Heathfield Town Diary by hvcvillagediary

Art Classes

• Watercolour

• Drawing with Pencil & Ink

• Acrylics & Gouche Techniques

• Mixed Media Techniques

Lunch Qi Gong Days Out

• Portrait - Human & Animal

Afternoon Tea Knitting

Lunch Qi Gong Days Out

Singing Baking

Watercolour Painting

Afternoon Tea Knitting Watercolour Painting

• Cartooning & Design

Crafting & Creating

Singing Baking Crafting & Creating Dancing Games Fun with

• Working with Clay

Dancing Games Fun with the Children

Children’s Classes Arty Parties

Cherry Spring Studio

Adults Classes Group Bookings The Blacksmiths

Private Art Lessons Commissions Nettlesworth Lane

CHERRY SPRING STUDIO

Uniting generations in the glorious setting of Heathfield Park Cricket Club, The Pavilion, Old Heathfield, East Sussex TN21 9AE 10-4pm Tuesday, Thursday & Friday

School Holiday Workshops Art Vouchers Vines Cross TN21 9EN

Uniting generations in the glorious setting of Heathﬁeld Park Cricket Club, The Pavilion, Old Heathﬁeld, East Sussex TN21 9AE 10-3.30pm Tuesday, Thursday & Friday

e cherryspringstudio@outlook.com 07482 261006

If you would love to come along or know someone that would Call Rachel on 07971 032667 www.youngatheart.me.uk Follow us

If you would love to come along or know someone that would Call Rachel on 07971 032667 www.youngatheart.me.uk

MARIA SMITH SPORTS & REMEDIAL MASSAGE THERAPY

How can sports massage help you? -relieves tension -eases sore/tight muscles -improves circulation -improves joint mobility -enhances wellbeing -increase flexibility & range of motion

We meet 2nd Saturday of every month at Horam Village Hall TN21 0JE (A267)

Next Session 11th November 2023 - 9.30-12 noon

Next Session 8th June 2023 - 9.30-11am

Fully air conditioned studio in Horam or mobile service available. Appointments: 1 hour = £40 45 minutes = £35 Each massage caters for your needs – relax and unwind!

We hope to see you! Help us preserve our environment and dent our throw-away culture. Everyone is welcome - Yummy home-baked cakes & refreshments while you wait!

Items we repair include: computers, electrical items, cycles, minor mechanical problems, furniture and small sewing repairs

On most occasions we will be able to repair: computers - electrical items - cyclesminor mechanical problems - furniture - small sewing repairs

Tel: 07786 220179

Everyone is welcome - join us for home-baked cakes & refreshments

Email: mariasmassage21@gmail.com

Email repaircafeheathﬁeldandhoram@outlook.com https://sites.google.com/view/heathﬁeldrepaircafe/home?pli=1

Heathfield

Website: mariasmassage.co.uk

www.facebook.com/RepairCafeTN21

entry, regardless of how caused.

EXCITING NEWS!!!

Oakdown House and Carricks Brook both had 3 finalists in East Sussex Care Award 2024, which was held at The East Sussex National Hotel on Thursday 14th November. Staff and their families that attended enjoyed a sumptuous evening dressed in their finest outfits. We are very proud of all our staff but here is a little about this year’s finalists:

Janaka was the WINNER of the International Care Worker Award! Janaka joined Janaka joined Oakdown House in September 2023. From the moment he arrived in the UK, he made a commitment to work with us in a way rarely seen by other individuals. Janaka has successfully settled into life here, immersing himself in the English language and quickly grasping the cultural nuances, along with all of the care terminology required for his role. Despite never having worked in care before, he embraced the challenge with determination and adaptability. His impressive understanding and commitment have not gone unnoticed, and he is now developing as a team leader, climbing the internal ladder towards becoming a line manager.

Josh from Oakdown was awarded a Highly Commended for the Care Worker Award. Josh is the kindest, most dedicated and humble person you will ever meet. Josh has been part of the Oakdown House family for 11 years and in that time has worked as a support worker and team leader. Josh has such a calm disposition, and a calm influence on all those around him. Josh wears his heart on his sleeve and will always put the needs of the residents above his own. If service, loyalty and dedication count in this award, then there is no better recipient than Josh.

Clare was awarded a Highly Commended for the Ancillary Support of the Year Award. Clare has been working for Oakdown House for 8 years, as part of the activities team. Clare has taken time to build in the relationships with the residents that she supports and ensures all activities and interactions are meaningful. Clare has run art groups and organised lots of trips out and fostered relationships for residents with their families. Clare works above and beyond her own job description and ensures all residents have everything they need in a safe and fulfilling way.

Vicky was awarded a Highly Commended for Best New Comer Award for Carricks Brook. Vicky had never done the job before, she whizzed through the training and has just got on with everything required with very little support. She uses her own initiative all the time, has done things required before being asked and just has a general natural ability to support people with independence, choice and control. She communicates well with all and she does all this quietly behind the scenes.

Karen was awarded a Highly Commended for the Hidden Gem Award for Carricks Brook. Karen works over and above her job role all the time, creating ways to make the staff feel appreciated through things like birthday cards, Christmas hampers, valentine gifts etc. She is always ahead of the game, reminding us about HR requirements and about many other important things. Staff talk to her all the time, she is a sounding board for all, feeding into staff well-being and retention.

Tina was awarded a Highly Commended for the Care Leadership Award for Carricks Brook. Tina has been the Registered Manager at Carricks Brook for 15 years, Tina was instrumental in planning and opening the home and setting very high standards from the start. Her focus has always been on supporting the staff team to enable the residents to live amazing lives. Tina is an amazing manager - leading from the front, inspiring her staff, encouraging them to excel and supporting them to develop.

Chimney Sweep

Sadly, due to Victorian health & safety regulations, only children of under 14” shoulder measurement may be employed.

A Clean Sweep - your local chimney sweep

Make sure your fireplace is safe with a professional sweep.

• All types of residential chimneys swept.

• Wood & multi-fuel stoves cleaned and serviced.

• Inspection & preparation of all chimneys for stove installation.

• Bird guards & cowls fitted.

• RSPB nominated bird removal man for East Sussex.

• Smoke test & certification for every sweep.

• Member of Association of Professional Independent Chimney Sweeps (APICS).

• Now certified woodburner installer.

Ross Atabey on 01435 812153/07941 315214

Email: acleansweep009@gmail.com

Gas Boiler Servicing from £100+ VAT

Oil Boiler Servicing from £120+ VAT

Gas Safety Certificate from £60+ VAT

Heathfield and Waldron Parish Council

News from Heathfield and Waldron Parish Council

Another year, another spectacular Christmas Lighting Up event! On Friday, 22nd November, our town came together once again to welcome the festive season in style. Despite the chilly weather, the turnout was heart-warming, with so many residents joining in the holiday cheer. We hope everyone had a wonderful time celebrating this cherished tradition.

A special round of applause goes to all the children who participated in our annual colouring competition. Your creativity truly brought the spirit of the season to life! A huge congratulations to Annabelle, our overall winner, who had the honour of switching on the town’s Christmas lights. A big shout-out also goes to our talented runners-up, Sam and Lexi - your fantastic entries impressed us all!

Our congratulations extend to Melina Joy, who dazzled us with their creative flair and won the Best Dressed Window competition. Hats off as well to Kit Wilson for their outstanding display, earning the title of Best Dressed Charity Shop Window. Your efforts added a magical sparkle to our town!

Events like this wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and support of so many in our community. We’d like to express our heartfelt gratitude to:

• Heathfield Fire Station for their support and the use of their premises.

• Agrifactors for providing our beautiful Christmas tree, and also the generous tree sponsors.

• The Heathfield Bonfire Society for the road signage and support.

• The Rotary Club of Heathfield and Waldron for marshalling and providing Santa’s sleigh.

• Roche Electrical for supplying the PA system.

• Ricky’s Ltd for engraving the Best Dressed Window plaque.

Your contributions truly made this event a resounding success. Thank you for helping to light up our town - literally and figuratively!

Finally, everyone at Heathfield & Waldron Parish Council would like to wish you all a very Happy 2025!

If you ever have any questions or concerns that you would like to raise with the Parish Council please do not hesitate to ring or email us, our details appear below.

Helen Johnson, Parish Council Clerk, 73 High Street, Heathfield TN21 8HU Tel: 01435 865700. Email: info@hwpc.org.uk Office opening hours Mon-Fri 9:30am-1pm, 1:30-3pm.

We are very lucky to have such an amazing charity locally that cares for our wildlife. WRAS are always grateful for donations of towels, pillow slips, blankets and cat food. These items can be left at: Unit 8, The Shaw Barn, Whitesmith, BN8 6JD.

Why not visit their charity shop in Eastbourne? 01323 643111. Any animal in trouble call 0781 50 78234, for anything else call 01825 873003.

HEATHFIELD SILVER BAND

We are looking for new members in all sections. Did you use to play a brass instrument and gave it up for some reason? Or, if you have never played we can teach you. We offer free instrument loan and free tuition. Why not give us a try? Be part of a friendly group of people and enjoy a new challenge. There are no grades required and we are non-contesting. We rehearse on Tuesday evenings at our bandroom in Alexandra Road, Heathfield. Call 01435 817201 to discuss joining HSB, www.heathfieldsilverband.com

Volunteers Urgently Needed

Age Concern Heathﬁeld & District is an independent Charity, providing services for the Elderly and disabled in the TN21 area.

We are in urgent need of volunteer drivers to join our Medical Car Service

Drivers use their own cars, to transport clients to and from medical appointments, including local hospitals, doctors, denFst etc.

All expenses are covered by the Charity.

Full training is provided

Volunteers are required to have an enhanced DBS, funded by the Charity For more information, please contact

01435 866960

secretary@ageconcernheathﬁeld.org.uk

c/o Little Tinkers Nursery, Scocus Barn, Five Ashes, East Sussex. TN20 6JJ

Tel: 01435 866960 Email: info@ageconcernheathfield.org.uk

GARDENING DIARY

" Better to see a mad dog than a hot sun in January."

The thought of seeing a hot sun in January might seem preferable to meeting a mad dog, but nature needs the cold; in the vegetative world energy is being stored and buds are invisibly forming, birds and mammals are slowly gaining condition and strength as they contemplate the happy rigours and duties of increase in the coming Spring.

The new year sees us emerge, blinking into the low January sun and, bilious from a surfeit of sherry and lampreys, we one and all should be out in the garden to take every chance to push on with garden chores. There is much to be done before the great awakening when urgent tasks multiply and leave no time for pulling up arrears. So how may we work off the corpulence and crapulence of the Saturnalia? Might we start with mending the torn felt on the shed roof, or cleaning and disinfecting the green house or burning that pile of cuttings left over from the autumn pruning? Conditions allowing, we may be planting hedging plants, hardy climbers, deciduous shrubs, roses and the hardier perennials. As always we should be looking over recent plantings to see none have been loosened by wind or lifted by frost. Firm staking is vital.

Towards the end of the month in sheltered spots we may be planting, always weather permitting, Jerusalem artichokes, horse-radish, rhubarb and shallots.

A heavily cropped vegetable garden will slowly increase in acidity over the years, by degrees the quality and quantity of crops, especially brassicas, will disappoint, we may dig in extra manures and fertilisers to boost the yield but these may only increase the acidity; The PH must be adjusted. Assuming the reader carried out autumn digging and manuring, now until march is the time to lime. It is important to keep manuring and liming at least three months apart. Liming will also help to improve soil condition and workability by causing the very fine particles to be found in clay to join together into larger clumps; the happily named process of flocculation. In common with the children, the showy dahlia is a 'gross feeder ' and will repay preparation carried out now; planting pockets may be dug and backfilled with herbivore poo manure together with bone meal, this mix will fester down in time for planting out in late spring. The same method works well for pumpkins, courgettes or any crop that will produce heavily from a single plant.

The herbaceous border may have become over-crowded with older plants and may need some attention as to lifting and replanting, those plants to be moved or divided may be dug out now and put in a shady corner with some covering over the root balls. The bed may now be dug over and quantities of horse droppings, compost and bone meal dug in before plants are re-located.

GARDENING DIARY

As with the lawn-loving Briton in the Asterix books, an Britisher’s pride is the lawn. Having vigorously scattered the worms casts with the besom we may now apply topdressing at around four pounds a square yard, this may be gently and rhythmically spread back and forth with the back of a rake, and a very calming job it is too.

Cloches. We don't seem to see as many nowadays, but they are essential for warming and drying the ground prior to sowing seed. By setting out cloches now we may gain ourselves a month's head-start with the crop and be in a position come Spring to be gloating over our unseasonably early crops.

If cloches were put out at the beginning of the month we may, after the Ides, presume to sow some onion, lettuce, radish, broad bean and round-seeded pea.

Wood ash from the wood burner will be greatly appreciated by the onions, important to store these in a dry place before use.

Seed potatoes may be stood eye ends uppermost to start the chitting process.

There are little jobs and big jobs to be seen to wherever we look. For those governed by the fourth humor, melancholia, or those by nature prone to ennui, work in the garden is the best possible remedy. There should be no time left for brooding or boredom.

NEWS FROM NUS GHANI

As we approach the end of another busy year, please allow me to reflect on some of the local successes and work that has been done to support our communities.

I am hugely grateful to the voters of Sussex Weald for returning me to Parliament in July. I continue building on my strong record of delivery and I am pleased that we’ve had some great news for several local organisations receiving Government support. Amongst others, these included: Beacon Academy in Crowborough and Uplands Academy in Wadhurst benefitting from multi-million-pound funding for building upgrades; the 1st Horam Scouts receiving over £27,500 for improvements to their facilities; investment of over £70,000 to help Hailsham swimming pool improve its energy efficiency; and over £297,000 for a new Community and Health Centre in Mayfield and Five Ashes. Improvements to water infrastructure are also taking place across the constituency, including in Halland, Hellingly, Wadhurst, Rotherfield, Heathfield and Punnets Town, as well as the £30 million upgrades at Bewl Water reservoir.

It’s also been a year of huge success for TeamGB and I’m incredibly proud that Sussex Weald has its own Olympic Gold Medallist Emily Craig from Mark Cross, who began her career at Bewl Bridge Rowing Club. I was pleased to meet Emily to congratulate her in person, and I continue working with our organisations including Hailsham Active and Horam GAP project on boosting accessible sports facilities in the area.

Lunch Qi Gong Days Out

Afternoon Tea Knitting

Singing Baking

There are many ongoing projects which I will continue progressing next year including work with: Southern Water to prevent flooding and sewage overspills; Sussex Police on tackling rural crime and enhancing road safety; Ashdown Forest CEO and Conservators; our local charities including Rotherfield St Martin, Care for the Carers and Wealden Works in Heathfield; and the National Farmers’ Union and our fantastic local farmers.

Watercolour Painting

Crafting & Creating

Dancing Games Fun with the Children

Events Coming up Xmas Wreath Making Visits to local schools for their Christmas concerts

Uniting generations in the glorious setting of Heathﬁeld Park Cricket Club, The Pavilion, Old Heathﬁeld, East Sussex TN21 9AE 10-3.30pm Tuesday, Thursday & Friday

It has been a busy year with lots of wonderful news and wins locally, but there is more to be done. Please be assured that I will continue to work hard in 2025 to campaign for more resources for Sussex Weald and to ensure that your concerns are heard in Westminster. This year, my office helped over 10,000 residents and I continue to hold weekly surgeries to provide advice and representation. If you need my assistance, please email me at nusrat.ghani.mp@parliament.uk or visit my website www.nusghani.org.uk for more information. I wish you a very Happy New Year.

If you would love to come along or know someone that would Call Rachel on 07971 032667 www.youngatheart.me.uk Follow us

Horam and Heathﬁeld Repair Cafe

Every 2nd Saturday of the month except August Next Meeting January 14th 9.30-12 noon

Come & enjoy some refreshments while you wait, we hope to see you!

We meet 2nd Saturday of every month at Horam Village Hall TN21 0JE (A267) Next Session 11th November 2023 - 9.30-12 noon Items we repair include: computers, electrical items, cycles, minor mechanical problems, furniture and small sewing repairs Everyone is welcome - join us for home-baked cakes & refreshments

Email repaircafeheathﬁeldandhoram@outlook.com

heathfieldrepaircafe.com facebook.com/RepairCafeTN21 repaircafeheathfieldandhoram@outlook.com

https://sites.google.com/view/heathﬁeldrepaircafe/home?pli=1

www.facebook.com/RepairCafeTN21

Horam and Vines Cross Diary

Trudi - Mothering Mojo

The Doula Diaries: A Postnatal Adventure

Becoming a parent is like signing up for a job where the job description keeps changing. One moment, you’re an expert swaddler, the next, you’re a human milk machine. It’s beautiful chaos—and that’s where I come in.

I’m a postnatal doula. Think of me as a guide to the wonderful (and sometimes wacky) world of new parenthood. My job is to support families in the early days after a baby arrives. I help with everything from breastfeeding struggles to working out why the baby will only sleep in a bouncy chair at 3 a.m.

You might think my work is all lullabies and nappy changes, but surprisingly my job is often not about the baby at all. Once, I helped a new dad who was convinced his baby’s belly button stump was a lost sock! I’m really looking after the parents when I doula the baby.

The best part of my job? Witnessing little moments of magic. Like when exhausted parents catch their baby’s first sleepy smile and momentarily forget they haven’t slept in three days. Or when mum comes down from a nap and I’ve stacked the dishwasher, made her lunch and paired all her socks, all with a sleeping baby strapped to me.

Of course, it’s not all giggles and milestones. New parenthood can be overwhelming. I’m there for the teary moments, the “Is this normal?” panics, and the days when nothing seems to go right. My role is to remind parents they’re doing an amazing job—even when it feels like the opposite.

Being a postnatal doula isn’t just about helping parents survive; it’s about helping them thrive. It’s a privilege to walk alongside families as they adjust to life with a newborn, celebrating the highs and holding space for the lows.

Furthermore, I can fit this job in around my own children, holidays and circumstances. I have retrained in a number of other helpful subject (infant feeding, holistic sleep, colic and reflux, nueurological development of the newborn… and so it goes on, I’ve been doing this for 18 years so I’ve had time to add skills). Being a doula is a wonderful job, the best I would say. If you’re interested in making it your career, get in touch with www.doula.org.uk and attend one of their taster days for wannabe doulas.

TRUDI DAWSON, Mothering Mojo

Doula / Infant Feeding / Antenatal Teacher / Yoga Instructor / Holistic Sleep Coach / Director Doula UK http://www.motheringmojo.com http://www.instagram.com/trudi_motheringmojo http://www.facebook.com/motheringmojo1

Discover Wealden Volunteering in Heathfield

Welcome to the new year! We hope you had a wonderful festive period. Maybe you have thought about making some changes for your wellbeing this year? Maybe this article can inspire you to try something new.

Wealden Volunteering is dedicated to connecting volunteers with opportunities that make a real difference in people’s lives as well as finding the volunteers that local charities so desperately need to keep doing their amazing work. Volunteering is fun and helps the community too.

Volunteer Opportunities

We have a wide variety of volunteering roles to suit different interests and skills on our website. Whether you have one hour a week or more time to give, there’s a place for you. Opportunities include:

• Administrative support: Helping with office tasks, event planning and fundraising activities.

• Event Volunteering: Assisting at community events, fairs and local gatherings.

• Special Projects: Engaging in specific initiatives like environmental conservation or educational projects.

• Befriending: Providing companionship to those who may feel isolated or lonely, offering regular visits

• Transport Services: Volunteer drivers providing transportation to medical appointments, shopping trips or social events.

Get Involved

If you’re interested in meeting new people, learning new skills or just making a difference in your community, consider Volunteering. There is something to suit everyone whether on a regular or adhoc basis. It’s a fantastic way to make new friends, improve mental wellbeing, develop new skills, and contribute to the well-being of Heathfield.

Come and chat with us on a Thursday morning at our pop up in Heathfield Council offices between 9.45am and 12.45pm.

Or go online to look at the volunteer roles on our website or contact our office directly. We are happy to talk things through with you if you are not sure what you would like to do or don’t have access to a computer. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community.

Website: www.wealdenvolunteering.org.uk

Telephone: 01825 760019 Email: office@wealdenvolunteering.org.uk

2025 Be more, Be YOU, Make a New Year ReVolution!

New year, New You! You Do not have to wait for the New year to make resolutions or to start again, but of course many make New Year’s resolutions. Many approach the NEW Year with fear, in trepidation, sadness or a blend of feels. Looking into the future can cause anxiety and panic, you might not be where you want to be, you might feel stuck in a relationship, in a job, or within self.

The tradition of New Year’s resolutions began thousands of years ago, an excellent opportunity to set goals and align with our aspirations for personal growth and wellbeing. The drive for making resolutions is motivated by time and activates hopes and expectations for what we hope to achieve going forward. 60% of people in the UK who make resolutions will quit within 3 months, In positive psychology making a new year ReVolution is a lifelong transformational way of living, which is aligned to your values, you will watch your bad habits fall away, as successful, change isn’t about doing things with will power it’s about doing things with meaning.

In 2025; How about setting 12 happiness intentions instead, intentions are not goals attached to external outcomes. So, focussing on embodiment and getting out of your head IS the way to live in the present. They help you align and get clear on who you really are and what you really want. Visualising your intention and then using an affirmation will really encapsulate what you want to make a reality.

Here are 12 intentions, we’d love to hear about yours, perhaps add them to the Diaries Facebook group and tag me @michellejanecoaching.

1. I want to enjoy my life to the fullest.

2. May I experience the peace that happiness brings.

3. May I be humble enough to surrender the things I cannot control

4. I want to have a healthy Relationship with my body, mind and soul.

5. I invented to pause and be in the moment.

6. I intend to live fully every day.

7. I want to appreciate everything in my life.

8. When times are hard, I want to be able to see things in a new light.

9. I intend to trust the process of life.

10. I want lightness of being.

11. May I always rise above what pains me.

12. May I remember to praise progress and forget perfection. Have the most wonderful 2025, whatever that looks like for you, love Michelle jane x0x0 Michelle Jane Samuel is the founder of Satya coaching. At the heart of Satya is ethics, integrity and being authentic. Satya helps you foster a sense of wholeness and embodiment through education that permeates all aspects of your life. To work with Michelle email; michelle@michellejcoaching.com

YOUR ASSETS AND

• Our Will Writers are accredited members of the Society of Will Writers with years of experience in estate planning

• We offer home visits across East and West Sussex for your convenience

• As a qualified lawyer, I can provide the best advice around all aspects of your Will, Probate and Lasting Power of Attorney

Contact: 01435 511600 / 07759 493696 or emma.headworth@sussexwillwritersltd.co.uk Website: www.sussexwillwriters.com

WHAT’S ON IN JANUARY

Roman Sussex, Bridge Cottage, High Street, Uckfield, Thursday 2nd, 7pm. To book www.uckfieldheritage.co.uk/event-details/roman-sussex

Big Craft Sale, Crowborough Community centre, Saturday 4th, 10am – 2pm.

Baby Fayre, Bannatyne Hotel & Spa, Hastings Saturday 11th, 11am – 2pm.

Relaxed Performance of Snow White, Devonshire Park theatre, Tuesday 7th, 5pm, To book www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk/events/snowwhite This performance has been adapted to provide an environment that everyone can enjoy, with elements of the production adapted to reduce anxiety or stress.

Big Sussex Wedding Fair, Plumpton racecourse, Sunday 19th, From 10:30am.

Panto at the Pavilion, Jack and the Beanstalk, Hailsham, Wednesday 22nd, 7pm –10pm. To book www.hailshampavilion.co.uk/events/jack-and-the-beanstalk

Games Fest, White rock Theatre, Hastings, Saturday 25th – Sunday 26th, various sessions throughout the weekend. To book www.Guildhallgamesfest.com/hastings

Heathfield Morning WI

Next Meeting 14th January 10 -12

Main Hall, Union Church Station Road Heathfield TN21 8LB for

A talk about cheese making by a local producer

We meet 2nd Tuesday of the month

Just come along and meet sociable ladies

Do some activities, go on outings

Listen to some great speakers

Enjoy tea/coffee and a chat

If you would like to find out more email us at heathfieldmorningwi@gmail.com or speak to Devina on 07488 279722 Visitors welcome for taster session

Uniting generations in the glorious setting of Heathfield Park Cricket Club The Pavilion Old Heathfield East Sussex TN21 9AE

TUESDAY, THURSDAY & FRIDAY 10am - 3.30pm

Lunch Qi Gon Days Out

Afternoon Tea Knitting Watercolour Painting

Singing Baking Crafting & Creating

Dancing Games Fun with the Children

Dancing & Bingo 2-4pm every 2nd & 4th Thursday at The Union Church Heathfield

Come

All prices, all qualities.

Upholstered furniture, dining furniture, beds & bedroom furniture At Thorndale we have gifts such as plants, pictures, mirrors, ornamental items, lamps, clocks & of course loads of dining & bedroom furniture, beds & three-piece suites

The Importance of Hearing Tests

Hearing is one of the most critical senses we rely on for communication, social interaction, and overall well-being. Yet as adults age, hearing loss can become a common issue, often creeping up gradually and unnoticed until it significantly impacts daily life. The importance of regular hearing tests, cannot be overstated. These tests play a crucial role in early detection, prevention, and management of hearing loss, ensuring quality of life is maintained for as long as possible.

Age-Related Hearing Loss

Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, affects a large portion of the aging population. It is estimated that more than 40% of people over 50 and nearly 70% of those over 70 experience some form of hearing loss. The reasons for this include natural wear and tear on the auditory system, prolonged exposure to loud noises over a lifetime, and other agerelated health conditions, such as cardiovascular issues and diabetes, which can contribute to hearing problems.

Despite its prevalence, hearing loss is often neglected or accepted as an inevitable part of aging. Many older adults may not even realize their hearing has deteriorated because the process is gradual. Therefore, regular hearing tests are essential to detect problems early on, even before the individual notices symptoms.

Early Detection and Intervention

One of the primary reasons hearing tests are important is that they facilitate early detection. Like many health conditions, hearing loss can worsen over time if left unaddressed. Early detection enables prompt interventions that can slow down or manage the progression of hearing decline. For example, using hearing aids early on can help maintain the brain’s ability to process sounds, as the brain adapts to hearing loss over time by weakening the neural pathways responsible for sound recognition.

Moreover, untreated hearing loss is linked to a range of other health problems, including cognitive decline, social isolation, and depression. A study by Action on Hearing Loss suggests that older adults with untreated hearing loss are at a higher risk of developing dementia. Regular hearing tests, coupled with appropriate interventions, can mitigate these risks, contributing to better cognitive health and mental well-being.

Maintaining Social Connections

Another important reason for regular hearing tests is the impact hearing loss can have on social relationships. Difficulty hearing can make conversations challenging, leading to frustration for both the individual and their friends and family. As a result, many people with untreated hearing loss tend to withdraw from social situations, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

In the UK, social isolation among older adults is already a significant issue, and hearing loss only exacerbates the problem. By identifying hearing issues early, hearing tests enable individuals to take steps, such as using hearing aids or communication strategies, to stay engaged with their communities and maintain their social connections.

Conclusion

Regular hearing tests for adults as they age are essential for maintaining overall health, well-being, and quality of life. Hearing loss is a common part of aging, but it does not have to be a barrier to communication, cognitive health, or social connection. With early detection, accessible treatment options, and ongoing support, you can manage hearing loss effectively and continue to live vibrant, connected lives well into their later years. If you are worried about your hearing and hearing loss, call Melina Joy Opticians (see ad opp) on 01435 868181 to book a free hearing assessment with our Audiologist Antonio.

PODIATRIST

& CHIROPODIST

Over 13 years NHS experience Mara Ragaiolo BSc (Hons) Podiatry

HCPC registered and a member of the College of Podiatry

Now at Horam Healthcare Clinic, High Street, Horam TN21 0EL

All aspects of Podiatry and Chiropody including: Nail Cutting, Ingrowing Toenails, Corns and Callus, Verrucae Therapies, Foot Pain, & Diabetic Footcare and Assessment.

Payment by Cash, Cheque or Bank Transfer.

To book an appointment with Mara at Horam Healthcare Clinic Tel: Pauline on 01435 866227 where you can also leave a message at anytime.

Home Visiting Service also available.

To book a Home Visit with Mara call 07703156799 or email tmfootcare@mail.com

Age Concern

Beavers, Cubs, Scouts Explorer

USEFUL CONTACTS

01435 866960

07973 768192

Broad Oak Short Mat Bowls Club 01435 867622

Cake and Wine Club Choir

Cross In Hand Bridge Club

Heathfield & Horam Football Club

07957 405342

01435 863001

07366 034310

Brownies 07814 373402

Dementia Supper Clubs

07740 338120

Diamond Dance 01435 812543

Julie Langden

John Roberts

Mr A Kinson

Angela

Jan Moore

Becki Chiweda

Mary Jones

Lyn Leeves

Lizzie Owen 07985 306178

Eastbourne & District Canine Society 01323 506151

Heathfield Badminton Club 01435 868454

Heathfield Bridge Club 07714 122543

Mrs Chris Cleland

Graham Thorlby

David Higgon

Heathfield Chamber of Commerce secretary@heathfieldchamber.co.uk

Heathfield Choral Society 01323 833921

Chris Thompson chairman@heathfieldchoral.org.uk

Heathfield & District Bonfire Society www.heathfieldbonfiresociety.co.uk /membership

Heathfield & District Horticultural Society 01435 830725

Heathfield & District Ramblers Association 01435 873551

Nick Jeggo

Joy Charlesworth

Heathfield Farmers Market farmersmarket@heathfield.net

Heathfield Folk & Dance Club 01435 873551

Heathfield Food & Wine Circle 01435 812704

Heathfield Parish Allotment Society 01435 865700

Joy Charlesworth sec@heathfieldfolk.org.uk

Lorraine Cooley

Nicky Lee Marshall nleemarshall@hwpc.org.uk

Heathfield Parish Council 01435 865 700 info@hwpc.org.uk

Heathfield Park Cricket Club 07730 384642

Maggie Barr

Heffle Quilters 01435 865903/07789813165 Anneleen Raubenheimer anneleen.ar@gmail.com

Heathfield Road Runners 01435 812926

Heathfield Silver Band 01435 817201

Heathfield u3a

07769 865487

Heathfield & Waldron First Responders 01435 812273

Heathfield & Waldron Rugby Club 01435 868747

Heathfield WI 07488 279722

Heathfield Youth Centre

Fleur Blanford info@heathfieldroadrunners.com

Nick & Heather Beeby, secretary@heathfieldsilverband.com www.heathfieldsilverband.com

Barbara Hibbart publicityu3a@outlook.com

Dr Tim Williams

Devina Guyton

Sarah.Northwood@eastsussex.gov.uk

Heffle WI hefflewi@gmail.com

Horam & Heathfield Flower Club 01435 863224

Le Marche Anglo French Market

07970237723

Rainbows 01435 812018

Royal British Legion

01825 830445

RSPCA 0300 1234 999

The Kit Wilson Trust for Animal Welfare 01825 830444

Wealden Youth Choir

07808 222535

Phyllis Stevens

Richard Ridley

Brenda Macklin

Victor Barnard

Tea Killick

Wealden Volunteering 01825 760019 office@wealdenvolunteering.org.uk

Heathfield & Firs Surgery 01435 864999/ 01435 862021

Non emergency medical 111

Non emergency police 101

Securing Your Legacy with a Lifetime Trust

Navigating the uncertainties of life can be challenging, but securing the future of your loved ones need not be. With a Lifetime Trust you can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that your assets have been safeguarded and will benefit your chosen loved ones exactly as you intend.

Many believe that Lifetime Trusts are only for the wealthy, but this is no longer the case with ordinary folk now owning their homes and looking to protect their assets. We have made Lifetime Trusts an affordable and practical solution and made it possible for anyone to secure their family’s future with the same protection and foresight that the wealthy have enjoyed for centuries.

Why choose a Lifetime Trust?

• Avoid the cost and delays of probate: Grant immediate access on your death to some or all of your assets held in trust without the need for probate.

• Control and protection: Claim full control over your assets and shield your family’s inheritance from divorce, creditors, and other predatory challenges.

• Ensure future care of your beneficiaries: Guarantee that the trust capital can assist your loved ones for generations; for example, for education, health care, and first homes.

• Retain more of your wealth: Strategically reduce or even eliminate potential inheritance tax liabilities for yourself and future generations.

Many believe setting up a trust means losing control; however, the reality is quite the opposite. With the right planning, a Lifetime Trust allows you to maintain full control over your assets both during your lifetime and after death. A Lifetime Trust ensures that your wishes regarding your assets are meticulously realised with precision and care.

By setting up a Lifetime Trust you can preserve your legacy, ensuring your intentions are fulfilled not just for the present, but also for future generations.