Families Suffolk issue 38: Nov / Dec 2017

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FREE e m

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In this issue

Buy Local Christmas Guide

Some great suggestions for local places to shop and gifts to buy for your family and loved ones this Christmas.

Christmas What’s On Some great ideas for places to go and things to do this Christmas

Issue 38: November / December 2017

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familiesonline.co.uk Families Suffolk: Issue 38 1

HORSE RIDING FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES Friendly family run yard offering equestrian learning and fun for all.

Our team of qualified BHS Staff offer a range of classes, EMAIL: HILLFARMEC@HOTMAIL.CO.UK

You can also follow us on

OFFERING OUTDOOR SHELTER & SHADE SOLUTIONS FOR SUFFOLK SCHOOL’S AND NURSERIES COME RAIN OR SHINE...

John Robertson Ltd is a family run business based near Long Melford in Suffolk. We are proud to be the Sole UK importers for the World’s leading large commercial parasols .....................................................

These stylish parasols not only look great, but perform exceptionally well too, with high UV protection and able to withstand up to 60mph winds. With prices starting from as little as £1,200 +VAT. Get in touch today to arrange a site visit.

Call: 01284 830100 | Email: info@johnrobertson.ltd.uk | Visit: www.johnrobertson.ltd.uk 2

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Welcome and contents

Hello...

.

In This Issue..

A note from the Editor

Main Feature:

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our readers, advertisers, distributors and suppliers a very Merry Christmas.

I hope you all enjoy some quality family time over this exciting festive period.

Buy Local Christmas Guide

10-13

Within this issue we have a number of great articles from our ‘Buy Local’ Christmas Guide to an action packed What’s On listing. We hope you enjoy, and are inspired to think about supporting more local businesses this Christmas.

I would also like to welcome Heather Sheehan to the Families Suffolk Team. Heather will now be managing our Social Media and What’s On listings. So if you have an event coming up that you would like us to share, please get in touch with Heather.

With Best Wishes

Stacey Phillips

Editor

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Contact us Editor: stacey@familiessuffolk.co.uk | 07951 946736 Advertising: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk Events and What’s On: heather@familiessuffolk.co.uk Design & Editing: stacey@familiessuffolk.co.uk Print Printed in the uk by Fuller Davies Ltd, Ipswich using only paper from FSC / PEFC suppliers. www.fullerdavies.com

OUr next issue: Jan / Feb Main featire: Family Health & Wellbeing Circulation: 20,000 copies of Families Suffolk are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected retail outlets and various other distribution points throughout Suffolk. If you would like copies for your organisation please get in touch.

Print Disclaimer: Families Suffolk Ltd is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Suffolk Ltd are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Suffolk Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Suffolk Ltd; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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7

Contents 4

Our Community

5

Education

6

Clubs & Classes:

Dellar Sports Coaching

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Clubs & Classes: Baby Ballet

8

Family Finance

9

Family Law

10-13 ‘Buy Local’ Christmas Guide 14

Suffolk Fire & Rescue Service

15

Public Health

16

Family Protection

17-19 What’s On

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Our Community

Suffolk

Sammy, foster carer from Lowestoft

We need foster carers for Suffolk teenagers

foster NOW

www.fosterandadopt.suffolk.gov.uk 4

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Education

HIGH QUALITY TUTORING

What makes the Community Schools so successful?

There are many reasons why parents may feel that their child needs some extra support with their learning outside of school.

Until recently most tutoring support has come from a teacher tutoring 1 to 1, either from their own home, or at the home of their student.

The Community Schools however offer a very different approach to tutoring. The tutors are all vocational teachers determined to help students develop the skills and confidence necessary to become resilient and independent learners in a safe and appropriate environment. At affordable prices.

A child arriving at a Community Schools learning centre experiences a very warm welcome from a friendly, fully qualified and experienced teacher. They will be part of a small group with other students of similar age and ability having fun learning. Each child receives individual tutoring to help them progress. They learn at their own pace, and have the time to think through ideas for themselves, and are encouraged to ask all the questions they have.

All of which builds confidence in their own ability to succeed.

claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk www.thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk 07747 037441 claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk Kesgrave Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave IP5 1JF claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk The Farmers Club, 10 Northgate Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1HQ claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre, Gainsborough Rd, IP14 1LH claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk

• 07747 037441 • claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk • www.thecommunityschools.co.uk Kesgrave Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, IP5 1JF The Farmers Club, 10 Northgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1HQ Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre, Gainsborough Rd, IP14 1LH

claire@thecommunityschools.co.uk

Birch Farm Nursery Established 1991 – 2016

25 Years

 Full Day Care Nursery & Holiday Club  Varied Sessions from 3hrs to Full day 7:30am - 6:30 pm  Shift patterns may be accommodated (subject to staff ratios & notice of pattern)  Impressive indoor and outdoor facilities  15 hours a week FREE care for 2,3 and 4 yrs (Subject to status)  Extra curricula activities from Jo Jingles/Swimming/Ballet  Ofsted Rated Good For more information contact Mini  01473 652249  birchfarm@uk2.net  www.birchfarm.co.uk Birch Farm Silver Hill Hintlesham Ipswich Suffolk IP8 3NJ

Small group working provides support for each student without reliance on any system of worksheets or software. The teacher uses their training, skills and experience to help each student discover their strongest learning style to achieve their full potential. A mark of their success is that the happy and confident students they have tutored soon no longer need the Community Schools support to thrive. Resilience and self-confidence are life-long skills.

Comments from current Primary school students include:‘Awesome fun learning’...‘A chance to ask questions’...‘Kind teachers’...‘I have learnt how to do tricky maths’... ‘Easier to focus on my learning’.

Families Suffolk reader OFFER If you think your child may benefit from the service provided

by The Community Schools - they are offering a FREE taster session to Family Suffolk readers.

GET IN TOUCH To book a visit at either Bury St Edmunds, Ipswich or Stowmarket call Claire on 0774 703 7441 To find out more visit: www.thecommunityschools.com

At Kumon we are dedicated to fully pursuing the potential of each individual student. Kumon Instructors provide just enough guidance for their students to be able to do the exercises on their own. As a result, our students learn that they can do anything if they try, build self-esteem, and develop the ability to take on new challenges for themselves.

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Clubs & Classes

Dellar Sports Coaching Dellar Sports Coaching, founded in 2012 is a sports coaching company which aims to provide high quality coaching and teaching across a variety of sports through all of their services.

Services include:

Adam Dellar, Founder

• Primary and secondary school education • Evening and weekend clubs • Club coaching • One to one coaching • Holiday camps • Birthday parties

Their ethos is to deliver high quality coaching for children of all ages and abilities and provide them with the fundamental skills to develop as potential athletes in a specific sport or a number of sports. They strive to promote fun, enjoyment and participation in sport for people of all ages in an environment to bring the best out of everyone!

Birthday Parties Take the stress away from your child’s next birthday party and let Dellar Sports Coaching organise and deliver it for you!

HOLIDAY CAMPS

DSC sports camps are designed to provide all children the opportunity to participate in physical activity in a fun, enjoyable and safe environment. Children are given the opportunity to learn new skills in a wide variety of sports whilst making new friends.

Dellar Sports Coaching delivers a range of sports camps during school holidays throughout the duration of the year. They aim to try and offer the broadest range of sports they possibly can from multi sports, to football to gymnastics. This is so they can give all children whatever their interests the chance to attend the camps and enjoy learning in a sporting environment. Not only do DSC place emphasis on enhancing individual physical and technical ability they also aim to ensure that children attending their camps learn to work in teams and help their peers.

Not only are the Sports Camps a fun and beneficial solution to the sometimes long and boring school holidays for children.

They are also practical for parents. DSC sports camps typically run from 9 – 5pm and are priced at £15 per day. This is an amazing £1.80 per hour!. DSC believe in making their holiday camps as cost efficient and flexible as possible. Parents can go to work or have a day of leisure knowing that their children are having fun in the enjoyable, safe and stimulating environment that their coaching team creates.

Two hour party with prices starting from £225 include the following:

Christmas HOLIDAY CAMPS

• Hiring of facilities / halls • Four members of DSC coaching staff • Providing of all necessary equipment • Bouncy Castle • Birthday gift for birthday boy or girl • Up to 35 children • Delivery of a variety of sports to suit your child’s wishes

FORDHAM PRIMARY SCHOOL (NEWMARKET) Wednesday 20th December 9.00am - 5.15pm / £15.00 per child

For more information To find out more about the full range of services or book a place on a DSC Christmas Holiday Camp you can visit: www.dellarsportscoaching.co.uk or call: 07771 567 564

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WOODHALL PRIMARY SCHOOL (SUDBURY) Thursday 21st December 9.00am - 5.15pm / £15.00 per child SAMUEL WARD ACADEMY (HAVERHILL) Friday 22nd December 9.00-5.15pm / £15.00 per child On each day DSC will be running a ‘Dance & Gymnastics Camp’ and a ‘Multi Sports Camp’ for girls and boys aged 4 - 13 yrs.

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Clubs & Classes

Baby Ballet When Miss Abigail started dancing at the age of 4 years old, little did she know that it would be the beginning of her journey into a professional career in dance, touring the world as a dancer and performer. In more recent years Abigail has been instilling her passion into the next generation of dancers. Families Suffolk Magazine now finds out more about Miss Abigail and her babyballet® classes.

Abigail Franklin, affectionately known by her students as Miss Abigail set up her babyballet® franchise four and a half years ago in Sudbury. She has since expanded the business, and now also runs weekly classes in Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds. “babyballet® is a fantastic brand; a really fun introduction for little boys and girls to dip their good toes into a beautiful dance style” says Miss Abigail.

Join the fun Classes are for children from 6 months to school age. From 6 months the class is a very gentle introduction to the class environment for the babyballet® Tots, using a combination of music movement and props/toys the class is a magical musical experience for grown-ups and babies or young toddlers to enjoy together.

work life balance right is nigh on impossible. But I love teaching babyballet®; it is so rewarding and when you see a little star master a jump for the very first time it makes it all worthwhile!”

Now recruiting a new dance teacher Being a babyballet® teacher definitely has its benefits for a working Mum; classes are run during term-time fitting nicely within the school day. Miss Abigail is currently looking for a new teacher so that she can offer even more classes. If you are an ex-dancer who loves working with children and are interested in joining her team contact Miss Abigail on 07580 693 747 for more information.

With babyballet® songs and classic nursery rhymes, the children are encouraged to clap their hands and point their good toes all with their grown up joining in too.

At the next stage from 18 months the babyballet® Tinies are encouraged to develop their movement and communication skills on their own but still with their grown-up close by. They are introduced to the basics of ballet through imaginative stories, props and song. As they progress to babyballet® Movers at the age of 3, they’re sure to be hopping, skipping and leaping to the fantastic babyballet® songs all on their own. “babyballet® is no ordinary ballet class - it is so much fun, but also great for encouraging your child to meet their developmental markers, not to mention building their strength and social confidence, as well as teaching them balance, coordination, musicality and self-control.”

Being a mum and running your own business Miss Abigail has just come back from maternity leave and is juggling running her business and looking after her nine month old baby who has just completed her first term at babyballet® classes!

“Being a Mummy and running the school has certainly been challenging; everything changes and your priorities are different.

I have to admit it is a struggle fitting everything in and getting the familiesonline.co.uk

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Family Finance

Expert advice on...

Budgeting & Borrowing

The New Year is typically a time when people think about change. According to a ComRes poll, the most popular New Year’s resolutions include to exercise more (38%), to lose weight (33%) and to eat more healthily (32%).

Interestingly the top ten did not feature any resolutions on saving money or reviewing household finances. We speak to Hayley Nessling, Mortgage Sales Manager from Ipswich Building Society to find out more...

Although addressing budgeting and borrowing might lack the excitement of mastering a new hobby, it is likely many of us will have commitments such as a mortgage or be looking to get onto, or move up, the housing ladder.

Buying a house is one of the biggest purchases we will make, so your time will be well spent reviewing your requirements and ensuring you have a mortgage which suits your needs.

One size doesn’t fit all When applying for a mortgage or remortgaging it might be best to seek out a lender who understands your circumstances, or use a specialist mortgage broker. This may be particularly useful if you are not a ‘typical’ or straightforward applicant, and you need an experienced underwriter to look at your case.

Help is at hand The Ipswich Building Society mortgage team has recently been able to help: • First time buyers: either looking for a residential mortgage or a shared ownership property purchase.

• Self employed and contractors: we have the expertise to look at accounts and unusual income patterns, and have special products designed for individual circumstances.

• Divorced parents: whose income includes child maintenance supported by CSA or court order with 5 years left to run.

• Self builders: looking for flexible stage payments made at key stages of their build.

having the right information Don’t forget, when you are enquiring about a mortgage it helps to have your information to hand, so you can give a full picture of your circumstances: 1. Employment details and payslips.

2. Details of expenditure, any outstanding credit card balances or loans.

3. Details of the property you wish to buy or remortgage.

4. If self employed, your SA302s or accounts.

5. Any information about your previous credit history (if applicable).

TALK TO AN EXPERT 0330 123 0723 - General enquiries 0330 123 0773 - Direct mortgage enquiries www.ibs.co.uk

Ipswich Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Registered on the Financial Services Register, Firm Registration Number (FRN) 104875.

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Family Law

Is shared care a right or responsibility?

The breakdown of a relationship can have far reaching consequences for not just the parties involved but the wider family as a whole. Separating parents can find themselves in a bitter dispute over arrangements for the children going forward, with each parent telling the other what their “rights” are in relation to the children.

The “right” to contact with their children usually forms the basis of most parental disputes as each one wishes to have quality time with their children without arrangements being dictated by the other parent. Most parents feel they have a “right” to a shared pattern of care with the children spending equal time with each parent.

Parental Responsibility In actual fact parents do not have rights. They have responsibilities towards their children and to each other as the parents of the children. The legal definition of these responsibilities is known as Parental Responsibility. These responsibilities include, wherever possible, promoting a relationship between parent and child.

If parents cannot reach an agreement directly with each other over a pattern of care for the children, solicitors can be appointed by each parent to negotiate on their behalf. A family solicitor will explore the main issues facing each party and should try to resolve all issues in the most amicable and cost effective way.

Child Arrangements Order If agreement between the parents cannot be reached without court intervention, one or both parents can apply to the Court for a Child Arrangements Order. This order will determine with whom and for how long a child is to live, spend time or otherwise have contact with a person. The Court has an overriding objective to do what is in the best interests of the child or children involved in the case.

A ‘shared pattern of contact’ does not automatically mean the child or children should spend an equal amount of time during the week with each parent. The Court has to take a wide assessment of how any arrangement will work in practice, especially if the arrangement put forward is one of equal division of time.

Good communication The key point which any separated parent needs to remember is that in order for any shared contact arrangement to work in practice, and for the child to move seamlessly between their

parents, good communication is required between the parents.

For a child to live their life between two homes, organisation and willingness on both parents’ part to make it work is essential.

How we can help Negotiating the arrangements for shared care can be a challenge for some parents and at Barker Gotelee we can offer expert advice on how best to approach the subject with the other parent and what we can do to help.

Life | Land | Business

We offer you a range of family law services We all need help from time to time. Our friendly and approachable solicitors are on hand to advise you on a host of family law matters. · Family breakdown - helping to achieve financial security for you

· Children - support and expert advice on arrangements for children · Mediation - discussing the issues that matter to you

Ask us about our fixed fees and free 01473 611211 barkergotelee.co.uk consultations on selected services.

41 Barrack Sq, Martlesham, Ipswich IP5 3RF Free parking

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EDITORS Feature: Buy Local Christmas Guide

Buy Local christmas guide craft market Saturday dec 201 7

entry

10-4pm GORGEOUS

POPUPCAFE

CLARE TOWN HALL, MARKET HILL, CLARE, SUFFOLK

Chistmas is a time for giving and receiving, and every year the online retailers and supermarkets seem to recieve more and more. So this year, to encourage you to give a little more to local, smaller independent businesses, we have put together a ‘Buy Local’ Christmas Guide to help offer some alternative suggestions to help you plan your shopping and gift ideas this year.

BUY LOCAL AT SUFFOLK MARKET EVENTS THIS FESTIVE SEASON!

beautiful,regional,handmade contemporary arts, crafts o photography

CONTACT SUFFOLK MARKET EVENTS T: 07704 627973 E: JUSTINE@SUFFOLKMARKETEVENTS.CO.UK WWW.SUFFOLKMARKETEVENTS.CO.UK

Suffolk Market Events, are very proud that everything sold at their farmers’ and craft markets is produced by the person selling.

Whether it is butchered, baked or lovingly crafted, you the customer can meet the butcher, baker or candlestick maker!

They have a range of fantastic seasonal events in store for you, including the monthly farmers markets on the Traverse in Bury St Edmunds (12th November and 10th December); in St Peter’s Church in Sudbury (24th November and 15th December) and in the Village Hall in Lavenham (26th November and 17th December).

The Suffolk Market special events of the season are the Bury St Edmunds Xmas Street Fayre on the Buttermarket on 26th November and their Christmas Craft Market in the gorgeous village of Clare on 2nd December.

Their craft market is the perfect opportunity to buy unique, locally produced Christmas gifts and stocking fillers. They will have some of the highest quality, handmade crafts produced by East Anglia’s very best, contemporary craftsfolk including felting, candles, paper crafts, handmade skin products, a selection of jewellery, ceramics and original artwork.

THE ULTIMATE JOLLY

CHRISTMAS MEAT FEAST

• 12 lb Fresh Free Range Turkey or 3 Ribs of Beef • 3 lb Loin of Pork or 3 lb of Beef Brisket • 3 lb Smoked Gammon y Local deliver e bl la ai av so al • 8 Traditional Pork Sausages t. es qu All for just... on re • 16 Chipolatas • 1 lb Streaky Bacon *£10 deposit required when ordering • 1 lb Sausage Meat

FREE

£100.00

TO ORDER, VISIT THE SHOP: 101 HIGH STREET, HADLEIGH OR CALL: 01473 810119 10

So pop along, soak up the atmosphere, be inspired by our region’s crafters and you can also enjoy a slice of cake, a glass of mulled wine or a coffee in their Pop Up Tearoom.

Entry is free to all the Suffolk Market events, and you can find more information by visiting their website: www.suffolkmarketevents.co.uk You can also call Justine on 07704 627973 Or email: justine@suffolkmarketevents.co.uk

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EDITORS Feature: Buy Local Christmas Guide 2017 10 Families Mag Xmas Gifts.qxp_Layout 1 24/10/2017 13:28 Page 1

The gift of choice

CELEBRATING

1

7

YEARS 1992-2

0

The perfect gift for someone who has everything…

It can be hard to find the perfect Christmas gift for loved ones.

If you are struggling with what to get someone this festive season, why not give them the gift of choice.

Ufford Park gift vouchers can be redeemed against: • An overnight stay • A round of golf • Pamper time in their spa • Food and drink from The Park Bar. It’s a great gift for someone truly special - offer them the freedom to enjoy Ufford Park the way they want.

Buying information Call: 01394 383555 • Email: reception@uffordpark.co.uk Visit: www.uffordpark.co.uk

give a lasting memory A family photo shoot could provide the perfect gift for your family this Christmas.

You could arrange a photo shoot with one of Suffolk’s leading Newborn, Children and Family Photographer’s Cally Soar. Children and Family shoots take place at an outdoor location of your choice close to Ipswich, and last approx 45 minutes to an hour. The final images however will last a lifetime, and provide you with a wonderful gift to share with relatives near and far this Christmas.

Photoshoot packages are also available to buy as a gift, a great option for any new or expectant parents.

Buying information Call: 01473 741571 • Email: info@mayarosephotography.com Visit: www.mayarosephotograpghy

handMade with love Offering a range of homemade crafts and arts for the home and garden this Christmas. All lovingly created by local artisans.

At ‘Simply Handmade too’ they appreciate how hard it can often be to find that perfect gift for someone special at this festive time of year and that’s why they have made your shopping experience so easy. Why are they so special? . . . because everything in their shop is handmade.

‘Simply Handmade too’ help support local Artisans and small businesses and offer gifts that you will ‘Simply’ not find on the high street ensuring this Christmas with your family is a special one.

They also run a range of adult Crafting Workshops, a perfect gift for Granny or even for a bit of “me-time” for yourself.

Buying information Call: 01787 827117 • Visit the shop: Stour Valley Business Centre, Brundon Lane, Sudbury, CO10 7GB. familiesonline.co.uk

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EDITORS FEaTURE: Buy Local Christmas Guide

GET CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP AT JUMPKING

T

Ipswich based trampoline specialists Jumpking EU could help save you time and money this Christmas. With a fantastic range of products for children of all ages, from Bouncy Castles and Play Tents to Trampolines and Sleeping bags.

JumpPOD Deluxe V2

comes with free cover ladder and shoe net

10ft: Was: £399.00 NOW JUST £335.00 12ft: Was £449.00 NOW JUST £385.00

Snow Flake Bouncy Castle

6ft x 6ft: Was: £119.00 NOW JUST £70.00 8ft x 8ft: Was £159.00 NOW JUST £97.00 11ft x 11ft: Was £239.00 NOW JUST £151.00

Woodland Fairy Hut

Was: £49.00 NOW JUST £29.00

Trampolines To see the full range and for more fantastic offers and advice visit

www.jumpking.eu or call 01473 747792

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EDITORS Feature: Buy Local Christmas Guide

Stacey Bate Photography Stacey Bate is a professional photographer, and composite artist, based in Suffolk.

About Stacey “Having lived in Manchester for most of my life I now reside in Suffolk with my husband and two daughters.

My passion for photography started as a teenager. As much as I liked capturing a beautiful picture or moment it was also seeing the happiness on someones face when I caught a picture they loved, that gave me satisfaction.

When I first discovered composite photography I knew instantly this was the area I wanted to pursue. To be able to create virtually any picture someone can imagine really is an amazing job, and I am very lucky to be able to do this”.

The process When you decide you would like a picture created, Stacey will start by discussing your ideas, or, if you have creative block she will help with some suggestions and come up with something together.

The next step is to get the photos taken using whatever props, clothing and poses needed. Finally Stacey will spend a few hours at the computer putting everything together, whether its walking a dinosaur or climbing a building with spiderman, she can create an amazing image.

Special Christmas Offer If you are looking for a slightly alternative Christmas gift for a Grandparent or Aunt this year, this could be perfect for you.

What’s even better is Stacey is offering Family Suffolk readers 25% OFF all composites purchased in November and December.

Gift vouchers are also available. So you can get your hands on a fantastic composite for just £149 instead of £199.

Get in touch To find out more, or to get in touch with Stacey you can visit: www.staceybate.com familiesonline.co.uk

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Suffolk Fire & Rescue

staying safe this christmas The festive season is now upon us, and homes across the UK are twinkling with fairy lights and Christmas cheer. But are you taking dangerous risks with your safety during the holidays?

Avoid charging your phone overnight or using cheap, unbranded chargers.

Overcharging can cause some adaptor to become a fire risk.

Here are some common activities that may be putting you and your family in danger, with some simple tips to help you stay safe.

Prepare to Party!

Over 650,000 house fires have been started by electrical beauty products like hair straighteners being left switched on.

And half of UK women have panicked that they have gone out and forgotten to turn straighteners off. Follow our advice switch them off and put them away!

Deck the Halls Christmas lights brighten up homes across the UK but can be an electrical safety risk. One in twelve people confess to leaving their Christmas lights on overnight, potentially endangering their households as lights can overheat and create a fire hazard.

Give the lights a break - switch them off when you’re not there to enjoy them.

Cook up a festive feast

Don’t overload sockets and try to avoid the use of extension leads or adaptors – it’s easy to trip if you’re a bit too merry!

Driving Home for Christmas Packing up and preparing a Christmas playlist for the car or train? Make sure you don’t leave your laptop or mobile device charging on the bed while you get ready to leave. Always use a hard surface and don’t overcharge your devices.

Nearly half of us have admitted to leaving cooking unattended - and with a house full of family and friends celebrating Christmas it’s easy to get distracted. So, watch what you heat and don’t cook when you’ve had a few glasses of festive cheer!

New Year’s Resolutions If you’re planning to give up smoking, e-cigarettes can help you along the way. Make sure you also use the correct charger. If you use a cheap, unbranded one it may be a resolution you regret.

Information Source: www.electricalsafetyfirst. org.uk/guides-and-advice

NOW RECRUITING

On-Call Firefighters On-call URGENTY NEEDED IN:

Firefighter

Information pack • Aldeburgh • Beccles • Bungay • Clare • Debenham

• Eye • Felixstowe • Framlingham • Halesworth • Ixworth • Nayland • Needham Market • Orford • Reydon/Southwold • Saxmundham • Stradbroke • Wrentham

FIND OUT MORE Call the On-Call Liaison Officer today on:

07776 475069 www.suffolk.gov.uk/oncall PB

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Public Health

Let’s Keep Suffolk Smiling Ensuring good dental health from an early age is very important.

It stands children in good stead for the long-term health of their teeth and gums.

place by their second birthday. Your dentist can also give you advice on whether your child would benefit from extra protection such as fluoride varnishes.

Whether it’s brushing their first tooth, developing a teeth cleaning routine, or the first trip to the dentist, there are plenty of ways you can support your child to keep their teeth healthy and their smile bright!

It’s really important that a child’s teeth are brushed thoroughly, covering all surfaces of the teeth. Make sure that a child brushes the inside, outside and chewing surface of their teeth.

Get more information You can speak to your dentist, health visitor or community dental services team if you need more information. There’s also a wide range of tips and techniques in our Keep Suffolk Smiling booklet, which can be downloaded by visiting our website at www.healthysuffolk.org.uk

Here are some top tips 1. Brush twice a day for at least two minutes. Once before bedtime and one other time during the day 2. Encourage children to spit out excess toothpaste – avoid rinsing with water as it washes the fluoride away 3. Under 8s should be helped by an adult as they do not have the ability to reach every surface of every tooth 4. Babies’ teeth should be brushed as soon as they begin to appear in the mouth with a soft, small headed toothbrush

Visiting the dentist When it comes to children’s teeth, regular brushing and visits to the dentist are important. Parents should take their children to the dentist regularly. Their first check-up should have taken familiesonline.co.uk

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Call: 01473 229200 | Visit: attwells.com

Protecting Your Family Do You Have a Will?

An alarming number of adults in the UK die intestate each year. This is where they die without a Will and therefore it falls to the Government’s rules as to who will take what from your belongings, money and property (your estate) on your death.

It helps to understand what these rules are when considering if you need to write a Will to say something different.

The Rules If you die and you are married or in a civil partnership, your spouse or civil partner will get everything unless you have children. If you have children and your estate is worth more than ÂŁ250,000, your spouse or civil partner will get all of your personal belongings, the first ÂŁ250,000 and half of anything else with the other half going to your children.

If you die and you are not married or in a civil partnership, your relatives will inherit in a strict order. Firstly, if you have children, your children get everything. If you do not have children, they will look to see if you have surviving parents. If no parents are alive, your whole blood brothers and sisters (or their children if they have died before you) will take equal shares.

Some Questions So what happens if you are in a relationship with someone but you have chosen not to get married or enter a civil partnership (or have not yet done so)? They will not inherit anything under these rules.

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What if you have adopted or step children? Will they count as your children under these rules or is it only your biological children?

What if you are married or in a civil partnership but have children from a previous relationship? Do you want your spouse or civil partner to inherit what they are entitled to under these rules or do you want to protect your estate for your children?

Have you fallen out with a family member that you would not want to inherit? What happens if you and your family are in a car accident and you all die together? What order would people inherit? Could this lead to your children inheriting your estate and the Governments rules being applied to them. Not being married or having children, any surviving parent of theirs would inherit and if this is an exspouse or civil partner, you may not want that to happen.

Other Considerations

Laura Harrington-Rutterford Partner As a mother of two young boys, I understand the need to protect my family day to day but, also in the event I am no longer here.

To see how you can protect yours, please feel free to contact me to discuss your options.

01473 229855 laura.harrington-rutterford@attwells.com

Whilst most people do make a Will to dictate who will inherit what, your Will can be used to set out other formalities.

This will include who your executors are (i.e. who will have to deal with everything for you when you die). It can also include appointing guardians for any of your children under the age of 18.

Families Suffolk: Issue 38

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WHAT’s ON

What’s On for the Under 5’s If you are a parent or carer looking to entertain preschoolers, we have put together a selection of regular term time clubs, classes and groups you may like to explore further.

Toddler Orchestra These new monthly sessions

New Little City classes starting in Suffolk

encourage Under 5’s to run riot through noise. Setting up microphones and amps the Think Tank will be wired for sound.

Venues, Dates and Times The Pacitti Company Think Tank, High Street, Ipswich

Little City is a brand new and unique

Thu 16th Nov: 10am - 11am

play opportunity for your toddler/

Cost: £5 per session

preschooler. Where your tiny person

www.pacitticompany.com

can be a firefighter, a shopkeeper, a

Storytime at the quay A theatrically experienced storyteller reading a popular book, with plenty of interraction for your little ones.

Venues, Dates and Times The Quay Theatre, Sudbury Mon 5th Dec: 10.30am Cost: FREE www.quaysudbury.com

Suffolk Health and Children’s Centres Find your local centre: suffolk.gov. uk/children-families-and-learning/ childrens-health/childrens-centres

hairdresser, or even run their own cafe.

Venues, Dates and Time The Stevenson Centre, Gt Cornard Tue 14th Nov & Tue 5th Dec: 10am Hadleigh Baptist Church Tuesday 21st Nov: 9am & 11am

Classes are also available throughout Suffolk from the following...

Cost: £4.75 per child LittleCityUK

Wild Tots at Foxburrow Farm Outdoor play and exploration.

Venues, Dates and Times Foxburrow Farm, Melton Every other Wednesday: 10.30 - 12.00 Cost: £4 per session www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org

Parent and Toddler Play Sessions Gymnastics in ipswich This activity is based on fun and play, rather than being a structured gymnastics class, and is held in our main gymnastic hall with soft play equipment as well as

SPECIAL OFFER

floor level trampoline and foam pits. These sessions are a good way of introducing your child to our facility from an early age, not only may it help to develop social and interactive skills for your child, it may also help build confidence ready for when he/she is ready to move on to a structured class. It is also a great environment for children to explore physical skills such as hanging, balancing and jumping using the gymnastics equipment. Being physically active every day is important for the healthy growth and development of babies, toddlers and preschoolers, and these sessions are a great way to improve co-ordination, strength, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness whilst having fun at the same time.

They operate a popular card saver scheme for this activity, each visit they stamp your customer card with which you build up rewards, your 5th visit is charged at half price and your 10th visit is free of charge.

Whilst the activity is supervised at all times, the children are the responsibility of their

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Every TUESDAY during Nov & Dec 2017

For any full paying parent/toddler attending the Tuesday sessions (1 - 2pm) during November and December 2017 you can bring one parent/toddler friend to the same session for free, no need to book just turn up.

parent/carer for the duration of the session. There is no need to pre-book for these sessions, pay on entry, simply turn up and enjoy yourselves!

www.gymnasticsinipswich.co.uk | 01473 433676

01473 433676 • admin@pipersvale.co.uk • www.gymnasticsinipswich.co.uk

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Families Suffolk: Issue 38

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What’s On

What’s on:

November / December

Sat 11th November

Sun 26th November

Photo Credit:

Museum of East Anglian Life

Long Melford Olde Christmas Long Melford - 5pm - 9pm See advert on back page

The Wind in the Willows The Quay Theatre, Sudbury - 2pm With original music and audience participation as well as the use of puppetry and mime, two talented actors bring this classic story to life Adults: £7, Children £5

www.quaysudbury.com STORYMAKER – LITTLE STORY The New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich. Sat 11th, 18th 25th Nov and 2nd Dec - 11am If you’re 3 or 4 years old and love silly stories and tremendous tales then you’ve got to come and meet the Storymaker .

Free

www.wolseytheatre.co.uk Sun 12th November Boyface and the Uncertain Ponies The Apex Lounge, Bury St Edmunds - 2pm Based on James Campbell’s excellent Boyface books. This is a delightfully silly piece of theatre full of songs and daftness, performed by the extremely talented and hard-working children of the Boyface Theatre Summer School. £7, Concessions £6

www.theapex.co.uk Thu 16th November ipswich christmas light’s switch on and late night shopping Ipswich Town Centre - 6.45pm

Sat 18th November Sponsored by

baby & Children’s Markets

fri 1st December

Breakfast or tea with santa Wyevale Garden Centres Avaiable from 18th November Visit their website to find the nearest venue, menu choices and prices.

wyevalegardencentres.co.uk Sun 19th November Classic buses and Coaches Ipswich Transport Museum: 11am - 4pm An event focussing on the buses and coaches from the 1940s to the present day, with rides on museum and visiting vehicles.

Adults:£7, Children (5-16) £4.50

ipswichtransportmuseum.co.uk Fri 24th November Christmas toy Fair Museum of East Anglian Life Sat: 10am - 4.30pm Sun: 10am - 4.30pm Abbot’s Hall Barn will be transformed into a magical space for two days as the first-ever Toy Fair arrives at the museum. On Friday 24 November, they will have a fairground and reindeer outside as well as Father Christmas in the barn (drop-in).

Father christmas at home Museum of East Anglian Life From Fri 2th Nov - Sat 23rd Dec Step inside Santa’s living room Museum of East Anglian Life and receive a personalised gift from the man himself

Southgate Community Centre, Bury St Edmunds - 2.00 - 3.30pm £1, Children Free

See website for more pricing information about their Christmas events.

babyandchildrenmarket.co.uk

www.eastanglianlife.org.uk

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sat 25th November Christmas craft Fair Stonham Barns Sat 25th and Sun 26th 10am - 4.00pm Stonham Barns is hosting their popular Christmas Fair so come and visit Santa’s grotto and his reindeer and then do some Christmas shopping to find that unique Christmas present.

Free Entry www.stonhambarns.co.uk Meet Father Christmas at Moyse’s Hall Moyse’s Hall Museum, Bury St Edmunds.

11am-1pm and 2pm-4pm Pay a visit to see Father Christmas, tell him your wishes for Christmas, and have a photo taken by one of his friendly elves before he heads off for his busiest day of the year! £7 per child

www.weststow.org Edible Christmas Gifts Thomas Gainsborough SchoolGreat Cornard - 10am - 3.30pm Learn how to make Edible Christmas gifts on this one day workshop in a relaxed kitchen environment. £4.50

www.westsuffolkcollege. ac.uk/courses/courseinformation

Families Suffolk: Issue 38

Christmas story and Treasure hunt Framlingham Library - 6pm Extended opening for late night shopping in Framlingham.

There will also be a Fairtrade stall and Fairtrade mulled wine, juice, mince pies, cake and chocolates available courtesy of the Friends of Framlingham Library.

Free Entry Co-op Juniors present ‘Christmas Spectacular- in the Land of Oz’ Snape Maltings Concert Hall Fri 1st - Sun 10th Dec A live orchestra and almost 100 performers in a festive show of highenergy music and dance, stunning spectacle and breathtaking theatre magic! Packed with musical theatre and Christmas numbers that the whole family will know and love. £15 - £30 www.snapemaltings.co.uk

Sat 2nd December INFLATABLE 5K SANTA RUN! Trinity Park, Ipswich 8.30am - 2.15pm Grab your hats & hold on to your sacks for quite possibly the most mental 5k Santa run you’ll ever see!

Pit your wits against ten giant inflatable obstacles that will let you flip, bounce & boing your way around a 5k course in full Santa kit!!

Sounds crazy? It is. Guaranteed to be so funny you’ll complete this with your sides hurting from laughter!

Prices from £17.50 www.ukrunningevents.co.uk/5krunning-events/inflatable-5ksanta-run-Ipswich familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On Sat 2nd December Christmas Craft Market Clare - 10am - 4pm Suffolk Market Events Christmas Craft Market has established a wonderful reputation as the place to visit to find that gift for that special someone or a unique seasonal treat! Over 25 stalls full of wonderful products such as handmade candles, paper and felt craft, ceramics, driftwood artwork and a whole lot more.

Free Entry www.suffolkmarketevents. co.uk/2017-christmas-craft-market

felixstowe christmas light’s switch Felixstowe Town Centre - 5pm Christmas lights switch on and Craft Market event Free Entry

christmas fair The Long Shop Museum, Leiston 10am - 5pm The ‘Magic’ of Christmas will come to the Long Shop with close up magicians, Santa’s Grotto, music and dancing plus Christmas gifts on sale from the market traders.

Free Entry

Photo Credit:

The Long Shop Museum

Santas Bear Workshop Christchurch Mansion 10am - 4pm Join the Bear Garden for this years Santa’s Bear workshop. Entry includes a full hour with Santa himself in his bear making workshop.

You’ll have plenty of time to give him your Christmas list and build your very own full sized Christmas themed bear to take home. £22.49 evensi.uk/santas-bear-workshop2017-christchurch-mansion Christmas Fayre Jimmy’s Farm, Ipswich Sat 2nd - Sun 3rd Dec 10am - 6pm Lots of market stalls to take your interest. A brass band & choir performing lovely Christmassy music all day long.

Free Entry to Fayre Normal admission fees apply for the farm jimmysfarm.com/event/ christmas-market/ Santa’s Worshop at Kersey Mill From Sat 2nd Dec Santa’s Workshop is truly a magical and unique experience primarily for children aged 3 up to 12 years. Helping the elves in Santas Workshop will be a memorable Christmas occassion for all. £19 per child including 1 Adult www.kerseymill.net

Lavenham Christmas Fair Lavenham. Fri 1st - Sun 3rd Dec A seasonal feast for the senses, there will be music and entertainment for all the family, as well as Craft and Food stalls selling all manner of seasonal goodies – all set amid the magical backdrop of Lavenham’s historic Market Place.

Free www.discoverlavenham.com/ lavenham-christmas-street-fair

sun 3rd December Mid Suffolk Light Railway Santa Special Brockford Station, Wetheringsett Sunday 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th Dec £12.00 mslr.org.uk/visit-us/santa-specials

Tue 5th December WOW! Said the Owl’ The New Wolsey Theatre, From Tue 5th Dec

Fri 8th December Dickensian Christmas Kentwell Hall, Long Melford.

Fri 8th - Sun 10th Dec A `Magical Dickensian Christmas’ for all the family From £7 www.kentwell.co.uk

Sat 9th December Birch Farm Christmas Fayre Hintlesham - 9am - 1pm Christmas is a great time for children and families and Birch Farm Christmas Fayre is where Christmas begins. There is so much to see and do, so come along and browse the stalls, and let the children play.

Free www.birchfarm.co.uk

Sat 16th December

WOW! Said the Owl, the acclaimed children’s book by award winning author Tim Hopgood, is brought to life through a blend of beautiful story-telling, puppetry and music.

Children: £5, Adults £8

www.wolseytheatre.co.uk Wed 6th December THe elves and the shoemaker Red Rose Chain Theatre Company The Avenue Theatre, Ipswich 7th - 31st Dec See advert on back page.

Father Christmas at the Mansion Christchurch Manion Sat 16th & Sun 17th Christmas at the Mansion is a special time and this year is no different.

Meet Father Christmas in the lovely surroundings of the Tudor Chamber. £5 www.ipswich.gov.uk Get in touch

If you would like to feature an event in our February half term ‘What’s On’ listing email: Heather@familiessuffolk.co.uk

Brain Tumour Research christmas cards Pioneering charity Brain Tumour Research has taken an innovative approach to their range of Christmas cards this year, signing up supporter and artist, Caroline Copland, to design a new card for 2017.

Caroline, who sadly lost her mother Janet to a brain tumour three years ago, was inspired by the Christmas Hope Trees which decorate the charity’s Research Centres of Excellence across the UK each year.

The Hope Tree cards will join other festive favourites in the charity’s range. All cards are priced at £4 per pack of ten, with at least 60% of the proceeds going towards supporting vital brain tumour research. Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK focused on funding sustainable research to find a cure for brain tumours, which kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.

Order yours cards today from www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/christmas-cards

Dickensian Christmas Fri 8 to Sun 10 Dec Fri 15 to Sun 17 Dec pre-book on line: www.kentwell.co.uk

Kentwell Hall • Long Melford • Suffolk CO10 9BA

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Families Suffolk: Issue 38

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OUR CHRISTMAS SHOW ADAPTED BY JOANNA CARRICK

ORS E T A N CRE HBO

S THE IC FI M G FRO MA E TH OF

ing “A delightful and refresh onal alternative to the traditi family panto”

The Stage

7 - 31 DEC

THE AVENUE THEATRE, IPSWICH

BOX OFFICE: 01473 603388 | REDROSECHAIN.COM Exclusive Offer: Book for any evening performance before 21 Dec and use code SUFF15 to get 15% off!

T&Cs: Subject to availability, not available in conjunction with any other offer

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