ACORN VILLAGE WINTER EDITION 2017
Issue 3
Acorn Village Winter Edition 2017
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER:263954
SAVE THE DATE!
2017
Christmas Appeal As Christmas moves ever closer we’ve decided this year instead of the Christmas Draw to ask for your help directly. Our next project is for a new kitchen at Mistley Wood for visually impaired adults with learning disabilities . This specialised kitchen will be designed to empower our residents enabling them to be as independent in their day to day life as possible. The cost of the kitchen and additional specialised
equipment is approximately £12,000. Funds raised at the Christmas Market & Winter Wonderland on the 18th November will be put towards the project as will the funds from the Concord Charity Ball. If we are lucky enough to exceed the total, any additional funds will go back into the charity to provide activities and support transport and maintenance costs. Can you help us raise the funds either through a donation (perhaps the amount you would spend on the Christmas Draw?) or maybe a cake sale. We can supply the cake cases for free, just get in contact. Acorn is the wonderful place it is today thanks to people like you. So a big thank you for your support, we couldn’t do it without you.
Christmas Market & Winter Wonderland 18th November 10am-4pm This year’s theme is ‘Beauty and the Beast, we would love you to join us on this magical day.
The Happy Prince 8th & 9th December Watch our talented Actors perform in this thought provoking piece.
Winter Wonderland Finale 16th December 11am-2.30pm The last day of the Beauty & the Beast themed Winter Wonderland in the Creative Craft Centre.
Christmas Carol Service 20th December 11am Join us for our Annual Service. Everybody Welcome .
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ACORN SPECIAL SHOUT OUTS Louise Raises Over £2000 since 2014 with her yearly fundraisers. Tenant Louise has been going from strength to strength each year. She has organised three 12 hour challenges (one particularly soggy one!) and a sponsored Gunge after convincing the CEO and Operations Manager it would raise a lot of money…and she was right! Well Done Louise.
Congratulations to the ‘Crafters of the Month’ in the Creative Craft Centre. Introduced in June the following Acorn Artists have won this exciting award; May- Susie, June- John, JulyRichard, August- Dot, September- Harry, OctoberTrevor. The award is given for their dedication as well as their artistic skills. Well Done Artist’s!
Team Acorn at the Fire Swim were dressed in a Hawaiian Theme this year. Residents, Tenants, Staff, (& their families) and Volunteers took part in this physical event. Thank you to everyone who came and supported on the day and sponsored the team.
They had a lovely surprise when they were presented with the Fancy Dress Shield.
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YOUR EVENTS- THANK YOU ALL!!
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Mistley Bingo Club Mistley Bingo Club has supported us with a donation to their very local charity, some staff went to thank them personally and joined in for the night. They’ve now ended up with some new members!
Mistley & Manningtree Parochial Church Council Thank you to all of the Parishers for their generous donation to help adults with learning disabilities.
Anglian Timber Thanks to Anglian Timber for choosing Acorn Village to support this year.
Edgeware 41 Club & the Eastern Region 41 Charity Golf Day Prize winners from the 41 Charity Golf Day chose to donate their winnings to support adults with learning disabilities. Thank you to them.
Colchester Beekeepers Association Thank you to the Beekeepers for donating their prize-winning honey for the residents of Acorn Village.
Brantham Fun Run The Brantham Fun Run Committee kindly chose Acorn Village to as their charity to donate to this year.
Afternoon Tea with Jo Supporter Jo raised much needed funds for adults with learning disabilities by holding Afternoon Teas for friends, it was not only very tasty but very popular too. Thank you Jo!
Talks with Tony Co-Author of ‘Life is For Living’, Tony has been doing talks and donating the proceeds to Acorn Village. Thank you Tony!
Acorn Charity Invitation Shield The Acorn Charity Invitation Shield and the late Ken Salmon’s family came to Acorn to hold their AGM, give a donation and present a new ‘Roll of Honour’ Award dedicated to those who have played a significant role within the Shield. A huge thank you to them for their continuous support.
Putting up marquee’s in the wind
AXA Volunteers Thank you to the wonderful AXA volunteers who came and help set up for the Dog Show this year.It was certainly very challenging putting up marquees in the wind!!
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Getting Active For Acorn…
Westwood Caravan Park Long term supporters, Westwood Caravan Park since June have held a Quiz, a BBQ and a table top sale in aid of Acorn as well as permanently have a collection pot available. Thank you!
The United Reformed Church Thank you to the parishers for choosing to help adults with learning disabilities this year.
Iron Man in America Nick Watkinson chose to push himself to the limits when he took on the Wisconsin Iron Man. He completed the 2.4 mile swim, 112mile cycle and 26.3 mile marathon non-stop in 13hrs 28minutes after training for over 400hours. An amazing achievement. Well Done Nick!
Taking to the Skies! Chris Vince has committed himself to jumping from a plane and has already raised a vast amount of to help adults with learning disabilities. His first date was cancelled, he’s waiting (no doubt slightly nervously) for the next potentital jump. Good Luck Chris!
Thank you to everyone who has helped adults with learning disabilities . Every penny really does help and truly makes a difference. If you’re thinking of running a fundraising event for us don’t hesitate in getting in contact. We will give you as much support as we can.
STAFF SHOUT OUTS The Cross Inn Pub Quiz A big thank you to Brenda & Paul for organising this sold out fundraising activity. We probably shouldn’t mention how Team Acorn did…
Congratulations for completing the following qualifications… Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care: Kirsty Shean
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More than just an Artist –
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Winter Wonderland Interview
For the last 3 years the Acorn Village Artist’s have been creating beautiful Winter Wonderland’s for the public to enjoy. They are currently working on a Beauty & the Beast theme ready for the Christmas Market & Winter Wonderland on the 18th November at Acorn Village. We’ve interviewed Catherine, Richard & Harry, three of the Acorn Artists working on the project along with Senior Craft Assistant Phil to find out more: What made the team come up with Beauty & the Beast as a theme? Phil: After discussions with residents & tenants we all put forward ideas and different themes in a team meeting for this year’s winter wonderland and then voted. Beauty and the Beast was the favourite. What’s been the hardest part of the project so far? Catherine: Moving bits of the project from one room to another Harry: The Papier mache Richard: All the painting What materials do you use for the project? Richard, Harry & Catherine: Newspaper, glue, lots of paint especially white & gold, paintbrushes, cardboard boxes, hardboard (*chicken wire , wood, various fabrics, modrock, string, other wire types, they also look through donations that aren’t suitable for the shops and have picked out lots of items to upcycle) What’s your favourite part of the project? Harry: Papier macheing the boxes (for the wall) Richard: Helping Pat (Pat is one of the very talented long term members of staff (15years & counting) at Acorn Village) Catherine: Painting and the gluing Last time Mr Darcy was based on you Harry, is there any characters based on anyone at Acorn Village this year? Harry: No Phil: Not this year, we do have our own version of Belle and the Beast (you can make up your own minds as to who you think they are based on!) How many hours have you spent on the project so far? Catherine & Harry: Lots Phil: At least 200! (we started the prep work back in April) There are many more hours of work planned! If you could choose anyone to visit the Winter Wonderland who would it be? Richard: Debbie my housemate Harry: Richard my keyworker Catherine: My sister Hannah Do you think it will be finished on time for the 18th??? Catherine: I think so Harry & Richard: Yes Phil: Yes of course! Although I’m sure we will be in the hall putting the finishing touches on the display right up until the doors open for the first time.
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‘On Tracks’
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’S UPDATES ON TRACKS
A Mural for Manningtree Recently the Acorn Artists were chosen by ACoRP & Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership alongside Essex County Council to design and create a mural for the Manningtree Train Station. The wonderful artwork was offically opened by Chairman of the Council, Councillor John Aldridge. CEO Michelle & Councillor Carlo Guigliemi both gave speeches on how proud they are of all of the Artists at Acorn Village. Project lead Angenita was very pleased with the display and is now busy with the team working on part twocompleting the other side of the project. Follow their project here: : https://www.facebook.com/Manningtree-On-Tracks-A-Mural-for-Manningtree-Acorn-
The Team of Artists heading in for the official opening
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Manager Sue pointing out the artwork
Councillor John Aldridge congratulating Artist Louise on her scene
Artist Catherine proudly showcasing her version of Colchester Castle
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Acorn Choir & Open Mic Night Thanks to your donations Acorn has a new Choir! Every Tuesday they get together to practice a variety of songs. Two of the members were recently asked to sing at an open mic night in Harwich. In preparation for the Christmas Market & Winter Wonderland they sung ‘Tale as old as Time’ from Beauty & The Beast. They got a standing ovation. Well Done Team Acorn!
Tendring Show July 2017 Maintenance, Coffee Shop, Creative Craft Centre, Gardening and the Fundraising staff joined forces to inform over 21,000 people about the Acorn Village charity. They also sold a large amount of raffle tickets & sold out on the tombola as well as showcasing Acorn Artist’s creations and selling pre-loved items. It was another great day and we’d like to thank the Tendring Show Committee for continuing to support us.
Caprice Orchestra Chelmsford Cathedral
Michelle & Lindsay were representatives of Acorn at the wonderful fundraising concert. With music ranging from Copland to Disney there was something for everyone. Thank you to the Caprice Orchestra for their support.
Thank You Brightlingsea Volunteers
Exciting Opportunity An opportunity has arisen to join the board of Trustees at Acorn Village. If you would like more information on joining please contact us: info@acornvillages.com
After months of deliberation, the decision was made to say farewell to the Charity Shop in Brightlingsea. This was a difficult decision as the shop had been part of Acorn History for over 25years. All the volunteers have been wonderful, we would like to say a big ‘Thank You’ to them all, a special thank you to those who recently took over the running of the shop in the last year.
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The Dog Show with Classic Cars 5th August 2017
Thank You to everyone who came or supported the Dog Show. It was its 5th year with the wonderful Highcliff Veterinary Surgery kindly judging and sponsoring the event again.
The weather wasn’t quite so kind but luckily dog walkers are a hardy bunch, so it was on with the show despite the downpours.
Thanks to Tendring Mag, In Touch, Grapevine, Look & Ardleigh Advertiser Magazines for the adverts
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There were plenty of Stalls, Classic Cars, Pimms in a Horsebox, a Fire Engine, Goats, Sheep & lots to keep all the family entertained from Face-painting to Live Music, African Drumming and even Doggy Tombola in a Paddling Pool! THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Special thanks to everyone who sponsored the programme helping to raise vital funds for adults with learning disabilities.
Thanks to Concord Property Ltd for the advertising boards
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Acorn Village People First, Disability Second
Can you help?
A horse-riding session per person costs A swimming session for 10 people costs
Anything you can spare from £2 a month to £20 a month can make a big difference to the lives of adults with learning disabilities
These sessions can help reduce anxiety, increase well-being and make a smile last all week
Help Today and Change Lives Sign up at https://mydonate.bt.com/charities/acornvillagesltd or contact info@acornvillages.com If you are able to fill in the gift aid form this will enable an extra 25% to come back to the charity at no cost to you. So for every £1 donated the charity receives £1.25 to help adults with learning disabilities.
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Christmas Support 18th November Christmas Market & Winter Wonderland Bigger than ever & great fun for all of the family. With a Mini Steam Engine, a Dance Group, Mr & Mrs Christmas, Christmas Flower Display by NAFAS, Beauty & the Beast Themed Winter Wonderland, Food & Drink and lots of stalls. he
Christmas Cards From Dancing Santa to Skiing Puds we have a variety of cards waiting for you to brighten up someone’s day. Available from the Manningtree Charity Shop or onsite at Acorn Village. The Happy Prince Evening performance on the 8th & Matinee on the 9th December. You won’t want to miss it. Get your tickets by calling 01206 394124. Visit Beauty & The Beast in Winter Wonderland From the 18th November visit the Craft Centre Monday to Friday 10am4.30pm with an additional Saturday Finale on the 16th December. A truly magical experience. Christmas Dinner, Cakes & Vouchers Book fast as they’re almost sold out of spaces! The vouchers make a perfect Christmas present & the cakes taste delicious. Christmas Carol Service 20TH December 11am in the Oakroom with the Sounds Alive Christian Band. Always a delightful service & for all. Everybody welcome. Christmas Appeal If you’d like to give a donation towards the new kitchen as a gift, we can send you a personalised certificate to use on the big day. The Shops & E-bay Keep any eye on our items for sale as thanks to your generous support we always have a variety of items available. E-bay seller name: acornvillagecharity
Life is For Living…
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What’s New? Thanks to your generous donations we’ve been able to complete the following additional projects since June:
A New Kitchen & a New Door for Oak Lodge
Above: Oak Kitchen before the changes modelled by Mandy…
Above: Oak Kitchen after the refurb, tops fixed, new oven and easily accessible.
New Windows for Bluebells Flat & Phyllis Mary Lodge New double glazed windows in the flats and house means winter will be a lot more efficient this year with the drafts banished. Carolanne has told us she already notices the difference and with them being white it’s a lot brighter too. Thank you so much for making this happen.
Since this photo all of the windows have been replaced.
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The Acorn Charity Shop Official Opening The Official Shop opening was held on the 24th August 2017. Councillor Carlo Guglielmi cut the ribbon with the help of resident Susie and Volunteer & Trustee Mary Green. With rooms being named after Mary- our incredible volunteer who started the charity shops, Henry- the volunteer who started the book collecting and continues to support Acorn and Dude, a resident who loved his music & DVDS and left his collection to Acorn when he sadly passed away. He would have loved the shop. Our volunteers have been working tirelessly both before the opening, on the day and since and we can’t thank them enough.
If you would like to join this group of friendly volunteers, please don’t hesitate to contact us on info@acornvillages.com or call 01206 394124.
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Showcasing Acorn The Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, John Spence along with Chairman of the Council, John Aldridge and his wife Christine met with Acorn’s Chairman Keith, CEO Michelle and Operations Manager Gary for a tour of Acorn Village and to discuss the latest changes in Social Care.
Potter Fans Becky, Louise, James & Lindsay went to Harry Potter World to celebrate their birthdays. They had a magical time!
Trinity Designers Trinity House residents brightened up their garden when they upcycled their bench. It looks great!
Monkeying Around Oak Lodge residents went on a day trip to Woburn Safari Park & had a wonderful time. Their favourite bit was when a monkey landed on the car!!
In Memory Rose The River of Rose’s Memory Rose has been planted outside the Coffee Shop for all to see. We will be remembering our loved ones this year with a Memory Tree at the Christmas Market. Messages can be put inside a bauble along with a feather and hung on the tree. After the event the tree will be moved to Mistley Hall. In January, the messages will be buried under the walnut tree in the field with a short service. If you are unable to make the Christmas Market but would like to have a memory placed on the tree please get in contact.
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Don’t Miss…
And… In Aid of Adults with learning disabilities
The Spectrum Choir Concert New Year’s Disco at Brantham Leisure Centre Thank You for Your Support The funds from all of these events make a big difference to the lives of adults with learning disabilities, whether it’s putting on a Ball (more on that in the next Newsletter) or having a talk and spreading the word about the charity. If you would like us to come and talk to your group please contact us at info@acornvillages.com
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Dear All Yet another newsletter highlighting the fantastic support that we receive here at Acorn Village. It is mentioned on the front cover that we couldn’t do it without you and I can only reiterate that we really can’t. Your support is vital to enhancing the opportunities that people living here have and I’m delighted that we now have an additional singing group on a Tuesday afternoon thanks to this support. ‘Acorn Sing’ is not only popular with its many attendees, it gives an opportunity for people to express themselves, spend time with new people and gain confidence. These types of activities are currently funded entirely by fundraising so if you can think of any ideas to raise money, we would love to hear them. For those of you that attended the rather soggy Dog Show, it was another well attended event with some new human and doggy faces! Our very own Cruella De Ville, the classic cars, new stalls and a very popular BBQ all made for a fantastic day and when the rain came it didn’t seem to dampen anybody’s spirits!
Our Manningtree Charity shop had its grand opening with many of our wonderful volunteers being part of the day. We now have a room selling Clothing and Bric-a-Brac as well as a room selling Books, Cds, Dvds and Vinyl. Having worked in the shop a few times, I’ve enjoyed the sense of nostalgia that the vinyl has brought and overheard lots of conversations of ‘Oh I remember this one!’ We have been inundated with donations and we are so very grateful to the community of Manningtree and the surrounding areas for their continued support. As we run up to Christmas please take a chance to have a look and grab a festive bargain.
You will see that we made the difficult decision to close the Brightlingsea Charity shop. This was not easy and is part of the Acorn history. I would like to thank everyone who volunteered in the shop, donated goods or who shopped with us over the years.
I have previously spoken about the climate of Health and Social care being a difficult one currently and things continue to be challenging as we move into the New Year. Meeting Councillor John Spence and Chairman of Essex County Council John Aldridge was a fantastic opportunity for me to share some of the challenges that we face and for us to talk candidly about strengthening the relationship being the provider and the local authority. This information can then be communicated back to staff at Acorn Village within open meetings, within department discussion or on a one to one basis. It is imperative that we ensure effective communication and work as a team to overcome the difficulties that the sector faces. Working in care is an incredibly rewarding job but it is not an easy one. Our staffing teams are dedicated and committed to providing high quality care and it is a priority to me that staff feel valued and their thoughts and ideas are heard. In the New Year we will be reinforcing this by setting up a staff committee. Alongside our existing resident/tenant committee, this group will be part of decision making processes and will support myself to gather a balanced perspective when setting direction for the organisation.
I am very lucky that part of my job is being invited to represent Acorn Village at a variety of events and this last few months has been no exception. I have given several talks about the charity to different groups, attended a classical concert and performed very badly in a quiz! Within our next newsletter you will have updates regarding a Charity Ball, another quiz – much better performance – and an evening of carols among other things no doubt. It’s a great opportunity for me to show case the organisation and meet new people, I’ve also had a huge amount of cake at these events which can never be a bad thing!
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Hopefully we will see lots of you at our Christmas event on the 18th November.
Thank you for your invaluable support
Michelle Cook Chief Executive Ps: For updates on daily life at Acorn Village, why not have a look at our Twitter or Facebook Pages
Your family will always come first… but if you do choose to leave a gift in your Will to help adults with learning disabilities we will ensure your money will be wisely spent on helping those who need it. INCLUDING US IN YOUR WILL IS EASY BUT IF YOU WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION PLEASE SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR STAFF OR VISIT https://www.gov.uk
If you would like a tree or a rose planted at Acorn Village to remember your loved one, please get in touch. Can you help with any additional support? From having a collection pot at your local shop or pub, volunteering or doing a fundraising event, we’d love to hear from you. Contact Details:
Acorn Village Clacton Road Mistley, Manningtree Essex CO11 2NJ Tel: 01206 394124 Fax: 01206 391216 E-mail: info@acornvillages.com Website: www.acornvillages.com Charity Number: 263954
If you would like to be added or removed from our mailing list please contact us using the details above. Please note we will never pass on your details to a 3rd party.
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