking care of the relationships in our lives all whilst attempting to be healthy in the process! Its no easy task (we know!) but there are ways and means that you can get a helathy balance. Many work places for example are very flexible when it comes to you and your family life and just communicating with your employer about balancing home and work life can go a long way. Or, perhaps your change in circumstances with a new family may mean you want the kind of work which means you choose your hours to fit around your family life by starting your own business, this is what many of us opt for although it can mean a great deal of work and often needs some hefty financial investment not to mention a lot of man hours (or, woman hours!). Seeking out a franchise is a really good option as much of the initial work and risks have already been taken and you have a great support network already in place.

Whichever path you choose when you return to work its never easy but before long, if you have made the right decisions for you and your family you will find a balance and with so many of us working mums out there at least there is plenty of support!

ATTENTION ALL MUMS! Hi, I’m Lynne James, I am highly experienced in helping people, especially Mums, develop careers and part time incomes, to suit their individual needs and lifestyles, from home, without compromising their current work or family commitments.

Are you looking to work part time and flexibly around children and/or other commitments?

Would you like to earn £300-£500 pm extra income, or a career income of £2,000-£5,000+ pm?

Although not essential, do you have experience in sales, marketing, recruitment, teaching or training, or do you enjoy Facebook and know how it use it?

You will receive second to none support and mentoring, and be working under the umbrella of a well-established organisation and in a hugely successful, and very friendly team.

For further information or an informal chat, please call me on 01295 722525.

'Lynne has been instrumental in changing our future. Working alongside her has given my family financial peace of mind. This is all down to Lynne's professionalism, warmth, experience and never ending words of encouragement; she has believed in me a lot longer than I have!' Mandie Cran

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Mum's Confidence You’re a new mum and have 101 things to do and learn, as well as trying to fit in some sleep. So, we’ve picked out a few of our ‘best boosters’ for your hair, body and mind so you don’t have to!

Hair Boost: Styling your hair can sometimes be the last thing on your mind, but we all know how great having a good hair day makes us feel. There are a number of handy products on the high street which can give your hair a boost in a few minutes, like Pantene Pro-V™’s 2 Min Rejuvenation Masque (RRP £6.99), use once or twice a week after shampooing to moisturize, help strengthen, and repair rough, dull hair, making sure your hair is manageable and healthy looking no matter how much or little time you have spare. Or, if you’re looking for something 100% natural why not sooth your hair with a touch of Aloe from Forever Living™; their

hair care range is infused with Aloe Vera and Royal Jelly giving you lush, thicker looking hair as part of your normal routine.

Not got time for your regular root touch ups?

Try something like this amazing product from Charles Worthington. Their Root Concealer™ (RRP £9.99) gets rid of unsightly roots, fast; using quick dry technology this product is simple to use, covering instantly and simply washes out after use, perfect preMum dates!

Body Boost: Post-baby bodies need a bit of TLC to get back the pregnancy glow, without the additional pregnancy!

First thing’s first, getting your skin prepped; invest in a great body moisturiser to keep your skin as smooth as your babies, you can even share things like Johnson’s Baby Lotion™ (RRP £1.67 for 500ml). If you’re really pushed for time we’ve found the answer to any moisturising

excuse with Vaseline’s Spray and Go™ (RRP £4.99 for 190ml); it moisturises in seconds so you can put your clothes straight on and instantly leaves skin soft, not sticky or greasy.

If you’re skin has suffered a few stretch marks then Bepanthen’s Stretch Mark Cream (RRP £24.99) has had rave reviews and there’s always the trusty old favourite Bio Oil (RRP £8.99 for 60ml) which is great for any stretch marks, scars or discoloration.

Forever Living’s Aloe Vera Gelly™ is a must have for mums on the go, it not only offers you a layer of protection, soothing and boosting your skin, but is great to add to your changing bag or first aid kit for use on any minor abrasions or itches and is gentle enough for your little one’s skin as well.

Pop on a coating of your favourite tan or make up and radiance is yours again, leaving you feeling and looking great, without taking up too much time or forfeiting your forty winks!

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Rec omm end ed by Cle opa tra her self !

For those of you who haven’t yet heard of Forever Living, they are a multi-billion dollar company based in Arizona USA; founded on the belief that natural ingredients combined into great products offer its customers a healthier, happier lifestyle.

Forever Living is run by independent franchisees across the globe such as Chrissy Richardson, offering the innovation of a large enterprise with the personal service of an individual business owner.

Founded in 1978 Forever Living’s products have one simple, miracle ingredient in them all, Aloe Vera. Aloe Vera’s health and healing benefits have been recognised since early civilisation, enhanced with science and experience, Forever Living have produced a range of products to help your skin, immune system, signs of ageing and so much more. Harvested by hand from Forever Living’s own plantations and immediately stabilized for purity, aloe nourishes your body—inside and out—with products ranging from age-defying facial treatments to delicious, antioxidant rich drinks.

Forever Living are committed to providing the highest quality, natural ingredients across their product range, owning plantations in Northern Mexico, Southern Texas and the Dominican Republic – the largest Aloe plantation in the world at 5,000 acres.

Using 100% natural fertilisers and goats as weed and pest control, this really is as pure as it gets!

Drink it, touch it, feel it

The power of Aloe Vera has been harnessed and applied to Forever Living’s range from hair care to drinks, meaning every part of your body inside and out can enjoy the benefits of natural care and regeneration.

Legend has it that the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra, famed for her beauty, was a champion of Aloe (although slightly before Forever Living’s time!). She is reputed to have used Aloe Gel on her skin and to bathe in and attributed her fabled beauty to Aloe amongst other things.

It may be legend but Cleopatra was not far wrong in her thinking, as a desert plant, Aloe is recognised as containing attributes which help to absorb and retain moisture as well as 200 beneficial compounds that help to promote healthy, radiant hair and skin. Not only great for its moisturising

properties, Aloe is a great soother and cooler, aiding your skins own regeneration and a must have for parents out and about for use on bites or scratches.

Aloe Vera is gentle enough to use on even the most sensitive of skins making it great for all the family and with Forever Living consistently launching fabulous new products made from 100% Aloe and harnessing all its powers we cannot think of a reason not to give it a go and get your skin back to how it is naturally meant to be, perfectly pure and perfectly beautiful.

To find out more about the Forever Living range of products and for a personal consultation, contact Chrissy at chrissy@therichardsons.biz and love the skin you’re in!

And if you’ve caught the Aloe ‘bug’ and you know just what a great product Forever Living is and would like to find out more about how you too could be part of the success story, Chrissy has openings in her team for passionate, driven people to start their own Forever Living businesses and enjoy the healthy/wealthy life! Get in touch with Chrissy to find out the lowdown and how you could be your own boss too.

Forever Living Products are a member of the DSA.

The perfect Match Lumiere Photography

We love a good wedding It’s that time of year again when the sound of wedding bells start ringing, lots of new engagement are announced and Valentine’s Day has succeeded in showing us all some love!

Here at Achieve Magazine we love nothing more than a good wedding and once more we’ve been eagerly seeking out the best in venues, catering, entertainment and more to help you plan your big day. Here are some of our top tips for all you brides and grooms to be:

Venues

Firstly you need to decide on location, geographically; where are your family and friends located versus where you are? It needs to be practical for you to invite the guests you want to share your day with so consider travel times and hotel availability if any guests do have a long way to come.

Catering

Some venues will provide food for your wedding and will have a menu ready for you. But if you are looking at a venue which is a little bit

54

different and you can source your own food then this gives you a great chance to put your own twist on things. You could chose some food that suits your theme, from going for a BBQ for a rustic, outdoors feel or going for cucumber sandwiches and cream tea for a classic English tea party event.

Transport

No matter the location or theme for your wedding day, making your entrance as the blushing bride and revealing your beautiful gown is a moment you and your guests will remember forever and the transport you choose is just as important as keeping your footing.

There are lots of options out there dependent on your theme from horse and carriages to helicopters, or even a tractor!

Entertainment

Entertainment at weddings is often something that is overlooked or not properly thought through, but it can have a big effect on your day. With the wedding party being so busy, and often being pulled in lots of directions, it’s easy for you to forget that for some guests it

might feel like a long day.

The last thing you want is for your guests to be bored so it’s good to put some budget aside for a bit of entertainment on the day.

Photo: Lily Glass Photography http://blog.theknot.com

And don’t forget the kids: Sometimes, love them as we do, our speech makers can go on a bit.

If the speeches won’t entertain your children make sure they have something at the table that will; keeping them included in the festivities but still having fun.

Get lots of crayons and get the children at your wedding to colour in their own placemats or set a theme and have a colouring competition, they’ll love it and you’ll get some quirky souvenirs of the big day through little eyes.

Child friendly wedding day...

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, a truly special occasion. Therefore its only natural you want everyone you love to witness you say your 'I do's'.

However, everyone can also mean the kiddies and with their invite comes a whole different group of people that you and your groom need to ensure have a great time. After all, if they are having a good time they are hopefully being well behaved too, a relief for everyone involved. So, how do you go about a child friendly wedding day? What ways can you keep the tots busy to make sure they and you are all having fun? Luckily for you we have a few ideas up our sleeves....

Provide fun fun fun Its the little touches that really help, place games/puzzle books at their seats for dining, give them a little more confetti than everyone else, create a child friendly menu for meal times, offer a sweetie table and make sure the DJ has a few children’s classics! Simply try and create fun touches wherever you can.

Enlist the services of a crèche There are some great companies out there offering crèche services at weddings; perfect for the wedding party that has quite a few little ones on the invite list. With accredited childcare providers knowing exactly what it takes to look after your child guests so that they too can enjoy the day, allowing parents and you the happy couple to sit back, relax and create happy wedding day memories.

Involve them Create ways to help the children guests feel that they are part of it all too and that its not just a day for adults. Perhaps seat them together for meal time, give them personalised favours and for the older children disposable cameras are a great way to keep them entertained and snapping memories of the day from their view point.

Weddings for child guests shouldn’t be an occasion where they simply have to fit in with the adults, provided you make them feel part of the day and offer them fun things to keep

studio90two.co.uk hello@studio90two.co.uk @studio90two

them busy they too can be part of your big day as they bring a sense of fun (and cuteness!) to your nuptials.

/studio90two

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A slice of paradise Holiday Tots This fabulous family-friendly dome can be found on Holiday Tots.

Visit www.holidaytots.co.uk for more glamping ideas and a collection of child-friendly cottages and villas.

We're all going on a...

That’s right its time to start thinking about your summer holiday!

Once Christmas is done winter feels like its lost its cosy charm and all we want is a bit of summer sun so thoughts turn to where

we are going to spend those two precious summer holiday weeks. Have you thought about yours yet? Finding the right holiday depends on a wide range of factors

including budget, family size and type and of course time.

The classic holiday in the UK is perfect

for a family with small children, no need

to travel on the plane abroad with the kids and all the equipment they need! We are lucky enough to have some great family

holiday hotspots right here in the UK with

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a host of seaside towns and countryside retreats, some of which are great for the

family on a budget particularly if you opt to holiday under canvas, plus last year was such a

sunny summer so here's

some great deals so not too straining on

the budget either, all inclusive are also a great option if you do have kids in tow!

Perhaps you are looking to

experience the holiday of a

hoping 2015 will being

lifetime this year? A safari

more of the same!

could be exactly the

If your kids are

adventure you deserve

older though, or if

and will be sure to give

its just the two of

you memories to treasure

you a holiday abroad

is a sure fire way to get

some sunshine in your life!

A chance to have a complete change

in culture its wonderful to get away, get

some warm sand between the toes and

experience local foods and activities. You could go for the all inclusive deals which

provide a completely relaxing experience for all involved and you can usually get

forever! There are some great

companies offering exclusive

really rather special safari tours so be

sure to research a company that will allow you to get the very best out of this once in a lifetime style holiday!

Whatever you choose this summer it sure is nice to start thinking of that promise of sunshine.

BOTSWANA TOURISM Eco-tourism has always been a priority for Botswana. From before Independence when the first of

lion and cheetah, who are

Low volume tourism is the norm, so a

on the look-out for their next

Botswana safari is perfect for families,

meal. The moon-scape of the

couples and photographers. Seeing the

Makgadikgadi - the largest

wildlife in its natural habitat with no one

salt pans in Africa provide a

else around will ensure that your holiday

contrast. Here, sunsets and

will provide the long lasting memories and

the night sky appear to stretch

individual experiences that dreams are

across the whole horizon. The

made of.

Chobe National Park, usually the first stop for visitors to Botswana, provides an opportunity

Even better, once the trip is paid for, there

to get acclimatized and to see the many

are very few additional costs. Typically, all

elephant that frequent the Chobe River

accommodation, food, beverages, transfers

which flows along Botswana’s northern

and activities are included in the price. And

border and eventually over Victoria Falls. The

with no shopping malls in the bush, locally

rough and rocky terrain of the Northern Tuli

crafted souvenirs and your memories are all

its National Parks was designated,

Game Reserve provides an opportunity for

you will want to take home.

right up to today, when every

many activities, including night drive safaris

company with accommodation

which are not allowed in some of the other

Botswana - making safaris better

works towards obtaining eco-

national parks. Finally, the sand dunes of the

– protecting landscapes without

Kalagadi Game Reserve, one of the most

compromising experiences.

remote and challenging areas, and home

botswanatourism.org.uk

tourism certification.

Carefully considered, sustainably built camps and lodges, ensure that the pristine landscapes are protected and can be shared by natural inhabitants and visiting guests. With many conservation projects managing the wildlife, and legislation policies against hunting and poaching, this is one of the most ecologically managed countries in Africa, providing a safe haven for wildlife, including elephant and rhino.

Botswana has six distinct landscapes. In the beautiful waterways of the Okavango Delta is the lushness of vegetation which supports extraordinary numbers of birds and animals. The dry parched savannah of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve provides a habitat for the many antelope

to the rare black maned lion, recently made accessible by the development of two small lodges.

Many companies are making safaris a safe and exciting experience with children.

With specially trained guides who ensure that even the most boisterous kids are entertained and are able to learn bush craft. This will often include fishing, tracking animals and making fires without matches.

Accommodation has been developed to ensure that kids are safe inside the tent and can only get out through the parents sleeping area. And most companies will provide a private game vehicle for the family to allow game viewing in a more productive environment.

always on constant watch for the big cats, Photos courtesy of Wilderness Safaris & Northwinds Photography

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Botswana ultimate safaris

Low volume tourism is the norm, so a Botswana safari is perfect for families, couples and photographers.

Seeing the wildlife in its natural habitat with no one else around will ensure that your holiday will provide the long lasting memories and individual experiences that dreams are made of.

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Photos courtesy of Ker & Downey Botswana

Botswana: making safaris better – protecting landscapes without compromising experiences.

When will you go?

Botswana Tourism, 6 Stratford Place, London, W1C 1AY

+44 (0)207 647 1018

dwilson@botswanatourism.org.uk

botswanatourism.org.uk

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Luxurious

holidays in leafy Lytham The perfect retreat for anyone looking for beauty, relaxation and plenty of things to do; Eastham Hall Caravan Park has an eclectic mix of features and entertainment nearby to offer something for everyone looking for a magical UK holiday this year.

The Park

homes; with an onsite shop open 7 days a week, laundry facilities, children’s play area and dedicated dog area as well Eastham Hall is a well established, family as playing fields and free Wi-Fi for the run park set in rural Lancashire between teenagers. All benefiting from an inspiring the Victorian town of Lytham and the pretty vista from every angle, there is really village of Wrea Gree. Founded over 50 no need to leave the park to enjoy a “We stayed at the site recently as our first years ago, this delightful park is still owned memorable break. The park is bordered time caravan break.

The site was great and managed by the Kirkham family who by the protective shelter of and well located for Lytham and throughout the years have maintained a deciduous trees the park Blackpool. The staff were perfect getaway for holidaymakers; with “Fabulous and attracts a plethora of local more than helpful.

Not fishing, riding and golfing close by and the wildlife from Woodpeckers least Pete who instructed very traditional golf wonderful ‘Leafy Lytham’ just a mile and to Hares affording the me with reversing the a half away you can explore the array of course and the whole park an award-winning shops, cafes and bars the town has to offer caravan on to our pitch! experience leaves you conservation programme We would definitely followed by a visit to one of the local award with a very special and visitors the chance to consider returning next winning beaches. Just 7 miles down the be serenaded by skylarks year. Thanks to the team for feeling.” road and you have the option for a hairor listen to the owls in an making our "virgin break" such raising day at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, evening. a memorable time.” Visitor review, or the renowned Blackpool Illuminations, Trip Advisor. after which you can return to the serenity of “Great place to stay, lovely area, staff are the Park. very nice and helpful. The site in general The park itself boasts an impressive 330 is very clean and tidy; toilets are checked pitches ranging from overnight pitches Eastham Hall Caravan Park is the only regularly and spotless! Site sells locally to seasonal tourers and static holiday

60

caravan park located within Lytham and offers the serenity of its surroundings as well as the elegance and energy of Lytham just a stone’s throw away making it an ideal destination for couples and families alike.

trip to the Sea Life centre for an insight into the marine life lurking beneath the waves!

produced products. The site is ideally situated for the Lytham which is a lovely town and the coast.” Visitor review, Trip Advisor “We stopped for one night but will be going back as it was great. The pitch we were on was brilliant as we asked to be away from other dogs and were put on the back field which we had to ourselves.

It was so nice. The toilet block was close by and seemed to be very new which was lovely. The staff were really helpful and will definitely be going back.” Visitor review, Trip Advisor

Local life Eastham Hall is ideally located for the renowned attractions of Lytham St Annes.

Lytham and St Annes are actually two separate towns each with their own indelible characteristics which combined offer the perfect combination of festivals, coastal walks and beaches and not forgetting the nearby Blackpool attractions for the adrenalin junkies out there! With the frights of the Tower Dungeon or the Skywalk at the top of Blackpool Tower you can take a bird’s eye view of the Blackpool coastline. And, if you get time, take a

Windmill and Lytham Hall as well as fascinating attractions which depict the history of the area and the families who moulded them, Lytham Heritage Centre and St Annes Heritage Mural will immerse visitors in the local culture or you can enjoy the traditional family attractions of a coastal town and pay a visit to Glasform and see master glass blower John Ditchfield at work.

“The Blackpool tower was great and at a low cost on website.

All other attractions were great for the “I visited again on Monday 25th August whole family. A great with my partner and 3 year old daughter. day or week away John is an amazing and talented artist and fun for the making a variety of glass wear, whole family, all ages.” Visitor vases and unique individual review, Trip Advisor “Help the pieces. We all loved environment and have watching him work and “The tower offers so much a great holiday by the having a look around to do all day, don't be his display area.” Visitor fooled that it is just a choosing a park with review, Trip Advisor tower. I'd recommend one of my awards.” purchasing the ticket David Bellamy New for 2014 was that includes everything, Illuminasia; the world’s because it keeps everyone largest indoor illumination busy all day, and gives good experience of its kind, Illuminasia blends value for money.” Visitor review, Trip thousands of years of traditional Chinese Advisor lantern crafts with the newest in lighting technology, and boasts hundreds of Events in Lytham, St Annes & The Fylde incredible structures covering thousands vary throughout the year. These range of square meters within the Olympia from traditional Farmers Markets and craft fairs through to simple family fun with miles of clean sandy beach to explore.

There are traditional seaside attractions and others such as Beach Rugby, Car Rallies and long standing events that are part of the local history and heritage like the local Club Days.

Offering a diverse range of attractions within a short distance of the Park, Eastham Hall and the local area are hosts to an array of entertainment for the young, the old and everything in between. Places of interest include the likes as Lytham

Achieve 61

Exhibition Hall.

This area, and the park itself, cater for all personalities, ages and interests and with the area being voted Top 10 Place in the North West to live you don’t need to take my word for it.

Spectacular scenery Eastham Hall’s secluded level grounds and shelter belts of mixed deciduous trees and hedges have become a sanctuary for some of the UK’s most loved native species of wildlife including owls, hares, woodpeckers and even skylarks in the summertime. With a commitment to supporting local suppliers wherever possible and championing recycling for the park and its customers, Eastham hall have achieved a park which compliments customers and the local habitat perfectly and provides an enjoyable stay for both.

But, the spectacular scenery and wildlife is not just reserved for the confines of the park. Ideally located for exploring some of the loveliest spots in Britain. As part of your break you are perfectly located to visit Lytham’s local nature reserve, boasting the sand dunes of the Fyld and internationally rare plants such as the Isle of Man cabbage and the Dune or, if you prefer something a little more action-packed just down the road you can partake in 18 holes at the beautiful Royal Lytham & St. Annes

Golf Club or have some fun on Fairhaven Lake.

“I have visited Fairhaven lake since I was a child and I know take my own children here. Lovely picturesque area, lots for children to do i.e. hiring a boat on the lake, crazy golf, park, scooter park.

Lovely family afternoon out.” Visitor review, Trip Advisor “Fabulous and very traditional golf course and the whole experience leaves you with a very special feeling. Unpretentious and welcoming in the pro shop, on the course and afterwards in the bar and restaurant.”

Visitor review, Trip Advisor

Award winning conservation For the fourth year running the park has been awarded a Gold David Bellamy Conservation Award, presented by the man himself, in recognition of their continuing commitment to maintain a harmony with the beautiful British countryside within which they are sited.

The David Bellamy awards were pioneered to encourage the work done by holiday parks throughout the UK striving to protect and enhance Britain’s natural habitats;

piloted in 1996 the first awards were made the following year, making the David Bellamy Conservation Awards now the longest running green tourism awards in the UK. “My dream is to upgrade all caravan parks up to some sort of conservation status so that they can educate the visiting public and help them respect and care for the countryside” David Bellamy The awards recognise 3 levels of excellence (Gold, Silver and Bronze) which are the result of regular expert assessments throughout the year to evaluate the steps holiday parks are taking to manage their land as a haven for the local wildlife, reduce their use of energy and unsustainable resources as well as recycling any waste they do produce and supporting their local communities.

“Help the environment and have a great holiday by choosing a park with one of my awards.” David Bellamy; some advice we will definitely be taking this year!

Booking is simple and all the rates are easily accessible on their website (including some special Spring discount) and for those of you who fall in love there are opportunities to purchase your own holiday home from the park office so you can relive your favourite sites and attractions and truly discover all this area has to offer year after year.

www.easthamhall.co.uk 01253 737907 susiekirkham@eastham.co.uk

Attractions

near eastham

Fairhaven www.fairhavengolfclub.co.uk Facilities are open throughout the Easter holidays and Spring Bank Week then weekends only until the Summer Holidays. Opening times are from 10am to 7pm (except for the Skate Park which is open 10am until 8.30pm) daily however, they may vary dependant on weather conditions.

Facilities include motorboat, canoe and rowing boat hire, a café and the RSPB Discovery Centre.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach www.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com For all the fun of the fair and some exhilaration visit the rides at the Pleasure Beach for thrill seekers and family fun.

Open weekends in March moving to daily in April.

Wristbands are discounted when bought in advance but are available on the gates.

Adult: £20.00 online Junior: £18.00 online

£30.00 gate £27.00 gate

Pleasure Beach Pass: £6.00 Family Passes are also available offer discounted rates as a group purchase.

Blackpool Tower – Skywalk & Tower Dungeons www.theblackpooltower.com Featuring 5 of Blackpool’s most popular attractions: The Blackpool Tower Eye, The Blackpool Tower Circus, The Blackpool Tower Ballroom, The Blackpool Tower Dungeon and Jungle Jim’s.

The more you see, the more you save with tickets combined to offer great savings. All seven attractions will cost: Adult: Child:

£45.00 online £32.50 online

£90.20 on the day £65.25 on the day

Illuminasia www.illuminasia.co.uk The world’s largest indoor illuminations; the sheer scale and spectacle of the exhibits is breath-taking and visitors will discover 6 interactive, immerse zones. The 2015 season starts Saturday 14th February with admission daily from 11:00 to 16.15.

Adults: Seniors/Juniors: Group of 4:

£12.95 £8.95 £35.00

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Algarve Vale Do Lobo

A getaway above par

Winners of the Achieve Travel & Tourism Award for International Travel 2015, No.1 Vale Do Lobo are a perfect location for your getaway to the sun this year. Only 20 minutes drive from Faro airport, this luxury villa is situated in the beautiful Aldeamento village in Vale do Lobo, just a 2 minute walk to long sandy beaches.

away on arrival, with an equally stunning vista

and the Ocean which hosted the Portuguese

offering wonderful sea views from the large

Open in 2002 and 2003, guaranteed to please

balcony of the Villa. Comprising of two double/

any keen golfers in the party as well as a variety

twin bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan

of water sports available at the Vale Do Lobo

kitchen with dishwasher and microwave, dining

beach for the thrill seekers among you!

and living room with open fireplace, satellite TV and internet connection; as well as boasting a

Visitors may purchase ‘Welcome Cards’,

spacious roof terrace, recently extended with a

at approx. £35, which give discounts on all

small shaded garden ideal for summer

facilities under Vale do Lobo management, and

lunchtimes; the villa is perfect for

free use of the village bus service. These cards

couples, families and small

are of special benefit to golfers, including some

groups intent on relaxation and

great discounts on Twilight Golf.

some much needed sunshine.

In close vicinity of the villa you will also find

Vale Do Lobo itself is a golf

The owners of this stunning

some lovely bars and restaurants to while away

and beach resort located in

villa have done everything to

the heady summer evenings, as well as several

provide the perfect retreat for their

small shops and a well-stocked supermarket for

the Algarve region of Southern Portugal, among the first tourist resorts

guests and as members of

nights on the roof terrace.

to be built in Portugal. Vale do Lobo is the first

Vale Do Lobo they have extended

of the three corners of what is today known

free use of the tennis courts,

as Algarve’s Golden Triangle. Its heritage and

pool and gym at the Vale Do

next holiday destination you

popularity are both indicative of the resort itself

Lobo Tennis Centre as well as

can visit their website at

and the wide selection of nearby activities and

the children’s playground with

sights. On hand to help you get the most out of

www.1valedolobo.co.uk

a shallower children’s pool and

where you will find full details

your holiday, whatever your tastes may be.

crazy golf course, so your little ones will enjoy this area as much

The position of No.1 Vale Do Lobo is truly

as the bigger kids in the party. Nearby

stunning and is guaranteed to take your breath

there are two 18-hole golf courses, the Royal

64

To find out more about your

of availability, prices and most importantly how to book!

summer holidays If you need some inspiration, check out Visit Britain’s Top family attractions; all assessed for quality family fun.

Seven Stories: Based in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Seven

Stories is the only exhibition space in the UK dedicated to the

National Space Centre offers something for all the family.

Visit www.spacecentre.co.uk

celebration of British children's literature.

Visit www.sevenstories.org.uk

Dairyland Farm World: Based in Newquay, Cornwall

this is the ideal attraction for animal lovers; this all-weather

Deep Sea World: Based in Fife, Scotland (known as

‘Scotland’s Shark Capital’), Deep Sea World is Scotland's

largest aquarium, with over 2,000 aquatic animals and one of the largest collections of sharks in Europe.

attraction is a great way to teach children about animals and

Visit www.deepseaworld.com

Knights' Quest at Alnwick Castle: Based in

of the most exciting hands-on science centres, and has

setting for some great films, including Harry Potter! And, if

fascinating visuals and over 170 interactive experiences.

country life. Visit www.dairylandfarmworld.com

At Bristol: Based, surprisingly, in Bristol this is one

Northumberland this is a spectacular medieval castle and the

something for all the family. At Bristol brings science to life with

having a whole castle to explore isn't enough, your children

Visit www.at-bristol.org.uk

will love Knights' Quest, where they can experience what it was like to be a real Knight or Lady.

Visit www.alnwickcastle.com

Landmark Forest Theme Park: Based in Invernessshire this is a fun, discovery and real adventure for all ages.

Longleat Safari Park: Based in Wiltshire, Longleat

is renowned for its up close and personal adventures with giraffes, zebras, lions, rhinos and more!

Visit www.longleat.co.uk

Ride the runaway timber train rollercoaster, rock climb,

To find out more about any of these attractions, or to find some

ropes courses, tackle a treetop trail, experience the UK’s only

offer, wherever you are.

'skydive', flume ride on a Water coaster, try two high level

more, visit www.visitbritain.com and see what the UK has to

working steam-powered sawmill, explore the world’s only

Bamboozeleum©, discover the secrets of a 10,000 year old pine forest and a great deal more.

Visit www.landmarkpark.co.uk

National Space Centre: Based in Leicester, this award-

winning attraction is the UK's biggest attraction dedicated

to space; offering hours of interactive discovery and fun, the

National Space Centre

Camping = adventure!

Camping isn’t for everyone but it most certainly is for us! A great way to guarantee a budget friendly summer of adventures this writer and her young family are heading out this summer to camp under canvas! What's particularly appealing about it is the

Keep the kids entertained while

A picnic blanket with a difference

out and about with a Nature

The Gigsak is a completely

freedom it offers for holidaying with a young family - you don’t need to go far to discover a great camping location that provides adventure, fun, time together and challenges! Plus, much to my delight camping is somewhat more advanced from when I camped in the garden as a child, these days the tents are pretty good and the equipment which goes with its good too! So, what

Trail Magnifying Glass. £2.95 from Dotcomgiftshop

new design of waterproof picnic blanket. It has a fleece top with a double layer of

are you waiting for?

waterproof backing that opens up like a giant bag. It means; you can sit on it like a normal picnic blanket on a sunny day, you can turn it inside out & 2 or 3 people can put their legs inside it if it turns cold or two people can also sit inside it to shelter from a rain shower!

It’s ideal for festivals, outdoor

The Summer Meadow

events, taking the beach &

for all those larger items like

£42 from www.gigsak.co.uk

Jumbo storage bag is ideal pillows and duvets, to make packing up the car a little less stressful! £4.95 from Dotcomgiftshop

66

ideal for camping!

The Isle of Man is a haven for visitors and its three unique Heritage Railways are must for 2015.

Dating from 1873, the Isle of Man Steam Railway is the island’s oldest Victorian rail system. This 15 ½ miles of narrow gauge railway still runs with its original locomotives and carriages, through an ever changing landscape to a choice of destinations in the south of the island such as the impressive Castle Rushden, the picturesque Port Erin beach and the beautiful Silverdale Glen.

For some of the finest views of the East Coast take a trip on the Manx Electric Railway, first opened in 1893. Orignally running from Douglas to Laxey, before being extended to Ramsey in 1899, its 17 ½ miles of track are acknowledged as the longest narrow gauge vintage railway system in the British Isles. All trams are original, the most recent dating from 1906 and the oldest from 1893.

Laxey is the starting point of the Snaefell Mountain Railway, a unique Victorian enterprise which winds its way up above 2,000 feet to the top of Snaefell, the islands only mountain. At the summit enjoy refreshments and sunset dinners in the Summit Hotel Restaurant, and on a clear day it is the only place to see the seven kingdoms: the kingdoms of Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, Mann, Neptune and Heaven.

For visitors there are many money saving, multi journey ticket options, private hire and group discounts as well as the opportunity to drive one of the historic electric trams or locomotives in The Ultimate Driving Experience.

Special events are held annually; enthusiasts will enjoy Rush Hour on the Railways (3rd – 6th April 2015) and The Manx Heritage Transport Festival (29th July – 2nd August 2015).

Other events such as WWII Weekend, photography events, Rail Ale Tours and many more are hosted throughout the year so don’t miss out and sign up to their e-newsletter by emailing heritagerailways@gov.im Visit www.iombusandrail.info or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/isleofmanrailways

Achieve 67

The Dandelion Hideaway

Best of British getaways

Farm glamping holidays with of fun.

oodles

Luxurious canvas cottages in beautiful rolling Leicestershire countryside.

Complimentary hosted farm activities.

www.thedandelionhideaway.co.uk E: glamping@thedandelionhideway.co.uk Tel: 0781 6931685 or 01455 292888

Family friendly 5* Gold self catering cottages in 5 acres of private grounds in Devon Ducks to feed and eggs to collect Near to the Jurassic Coast and Britain’s best family beaches

www.bidwellfarm.co.uk tel: 01823 259138 Bidwell Farm, Upottery, Nr Honiton, East Devon, EX14 9PP 68

Appin House Appin House of the Scottish West Highlands provides the perfect getaway for all the family, with their lodges and purpose built house the self-catering accommodation boasts breath-taking views over Loch Linnhe and the hills of Mull in the background and is the ideal location to get outdoors and explore or simply to relax and unwind.

www.appinhouse.co.uk 01631 - 730207 Appin House, Appin, Argyll, Scotland PA38 4BN

Bespoke and British Made For Me From Trunki

Trunki, the market leaders within the world of children's travel, have launched a very bespoke British service for Trunki fans across the UK which will see them stand out from the crowd…

Globe-trotting tots can hop online to the Trunki imagination station and create their own bespoke ride-on suitcase. With 9 different parts and 10 different colours ways there are 1 billion potential colour combinations.

Whatever their personality, there's a design to match, so young creators can let their imagination run wild, whether they're a budding astronaut, or potty about pirates!

Each Made for Me Trunki will be built by hand in Trunki's UK factory, and comes with it's own Trunki Birth Certificate, dated and signed by it's maker.

“Made for Me is a really exciting launch for us, it's something we've wanted to do for a long time, and having our own UK factory gives us the flexibility to offer an incredible bespoke service.”

As with all Trunki suitcases, Made for Me editions will also come with a free 5 year guarantee.

RRP £40 trunki.co.uk/madeforme

Holiday Tots

From luxury villas & fun farm-stays to glamping under the stars, all perfect for babies and toddlers…

Achieve 69

Accessible Derbyshire wins 'Achieve' Magazine Accessible Tourism Award 2015!

Accessible Derbyshire was founded by us; Gillian Scotford and Jane Carver in March last year. The aim of this registered charity is to improve the lives of disabled people, their friends, families and carers living in or visiting Derbyshire and the Peak District.

Irton House Farm A warm welcome is waiting for you at our superbly scenic, fully accessible self catering cottages in the Lake District. www.irtonhousefarm.co.uk

017687 76380

We have six children between us, three of whom are severely disabled.

Caring for them over the years means that we know only too well the difficulties and challenges that disability brings when trying to enjoy all that our beautiful part of the world has to offer - and we decided to do something about it!

At the heart of our charity is a 'one-stop' website which brings together all the information you need to plan and enjoy an accessible break or day out in Derbyshire and the Peak District. Over the next two years our aim is to make this the most accessible National Park and county in the country. To achieve this we will be fundraising to improve accessibility as well as offering accessibility and disability awareness training through The Accessible Training Company.

We are proud to win this award and proud of the beautiful place we live and which we love.

Find out why.

Come and visit Accessible Derbyshire!

www.accessiblederbyshire.org @AccessibleDS www.justgiving.com/accessiblederbyshire

www.bocaddon.com 01503 220192

Peaceful, Wheelchair friendly Holiday Cottages that give you easy access to all of Cornwall.

Bocaddon Farm, Lanreath, Looe, Cornwall

Calvert Trust Exmoor, the only 5 star activity accommodation in the country, enables students with all types of disability and their classmates to experience challenging and enjoyable adventure breaks together. At our fully accessible residential centre all activities are specifically designed and equipped to cater for everyone.

Have your residential break with us and discover

it's what you CAN do that Counts! www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor Contact us quoting ’Achieve’ to find out more: 70

01598 763221 exmoor@calvert-trust.org.uk

Holidays for all...

As we gradually (and finally!) feel the

simply hotels or apartments with specially

itself through to care, transport to and

winter months slipping away and a

adapted aspects which mean you can

from the airport and even organised

glimmer of sunshine can be found

have a stress free break away.

tours and local activities. These are such a great opportunity to experience

here and there thoughts are naturally turning to summer, and holidays! The

Whatever your mobility restrictions are

new surroundings whilst all knowing the

chance of a holiday should be open to

there is a holiday out there tailored just for

adaptations that you might need are taken

everybody including those with mobility

you, but what should you look for when

care of. As well as these advantages you

restrictions, and thankfully now there are

choosing a holiday? Well, a lot of finding

will often find opportunity to go on holiday

plenty of opportunities for those that may

the right holiday for you depends on;

with others in group getaways which

need support or better accessibility for

a) the level of care that you require

provide great chances to meet new people

wheelchair users. Whether in the UK or abroad you will be able to find a holiday that will help you create memories, get a change of scenery and explore pastures new. You can find companies who offer complete holiday packages including those with round the clock carers or

Irton House Farm

b) the type of holiday you like – are you looking for relaxation or adventure? c) how much do you want to organise yourself? d) do you want to be able to meet new people on your holiday I.e. is a group

as well as enjoying a holiday tailored just for you.

Accessible Accommodations Another holidaying option that could

be perfect for you is a stay in adapted

holiday for you?

accommodation, there are a great

Full Package Holidays

down the country, as well as abroad, which

selection of such accommodations up and

These are becoming a firm favourite with

mean you can go on holiday without the

many holidaymakers as they take away

worry of accessibility for your wheelchair

the worry of needing to take your own

or problems you might face with

support away with you by planning all the

mobility restrictions in accommodations

details which make up a holiday including

that haven’t been modified. These

everything from the accommodation

accommodations can be found offering

Calvert Trust Exmoor is the South West’s premier outdoor activity destination for people with all types of disabilities, welcoming over 4,000 guests a year with the philosophy of “At Calvert Trust Exmoor it’s what you CAN do that counts”.

At Calvert Trust Exmoor it’s what you CAN do that counts

Located in an area of outstanding natural beauty on the edge of Exmoor National Park, the centre helps people of all levels of ability to fulfil their potential and be all that they can be.

People of all ages with a disability can experience exciting and enjoyable outdoor activity adventures, together with their families, friends and classmates.

A break at Calvert Trust Exmoor includes a structured programme of activities tailored to the needs of visitors, specifically designed and equipped to cater for all. Activities on offer include climbing, archery, horse riding, wheelchair abseiling, carriage driving, sailing, accessible cycling and many others. Other facilities on site included a fully accessible hydrotherapy swimming pool with high needs changing facilities, a Jacuzzi, children’s play area, games room, and sensory room.

The centre’s fully accessible accommodation consists of ensuite single, twin and triple bedrooms including some with H-track ceiling hoists, as well as a number of apartments with open plan kitchen and living space. They also offer mobile hoists, shower chairs, electric beds, trembler pads, and other loan equipment free of charge to make your stay more comfortable regardless of your disability.

Guests stay with Calvert Trust Exmoor for 3 - 7 night breaks, or you can just come for the day. To find out more visit their website www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor. www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor 01598 763221 exmoor@calvert-trust.org.uk

Achieve 71

Turn your dream into a reality!

getme2oz.com

Images by Tourism Australia

Its likely at some point in your life you

have thought about emigrating. Whether its a dream of a sunnier climate, a more

outdoors lifestyle or simply to have lived

and experienced another way of life and a different culture its a dream that many of us consider. However, how many of you

have considered it yet dismissed it and if

so, why? The answer is probably because you feel frightened to make such a

change and yet with the right support and information you could make the dream a

reality! So, why emigrate? There are many reasons why a person or a family would

choose to start somewhere new; it could be a wish to enjoy a career in a country

where your skills are in demand, it could

be a desire to give your family a different way of life to the one they currently have

or it could be a way of satisfying that urge for adventure. Whatever the reason its

important to remember that there is plenty

of expert advice out there to help you take the leap from thinking about it to making it happen.

One of the UK's most popular emigration

destinations is Australia. With the promise of more work, beautiful weather, outdoor

lifestyle, a friendly welcome and no need to learn a new language its easy to see why! In 2014 the EIU Global Liveability

Index named Melbourne the World's Most

Liveable City for the 4th Year in a row. With Sydney, Perth and Adelaide also making

it into the top 10. The number one reason

quoted as to why they choose to emigrate, is to secure a better quality of life for their families. But, how do you go about a

move to Oz? Isn’t there a lot of paperwork involved you ask? Well, yes there is but

with the help of companies like getmetooz you can find all the support that you need.

to fully understand your options.

Professional migration advisors assist you every step of the way; from assessing the

most appropriate Visa pathway for you, to

opening a bank account before you leave, obtaining a tax file number, securing the

best foreign exchange rates, to save you $$$!! Assistance with shipping, housing,

education, job matching and a whole host

more helping you to make a smooth move!

Find out more at Getmetooz.com

So, now you have secured your families move how do you get your beloved pet

from here to there? For this you will need to enlist the services of the experts at

JALSA UK. With over 27 year's worth

Australia's complex system of different visa of experience in the freight industry and subclasses can prove extremely difficult to navigate and deciding amongst the

overlapping visa types can be extremely confusing. Making a valid application is

the key to being considered for a visa by

the Department of Immigration & Boarder

Protection (DIBP) and this is where expert

74

knowledge and experience can help you

being pet owners themselves they can

help you with all you need to get your pet

with you and your family right where he or

she belongs! Find out more at Jalsauk.com

Relocating?

Need an experienced and reliable pet shipper?

As pet owners ourselves we understand your needs.

Let us guide you through the process of relocating with your pets.

Call us on +44 (0)20 8751 6171 or email pets@jalsauk.com Or visit our website www.jalsauk.com

Emigrate with ease

...and take your extended family with you, wherever you go

So, you’ve taken the life changing decision to ‘up sticks’ and the wheels are in motion for a fresh start abroad; but, for many of us moving our families does not just involve people and that’s where the services of JALSA UK come in.

Whether it be a cat, dog or ‘Bob the Goldfish’ our pets are part of our extended family and we wouldn’t be without them. With JALSA UK you can be assured that whether your pet has fluff, feathers or fins they will be able to join you wherever you’re moving to; making sure you’ve got your creature comforts with you, anywhere in the world.

Emigrating with your pet/s is no longer a convoluted, problematic process. The team at JALSA UK have nearly 30 years of experience in the Export/Import Industry, meaning they can advise you on everything from obtaining your Pet Passport to dealing with quarantine; in fact advice on the whole process needed for a successful and trouble free shipping of your pet - not to mention the actual personal move! With JALSA UK providing a whirlwind of organisation at Heathrow and all ports throughout the UK they have everything covered to help make you and your pets’ relocation as painless

as possible.

Moving a pet into the UK

JALSA UK also assists with bringing your pets into the UK; so, if you’re relocating back here they will act as a liaison between the airlines, the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC) and of course you to make sure your pet/s get back safely.

I don’t want to put my pet in quarantine It is not always necessary to place them in quarantine. This depends entirely on your destination or for import to the UK from your origin. Nowadays, travel under the Pet Travel Scheme can rule out quarantine and you can collect your pet within hours of arrival.

And, if your destination or where you’re travelling from does require quarantine there really is no need to worry. In fact, quarantine these days is often better than your average cattery or kennel and offers your pet a real ‘home from home’ whilst they wait to follow you.

It will probably feel like a little holiday for them which, after watching you organise your new life they’re probably be in need of!

So, how do we get started?

The best way is to contact JALSA UK is by e-mail pets@jalsauk.com or telephone +44 (0) 208 751 6171 and have a chat; they’ll have all the information they need to ensure you can meet the regulatory requirements to ensure your pet has a safe and pleasant journey in or out of the country.

As JALSA UK is a member of IPATA (International Pet and Animal Transportation Association), you know they are experts at what they do. After all, they are pet owners themselves and their glowing customer testimonials are further evidence that your pet’s welfare will always be the highest of priorities, so you can relax and take a breath, knowing ‘Bob’ is in safe hands.

If you are moving in or out of the UK, JALSA UK is the team of people you need to speak with.

They will ensure the whole family has a speedy and reliable journey, and they may even enjoy the adventure to boot!

www.jalsauk.com Achieve 73

getme2oz.com Professional Immigration Advice

Australia…Don’t just dream it...live it!!

Whether you’ve already made the decision to move or are considering your options, if you are going to Australia for any reason other than a short holiday getme2oz and Katherine are the people you need to speak to.

Katherine,

founder and the woman behind, getme2oz has experienced

first-hand the

complexities of the Australian visa system

after spending

8 years living and working in Melbourne,

Australia before returning home to the UK

in May 2008. Before her homecoming she studied Australian Immigration Law and Practice at the University of Melbourne

and is an Australian Registered Migration Agent MARN 0702049, a member of the Migration Alliance (MA) and the

Migration Institute of Australia (MIA), the peak professional body for Australian Registered Migration Agents, making

her perfectly placed to advise and guide anyone wishing to immigrate to the beautiful country of Australia.

getme2oz is a one-stop shop for any wannabe (not wallaby) resident of

Australia, offering a holistic consultancy

service to seek out the best visa pathway

for you and your family through to helping

you set up bank accounts, look for housing

74

and schools and even procuring the best foreign exchange rates when the big

move comes around. What differentiates

Katherine from other companies is her; she provides personal, professional service to every client, making their move run

smoothly and helping to mitigate for any

problems before they occur, meaning you don’t get stuck half way across the world and you can rest safe in the knowledge that the legislative side of your move is

water tight. Even Katherine admits that the visa systems are complex at best

and ever-changing, as a professional

specialising in Australian Emigration she dedicates her time to ensuring she is at the forefront of any changes and can

implement these quickly and efficiently for her clients and her business. Katherine

is diligent and honest enough to tell you whether you are likely to be accepted

before you part with your hard-earned

savings, offering a free visa assessment

at the outset, meaning getme2oz will do exactly what it says on the tin! Legally

Katherine is not allowed to guarantee a

visa outcome, however, she will not take on a client if she does not believe they have, at the very least, a reasonable chance of success.

“Behind every file is a person’s life story” Katherine told us “that’s why it is so important to use a qualified migration agent to look after the next chapters”.

Katherine’s relationships with clients are

the key to it all, as Zoe and Nicholas found out when they decided to follow their

hearts and move their lives over to Perth.

Following a six week tour of Australia

back in 2003, the couple fell in love with

the city and a lifestyle only Australia can offer. After several trips back and forth

they decided to take the plunge, and not knowing where to start they enlisted the expertise of Katherine.

Permanent Residency visa would be best suited for them, based on a skilled visa

application. Together Katherine, Zoe and Nicholas began the task of securing their visas and their new lives.

“Katherine was exceptional in guiding

Images by Tourism Australia

us through the application and

providing help and assistance along the way.” Zoe told us

After nearly two years, taking into account work commitments, the couple were able

already fallen in love with ‘down under’,

get in touch with Katherine Van Greuning for honest, accredited advice. Visit her

website www.getme2oz.com or go along/

“We began to think seriously about what to start afresh in the beautiful surroundings we wanted out of life. Australia seemed of Western Australia; they could not have

sign up for one of her seminars/webinars

explained

become a reality.

to tick all the boxes.” Zoe & Nicholas

After consulting with the couple as to their ultimate aim Katherine advised that the

done it alone but now they could not be happier.

to meet the lady in person, and take the

first steps to making your dream lifestyle

If a new way of life is something you and your family are considering, or if you’ve

Achieve 75

Charity Spotlight Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research

Charity Launches Reu the Gnu Book to help children deal with grief A charity has launched a special children's story book for parents to use to help little ones who have lost someone close to them, to help them deal with their grief.

The 'Reu the Gnu' book features a poem and colourful illustrations showing Isaac and Reu the Rainbow Gnu who go off to Dreamland to visit some friends.

All of the proceeds from the book will go to Reuben's Retreat. The charity was founded in August 2012 by Nicola Graham following the sudden and tragic loss of her 23 month old youngest son Reuben. Reuben fell ill after taking a small tumble while on a family holiday in Devon. His parents took him to A&E expecting to be given medication and sent home but scans revealed a rare and aggressive brain tumour. He was immediately transferred to hospital in Bristol but sadly never regained consciousness and passed away a week later in his mother's arms.

Nicola and her husband Mike were determined that Reuben's death would not be in vain and wanted to help families who find themselves in the same devastating situation by creating a place of solace and comfort as well as happiness. In just 23 months they raised £1 million pounds and bought the building which will become Reuben's Retreat – an old hospital in the Peak District.

The charity is now raising funds for renovations, and hopes to see Phase 1 open in Spring 2015.

The main character of Isaac is based upon Reuben's older brother, who is now six. The book was written by Victoria C Trundle and illustrated by Chay Hawes.

The book costs £8 and is available at www.reubensretreat.org

76

harity Cof choice UK charity Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research is the UK’s leading fundraiser for research and treatment of blood cancers.

Every year they help to stop more people dying of blood cancer, with researchers striving to stop people developing blood cancer in the first place. Working tirelessly to improve the lives of patients with blood cancers such as leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma, Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research believes everyone should be able to live their life to the full.

When the charity began in 1960, childhood leukaemia was virtually a death sentence. Now nine out of ten children with the most common form of this blood cancer survive.

“We’ve been working to beat blood cancer for over 50 years and we won’t stop until we do. Be a part of our story and help us change the world.” Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research And they won’t stop there; with ambitions to get to a place where 100% survival is a reality, where we’ve discovered ways we can prevent blood cancer, and where people affected can live their lives to the full.

In 2013/2014 the charity as a whole was able to re-invest £24 million into research, patient services and clinical trials as a result of the amazing support networks across the UK.

Close to our hearts at Achieve Magazine is the local branch of Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research, with our own Media Account Manager, Emily, undertaking her first sky dive to help raise money for the amazing work to continue. With a heritage spanning back over 45 years, the Lutterworth branch of the Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research charity have been fundraising for research into beating blood cancers, recently celebrating their £1 million mark!

Relying solely on public donations the teams raise monies from community events, coffee mornings and raffles, as well as running the only two shops in the world dedicated to Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research.

Lutterworth and District branch continues to grow from strength to strength and are today joining the lead in UK Cancer Charities under an umbrella Campaign to call for political parties to make cancer a priority for 2015 and beyond.

and customers are one of the most rewarding parts of the shop; people enjoy shopping with us because of the welcoming atmosphere we have created. That and our great selection of amazing quality goods of course!” Chris Ingham MBE, Branch Chairperson, told us The combination of shopping, people and making a difference to the lives of those affected by blood cancers are the type of quintessential characters which led to Lutterworth’s Leukaemia & Lymphoma branch being awarded the Achieve Charity of the Year 2015. We would encourage anyone to pop along and browse the shops, or even get involved through fundraising or volunteering, and let’s see if we can help the aim of 100% survival become a reality and soon! www.leukaemialymphomaresearch.org.uk 01455 556649

The charity shops themselves are an ‘Aladdin’s cave’ for any savvy shopper, located in the centre of Lutterworth Town; the first offering goods from haberdashery to household goods and of course, a huge variety of clothing, with a secondary shop dedicated to books and furniture. Both shops are primarily staffed by volunteers from the local area who strive to create a welcoming, and fruitful, shopping experience for all their customers.

“The community aspects that we achieve through our volunteers

Achieve 77

Fostering Q&A

for L eicestershire

Have you ever considered fostering? Its likely that the thought has crossed your mind at some point, after all

there are few things more rewarding than providing a supportive environment for a young person who needs it.

However there are many questions that are likely to be part of your thought process when considering fostering as a serious proposition and so with the help of the advice at Leic.gov.uk we take a closer look at some of the most common questions for individuals who are considering fostering.

How old do I need to be in order to foster?

You need to be aged 21 or over. They have foster carers of all

How do I know if I have the right abilities to foster?

have enough energy to look after a child or young person.

the skills you need to begin fostering, and you will continue to

ages, from their 20s to 70s - the only requirement is that you

Do I need to be married in order to foster?

No – their foster carers include people who are single, divorced, widowed, living with a partner or in civil partnerships, as well as those who are married.

What sort of home is suitable for fostering?

There isn’t a typical type of home which is ideal for fostering

- just one with a spare bedroom. You don’t need to own your

home either - provided you aren’t in rent arrears and the tenancy agreement you have with your landlord allows it, you can still foster if you are renting. Lots of foster carers live in council houses too. It also really helps if you have a car as well.

Do I need any qualifications to become a foster carer?

No qualifications are needed, but life skills and experience of looking after children are great assets for anyone wanting to

become a foster carer. Everyone is assessed on their own merits before they decide if they will make a good foster carer.

Do I need to be a parent or have had experience of looking after children?

You do not need to be a parent to become a good foster carer, although it is very helpful if you have experience of looking after children.

The team's ’Skills to Foster’ training course will equip you with all receive ongoing development and support from them throughout your time as a foster carer.

Will I be able to cope emotionally with the challenges of fostering?

You will have very strong support from them, to help you meet any challenges, including a dedicated social worker. You will

also be part of a large network of other foster carers who provide mutual support and help.

Will I be able to cope with letting a child go at the end of a placement?

The purpose of fostering is to provide the best possible outcome

for the child. There are a number of reasons why a placement will come to an end, and when this happens Leicestershire County

Council will be there to support you through the process. In many cases a carer still has contact with a child after they leave their care. Some placements are very long term or even permanent, so they mean never having to say goodbye.

Will I know everything about the child that is placed with me?

You will be given all available information about the child’s

background when a placement is proposed. If you have any doubts then you can discuss these with your social worker.

To find out more visit www.leics.gov.uk/index/social_services/ children_young_people/fostering_adopting/fostering 78

Fostering is becoming much more visible in the media than it once was, with this rewarding role even featuring in a high profile advert for a fast-food restaurant recently.

Many high-profile celebrities have added their weight to awareness-raising campaigns, such as TV chef Lorraine Pascale, who was appointed to the role of Government Fostering Ambassador last year. The most recognisable face involved is the Duchess of Cambridge, who recently met with carers and children at an event which celebrates foster care throughout the UK.

It’s fostering…

s we know it! a t o n t u b “If you’re thinking about

In Leicestershire there are currently around 300 children who need foster carers. Many of them require long term (sometimes referred to as ‘permanent’) care, until they reach adulthood. This is one of the most fulfilling types of foster care, giving security and stability to children who may have been moved around a great deal during their short lives. Foster carers with Leicestershire County Council who provide long term care will describe how they become part of the family, growing and developing into brothers and sisters to the other children in the household.

fostering’ event at to a ‘find out about It foster carers there.

“We then went along why ng, and met some already and the reasons County Hall one eveni people who were around fostering, , speak openly with and There are many myths ed, the ‘type’ of people who foster was really good to gs, initial worries feelin foster that our be to realise stood under also don’t children need Katie has been with fostering, as they es. Most people and ago, involv hs who ing , mont foster 18 and what anent foster carers concerns. That was demand for perm there is increasing independent. us for nearly a year. until they become school look after a child She is at our local such a lovely girl. often talked about joined the local “Katie is 7, and is Leicestershire had from en.

Sarah of friends, and even childr and lot as well John help local now, has made a her grandmother sees they would like to was how Katie to h, and back mont ing, foster s came They have a great Brownies. Once a question they alway is also in foster care. on?’ They both felt However, the main but tired as her brother, who ally really excited the child has to move and avoided getting norm when is about Katie t still ‘Wha them, time together, and for them all, but Katie too emotional for It’s valuable time and that this would be as a result. and care for her, when she returns. ing for many years her family, who love involved in foster comes home to us, , which stability. centre and e al anenc medic provide perm a poster in their local g to us John then spotted ing means not havin ding experience for e ‘Permanent foster home. ing is such a rewar included the phras this when he got keep us busy, but “Permanent foster told Sarah about to a of them - certainly say goodbye.’ John our love and care always be part all. Our girls - all three t that we could offer the world. Katie will long term a for it on e and family chang “To us, this mean loved our n’t we would s that she feels become part of e because she know County Council child, and they could of our family and ring really does chang with Leicestershire child g and growing. Foste basis. We got in touch ined that when a safe. She is thrivin them. They expla ained, the child’s.” as maint be well to as and had a chat with need yours lives birth family that come cil has links with their .

Coun ty Coun ing is the best option r for Leicestershire , call permanent foster People who foste to find out more spoken life. If you’d like at the time. We had child.com from all walks of and 10 years old s at visit www.spacefora “Our girls were 8 of their best friend 0116 305 0505 or fostering, as one open and being as a family about By . family a fostering e school was part of felt left out, it becam g sure that nobody honest and makin as a family. d to do, together, something we wante

fostering then you’re already half way to being a good

As well as having a significant impact on the children who are looked after, providing foster care is also an amazing experience for the carers. Janet from Ashby De La Zouch sums up what it means to her when she says, “Recently I was asked what I am most proud of in my life, and straight away my answer was ‘being a foster carer.’ ”

carer. Leicestershire County Council will support you

brilliantly with the other half.”

E MAGAZINE

N0652_ACHIEV

1 A4 EDITORIAL.indd

If you think you could foster then the first step is to speak to the fostering team at the council, who will answer any queries and help you through the journey. In the words of John, a foster carer in Desford, “If you’re thinking about fostering then you’re already half way to being a good carer. Leicestershire County Council will support you brilliantly with the other half.”

06/11/2014 11:53

Could you fit

fostering

into your life?

“We worried

about fostering

because we hate to Say

goodbye Then we heard about

permanent foster care Ellie will be a part of our family until she’s ready to leave home,

but she still has contact

with her mum

”

0116 305 0505

www.spaceforachild.com spaceforachild@leics.gov.uk

What kind of foster carer could you be?

Independent visitors | Permanent/long term foster Care | Short breaks | Foster care | Parent & child

N0652_ACHIEVE MAGAZINE ADVERT PERMANENT FOSTER CARE.indd 1

06/11/2014 11:51

Achieve 79

classical music Chetnam’s School of Music

14 Kidderpore Avenue, London NW3 7SU Ideal for rehearsals, superb for TV and film shoots, unsurpassed for auditions

Call: Jane Craxton or Kim Mathen, Xanthia Ltd, Sole Agents T: 020 7435 2965 E:jcraxton@live.co.uk W: www.craxtonstudios.org.uk

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THE VIOLIN SHOP 27 Hencotes HEXHAM NORTHUMBERLAND NE46 2EQ DAVID MANN

“WELL WORTH THE JOURNEY” Extensive selection of fine sounding bows and instruments, mainly vintage and antique, all in excellent condition, guaranteed and painstakingly set up to a professional standard.

uk

More modestly priced than you may expect.

Accessories and strings at the most competitive prices.

Repair and restoration of bows and instruments to the highest standards.

Valuations for insurance.

Fine new instruments made.

Fine old instruments copied.

FRIENDLY AND IMPARTIAL ADVICE GIVEN! Phone: 01434 607897

www.hexham-violins.co.uk

OLD INSTRUMENTS ALWAYS WANTED

PARKHOUSE AWARD 2015 FINALS CONCERT AT WIGMORE HALL The brightest and best young chamber ensembles enter the international Parkhouse Award, such is its reputation. Only one ensemble wins and the prize is three concerts in prestigious London venues over the course of two years. There are further opportunities and career guidance where required.

At 2pm on Saturday 18 April at Wigmore Hall the 2015 Finals Concert will feature four ensembles of piano with strings (duo to piano quartet).

They will have been selected following two days of intensive auditions from an international entry to this unique chamber music competition which has been discovering exceptional young groups since the first Award made in 1991. The distinguished jury at the Finals Concert comprises international chamber musicians with chairman Chris de Souza, who will also have overseen the auditions and will announce the winner on the day.

The Parkhouse Award celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2015 having been set up in 1990 in memory of the chamber musician and pianist, David Parkhouse. He was a founder member of the Music Group of London with his wife, cellist Eileen Croxford Parkhouse, and violinist Hugh Bean and together they enjoyed an international career that lasted 37 years.

Past winners of the Parkhouse Award appear frequently in the UK and abroad and, in particular, the Grieg Trio (Norway, winners 1991), the Faure Quartett (Germany, winners 2003), the Notos Quartet (Germany, winners 2011), Nils Mőnkemeyer/Nicholas Rimmer Duo (Germany, winners 2009) and the Fournier Trio (UK, winners 2013).

Achieve 81

Founded in 2001, the Chetham’s Piano Summer School is now firmly established as one of the most vibrant, respected, inspirational and universally friendly events of its kind in the world. Participants enrol from all five continents and are inspired, guided and educated by an extraordinary faculty of over 60 internationally celebrated performerteachers.

With seven recital halls, 100 practice rooms, on-site accommodation and meals, Chetham’s Summer School has proved time and time again to be an outstanding course, a universal haven for everyone who loves piano.

We are frequently questioned about eligibility and standards for enrolment. The truth is that the summer school is spiritually and materialistically large enough to include literally everyone who loves piano!

Courses available include Piano • Young Pianists • Adult amateur • Duet • Composition • Beginner composition • Jazz • Harpsichord • Improvisation • Organ • Observer • Theory • Music Analysis New for 2015 - All participants can apply to take a Trinity College London Diploma or Certificate qualification at Chetham’s at the end of their course. A specialist examiner will examine the candidates on the final day of each part - August 20th and August 26th.

‘For two weeks you are closeted in the most wonderfully friendly and stimulating environment. You eat, drink and live music from the time you wake till the time you finally get to bed after two concerts each evening’ ‘The most positive and comprehensive experience/education I have ever had!’

‘If you have the opportunity to participate at Chetham’s, even as an observer, you will find it a life-changing experience’

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The UK is the home to some exceptional musical talent whether it be pop, classical or even rock and roll, but if you are feeling inspired to widen your musical repertoire it can be tough knowing how and where to start.

There is a growing school of thought that not only is classical

music quite therapeutic to listen to and play, but that it is also beneficial to young children in the development of key motor skills. During the 1990’s several studies were documents on the phenomena that became known as the ‘Mozart Effect’,

which showed a temporary elevation of academic performance in the test subjects as a result of listening to Mozart’s music.

We love classical music so what further incentive to get the whole family involved and enjoy a classical renaissance in your house!?

Classical music as a genre offers an eclectic mix of instruments and styles making it difficult to provide a definitive list of

characteristics which make music ‘classical’. However this mix does provide plenty of opportunity for you and your families to find something that suits each of you.

If you’ve listened to classical music and thought “I’d like to be able to play like that” then you may be able to! There are lots

of opportunities to partake in musical or vocal tuition, whether it is at school or privately. And, if you uncover a talent you didn’t expect, throughout the rest of the feature you can see what an array of specialist schools, colleges and groups we have right here in the UK which offer you the chance to perfect your art.

Whether your passion is instrumental or vocal or, you prefer to

provide an audience to our talented performers, it is easy to get

into classical music wherever you are as it continues to become more and more accessible in the UK.

Try an evening with the Eighteenth Century Orchestra, featured in the last issue, for an authentic experience of chamber music complete with original eighteenth century instruments and full period costumes. If you get the opportunity to go to one of

their performances we guarantee this company will immerse you in the history of classical music and help to inspire any

budding artists in the audience. Or, if you’re more of an Opera lover, have a look at the Young Opera Venture’s upcoming

performances; dedicated to taking the best upcoming operatic talents to the masses.

Classical music may have been reserved for the pleasure of the aristocracy in eras past but today classical is most definitely open to all, so start your classical education this year, you won’t regret it!

Achieve 83

Tomorrow’s Talent Our Lady’s Convent School

Top Ranking for Our Lady’s Convent School, Loughborough.

On Thursday last week the Department for Education provided public access to the school and college performance tables for the 2014 examination season. For the first time independent schools are included in the Department for Education’s post-16 value added measure. This gives a reflection of the actual progress made during Sixth Form study rather than focusing on the headline pass rate figure, thereby giving a more holistic overview of student achievement.

In a comparison of the 147 educational establishments within a 25 mile radius of Loughborough Our Lady’s Convent School was first for value added at post 16 level and ranked seventh in England.

Speaking on hearing the news, Mrs Hawley, Headteacher said: “As a School we are delighted with the data contained within these tables, as I said when the results were announced last summer, we are extremely proud of all of our students and how hard they work and how they regularly excel in national examinations.

“Our selection process doesn’t look for students who are predicted A grades, what sets us apart from the competition is outlined in our aims, one of which is to develop in our students, in partnership with their parents; a broad base of knowledge and skills; moral, spiritual, intellectual, cultural and physical. We always strive to get the best out of each individual and support them in any way possible to help them attain their full potential and it is this that is reflected so well in the value added ranking we achieved this year.

“Unfortunately similar value added data for GCSE is not available in the tables for Independent schools, although again we are very pleased with our students overall performance and they benefit from the same care and attention as our A level students.”

84

The main aim of World Book Day in the UK is to encourage children to explore the pleasures of books and reading by providing them with the opportunity to have a book of their own.

To mark the day, school children are entitled to receive a World Book Day £1 book token. The book token can be exchanged for one of ten specially published World Book Day £1 books, or is redeemable against any book or audio book of their choice costing £2.99 or more at a participating bookshop or book club.

The World Book Day £1 book token will be valid from 2nd March to 29th March 2015.

The full list of World Book Day £1 books for 2015 is: Elmer's Parade by David McKee (andersen press) The Dinosaur that Pooped A Lot! by Tom Fletcher & Dougie Poynter, illustrated by Garry Parsons (random house)

A Pirate's Guide to Landlubbing by Jonny Duddle (templar) Magic Animal Friends: Lucy Longwhiskers Finds a Friend by Daisy Meadows (orchard)

Goth Girl and the Pirate Queen by Chris Riddell (macmillan) The Diary of Dennis the Menace: World Book Menace Day by Steven Butler (puffin)

There has been a lot of talk in the press lately about parents no longer putting an importance on reading with their children at bedtime. The thought makes us feel very sad, reading with your child is a wonderful, bonding experience and in a world dominated by technology it can all too often feel like our days are filled with screens, even for the little ones.

Helping your child discover the joy of reading can be achieved through the Jelly and Bean book series. Reading with your child helps to develop their speech, spark their imagination and provide valuable lessons about the world too. The Jelly and Bean book series does all these things and more. Their combination of humorous stories, striking illustrations and simple words make it a successful and fun reading experience for everyone. Analytic phonics, regular CVC words and ‘tricky’ words are introduced gradually making the learning to read process accessible and challenging all at once.

Best Mates by Michael Morpurgo (harpercollins) Dork Diaries: How to be a Dork! by Rachel Renée Russell

The books allow children to progress within their own

(simon & schuster)

capabilities and the engaging stories and characters keep

Geek Girl: Geek Drama by Holly Smale (harpercollins)

them entertained and motivated to read and learn more.

Killing the Dead by Marcus Sedgwick (orion)

www.jellyandbean.co.uk

For more information, visit www.worldbookday.com

World Book Day have partnered up with the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE) to put together a set of 20 different ideas for celebrating books and reading for Primary and Secondary schools.

Based around the action words Create, Imagine, Discover, Explore and Experience, each card includes simple suggestions and case studies, so that you can see how the ideas work in practice. And there are lots of ideas for sharing books and reading.

Visit www.worldbookday.com/big-book-off for lots of resources and activities you can do with your children!

Achieve 85

Making an educated choice...

Choosing the right school for your child is

location;

no easy task. Whether you are looking for

whether

a private or public school education it can

its primary or secondary education

be a minefield to come to a decision. What

the location will be important, are you

makes it particularly hard is that its so

prepared to travel a little for the right

very important; your child's school years

school or is locality more important?

are some of the most important, formative

It may seem like an obvious thing to

years of their entire life, you not only do

consider but location is half of the battle

want them to do well but you also want

and can be a factor when considering

them to enjoy the process too! So, where

things like budgets for petrol or transport

Perhaps the biggest aspect to choosing

on earth do you start? How do you begin to

and even family commitments and

the right school is paying the school a

research the best schools in your area and

working hours.

visit. Whether on an official open day or an

what do you do when you have a short-list?

Our Lady’s Convent School

individual visit, the school has to feel right

Fear not readers...here is our quick guide

Then there’s the reputation of a school;

and feel like it will work for you and the

for things to consider when choosing the

we aren’t saying to listen to gossip but

only way you will gauge this is by walking

right school.

discovering a little of what people think

into the school itself: rather like when you

about a school could be a good idea,

find your dream home you get that feeling,

First things first are you looking for a public

ask around to find out what ex pupils and

you just know when its right.

or private school education? Like anything

parents think. OFSTED is by no means

in life there are positives and negatives

the only thing to consider but does give a

Finding the right school for your child is

to both but its probably the first thing you

good idea of how the school performs, you

all about the research, find out as much

should consider when starting out on the

can check a school's report quite easily

as you can and then see the school on a

road to education choice. Next comes

online.

normal day for yourself...Good luck!

86

Award winning artists from an award winning school As one of the Top 100 Independent Boarding

inspires new pupils to the school.

Schools in the UK and experts at combining

teachers and widening access to the most gifted pupils. Our challenge now is to fill the

specialist education in the performing arts with

Tring Park School for the Performing Arts

funding gap between School income and the

academic excellence, Tring Park are more

provides an environment which combines

considerable expenditure required to deliver the

than worthy winners of this years’ Achieve

natural talent and creativity with inspired

School’s vision." Stefan Anderson, Principal.

Educational Award for Performing Arts and

teaching, offering a huge variety of study

Education, adding to their list of accolades.

options from primary schooling through to sixth

This inspirational school and its teaching staff

form studies; this is a school which students

offer the best curriculums combined with state

Set in a former Rothschild mansion in

and teachers feel excited to be a part of. Tring

of the art facilities to enable ambitious, talented

Hertfordshire, with a complement of 5 new

Park’s passion and commitment for what they

individuals to achieve their full potential; with

state of the art studios, Tring Park provides a

do is not reserved just for students undertaking

an alumni boasting the likes of Ella Henderson,

unique community for talented young people,

their full time curriculums either. Tring Park

stars of the much acclaimed ITV show

regardless of means or background, who have

offers a range of out of school programmes

Downton Abbey and successful performers

a passion for Dance, Drama, Musical Theatre or

accessible for anyone at any age including

throughout film and theatre, Tring Park offers an

Commercial Music. Tring Park is one of only a

Tring Park Associates, Classical Ballet

exceptional opportunity for any budding artist or

handful of schools available to aspiring artists

Academy, Musical Theatre, Dance and Drama

performer to join the rank of their ever-growing

in the UK, offering an eclectic mix of specialist

residential courses, and adult dance workshops

catalogue of remarkable success stories.

artistic education. Their aim is to nurture

to name but a few.

creativity and achieve overall excellence in both

To find out more about

academic and artistic pursuits, with their current

"Tring Park School’s underlying commitment is

admissions and their

pupils proving testimony to the success of this

to nurture creativity and to aim for excellence at

numerous success stories

approach, and providing an energetic and

all times. To successfully fulfil this pledge means

visit the school’s website at

vibrant learning environment; one which quickly

investing in modern facilities and talented

www.tringpark.com

Achieve 87

Feelings that feel good

Feel Good Friends is an award winning company with a unique range of fun, educational products to help children feel good about themselves and their world.

These resources help to: - Build confidence and self-esteem - Teach children about feeling and emotions - Encourage sharing and caring, listening and understanding - Teach relaxation and calming techniques - Build Emotional Intelligence - Build respect and appreciation of others - Encourage children to express themselves The resourses are suitable for children aged 3–10 yrs.

Remember, Happy kids mean Happy grown ups!

Have fun and Feel Good!!

You can order by phone on 01837871777

The Skyla’s the limit The Achieve Awards are held annually, with winners announced in January each year and appearing in the Achieve Magazine publication issued the following March.

Comprising of categories covering a variety of topics and industries including SEN Awards, Educational Awards, Mum’s Choice Awards, Mums in Business Awards and Travel and Tourism Awards; each split into multiple sub categories to recognise products, people and services who we believe deserve recognition for their achievements.

The Educational Awards are a hugely popular category with nominees from across the industry, and world. As a result of the deluge of inspirational people and business who devout their livelihoods to making education accessible and enjoyable for children of all ages we have 3 sub-categories in this award category; performing arts education, educational/learning aids and inspirational leaders.

The nominees are selected throughout the 12 months preceding the awards themselves as clients and colleagues of Achieve Magazine encounter companies who stand out for their innovation, passion and entrepreneurialism.

Each winner is carefully selected by our judging panel to celebrate and reward the outstanding contributions these companies and individuals have made in their chosen fields of expertise.

This year as part of the Awards we were proud to be able to recognise Skyla Publishing for their contributions and their innovative approach, through the works of their resident Author and Director Jamie RuggePrice, to teaching children at their most informative age range whilst working towards Key Stage 1.

To find out more about the award winning publications from Skyla Publishing visit the Aramazu Learn to tell the time website at www.aramazu.com

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The brainchild of Sisters Amy and Lucy, Feel Good Friends is a range of unique developmental products for young children. With backgrounds in Psychology, Complimentary therapies, life coaching and Art and Design, Amy and Lucy have successfully combined their expertise to create a range of fun, educational products that teach children about emotional awareness, self esteem, empathy and their environment; which in turn has led them to yet another award win, this time with Achieve’s Educational Child Development Product Award.

“We believe that children with positive beliefs are happier, more optimistic, have better relationships and do better in school.”

Feel Good Friends is based upon four cute characters: Roly Rainbow, Betty Brightstar, Pippin Pocket and Tiggy Tutu; who together help to educate about sharing, caring, appreciation and kindness and help children to feel happy, special, creative and calm.

“The game enables children to act out feelings and to share their thoughts about themselves and others in a positive way. I feel that the game has been helpful in giving the children more confidence to express themselves, often very openly in front of mum or dad.” Peter Barker, Children & Family Reporter at CAFCASS Using a range of books, CD’s and games children are given the tools to explore and express themselves in a fun and safe way. Created for anybody and everybody to use and to enjoy the benefits, Feel Good Friend’s multi-award winning products have quickly been adopted by social workers, fostering and adoption services, CAFCASS, schools and SEN facilitators to support and supplement the traditional curriculums have helped support and develop children’s emotional intelligence and stability across the UK. Find out more about Feel Good Friends at www.feelgoodfriends.com or find them on Facebook, Twitter and Google+

Autism education

is going wild

For many of our regular readers you will have heard of Woodside Lodge and seen this extraordinary story unfold which is why this year we were honoured to award Woodside and its founder, Jonny Lakin, our Education Award for Inspirational Leader.

Those of you who haven’t been witness to the amazing work this independent school, and Jonny himself, does each and every day I’ll give you a little insight…

learning for those with autism, led to the opening of their sister school Stonehurst Lodge last September to cater for children between 4-11 years old. Never content to just ‘settle’ Jonny’s vision and the amazing work done to date by his teaching team have seen students reaping the benefits and so, determined to offer the very best opportunities to their students Woodside have recruited two (three if you count the horse) further therapists to join their A-team.

After years of working to re-introduce autistic children who were out of education back into specialist schools, Jonny recognised that the ‘one size fits all’ philosophy would never satisfy the varying needs that children on the autism spectrum present; leaving his successful directorship he embarked upon the realisation of his dream to provide a stimulating, intimate educational setting teamed with a faculty of specialist teachers, including HLTA’s and Qualified Occupational and Speech Therapists (all with years of ASD experience), to offer the education parents with autistic children were crying out for.

Becky joins the team alongside Spencer the horse, to offer a new therapy which fits perfectly with the setting and ethos of these two schools. Becky will be working with the students to deliver weekly Equine Assisted Learning sessions; working in either a group or with an individual the sessions see students handling the horses, grooming, riding, lunging, and vaulting. Some of the benefits of this kind of session can include learning to foster relationships, building trust, learning coping skills and learning how to communicate emotions in a supportive environment.

Woodside’s remarkable success with their students combined with their innovative approaches, all designed to maximise

The second new addition to the team is the highly experience and highly skilled Angela; Woodside’s first full time resident Speech and

Language Therapist. Angela comes from the RNIB College in Loughborough where she has been using speech and language therapies with students presenting a variety of special educational needs such as visual impairments, dyslexia, autism and others.

Angela will bring a wealth of experience and will be an amazing asset to an already extraordinary team.

And, if all that’s not enough, the team are undertaking a massive redevelopment at the current Woodside Lodge site and moving the main building into the nearby woodland, offering the students tranquility and seclusion for their indoor lessons, whilst expanding the much-loved farmyard for the sessions outdoors.

Woodside Lodge and Stonehurst Lodge have seen such huge developments over the past year and still with their student’s welfare and with development at the heart of everything they do; we cannot wait to follow Woodside over the coming years and see what they will yield.

Tel: 01509 417474 Email: info@woodside-lodge.co.uk

Prepared Parenting

Wow Cup® Wows Mums Across The UK The much-acclaimed Wow Cup® has been brought to the UK

One of the biggest learning curves when you become a

by renowned nursery distributor Goldbug. The company are still

to become! As a pre-parental woman I was never the most

Award for best Feeding Range and the Wow Cup® looks set to

parent is how very adult and organised you suddenly need

celebrating after winning a prestigious Progressive Preschool

organised or prepared person in the room, usually hoping

be the only baby cup to covet in 2015.

could call it 'winging it', yes that’s it, I winged it most of the

The innovative Wow Cup® range for children aged 12 months

that preparing is the only way to get through the day, (without

your child. Mums will love the multi-function spill-free cup which

ready for the next day in those few moments of quiet time at

toddlers will love the patented lid technology which allows them

that things would come together somehow. I suppose you

time! Now five years and two kids later I have slowly learnt

too much stress at least) and if that means getting everything

night as they sleep then so be it! For a regular day this can be stressful enough but it’s worth it when as you wake up things

seem to be all in the right place to let you get on with the day

upwards is a durable drinkware collection that will grow with

provides a healthy alternative to traditional toddler cups and to drink from a 'grown up' cup.

The Wow Cup® has a no-spout, no-straw design and the

and enjoy it!

Uniflow™ drinking edge helps toddlers develop oral and motor

This prep factor gets amped up though in a couple of

colours in a matte finish making it easier for toddlers to grip.

co-ordination. It also comes in an array of bright, attractive

circumstances not to mention as you add numbers to your

When your child is ready to progress, simply remove the silicone

planning a day out, a holiday, or in particular if your child

made only from the safest food-grade plastic materials.

allergies or medical needs you need certain things to help

To see the full range and for stockist details go to

brood. You will find the need for prep bigger if you are

has needs outside of the regular ones. So, if your child has ensure you are ready for any type of medical emergency

they may have (hats off to those parents!). There are ways though to make your life easier too, with

companies like Medpac who have

created a line of specialist bags to

help house medical extras safely, and information regarding your child’s needs in the event of

you not being present should

anything happen. These handy bags are not only restricted to

emergency medical or allergy

needs though with many of us at the

Achieve offices have found them great as mini-first aid kits too!

As boring as it sounds for an easier day in the world of

parenting preparation is key folks, particularly if your child has extra medical needs on top of the many everyday needs that children have!

90

lid. The Wow Kids® drinkare is 100% BPA & Phthalate free and

www.wowcup.co.uk

Prepared parenting doesn’t need to be painstaking Designed by Jayne Tarrant, this innovative Mum created her own ingenious product after struggling with her own experiences being an organised and prepared parent.

Medpac is, quite literally, a lifesaver for parents, schools, groups and their children.

This year we are delighted to award the Mum’s Choice Innovative Product Award for Excellence 2015 to Medpac, and Jayne, and there is an abundance of evidence as to why they were such clear contenders for the accolade.

Medpac is a simple, yet extremely effective, solution to a problem that concerns many parents and teachers. Mum to Jessica, Jayne Tarrant of Suffolk found herself needing a way to ensure her daughter had her medication with her at all times, and a reassurance that anyone could easily identify it if they ever needed to administer treatment whilst Jayne was not there.

“The teachers needed two sets of medicine with a photo ID and a medical plan, and all I could find to put everything in was an old make-up bag, obviously less than ideal! Really I wanted something that could be easily identified as hers

in an emergency situation and something that kept all the things she needed in one place that was bright, efficient and affordable too. I just couldn’t find what I had in mind and it struck me as odd that there wasn’t something available that met these needs!” Jayne explained.

easy identification of the correct medicine for the correct person/child. Also, the brightness of the Medpac allows for easy spotting of the medication in the bottom of a bag.” Sharon, Teaching Assistant

Medpac was Jayne’s solution; a purposefully designed pack to carry adrenalin pens, asthma inhalers, diabetes and epilepsy medicines, antibiotics or even hay fever treatments.

“Medpac is an Designed in a bright important time saver orange and fitted with a Medpac photo ID for school trips or card it is always easily any group situation.” identifiable when needed.

The Medpac’s versatility has not gone unrecognised with awards including the Gold Primary Teacher Award 2014 and Silver Practical Pre-School Award 2013 as part of their legacy so far. The Medpac is perfect for a huge range of scenarios from aiding parents on the go in their daily routines to school away days, holidays or sporting events; giving parents and carer’s peace of mind no matter where their little ones are enjoying themselves.

“Medpac is an important time saver for school trips or any group situation. Having the photo ID displayed on the side of the Medpac allows

Each Medpac comes with its own Medpac ID photo ID card to ensure it can be found quickly in group situations and the treatment card inside provides the opportunity to add all the vital information and a care plan if required, allowing medication to be administered swiftly and safely in an emergency. Adding extra protection to the Medpac kit is the Medpac wristband, designed again in a vibrant orange alerting the public that the wearer is a Medpac carrier and may need prompt medical attention, complimenting the Medpac perfectly.

We’re sure you’ll agree that this Ingenious Product is a worthy winner. To find out more about the Medpac range, including the Medpac in two different sizes with the option of insulation to help regulate the contents’ temperature, as well as the all-important wristband, visit www.medpac.co.uk

Achieve 91

SEN Go Provence

"Putting beauty into the bounce" Dance Voice is a Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP) charity based in Bristol, one of the UK’s leading centres dedicated to community-based creative arts therapy.

Sunken Trampolines work across the UK installing bespoke trampoline solutions to suit your establishment, whether it be a playground trampoline, a rebound therapy platform or an indoor hidden trampoline with a lid we will work with you to bring your thoughts to reality.

DMP is one of the creative arts-based therapies, founded on the principle that movement reflects a person’s pattern of thinking and feeling. The process uses movement and dance to facilitate emotional, physical, social, mental, and spiritual well-being.

www.dancevoice.org.uk +44 (0) 117 953 2055 admin@dancevoice.org.uk

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www.sunkentrampolines.co.uk Call Joel or Angus on 07801 573278 / 07765 256537 Email: sales@sunkentrampolines.co.uk

Play Therapy Play Therapy UK (PTUK) - the UK Society for Play and Creative Arts Therapies Limited - is a not for profit organisation dedicated to promoting the use of play and creative arts as ways of enabling children to reach their full potential.

The Society exists to further the good practice of therapeutic work with children. This includes improving children’s emotional literacy as well as alleviating behaviour and mental health problems. We believe that the use of various forms of recognised therapies to help children fulfil their potential and overcome emotional and behavioural problems has reached a critical stage in the UK.

PTUK leads the way in innovative methods of children’s emotional well-being.

PTUK conducts continuous research measuring what happens in real life conditions, taking into account all the variables of the child, the environment and the therapists. An analysis of 8026 cases from 507 PTUK practitioners showed that between 74% and 83% of children receiving play therapy, delivered to PTUK/ PTI standards, show a positive change.

There are currently over 700 Play Therapy UK (PTUK) registered play therapy practitioners. However, England and Wales needs an estimated 16,000 therapists to work with children between the ages of 4 and 12.

There are plenty of career opportunities.

For more information about Play Therapy contact:

www.playtherapy.org.uk ptukorg@aol.com

01825 761143

Photos by Kayne Jackson

Achieve 93

Ha n n a h C olt on a n d M i ke T h oms on i n t h e i r M i lt on Keyn e s off i c e s .

M e d i c A lert B e ca u se som etimes eve r y m om ent matters This year we couldn’t have thought of a more worthy initiative for our annual awards; and so, we are very proud to bestow the SEN Award for Best Health Support Product 2015 to this amazing charity.

The MedicAlert Emergency Service is an essential support for people with hidden medical conditions who want to maintain a safe and independent lifestyle. Their medical ID jewellery lets emergency response staff know what their conditions are and this is backed up by a 24/7 emergency phone service, available from anywhere in the world, if more details are needed.

Every wearer of MedicAlert Jewellery has their own bespoke medical conditions engraved on their jewellery and their detailed record is kept on a secure database for access by medical staff.

This record is accessed by calling the emergency number and quoting the unique customer number, both of which are engraved on their jewellery.

MedicAlert is a global charity and has been in the UK for over 50 years, during which it has helped over 300,000 people with hidden medical conditions. They know that in an emergency situation, their MedicAlert jewellery will do their talking for them, so they are able to live their lives to the full. MedicAlert has a programme for training medical staff to look for their jewellery on the pulse points, the neck and wrists and the details engraved on the disc are prioritised by their medically trained staff for their importance in an emergency.

Case Study #1: Olivia Olivia is only 8, and sufferers from severe allergies to peanuts and tomatoes. She has been a MedicAlert customer since she was 18 months old. Her mother, Sofia, tells us about how they manage her allergies and create a safe environment for Olivia to enjoy her childhood.

'Olivia reacted to half a peanut after previously consuming peanut butter with no issues. Getting a diagnosis was difficult and could only be established by a (very scary) food challenge in the hospital.'

However this was not Olivia’s first reaction to a food. At the age of 9 months, from a single pip landing on her cheek, Olivia had a severe allergic reaction to tomatoes. This allergy causes extensive issues for the family as tomatoes are not usually listed as an allergen on food packaging. The family now have to avoid

we're all different but she might need some extra special looking after sometimes".

any pre-packed food completely so they know exactly what is in every meal.

When Olivia started day nursery Sofia decided to get her a MedicAlert bracelet as a visual reference, highlighting her allergies to the staff.

Sofia also chose MedicAlert for the continued membership and 24/7 emergency line available.

Now 8 years old, Olivia lives a full life for a girl her age; going off to Brownie camp and experiencing adventures like wall climbing.

This is thanks in part to the peace of mind MedicAlert gives her parents. They know that they can rely on MedicAlert to communicate Olivia's allergies in an emergency.

Case Study #2: Paul

Its 2011 and Paul Buchanan was in full training for his first marathon. He was feeling fitter and faster than ever and was looking forward to a really good training year. Then, out of the blue, he couldn't keep up with the pace. It was "The fact that her notes can be updated as her almost a month before he even noticed he conditions change is hadn't been for a run important. If anyone and by this time he "It gives me the confidence to needed to find out was constantly tired, about her conditions, allow her to have a normal drinking up to 3 litres and she was unable of water a day, eating childhood.

She goes to friend’s to communicate for sugary snacks like herself, I am confident houses for tea or birthday they were going out of the professional parties and I know there is a fashion and in his own looking after her words 'suffering from virtual safety net". would have access a massive sense of to the correct up to humour failure. date information they require by calling the emergency number on her emblem".

As the Managing Director of a software company, he put all this down to long hours Allowing Olivia to live a more independent and hard work, until Christmas crept upon him. life is very important to Sofia, "It gives me By now the headaches, night sweats, loose the confidence to allow her to have a normal stools and stomach ache had him convinced childhood. She goes to friend’s houses for tea that he should go and see the doctor, so on or birthday parties and I know there is a virtual January 16th 2012 he went to see his GP. That safety net". appointment was the first time diabetes had been mentioned. By January 26th Olivia is happy to wear the MedicAlert emblem 2012 Paul was on insulin. and tells people "It’s my special bracelet in case I’m poorly". Sofia thinks this is partly down to Paul does not let his Olivia being able to make the choice of which diabetes get in the way of bracelet she wanted. "Don't choose it for your his life, and is in training child, let them pick their own, then they will wear for his first triathlon. it" explains Sofia.

"Diabetes has redefined my goals rather than change them.

Sofia concluded "At the moment Olivia doesn’t Some are now more important carry her own EpiPens. The responsibility to than they were last year. Fortunately, manage her allergies isn't hers, as her parents exercise, fitness, training are all good it's ours, and we introduce her gradually to things to do irrespective of my diabetes. managing it. We tell her everyone's special and

That the training also helps with the long term management of Type 1 Diabetes is a real bonus. I would say that since diagnosis I am more motivated to achieve my goals than ever before."

Not only does Paul compete in these major physical competitions but he also helps to raise money and awareness for charities such as Diabetes UK & JDRF. "My motivation to raise awareness and funds for research, education, support and assistance comes from a deeply held belief that if you can identify something that you could help do something about then you have a personal duty to try and help. I think I can help, so I am prepared to try."

Paul has to inject with insulin and test his blood several times a day to control his diabetes, but is hoping to go onto an insulin pump soon.

Paul feels wearing a MedicAlert bracelet is an absolute necessity. "I commute nationally and internationally, am in training for a triathlon and love being outdoors - walking, sailing, cycling – so the security of knowing that all of my medical data is only one phone call away should I need assistance is a massive comfort to both me and my family. I would unreservedly recommend MedicAlert, not only to all diabetics, but to any others with conditions that could lead to them needing assistance from the emergency services. That one emblem could save your life!"

No matter your condition or allergies visit www.medicalert.org.uk/new-to-medic-alert and find out how MedicAlert could help increase your freedom or even save your life.

Crelling Harnesses Ltd

Special needs harnesses for vehicle seats, wheelchairs, shower & bath hoists, commode chairs, walking reins and more.

We make simple belts and full supportive harnesses for all kinds of special needs, including challenging behaviour.

Tel: 01253 852298

Fax: 01253 821780

Email: info@crelling.com

www.crelling.com 96

The Beach Easy

All Terrain Wheelchairs

Accessible, affordable and enjoyable If you’re starting to plan your holidays and day trips to fill your summer then we have some great news for those of you who are trying to fill your summer with good, accessible fun: the beach is no longer off limits!

Designed and made in sunny Lancashire, Beach Easy Wheel Chairs are the best wheelchairs for beach lovers with mobility difficulties or physical disabilities which necessitate a wheelchair. Available to hire up and down the country or to buy, Beach Easy Wheel Chairs are an ingenious adaptation to the traditional wheelchair.

"I think this is a great idea and at last, makes a

beach wheelchair very affordable." PKLancashire, UK. Combining the best design and at an affordable price, Beach Easy Wheel Chairs act as a standard wheelchair for day to day use.

However, when your adventures take you off road or you need to catch some rays on the beach, the low pressure balloon wheels convert your wheelchair into an off road, beach ready machine!

"The balloon tyres work so well on soft ground and make it such a comfortable ride for the passenger and of course makes access to areas we possible couldn't have imagined going to before.” JP-Lancashire, UK. The wheelchairs themselves are supplied with all the accessories needed to transform into their beach friendly version in as little as 60 seconds, so you don’t need to think twice about unleashing your spontaneous side.

If you want to try one out then start planning your summer trips around the coastal resorts this summer and make sure these destinations are on the map: Mablethorpe, Skegness, Brighton, Sutherland, Gosford, Cornwall, Pembrokeshire, Great Yarmouth and more in the UK and they’re even waiting for you in the Algarve; so wherever you’re based there is no better time to try out your own set of Beach Easy Wheels.

"I can't believe how easy it travels along the soft Algarve sand; we will now be able to go to the beach as a whole family.” BS-Algarve, Portugal.

To find out more call 07801 710750 or pop along to the website www.beachwheelchairs. co.uk and see where your adventures for 2015 could take you!

Aqua rambling Paragliding

Pony Trekking Rockclimbing

Plus many more adventure activities. See our website for more details.www.goprovence.co.uk Achieve 97

Making SenSory equipMent More affordable a selection of sensory lighting ideal for home or in dedicated sensory rooms

Stimulate their senses in the comfort of home For many children and adults who suffer with an autistic condition sensory stimulation, or therapy, can be beneficial. This stimulation can open up the world to autistic individuals in a way that traditional therapies sometimes fall short.

The professionals at Ledridge Lighting have been providing bespoke lighting solutions for many years and recognised that their expertise in creating environments through innovative technology could be used to enhance sensory environments for children and adults with autism; for whom sensory light stimulation is invaluable. Ledridge have worked on their technology and services to be able to bring sensory lighting to homes and, most importantly, at an affordable price. Sensory Rooms.indd Ledridge are able to work with parents and families to create an environment conducive to sensory stimulation. This could be in a child’s bedroom or a spare room in the home, allowing sufferers to relax in a familiar environment whilst reaping the benefits of this cutting edge therapy.

Children and adults on the autism spectrum crave sensory stimulation but this kind of therapy can be used to help treat a variety of conditions such as developmental delays, brain injuries and behavioural issues as well. This non-invasive treatment encourages sensory activation and can assist in bringing forward developmental patterns, which conditions such as autism can delay.

0116 246 1188

1

Bibbleplus+

17/02/2015 14:13

The functional and stylish solution for older children and adults who have difficulties with drooling and dribbling With the success of Bibbles.co.uk the team quickly found a demand for Bibble bibs for older children & adults with various disabilities which caused problems with drooling and dribbling. They developed the product to suit and now have a range of fantastic designs for the adult and older child market. The range features great colours and designs available in 4 different sizes and with the unique combination of cotton and fleece wetness is absorbed which prevents the wearer’s clothing and chin becoming wet and uncomfortable.

A great practical choice made with the same commitment to quality as the original Bibble but meets the needs of a different market too!

With the help of the experts in lighting at Ledridge and a little imagination, 2015 could be the year your family bring sensory therapy home.

To discuss your requirements, or find out a little more, contact Ledridge Lighting on 0116 246 1188 and light up your little ones life.

www.ledridge.co.uk

Receive 10% off your 1st order with code ACHIEVE

www.bibbleplus.co.uk 98

Play Therapy for Children with Intellectual Disabilities

Children with intellectual disability and their families experience more stressful situations of everyday life, including social neglect, educational limitations and substandard care difficulties than families and children with typical development. Because of this, the children are more likely to develop symptoms of mental disorders. Therefore, it is of importance to introduce appropriate methods of support and treatment, such as Play Therapy, as soon as possible. The playroom, equipped with sand trays and figurines, dolls, puppets, art materials, clay and music instruments provides an opportunity for a wide range of expression.

A ten-year old boy with learning difficulties and IQ scores below normal, came from a divorced and alcoholic family. He presented an aggressive attitude towards his environment, especially his mother. In Play Therapy his feelings were expressed by a spontaneous and free play which was accepted and reflected by the therapist.

He started with sand trays in which he played out dangerous and helpless situations. His figurines, such as soldiers or wild animals, were besieged and died in a trap. He played in silence without eye-contact with the therapist. After several weeks he provided some changes in his sandplay, allowing the figurines to defend themselves and he started to talk with the therapist. After another few sessions, he introduced new figurines, who were able to influence their environment and he expanded his play to new materials such as clay and paint. He became more spontaneous and talkative. During the last sessions his sandplay became more vivid and his figurines were able to protect themselves.

The outcomes of Play Therapy are measured by changes in the Strengths and Difficulties (SDQ) scores, in this case successfully, showing a reduction from 20 to 15 in total difficulties. Based upon the work of Joanna Kruszyńska-Buryta - a Certified Practitioner of Therapeutic Play Skills. www.playtherapy.org.uk

Crelling Harnesses Ltd CRELLING HARNESSES FOR DISABLED LTD

ptukorg@aol.com

01825 761143

Crelling Harnesses manufacture a large range of belts and harnesses designed to provide postural support for both children and adults with special needs. We are a small and friendly company who have been in business for 40 years, have built up quite a large range of designs to meet with the needs of most special requirements and are happy to discuss our harnesses on a one to one basis with our customers.

Many of our harnesses are suitable for those with learning difficulties or behavioural problems, offering a certain degree of restraint and alternative buckles to the instant release press button type for those with inquisitive fingers or potential escapologists. Rear fastening harnesses are available for single seats only.

Our vehicle harnesses are not designed as safety harnesses but as disabled persons’ restraints, to help maintain the passenger in an upright sitting position when travelling. The existing vehicle safety belt should always be worn over the top of our harness to comply with safety regulations. The only exception would be when the passenger is exempt from wearing the safety belt for medical reasons and holds a certificate of exemption, which can be obtained from their doctor or consultant where appropriate.

We make a range of walking reins to help control and protect children and adults when walking outdoors. We also supply belts for wheelchairs, bathing equipment and more. www.crelling.com 01253 852298 info@crelling.com

Go Provence are a company committed to offering a memorable holiday for people who need additional support when away from their home environment. From the minute you contact Go Provence you will understand why the founders, Ian Callen and Neil Manser, are perfectly suited to providing amazing holidays for clients who suffer from special needs, but really want their next adventure to be unforgettable.

Broadening horizons for everyone with special needs

With a team boasting years of combined experience within special needs environments (SEN), they work closely with clients and their families from the word go to put together the perfect holiday plan for a safe, enjoyable trip; from care plans to menus and even support for the journey there, everything is thought of and risk assessed meaning you don’t have to.

Ian and Neil themselves have both lived in France for 10 and 20 years respectively; both with SEN backgrounds in the UK, they upped-sticks to the continent and have not looked back since. Based in the Gorges du Verdon region of France they help to educate visitors about the area and provide them with an opportunity to get immersed in the local culture.

Committed to providing terrific breaks for everyone; this year Go Provence have got a new offering for the thrill seekers out there. The team have devised an action packed Adventure Week package which includes paragliding, white water rafting, horse riding, canoeing, aqua rambling, forest adventures and rock climbing; guaranteed to give even the most hardened of thrill seekers an adrenalin rush! To find out more about when Adventure Weeks are taking place go to www.goprovence.co.uk and make this year an action packed one! www.goprovence.co.uk

00 33 (0) 4 86 566 561

ian@goprovence.co.uk

Achieve 99

Case Study: Special Education: Sunfield School This internationally acclaimed school, specialists in working with children on the severe end of the autism spectrum, turned to Tough Furniture to help them equip their new school building.

The whole architecture of the new school building was designed from the outset to be autism friendly, and the school needed the furniture to complement this approach.

A Special Education Study Booth Workstation

When the going gets tough, the furniture gets tougher Tough Furniture are specialists in their field providing stylish, comfortable and durable furniture solutions into challenging environments since their inception, over 20 years ago. Designed and manufactured in Shropshire, UK they have been providing high quality furniture solutions to special needs schools, mental health facilities both NHS and private as well as rehabilitation Units, to name but a few examples; anywhere where furniture may be subject to more than the usual wear and tear.

Through their tenacity and ability to forge lasting relationships with clients, Tough Furniture have been able to consistently develop pioneering, practical solutions for every environment and their wealth of experience makes them perfectly placed to offer practical advice and exceptional service; something which has led to them gaining over 70% of their custom through repeat business, as well as several awards over the years and many rave reviews!

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“I’ve specified Tough Furniture for many years wherever I have worked, because I know that investing in the right quality has saved so many budgets over time. It’s not just that their furniture survives and stays smart where ordinary furniture doesn’t, as a specialist company they understand and design for our type of problems such as self harm, and always give a good service too.” Kay Sutt, Children’s Services Manager, Nottingham City Council.

Tough Furniture was able to design and make exactly what the school needed on a budget that gave very good value. Their problemsolving and design skills were partnered with the hard-won experience of teachers and staff to create a new type of school furniture that actively contributes to an enhanced special education learning environment, benefiting all concerned.

Individual workstations were carefully configured screening to create distraction free areas. Their proportions are flexible to suit varying sizes of student, and they can be fitted out for a range of purposes.

Autism Friendly Desk and Chairs built for Special Education

Tables are also heavy duty, but flexible too, proportioned in size so that numerous different shaped layouts can be created, including a U-shape which is very popular with PECS This year we felt compelled to recognise practitioners. This classroom’s flexibility is their business once again, awarding Tough further enhanced by modular freestanding Furniture the Achieve SEN screens, which can be Award for Excellence in “Whatever your situation may be easily repositioned to Innovative Design. Through there is a Tough Furniture solution make useful sub-divisions longstanding involvement that could just help to change your to the room. They’re with a wide spectrum of also faced with a sound way of living, giving you peace of care providers, frontline attenuating fabric which staff and their clients, Tough mind without breaking the bank!” helps improve the acoustic Furniture have been able to environment and can still be used for display consistently offer practical solutions to problems purposes too. as they arise, which is where many of their new products originate from.

Sunfield School discovered that Tough Furniture’s custom design and manufacturing

service was both affordable and good value, and it allowed them to specify exactly what they wanted in detail, right down to the choice of school furniture colour to blend with the low arousal decor of the building and to the type of Starkey locks fitted to co-ordinate with all other areas of the site.

Sunfield School are just one of the many specialist service providers who have benefitted from the expertise and experience at Tough Furniture, in turn providing real benefits to their students.

Testimonials from all manner of customers attest to the same unwavering commitment to providing quality, innovation and maintaining a competitive cost. But, Tough Furniture don’t reserve their expertise for the industry; as individuals and parents, whatever your situation may be there is a Tough Furniture solution that could just help to change your way of living, giving you peace of mind without breaking the bank!

Case Study: Kate & Archie Like so many parents caring for an autistic child at home Kate found that her son’s bedroom presented some real practical problems. He loved to bounce on his bed but no bed from any of the shops would last longer than a month, so he ended up on a mattress on the floor. Likewise conventional storage furniture didn’t survive very long either. The risks from broken furniture and the difficulty of endlessly having to replace it became so much that his toys and books lived on the floor, making the room very hard to keep clean and tidy, and his clothes had to be stored elsewhere. While Archie would happily sit gazing out of the window, for Kate there was the

constant worry of him falling through, quite apart from his penchant for posting the duvet out!

Summing up the success of her son’s new bedroom Kate says: “Best of all, he doesn’t cry in his room any more. He’s happier there now because it’s become a nicer place to be.”

Tough Furniture’s robust autism friendly furniture provided the solution to Kate's problem; The storage bed and bedroom furniture we were Quite simply Tough Furniture does what it says fitted with their trademark Tough Furniture and on the tin, but the team at Tough Furniture offer are still going strong, individuals and companies so “Our policy is simply to look after with all his clothes and much more and we are proud our customers by first listening and to be able to add recognition possessions now safe in fully lockable storage, to the fantastic service and then providing furniture solutions together with an iPod products Tough Furniture combined with good service” player so now he can continue to provide to those enjoy his music in a much tidier room. This who need a bit extra. left the window to make safe, which Tough Furniture did through their custom design “Our policy is simply to look after our customers and manufacture service which can be so by first listening and then providing furniture responsive to such individual needs; adapting solutions combined with good service, which the concept behind their unique range of includes bespoke design if needed. Our service protective TV cabinets, they made an internal includes delivery into rooms and continuing after hardwood window frame with a panel of sales backup for maximum value and peace of polycarbonate window protection. It protects mind.” Tough Furniture the blind and outside glass and is lockable and pierced for ventilation too. Like Tough Furniture You can download Tough Furniture’s current itself the lockable window protection has been brochure and read more of their remarkable designed to blend into a homely environment success stories at www.toughfurniture.com or at the same time as solving practical problems. find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ The end result was an autism friendly bedroom.

ToughFurniture

Achieve 101

Autism Awareness Anna Kennedy Online

Strictly Come Dancing is throwing open the sparkly doors of its ballroom to the Great British public for the first time ever in The People’s Strictly for Comic Relief.

The programme, which begins on Wednesday 25th February at 9pm on BBC One, follows six lucky people, including Autism campaigner Anna Kennedy OBE, who were chosen from thousands of nominations to take part in their very own Strictly experience.

Each of the six contributors has been chosen for their tireless and selfless work which has helped change so many lives for the better.

Over the next few weeks, they will become completely immersed in all things Strictly. They’ll go behindthe-scenes of the famous show and will get their first taste of the sequins and sparkle with their very own makeover day.

Charlotte Moore, Controller, BBC One, says: "BBC One is the TV home of ballroom dancing so where better to see deserving, real-life heroes and heroines experience the sparkling joy of Strictly and all for such a great cause in Comic Relief."

The contestants have each been paired with professional dancer from the Strictly Come Dancing family and are currently training hard as they perform to the nation. They will become the new stars of the show!

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Autism Anglia Award-winning support services from Autism Anglia Autism Anglia is an independent charity providing support for children, adults and families affected by autism. Renowned for their innovative fundraising and sense of fun with their annual Silly Sock Day, this year taking place on 27th March, they have secured themselves a place in our hearts and minds here at Achieve, as well as winning our SEN Award for Autism Support Services 2015.

The charity provides a vast range of services for individuals, families and professionals throughout Essex, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Norfolk and have provided invaluable support since the 1970’s (being known as Autism Anglia since 2008); empowering individuals to fulfill their potential and professionals with the tools to support and promote autism awareness.

Managed from offices in Colchester and Dereham, Autism Anglia set themselves apart with a personal approach to each individual and a real empathy for the condition, gleaned from years of experience. They work with individuals and their families to provide support and direction to equip them with vital skills and strategies to enable them to realise their own strengths and abilities, and ultimately empower

them to lead a more independent life.

“Without your service I am sure that my family wouldn’t be a whole unit anymore. Just keep going as you are, you all do a wonderful job.”

Praise from a parent.

In addition to their work with people with autism, they work tirelessly to promote a greater knowledge and understanding of the condition amongst the general public and professionals through training, education and providing fresh engaging information.

“Life presents challenges to all of us from time-to-time and it’s on these occasions that the right knowledge coupled with the appropriate support can make all the difference in how you cope. Autism Anglia believes that individuals, families and professionals should have access to the information and support they need to enable them to lead fulfilling lives and create positive interactions within their communities” Autism Anglia Autism Anglia is however a charity, meaning they rely upon the support of people like us to get involved and help promote their work and

raise vital funding.

Whether you know someone with autism or not we would urge you to show your support via fun initiatives like Silly Sock Day and help Autism Anglia to continue their invaluable work making a real difference to people’s lives now and for the future.

Once a year, Autism Anglia asks their supporters to wear their brightest, silliest looking socks for just a day to help raise awareness of autism and their work. It’s a great opportunity (or excuse) to have some fun with colleagues, schoolmates or friends and do some good in the process. Their 2014 Silly Sock Day raised over £7,000, all from simply showing us your socks and making sure they’re the craziest you’ve got. So why not go silly with your socks for a day (some people can probably wear their ‘usual’ socks!), have a bit of a giggle and help make 2015’s Silly Sock Day bigger and better than ever, if you want to get involved then have a look online for plenty of inspiration at www.autism-anglia.org.uk/ sillysockday, and don’t forget to post some pics on the 27th using #sillysockday

Socks photo by Iain Houghton

27th March 2015

Wear your brightest, craziest socks for the day, make a donation and together we will be helping to change the lives of people with autism.

To request your free fundraising pack email sillysockday@autism-anglia.org.uk Achieve Magazine - Autism Anglia v1.indd 1

01206 577678 www.autism-anglia.org.uk 23/10/2014 14:23:04

Achieve 103

nna AKennedy

Continuing to campaign for a brighter future for autism For the second year running UK autism charity Anna Kennedy Online has been awarded the Achieve Award of Excellence as Autism Campaigner of the Year 2015.

Anna Kennedy is undoubtedly a worthy award winner and continues to cement herself as a driving force in the campaign to raise awareness for autism; but, Anna told us, she couldn’t do it without her ‘A Team’ – Lisa Robins, Austin Hughes and Tally Nothey as well as her Charity Champions – Mala Thapar and Vicky Cordwell, and a special thanks needs to be extended to each of them for their on-going commitment and helping to make Anna Kennedy Online the amazing community it has become.

Never one to just ‘settle’, Anna’s inspirational career was motivated by her own experience of the struggles those affected by autism undergo on a daily basis, with her own two sons both diagnosed

to support and events, whatever stage you are at. Anna and her team are committed to providing

with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) as children.

support for those who are

Where it all started

autism, as well as up to date factual advice for those who need it;

searching for a school suitable for her own 2 sons, Anna Kennedy

know where to turn after a diagnosis.

After being turned down from 26 special needs schools when made the life-changing commitment to provide an educational environment for her children and other families suited to those on the autism spectrum, providing support and development for children and their families. With a clear vision in mind she remortgaged her own home and converted a derelict building into Hillingdon Manor School!

fighting their own battles with the Facebook page for example has helped many who simply don’t

In between all this (yes, they do find time somehow!) Anna and her team have worked tirelessly campaigning for autism awareness, lobbying for improved services and facilities and providing a voice for everyone close to, or suffering from, autism.

“Our campaigning work also targets issues such as bullying of

Why Anna Kennedy Online is our winner

autistic children in mainstream education and we are regularly

plus an OBE in recognition of the notable achievements this

views heard and hopefully putting pressure on those in power to

15 years later and with 2 further schools opened to meet demand, passionate Mum has made, Anna’s initial determination has had a profound effect on many children.

Not only do the 3 schools provide exceptional, specialist education to give suffers of autism the very best opportunities to develop and flourish; Anna also launched Anna Kennedy Online offering website support, advice and information for parents and supporters of those affected by autism.

Anna Kennedy Online provides an abundance of information, including information on the early stages of diagnosis through

monitoring the media and Parliament to find ways of getting our make changes.” Anna explained

Watch this space

Watch out for the latest in Anna’s endeavours with her appearance on ‘The People’s Strictly’ in March. Autism Awareness Day in April and another ‘Autism’s Got Talent’ set to take centre stage in May. Show your support & find out more at www.annakennedyonline.com www.annakennedyonline.com 07710 597457

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Autism’s Got Talent is back and it’s even bigger and better for 2015!

With its popularity growing year on year we are delighted that Autism’s Got Talent is back for 2015.

Saturday 9th May 2015 will see another set of talented individuals and groups take to the stage at London’s Mermaid Theatre to show us their skills for the 4th year of Autism’s Got Talent.

Hosted by Anna Kennedy OBE the Autism’s Got Talent showcases acts from across the UK and abroad, with a diverse range of performances from talented children and adults with autism.

The performers, including dancers, singers, actors, and musicians, will fly the flag for autism and show what people with autism and Aspergers syndrome are capable of. And, with Anna herself set to hit the stage on People’s Strictly™ this year in aid of Comic Relief™, we wonder if she’ll be teaching those dancers some new moves!?

“It is not all about singing and dancing so if you think you can play an instrument and WOW people, perform magic and make Austin disappear or even present a talk on something you have achieved, as the lovely Jo Redman did this year on her Kick-Boxing, then please DO

get in touch with us. Don’t presume we won’t be interested in what you do!” Anna explained Supported in the past by celebrities including Carrie and David Grant, Debbie Moore OBE, Dr Pam Spurr, Steve Hewlett and Jason Leech, Autism’s Got Talent has become a highly popular annual event demonstrating the remarkable talents of those on the autism

[

[

“Not only does it provide a

springboard, it also boosts

confidence and social skills,

and new friendships for both adults and children.”

a perfect opportunity for parents, professionals

spectrum and showing that autism has definitely

and sufferers on the autistic spectrum to

got talent!

celebrate just how talented a bunch those on the autistic spectrum can be.

Anna Kennedy Online, with the support of Pineapple Performing Arts, has seen the benefits that Autism’s Got Talent can bring, publicly and personally, as well as the entertainment!

“Autism, like many issues is often shrouded with negativity and negative press. Autism’s Got Talent provides a platform and great opportunity to distinguish this, and replace it with hope, fun, laughter and positivity. Not only does it provide a springboard, it also boosts confidence and social skills, and new friendships for both adults and children. There are always several

“The essence of the event was extended to social media, with people networking, meeting new friends and sharing their experiences. It really brings people together, and everyone shares in the celebrations and congratulations. I really am looking forward to making 2015 bigger and better.” Anna enthused Tickets for this year’s show on Saturday 9th May at the Mermaid Theatre, London are

available from lisa.robins@thevines.org.

uk. We’ve got our seats booked and if previous experience is anything to go by, we cannot wait

emotional moments throughout the day and

to see what talent they’ve for in store for us

evening of the performances.” Anna told us

this year.

Entrants were picked in January from thousands

www.annakennedyonline.com

of nominations to provide an eclectic mix of

lisa.robins@thevines.org.uk

talent and entertainment on the night, offering

01895 619734

Achieve 65

We’re dancing in the streets this April with...

Autism Dance Day April is Autism Awareness Month across the globe and it sees the welcome return of Step in the Right Direction Autism Dance Day on Friday 24th April 2015. Filled with the Friday feeling (and maybe a Crunchie™ or two!) it’s a day to don your dancing shoes and show your support for autism by taking part in (or organising) one of the many dance events to be held across the UK.

Previous years have been an overwhelming

we can communicate universally when the

success with schools, youth clubs, colleges

mainstream methods are unavailable i.e.

and workplaces all demonstrating their dancing

speech. The only universal language is one

skills and raising funds for autism. This year the

that can be communicated through our bodies

dancing fever is spreading with the introduction

and movements. It is universal because we all

of a nationwide dance festival to raise funds

communicate nonverbally whether we have an

for autism.

autism spectrum disorder or not.

“It’s easy to organise – someone brings the

“Feeling understood, for all of us, is a biological

music and the invitees provide the moves- and

imperative. People with autism are no exception.

if we all get behind the occasion we think it will really capture the imagination of children with

Neither are their parents and families.” Christina Devereaux, Ph.D., BC-DMT

Autism, their parents, carers, friends and family, as well as local press and communities.”

Anna Kennedy explained

more support, as it offers therapists and families

Anyone can join in whether they are involved

barriers which can be so profound with

or affected by autism or they just love a good

autism and reach a level where both parties

boogie; it’s guaranteed to be full of fun and a

are understood and understand through the

great way to help raise awareness and funding

interpretations of dance; enabling therapist,

for a terrific cause.

families and sufferers to open up lines of communication which are absolutely invaluable.

Because the autistic spectrum is so vast, there isn’t really one way that works for all when trying to build a connection with individuals on the autism spectrum.

Doctors and therapists working with autism recognised that there needs to be a way

66

is one approach that is gaining more attention for its unique capacity to work directly with the core

This approach is beginning to see more and the ability to break down the communication

So why dance?

“

Dance/movement therapy

deficits of autism.

”

Direction available on Amazon.” Said Anna So, all you need to do now is pick your music,

“Dance/movement therapy is one approach that

get your friends, families and colleagues

is gaining more attention for its unique capacity

signed up and get involved. But, don’t forget

to work directly with the core deficits of autism.”

to send over some pictures of your moves on

Christina Devereaux, Ph.D., BC-DMT

social media, who knows you may be the UK’s favourite twinkle toes come May!

“We all know the positive benefits of dance for those with Autism and this has been demonstrated in the DVD Step in the right

www.annakennedyonline.com 01895 619734

y l t c i r t S for autism

nominated by thousands of serious Strictly

Anton du Beke will join Darcey Bussell, Bruno

super-fans who recognised the selfless and

Tonioli and head judge Len Goodman on

life-changing works these people do and

the judging panel for ‘The People’s Strictly

their positive contributions to their societies.

for Comic Relief’ this year. The twinkle-toed philanthropists will be put through their paces

Photo: BBC

The People’s Strictly is soon set to return to our screens as part of Comic Relief 2015 with this year celebrating

The contestants will spend 5 weeks

for several weeks before the show airs whilst

training and practising their routines before

they learn routines to wow the audiences and

performing on the infamous Strictly Come

hopefully the judges too; joining Craig Revel-

Dancing ballroom to vie for judges and

Horwood on the on the set of the Strictly Come

viewers votes. The judge’s scores will be

Dancing Live Tour to perform their routines for

for guidance only with the public holding the

the first time in episode 3.

deciding vote.

Anton du Beke said: “Having been a part of this

the tireless work and achievements

Since the contestants were confirmed on 8th

wonderful show ever since series one, I know all

of six of the UK’s own heroes and

January, Anna has received an overwhelming

too well what it’s like to perform to the nation on

amount of support via social media; Anna hopes

the famous Strictly Come Dancing dance floor.

to continue to raise awareness for autism even

I’m delighted to be joining the judging panel in

further with her dancing debut and we, for one,

aid of Comic Relief, and I’m looking forward to

can’t wait to see her shimmy her way into the

giving my help and advice to the contestants

Strictly history books!

and their professional partners.”

“I am so overwhelmed by everyone’s

Voting lines will open once all couples have

messages I will try my best and do whatever

danced and the winner of the public vote

I can to raise awareness about #autism and

will then be crowned The People’s Strictly

heroines, including our very own Anna Kennedy.

The four part series will see these remarkable philanthropists paired up with professional dance partners from Strictly Come Dancing’s talented line-up, offering them a once in a lifetime opportunity to show off their dancing prowess and provide some great entertainment for Strictly fans everywhere.

“BBC One is the TV home of ballroom dancing so where better to see deserving, real-life heroes and heroines experience the sparkling joy of Strictly and all for such a great cause in Comic Relief.” Charlotte Moore, Controller, BBC One Presented by Tess Daley and Claudia Winkleman the show will feature 2 dance-offs preceded by 2 episodes revealing the magical moments the contestants were told of their nomination; the six contestants were publicly

thank you again x” Anna tweeted

Champion as part of the live Red Nose Day night of TV on BBC One on Friday 13th March.

After fancy footwork and hopefully some jaw-

The money raised from the show will be spent

dropping lifts to delight the audience, voters will

helping to change the lives of poor, vulnerable

be able to choose their favourite, with the winner

and disadvantaged people in the UK and

crowned as The People’s Strictly Champion

across Africa. So get the date in your diary and

2015 live on the BBC One Comic Relief Show on

help us to crown Anna our Strictly Champion

Friday 13 March 2015.

this year.

This year our very own Anna Kennedy will be

www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2015/

one of the talented contestants, making her on screen debut on Wednesday 4th March, where she will be greeted by her professional dance partner and the training begins!

peoples-strictly

baston house school

Celebrating another birthday for Baston House When Anna Kennedy founded the Hillingdon Manor School in Middlesex to support her autistic sons education she could not have imagined the demand for strong educational environments able to provide the specialist support needed for children on the autism spectrum; with the same initial passion and drive which converted that derelict council building into an award-winning school, she extended the reach of Hillcrest Autism Care and opened Baston House in Bromley.

Baston House was the third, and to date final, school opened by Hillcrest Autism Care in 2010.

Baston House is now firmly established as yet

the International Primary Curriculum (IPC)

another success in Hillcrest Care’s portfolio,

as it is a comprehensive, thematic, creative

boasting some of the best specialist educators

curriculum with a clear process of learning

on its teaching staff, dedicated to providing

and with specific learning goals for every

stimulating, individualised development

subject, for international mindedness and for

programmes to each student in a safe and

personal learning with a focus on improving the

engaging environment.

communication and interaction skills autistic

‘The Baston Way’ Baston House caters for students from 5 to 16 years old and are experts at encouraging learners and supporting their families throughout their Primary and Secondary education to realise their goals and prepare them for adult life. This approach has evolved over the past 5 years and is fondly known as ‘The Baston Way’; a combination of research proven autismspecific strategies, systems and techniques, incorporating individualised learning plans, with a clear focus on improving communication and interaction skills through identifying learner’s

The success of Baston House for the pupils attending and their alumni is testimony to their approach, their first-hand experience and the passion of everyone involved. Baston House are experts at helping young autistic individuals enjoy their education and fulfil their potential because every case of autism is unique “when you have met one child with autism, you have met one child with autism” Marie, parent; which is why Baston House breaks down barriers and works with an eclectic mix of strategies and techniques to find the right programme for

strengths in areas of special interest.

your child.

Classes are limited in number, approximately 6

We’re more than a little inspired to hear the

students per class, to ensure that their specialist teachers are able to provide the attention and support each learner needs in accessing their potential and to tailor the curriculum to meet

numerous successes stories Hillcrest Autism Care and its schools have helped to shape and we sincerely wish Baston House and the team an extremely happy 5th birthday and many more

every student’s needs.

to come!

Structured integration into the Secondary school

www.bastonhouseschool.org.uk

provides much needed support during the transition from Primary School; a daunting time for any child and parent! The school follows

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children can so often struggle most with.

0208 462 1010

info@bastonhouseschool.org.uk

West London Community College

to empowering students to access the opportunities they have is second to none, yet the targets they set are realistic and ensure

[

[

students have the best opportunities to work toward an independent life.

“It is our vision to improve the

quality of life for our students and promote awareness

and understanding of autism

West End education to inspire and engage

spectrum conditions.”

“It is our vision to improve the quality of life for our students and promote awareness and understanding of autism spectrum conditions.

Our mission is to enable adults with an autism spectrum condition to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding required to enable them to achieve as fulfilled, meaningful

West London Community College (WLCC) is another success in

Hillcrest Care’s bow, providing the same specialist care and

education to autism sufferers from 16 years upwards, with no upper age limit.

from regular sessions covering an extensive range of skills with the opportunity to include academic study such as GCSE’s and ASDAN awards as part of their tutelage.

For adults affected by autism, both inside and outside of the local communities, WLCC also has a residential facility just a mile out of Uxbridge providing a great opportunity to enjoy life as a resident as well; reinforcing their skills and independence whilst in a supervised and

and independent a life as possible through the provision of a high quality, personalised life skills programme that meets their needs and interests.”

WLCC and the dedicated teams behind the scenes have succeeded in supporting numerous individuals over the past 15 years and continue to innovate and develop their programmes to offer tremendous opportunity to those who attend. From housekeeping to

Celebrating its 15th Anniversary in March,

safe, tailor made setting (and a very scenic one

WLCC continue to be instrumental in supporting

at that!).

academic pursuits, WLCC equip and encourage

development and are experts at teaching

‘The Old Vicarage’ provides residential care for

very best for themselves and their future lives.

autistic adults the essential skills they will need

18-65 year olds in a stunning 8 bedroom home,

to empower them toward living an independent

with all mod-cons and a fantastic support team.

life after school. Situated across 2 campuses

Specifically for adults with autism spectrum

in Uxbridge and Hayes, the college is staffed

conditions (ASC) or Asperger’s syndrome,

by highly skilled professionals, all from SEN

The Old Vicarage is equipped to support and

backgrounds, able to identify and provide the

manage the complexities associated with these

training each individual student needs.

conditions. Residents are actively encouraged

Creating aspirations, fulfilling dreams.

to develop everyday living skills such as

the crucial next steps for young adult’s

all their residents and students to achieve the

cooking, cleaning, shopping and laundry. All With specific care and study programmes

taught in a way that every resident can benefit

for each student, WLCC deliver a holistic

from and understand; their focus is to assist

curriculum designed to promote independence,

residents in the transition to independent living.

well-being and life skills through a diverse

Fulfilling individual potential with an

package of teaching structures; students benefit

award-winning team WLCC’s commitment

www.autismconsultants.org 01895 619700

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World Autism Awareness Week: 27th March - 2nd April 2015 Autism is a condition close to our hearts at Achieve Magazine and together with Anna Kennedy Online we are encouraging everyone to find out a little bit more about this condition and show their support for those affected by it.

World Autism Awareness Week (WAAW) is all

existent and interests are severely restricted

about doing something to stand out for autism!

and repetitive in nature causing difficulties in

Run in conjunction with autism charities across

everyday life.

the world, including the National Autistic Society (NAS) and annakennedyonline.com, it is all

“Autism is a communication disorder, with a

about raising awareness and money for autism,

broad range of effect. Some people's autism

and having a great time in the process!

makes them eccentric and geeky. Other people can't speak at all, as a result of more severe

The eighth annual World Autism Awareness Day

autistic disability.” Psychology Today

takes place on Thursday 2nd April 2015 and for the week leading up to it, fundraisers will be

Despite there being no ‘cure’ for autism,

busy completing challenges, baking, walking

intervention and therapies for both children

and dressing up to raise even more money and

and adults can achieve great results and truly

much needed awareness across the world.

enhance lives. Many sufferers have seen

Last year the National Autistic Society’s Onesie

improvements in their condition with speech

Wednesday™ campaign raised £91,000 on

and language therapies or the likes of cognitive

World Autism Awareness Day and following

behavioural therapies (CBT) and it is imperative

its success people across the UK and

that sufferers are correctly diagnosed and

abroad will be embarking upon a full week of

offered these types of support to enable them to

fundraising events in 2015. The popular Onesie

reach fulfilment.

Wednesday will be returning on Wednesday 1st April with schools and offices parading in their favourite pyjamas up and down the country; the NAS are also introducing a brand new challenge for 2015 with Night Walks for Autism taking place in Newcastle and London.

Light It Up Blue #LIUB

This year the aim is to turn the world blue in recognition of autism along with the international autism community, in commemoration of the United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day, and everyone can help

What’s it all for?

raise awareness simply by talking, tweeting,

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is often

donating or fundraising. It all helps families and

characterised by difficulty in communication,

individuals on the spectrum to realise they are

social interactions and a tendency for repetition

not alone and help identify ways of improving

and can range from moderate challenges

their daily lives and education. Get involved

for individuals in social settings through to

and let’s make 2015 bigger, better and bluer

the higher end of the spectrum (including Asperger’s syndrome) whereby verbal communication is extremely limited or non-

70

than ever and support Light It Up Blue #LIUB

What’s on for autism March Tuesday 3rd March 2015

National Autistic Society Awards Ceremony takes place in Harrogate Friday 13th March 2015

The People’s Strictly champion will be announced as part of Comic Relief Friday 27th March 2015

World Autism Awareness Week 2015 commences Saturday 28th March 2015

Night Walks for Autism in Newcastle and London

April Wednesday 1st April

Onesie Wednesday in aid of autism awareness Thursday 2nd April 2015

World Autism Awareness Day Friday 24th April 2015 Autism Dance Day

May Saturday 9th May 2015

Autism’s Got Talent performers will showcase their talents at the Mermaid Theatre, London

JIM TAYLOR KNOWS AUTISM Embarking on his inspirational career as a Primary Teacher in Scotland 37 years ago, Jim Taylor went on to become one of the first teachers in the UK and Scotland to work exclusively with children and adults with autism.

Jim has dedicated the past 35 years to focussing on children and adults with autism, firmly believing that the right support can achieve remarkable results for families and individuals living with an autism spectrum disorder. His empathy and commitment to education focussing on the specific needs of those with autism led to him being recruited by The Scottish Society for Children with Autism, now known as Scottish Autism. Closely involved in pioneering work in the 1970’s and 1980’s in the adaptation of educational thinking and teaching methods to the specific needs of children with autism, Jim has worked with children from pre-school to early adulthood to tackle issues and achieve the right support and fulfil individual’s real potential.

“He is a joy to listen to at training events-full of practical ideas, good humour and excellent at helping staff find innovative solutions.”

Rita Jordan, Emeritus Professor in Autism Studies, University of Birmingham Jim now works independently offering training courses, assessments and sessions enabling professionals, parents and young people to recognise and make positive changes in their lives in order to reach their potential. He helps schools and organisations to improve, enhance and develop their existing skills and knowledge with a range of programmes and sessions designed for their particular needs.

that a nomination was submitted for the upcoming National Autistic Society’s 2015 Awards, and deservedly so. Recognising his contribution to so many lives and his ongoing inspiration to so many more, Jim has been shortlisted as a Finalist for the National Autistic Society’s Lifetime Achievement Award 2015.

“The Autism Professionals Awards have been created to recognise and reward services and professionals who are leading the way in innovative autism practice and making a real difference to the lives of people with autism in the UK.” National Autistic Society Jim continues to focus on autism and what truly makes a difference, offering training and education. This focus has enabled Jim and those who work with him to overcome barriers such as attitudes, understanding, finance and politics in larger organisations. His expert knowledge, understanding and empathy have enabled many to benefit from his advice, experience and support over the years.

“Jim’s vast knowledge of autism extends beyond educational provision for children and young people–he “One of Jim’s greatest strengths knows what families also need and of all is his humanity in understanding how best to support them too.” the needs of children with autism.”

Catriona Oates, ParentCQSW, RNMH, MIoD

Carolyn Brown, Psychological Service, Fife

Former CEO Autism Cymru & Autism West Midlands

With testimony to not only his abilities but the experience and dedication Jim has shown over the past three decades coming from peers, families and colleagues, it is no surprise

To work with Jim or find out more take a look at his website and see how he can help you and your organisation. Send him an email hello@jimtaylorknowsautism.com

Contact:

+44 (0) 7964 823 567 hello@jimtaylorknowsautism.com jimtaylorknowsautism.com

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Autism and mental health 19 May 2015 - Copthorne Tara Hotel, London This conference will give you the tools and strategies you need to identify and provide targeted support for children and adults with autism who have mental health difficulties. www.autism.org.uk/mentalhealth Key topics:

> combating bullying in schools > OCD and autism > use of medication for young people with autism > promoting good mental health.

Register by Friday 20 March 2015 to take advantage of our early booking rate.

Featuring Professor Tony Attwood and Dr Wenn Lawson

www.autism.org.uk/mentalhealth Service provided by The National Autistic Society, a company limited by guarantee registered in England (No. 1205298) and a charity registered in England and Wales (269425) and in Scotland (SC039427), registered office: 393 City Road, London EC1V 1NG 2046 230212

Autism and toileting Lorraine MacAlister, an autism training consultant for The National Autistic Society has delivered training for both parents and professionals on a variety of issues related to autism, including toileting difficulties.

Learning to use the toilet, particularly in a way that others see as an appropriate way, can be a real challenge for some children with autism. There may be a variety of different reasons why some children with autism find learning toileting skills difficult: some related to their autism, others related to specific physical difficulties, or a combination of the two.

also less likely to learn new skills by copying other children. A change in routine can be difficult for many and some children gain some skills but have difficulty transferring this knowledge to different toilets. Some have anxieties around using the toilet - think how cleaning product adverts suggest germ monsters live under the toilet seat!

Common toileting difficulties for children with autism can include:

Many children experience sensory differences. For some, this can mean they do not register that their bowel or bladder is full or they don’t feel the need to go. Some might not be aware of wees and poos in their nappy, while others enjoy the sensation. Some children may find the bathroom a very overloading room to be in – or they may love it but are more interested in posting things down the toilet or flushing it!

• difficulties in learning to use the toilet in the day at night • knowing when they need to use the toilet • communicating the need to use the toilet • being able to get themselves to the toilet • learning to use different toilets • sensory and environmental challenges • wiping themselves • smearing their poo • a range of continence specific difficulties including bowel or bladder problems.

It can be a topic that many people still find very hard to discuss - parents may have felt incredible pressure from family, friends and other professionals about addressing toileting and some of the resulting advice may have been unhelpful or even misleading.

There are various characteristics of autism that can lead to difficulties with learning to use the toilet. Some of the language and communication around toileting can be confusing, many children may not understand what you are asking them to do or could take things very literally; the phrase ‘go to the toilet’ may only actually be telling them to go to the room, not what they should be doing in there. A child may think that you know they have had a wee, may not be aware they should or know how to communicate this.

Some children may not be socially motivated to wear ‘big boy/girl pants’, may not want to please you by weeing in the right place or understand how pooing in the wrong place can impact on others; they are

It is also important to ask whether there are any additional health problems that could be contributing to toileting issues. There is a risk when a child has any form of disability that everything can get blamed on that disability, whereas there might be other specific continence issues that need investigating further and treating.

Extra preparation can be key to successfully using the toilet and overcoming other continence-related issues. Success can be achieved, but that it might take longer and need much more preparation and planning. The earlier you can start with addressing any toileting difficulties, the better your chances of success!

For free information about strategies to address toileting difficulties for children with autism or help on any other autism-related issue, visit www.networkautism.org.uk.

Lorraine MacAlister Autism Training Consultant, The National Autistic Society

Achieve 115

What Else is Affecting Your Child’s Brain histamine and malondialdehyde, which

establish which parasites are on board and

the brain. The knock on affect will also be

a short period of time one can expect the

can hugely affect the neurotransmitters in shown in demeanor, behavior and health.

Once hatched a larva can migrate round the body to places like the brain, bile

do. Whether it is a gut problem, whether it is a brain issue, or the food they eat.

However, recently more emphasis is being drawn to parasites.

which the body then defends itself

Perhaps now is the time to take a different

counter act the inflammatory response

when the usual areas of investigation are

not providing the results you want. Book a

and negative behaviour, the happier

the parasites are as you are probably

test for parasites and see who shows up.

For more information or to book an

appointment: www.liliasahmeira.com

Once the body has been tested to

Viruses

Parasites

look at what is going on with your child

more supplements you give a child to

Magnesium, Calcium and Iron.

like ammonia, formaldehyde, morphine,

This can bring about less stemming,

against through inflammation. The

giving them all their favourite foods, B12,

Parasites give off powerful neuro toxins

a reduction in neuro toxins being emitted.

many more benefits.

can produce severe allergic reactions

neuro typical children behave the way they

body to start to heal. You should then see

greater eye contact, less agitation and so

ducts, liver, pancreas or appendix. This

Much attention is given to why autistic and

the best method of removing them, after

Bacteria

Lyme Disease

MTHFR mutation

Food Sensitivities

Leaky Gut

Biofilm

Methylation Blood Sugars

Lilias Ahmeira Holistic Practitioner For immediate biofeedback testing of the body go to:

www.liliasahmeira.com 116

lilias@liliasahmeira.com

01460 66990

Autism Awareness in the House of Commons Written By Tina Gayle

Thursday the 29th January saw Anna Kennedy OBE, Chair of Charity ‘Anna Kennedy Online’ speaking to a packed reception in the House of Commons.

Hosted by Mr Chris White MP, the reception was held in the famous Churchill Room to raise awareness of the need for a systematic Autism Diagnosis procedure across the UK. The audience consisted of a range of UK wide Autism support groups, specialist Teachers, and parents of children with Autistic Spectrum Conditions. Some well-known public figures were also spotted, including: Sir John Randall, Carina Tyrell - the reigning Miss England, Rachel Christie - the Olympic Track Athlete, Debbie Moore, OBE, Richard Mylan - the Actor, and some of the West Ham United Football Foundations Community team.

The Presentations started with Anna telling us that Children with Diabetes go to a Diabetes Clinic, Children with Asthma go to an Asthma centre, and Children suffering with the effects of Autism, spend between 2 and 5 years trying to get Health professionals to recognise there is a medical problem.

Then the struggle begins towards a diagnosis, while trying to manage a full-time job, a family, and an intelligent child or teenager who is repeatedly sanctioned or excluded from School for behavioural issues.

These children are serious victims of disability discrimination by not being able to get an accurate diagnosis in time to make effective use of the education system. Missing out on the

correct help and support at school is resulting in bright young people who want to work, leaving school with no possibility of being able to do so.

The drain on our scarce benefits resources for the rest of their lives should strike a chilling blow to the Health Commissioners and Social Care Leaders in our local communities. A faster recognition of symptoms, a clear pathway of referrals to specialists and a simple process of accurate diagnosis, would result in these children and young people, reaching adulthood as contributing members of Society.

Anna said: “Families

and carers need

respite breaks, access to better educational facilities and help with finding suitable employment for their children. Individuals like my sons are ‘not stupid’, just different, and often have enormous skills, intelligence and the ability to master complex tasks and projects.”

Sean Kennedy, Barrister and legal advisor to the Charity then spoke about the legal framework of disability discrimination, and asked whether adults and children with autism are discriminated against.

He provided facts that showed clearly that the life chances and opportunities of children and adults with autism were severely discriminated against compared with their unimpaired peers.

Set against the Equality Act 2010, the Children & Families Act 2014, the Public Sector Equality Duty 2011, the Community Care framework and the Mental Health Act 2007; it seems incredible that people with autism are slipping through an enormous gap in this net.

www.annakennedyonline.com

Tel: 01895 619736

Sean gave us a 10 point plan A far reaching plan of action based on a shift of values captured everyone’s attention and while he was speaking, you could have heard a pin drop.

His considerations included: • Questioning litigation as an appropriate choice for people with autism • Embedding values of equality and really tackling stereotypical beliefs • Abolishing segregation and developing mainstream social inclusion • Incentivising equality and making local providers accountable for it.

• Understanding that Social Inclusion is impossible without the person with autism actually being engaged in the process His final points were that everyone should be encouraging empowerment by declaring war on apathy and that people who are on the autistic Spectrum, should be encouraged to do as much as they reasonably can to help themselves.

Anna Kennedy Online The Charity is certainly living up to this philosophy, providing training to professionals around the country, providing legal advice, a Helpline for parents, Talks around the UK, an informative website, and a 70 thousand strong following on social media.

Encouraging those with autism to help themselves, there is the Autism Dance Day, the Performing Arts ‘Autism’s Got Talent’, and the Charity Fashion Show ‘Wear it for Autism’ The campaigning goes on targeting issues of autism diagnosis across the UK and any help you can give with advertising, fundraising, sponsorship or donations would be hugely appreciated.

E: lisa.robins@thevines.org.uk

Tina Gayle is a Freelance Writer & available for commissions www.whizzywords.com

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Finding the right mobility aid for you...

With so much help available to you to find ways to become more

should be looking out for when choosing a

enable you to live the life that you want

mobility product.

to be living; again, the different purposes

mobile a disability need not mean

you want out of your product should be

a restrictive lifestyle. especially

Communication

discussed at length. This discussion

with so many great, expert

The company you choose to provide

doesn’t mean that they will be looking to

you with your mobility aid ought to be

sell you the most expensive either, a good

pretty good at communicating with their

company should be matching you with a

customers. With so many aspects of each

product that not only meets your individual

sale based on what it is their customer

lifestyle needs but that is also the very best

needs, how they live or indeed how they

in price for your budget requirements too.

companies offering top of the range mobility aids which use the very latest technologies.

How, you might wonder, do you ensure that the product you are getting is right for you? Its all in the specifics, your mobility needs are individual and therefore the approach to meeting those needs ought to be individual too, right? Well, here at Achieve we have come into contact with some of those such experts who all insist that the key to finding the right product for their client is all down to finding out all about you, they should delve into finding out all about your needs, your lifestyle and

want to live should be considered. A company who don’t ask the right questions

Ongoing care

to match you with a mobility aid simply

The right company will be seeking to

aren’t selling you a product that will be

provide you with excellent after sales care

right for you both in the short and long

too, such a big purchase will likely require

term. Often a big financial purchase and a

some degree of getting used to and you

product that can have a profound effect on

will need to feel that the company from

your life will need to be sold to you as ‘an

which you purchased your mobility aid are

individual.

happy to oblige with any further information and advice you need, long after you take

Technology

your product home.

your wants out of life.

Its a fast developing area and so of course you want the very latest in technological

Ideally, the mobility company will have a

Below are just a few things that you

advancements. There are so many ranges

great deal of experience and know their

Mini Crosser

118

of mobility aids all of

products inside out, such a personal

which will help you live an

purchase needs to be sold by people

enhanced quality of life.

who really know what they are doing, who

A wheelchair for example

believe in their products and above all

will come with a whole

want to find you the right fit. So be sure

host of different models

to do your research before making your

and makes for different

purchase and hopefully as a result you will

terrains and so it may

find a mobility product that enhances

be that you need more

your life.

than one wheelchair to

Mini Crosser

Made in Scandinavia, tested in Scotland The Mini Crosser itself is designed

With its stylish looks and flexible design this

and manufactured in Denmark and, as

is a mobility scooter which can cater for any

they’re infamous for their weather and

eventuality. So, if you prefer spending your

terrain, you would expect nothing less

leisure time in the city or exploring the hills, the

than the ultimate in mobility and the Mini

Mini Crosser is more than capable of getting you

Crosser

there.

does not disappoint.

Functional, strong and amazingly comfortable the Mini Crosser epitomises the desires of

Privately owned and operated the team behind the Mini Crosser’s sole authorised trader in Scotland have a wealth of knowledge and experience in the mobility scooter market. Based in Inverness, with a second outlet in Aberdeen, these are the people you need to speak to about mobility.

Each Mini

every mobility scooter user; no longer are you

Crosser

restricted in where you can go and how you’ll

is made

get there, that can be left up to this impressive

specifically

piece of equipment.

for your needs and all are

Find out how you can find the next steps to

highly

freedom with the Mini Crosser at

versatile; easily adaptable with a range of accessories to meet any need they ensure that

www.mini-crosser-scotland.co.uk, the team are experts and whatever your hobbies or

your scooter continues to meet your needs

dreams, they’re always up for a challenge so

however they may change. This is why it’s

you won’t be disappointed!

no surprise that they boast an ever-growing consumer based right here in the UK.

Achieve 119

Feel close and connected to your baby with the AmaWrap.

Suitable from newborn, there are many benefits to baby and parent.

Get 10% off when you quote “achieve2015�

www.amawrap.com