In Touch
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with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead Volume 10 • Issue No. 7 • MAY 2020
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KEEPING IN TOUCH Until it’s safe for our delivery teams to work again we have decided to publish online and have worked quickly to create a dedicated area on the website for each publication area. We’re constantly adding new content and engaging with local, regional and national organisations to share often critical information and to support the local groups established in response to the COVID-19 crisis. We’ve also added a directory to make it easier to find the businesses which are still operating and available to take your call. www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk You may well be reading this online and if it’s your first visit to our website, you are very welcome. If you have a printer and know someone who can’t access the online edition, you can download and print a PDF from the website. We have also left a small number of printed copies at key locations in the area, though I suspect they will disappear rather quickly. Of course, we’re also using the Mansion House Publishing Facebook Twitter and Instagram accounts to ensure information is shared quickly and widely. Do join or follow us if you can. Instagram: mansionhousepublishing Twitter: @InTouchEast Facebook: Mansion House Publishing We’re also responding to increased demand for online advertising as companies seek out new ways to promote their business and to let customers know they are there for them now and always. If you want to know more about the advertising and e-marketing opportunities on offer, please contact our sales team on 01473 400380. Ipswich based photographer Jolanta Putnina provides affordable photography services from environmental portrait sessions and weddings to commercial event coverage. Extended portfolio at: www.jolantaputninaphotography.co.uk Follow for ideas and inspirations on Instagram and Facebook and contact for inquiries via social media or phone 07857 888650
Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins T: 01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
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In Touch Titles • Stowmarket & Stowupland • Kesgrave & Rushmere St Andrew • Melton & Woodbridge • Manningtree, Brantham, Lawford & Mistley • Hadleigh, Chattisham, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon • Ipswich East, Ravenswood, Broke Hall & Warren Heath • Elmswell, Beyton, Drinkstone, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit • Needham Market & The Creetings •S hotley, Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton & Woolverstone • Martlesham • Claydon, Barham, Henley & Whitton • East Bergholt, Dedham, Flatford & Stratford St Mary • Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham • Capel St Mary (Capel Capers) • Copdock, Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone & Washbrook • Gt & Lt Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead •W esterfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin & Witnesham • Sproughton & Burstall We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe
Sunday 10 May
is the advertising and editorial deadline for the June edition
www.keepingintouchwith.com/blakenham
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Every aspect of life as we know it has been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and it’s impossible to know when we can expect ‘normal’ life to resume. Tragically many lives have been lost, including far too many NHS and healthcare staff to whom we owe an enormous debt, as we do to everyone who continues to work, in any capacity, on what is now referred to as the ‘front line’. Many of us are working from home, fortunate to still have jobs while many others have lost theirs. Many local businesses have been forced to shut down temporarily (we hope) while others have adapted to meet a growing need for home deliveries or alternative services and products. Through all this we have seen the emergence of an extraordinary sense of community responsibility with support networks or hubs forming almost overnight to ensure those is most need or self-isolating have access to essential supplies. In traditional Irish farming communities, a gathering such as this was known as a ‘meitheal’. Modern technology has enabled digital ‘meitheals’ to form and the sense of common good has never been as powerful as it is right now. If you haven’t already signed up, you will probably find the following quite useful right now:
Claydon, Barham, Henley & Gt Blakenham Notice Board Suffolk County Council Mid Suffolk District Council
@suffolkcc @MidSuffolk @DHSCgovuk
COVID-19 Information Centre They say participating in meaningful activities is a major contributor to our sense of wellbeing and Sew Scrubs must be the perfect example. Sewers, pattern printers, fabric cutters, fundraisers, sponsors, delivery volunteers and co-ordinators have come together to meet an indentified need and it looks like they are having a lot of fun in the process. Others, including schools and businesses with the right skills and materials, have been making masks and face shields, sending food, posting messages and videos, helping with childcare and shopping, paying for parking... Even standing outside to applaud our key-workers at 8pm on Thursday evenings is a shared activity which certainly lifts the mood in our house, though I’m not sure Flip (our pet rabbit) would agree. If you are looking for ways to help or donate, a quick visit to Facebook will provide plenty of opportunity but the one essential thing most of us must do is to stay at home and to maintain distance when you do go out. It’s not a lot to ask, particularly as we know it’s having the required effect. Of course it’s also important to do some activity you enjoy and to keep life as normal as possible. I’ve been spending as much time as possible in the garden with Jack. It’s a small space but we’ve created a great number of, mostly football themed, challenges. Four weeks in and I still haven’t managed to get the ball in the bucket (‘top bins’) once. We also created our own crazy golf course using ‘stuff’ from the recycling bin and a chair leg as a putter. We’ve only broken one window so far! Staying informed is important too but I hope you’re not checking your phone every five minutes. I did this for the first two weeks or so and was so overwhelmed by anxiety and sadness I found myself crying uncontrollably (in a cupboard) at least once a day. Jack did wonder why my hay fever seemed to be worse than usual! We must be hopeful. Knowledge of the virus and its effects improves day by day and the race is on to find a vaccine. Stay strong. Take care of yourselves and of others. Our very best wishes from everyone here at Mansion House Publishing
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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS
#SaveLives
GREAT BLAKENHAM PARISH COUNCIL
DR DAN POULTER MP
Our next meeting is scheduled to be held at 7.30pm on Wednesday 13 May in the Parish Room. However, due to COVID-19, this may be subject to change or the meeting may be held on online. As I write this, the council is trying to find a way to hold meetings over the internet, but there are some problems with this owing to our particular circumstances. Updates on this will be placed on the noticeboards and our social media. Everyone is welcome at any council meeting and there is a 15-minute public forum where you can ask questions or raise issues related to the work of the parish council.
As I sit to write this month’s article, we find ourselves living in incredibly challenging circumstances. Never in peacetime has a Prime Minister or his Government been faced with such difficult decisions. From the very beginning of this crisis, our Prime Minister and Government have been led by the advice of our world-leading scientists.
COVID-19 has disrupted all our lives and the council would like to thank all those in the village and the wider area who have reached out to and helped vulnerable residents, particularly Bus Shelter Ipswich who have opened a foodbank at Claydon Community Centre, Families in Need Suffolk who run a foodbank for Ipswich and the surrounding villages and the Claydon and Surrounding Villages Support Group. You will have seen that our wonderful contractors have been working throughout the lockdown to maintain the cemetery and churchyard, litter picking, etc, and we would like to thank them for carrying on in difficult circumstances and also thank all the residents who have taken their litter home and made it easier for them to get through their work. Stay safe and well and I hope to see you at a face to face council meeting later in the year Thank you for reading this and for your interest in the work of your parish council. Chairman Steve Plume Parish Clerk Janet Gobey pc@greatblakenham.suffolk.gov.uk / 07508 830777 Facebook: @greatblakenhampc Twitter: @pcgtblakenham. Website: greatblakenham.suffolk.cloud
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY The majority of VE Day 75 community celebrations due to take place on the bank holiday weekend of 8-10 May have been cancelled or postponed. It is currently hoped to move events to the weekend of 15-16 August when VE Day and VJ Day can both be celebrated. However, many will take a moment on Friday 8 May to reflect on the enormous sacrifice, courage and determination of people from all walks of life who saw us through this dark and terrifying period. We will remember the members of the Armed Forces and Merchant Navy from many countries who gave their lives or returned home injured in body and mind, the hard-working women and men who operated the factories, mines, shipyards and farms, and ARP wardens, police officers, doctors, nurses, fireman, local defence volunteers and others who toiled day and night selflessly on the home front during difficult frightening and uncertain times. Of course we are now living in frightening and uncertain times and once again our safety is in the hands of others, many of whom are putting themselves at risk on a daily basis to do so. We salute those, past and present, who step up to help others in difficult times. This month especially, we find inspiration in the past and strength in togetherness.
We all need to recognise that our NHS, like any other health service, has only a limited number of doctors, nurses and specialist equipment. So, the more people who become sick at any one time, the harder it is for the NHS to cope. This is why it is so important to delay the spread of the disease and reduce the number of people needing hospital treatment at any one time. I really cannot stress enough the importance of our Prime Minister’s message to Stay At Home, Protect Our NHS and Save Lives. Here in Suffolk we have a great track record of coming together to help those in need and to support each other and I’m pleased to be able to share details of a new Suffolk-based community service supporting those in need during the COVID-19 outbreak. Called Home, but not alone the service connects people who want to volunteer in their communities with neighbours who are most in need. Volunteers can sign up via a free app, Tribe Volunteer, and the phone number for those in need of genuine help is 0800 876 6926. Lines will be staffed from 9am to 5pm seven days a week. I would like to personally pay tribute to all our outstanding NHS staff working tirelessly around the clock in incredibly challenging circumstances, caring for those not only affected by COVID 19 but also who are still needing care under normal circumstances. I would also like to put on record my thanks to our local council staff, our teachers and school workers, police, transport workers and everyone doing their bit in our communities to help and look out for each other. I am incredibly proud of everyone rising to the challenge and helping to support those in need in our communities. These are unprecedented times in our generation and I also know that a great many of you will be worried about your jobs, our schools and money. I’m doing my very best to keep my website up to date with helpful and current information, so please do check there if you have any queries: www. drdanielpoulter.com By the time this article goes to press and finds its way to you, matters may well have progressed further, but the best advice I can offer is stay at home, help to protect our NHS, help to stop the spread of COVID-19 and save lives.
GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB All club activities are cancelled for the foreseeable and we will wait to see when we can resume. Being crafters, I’m sure we all have plenty of ‘stash’ and it’s a good time not only to get on with unfinished projects but also to do new things. Many an hour can pass quite pleasantly during our enforced staycations. To keep everyone in touch I have been emailing members my rambling thoughts and pictures of things I have been making. In response they have been circulating pictures of things they have made. In this way we keep in touch and spark ideas for others to have a go at. Sadly there are a couple of members who don’t have email but this idea may be useful for other groups. Jackie Durrant
GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50S CLUB All club activities are cancelled for the foreseeable and as we have a summer break in August it may well be (though I hope not) that we don’t reconvene until September. We will have to wait and see. Jackie Durrant
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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE Spring 2020 shutdown In view of the recent advice from the UK Government regarding COVID-19, we have made the decision to postpone our major planned maintenance shutdown until October 2020. The facility will instead undergo a minor maintenance shutdown this spring. Shutdowns are a normal part of operational life at the Suffolk energy-fromwaste facility to ensure that it continues to work efficiently. We normally have two shutdowns a year: a major four-week shutdown in spring, and a minor two-week shutdown in autumn. The maintenance of each of our two furnaces is staggered so that we can continue to accept waste throughout the shutdown period. The maintenance of one of our furnaces was carried out in early April, and the maintenance of the second will be carried out in late May. The repainting of the stacks scheduled for the Spring shutdown will be carried out in October. During this period there should be no impact on the local community. However, if you have any concerns about the shutdown period, please contact us via the details provided below. Tours at the facility Any public tours cancelled at the facility due to restrictions as a result of COVID-19 will be rescheduled, once tours have resumed. We regret that we cannot take any more bookings for tours at this time, but please contact us if you would like to be added to our waiting list. We’re on Twitter Did you know that Suffolk’s energy-from-waste facility is on social media? For more frequent facility updates, fun facts and handy tips about rubbish, recycling and food waste, follow us on Twitter.@suffolkefw Any questions? If you have any queries about our operations, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01473 839149 or email at: suffolkefw.uk@suez.co
#SaveLives
PROPERTY RESTORED IN LESS THAN A WEEK FOR VULNERABLE RESIDENTS A property in Sudbury has been transformed in just five working days in order to provide urgent accommodation to people at risk during the coronavirus outbreak. Babergh District Council’s teams joined local firms in working round the clock to transform the Lees, in Newton Road. They undertook the major task of getting the building – only recently returned to the council – repaired, decorated, fitted with essential appliances and furniture, and fully checked within days to allow the first seven households to move in. The need for provision of housing for the district’s most vulnerable residents, including rough sleepers and those experiencing homelessness, has increased as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. The council brought forward plans to refurbish the building following the government’s offer of emergency funding to help provide accommodation and services to rough sleepers and those at risk of homelessness. Contractors Whybrow Property Solutions even removed the kitchen units from their own premises to install at the property, while other firms agreed to make all-important deliveries of furniture before closing their doors on Friday. Cllr Jan Osborne Babergh District Council cabinet member for housing, said: “This property has only recently been returned to the council and the housing and building services teams have done an amazing job. It is testimony to how council staff and local business have worked together during a time when we are facing so many challenges in being able to complete this project in just five days. It’s excellent to now be able to offer somewhere safe for people sleeping rough, staying in night shelters or assessment hubs, who didn’t have a secure home or somewhere safe to self-isolate if required.”
BEFORE
AFTER
OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01934 524013
STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have changed the way everybody is working, including the Chamber. This means that for the foreseeable future we will be holding virtual networking meetings via Zoom. So you’ll have to provide your own refreshments on Friday 1 May from 10am to noon, and for breakfast on Friday 15 May, starting at 9am. But we would love to see you!
GREAT BLAKENHAM CINEMA We just wanted to say that while we miss you all we are looking forward to a really good party when we are next able to meet up! Thank you for all of your support and know that we are thinking of you. We hope you find some good films to watch at home and do let us know your suggestions for when we return. If you use Facebook do feel free to message us for a chat or our email address is: greatblakenhamcinema@outlook.com
We are also sending out weekly e-newsletters with tips, advice and the latest information for businesses.
While many of our team are self-isolating, Becky is social distancing and is helping with the Claydon and Local Villages Coronavirus Support Group so do call if you need any help at all: 07925 667671
To sign up for newsletters and receive all the latest info and booking links go to https://stowmarketchamber.co.uk and fill in the form at the foot of the homepage.
Volunteers are residents from the local area who are happy to help shop, fetch prescriptions, walk the dog or have a friendly chat. They have a page on Facebook where you can request help or volunteer. Best wishes, The Volunteer Crew
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Photo courtesy: www.suffolkyoga.com
We all know physical activity is essential for both our physical and mental wellbeing and never has this been more important than during these difficult times of social distancing and isolation. Here at In Touch, we are delighted to have joined forces with Public Health Suffolk and the Most Active County Partnership as a partner for the recently launched, Keep Moving Suffolk campaign. Over the coming weeks and months there will be information, advice and useful links on the Keep Moving Suffolk website www.keepmovingsuffolk.com to help you, your family and local community to get active and stay active during these challenging times. The website, has a range of resources, tips, tutorials and information to support you to exercise outside and inside the home, as well as resources specifically for older people and for children. It also includes information on taking care of mental health and where to get advice if people have long-term health conditions. We would love to hear how you’re keeping active so why not film and post a 10-15 second clip of you and/or your family being active with the message – “Keep Moving Suffolk” on social media and use the hashtags #keepmovingsuffolk and #StayInWorkOut.
Dr Craig Sheridan, a practising doctor and sport and exercise medicine specialist working on the frontline at Ipswich Hospital in the fight against the pandemic, has been involved in helping to get the Keep Moving Suffolk resource off the ground: “During this difficult time it is important for us all to stay mentally and physically healthy. “Exercise is an important way to improve mental wellbeing and is recognised to be positive in managing depression in older adults as well as improving sleep, feelings of fatigue and quality of life. Improvements in our cardiorespiratory health can happen within a few weeks of commencing regular, moderate intensity exercise and regular physical activity reduces the risks and complications of many diseases and infection.” Dr Sheridan added: “for those who are currently free from Covid-19 symptoms, there are clear benefits to starting or continuing to exercise whilst in social isolation. “It is important to note that strenuous exercise is not advisable for those with symptoms of infection, particularly with a fever.”
www.keepmovingsuffolk.com @keepmovingsuffolk www.keepingintouchwith.com/blakenham
@keepmovingsuffolk
@Most_Active 7
#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS
#SaveLives
NETTLE LIFE AT ORCHARD BARN Springtime young nettles are the best! Yes, when it comes to using nature to enhance our health and enjoying some delicious taste, there’s nothing better than nettle soup. Just pick the tips of the nettles and add stock/vegetables and simmer until all are tender; anything goes. Drinking nettle tea is another fabulous way to partake – recommended max of four cups per day. Just steep the leaves in hot water, drain and drink. What other ways might you think to use nettles? At Orchard Barn we have lots of nettles and if they don’t end up in our soups or tea, they certainly help nourish our compost heaps. Sarah makes nettle liquid feed for the plants at OBee by steeping nettles in rainwater for thelonger-the-better, then draining the content to produce the liquid. Urtica Dioica (stinging nettles) literally means ‘to burn’, and haven’t we all been stung by a nettle at some point? To which we grab a nearby dock leaf and rub like mad over the sting. Once cooked, however, they are safe to devour. What do nettles offer? They contain nutrients for a start – A, B, C and K. They contain minerals – calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorous and sodium. And they contain fats, amino acids, polyphenols, and pigments like beta-carotene and carotenoids. So, what are the benefits of these fiery plants? They may treat hay fever, may lower blood pressure by shedding excess salt, may aide blood sugar control, may protect your liver against toxins, and they may support wound/burn healing by applying a nettle cream (note I say ‘may’). You do need to look out for potential side effects which come from handling nettles. You could inject yourself with histamine, serotonin or formic acid from the ‘hair’ of the nettle. These can cause rashes, hives or itchiness. (NB: pregnant women should avoid eating nettles as they may stimulate contractions.) Always speak with your doctor if you are on medication before partaking of nettle glory. Of course any ideas in this article on the benefits of nettles are taken at your own risk!
EMERGENCY FUNDING POT AVAILABLE TO HELP LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Community groups and organisations can now apply for immediate grants of up to £2,500 as part of Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils’ response to COVID-19. Over £80,000 is being made available to both new and existing groups in Babergh and Mid Suffolk who are playing a key role in protecting vulnerable residents and helping our communities remain resilient during the COVID-19 outbreak. Grants of up to £2,500 can be applied for to cover increased costs incurred by groups as a result of the Coronavirus (Covid-19), including general running costs, ongoing staff costs, volunteer expenses, utility bills and the purchasing of food or other consumables. Larger requests for funding will be considered under exceptional circumstances. The Emerging Needs Grant has a straightforward application process, enabling our councils to respond quickly to help ease the challenges our residents are facing during the crisis. Community officers will continue to work closely with district councillors, towns and parishes and community groups to ensure financial support is available and directed to meet needs as they emerge within communities. Cllr Derek Davis, Cabinet Member for Communities for Babergh District Council said: “We recognise that it’s more important than ever before to provide support to our residents who are experiencing difficulties. In response to this we have simplified our grants process, to make financial help available quickly and easily for those who need it most.” Cllr Julie Flatman, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing for Mid Suffolk District Council said: “I am delighted that groups and organisations are pulling together to relieve the financial hardship of residents, or to assist the vulnerable who are self-isolating at home. This grant scheme will allow for their hard work to continue, providing comfort at this uncertain time.”
Photo by Paul M on Unsplash
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The Babergh and Mid Suffolk Communities Team, bolstered by the redeployment of other council officers, are currently identifying groups and organisations that could benefit from this funding. For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/taqacw7
In Touch online:
#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES GROUP All groups are cancelled until further notice owing to the Covid-19 virus. We would like to thank the NHS, ambulance and all emergency services, together with care workers, pharmacies and all key workers (far too many to mention) for their hard work during this awful period. They are all doing a fantastic job. Hopefully if we all do as the government and experts tell us then this will be over sooner rather than later. Take care and stay safe.
SPECIALISTS IN THE BUSINESS FOR OVER 40 YEARS One of the things in life people value the most is having a roof over their head, and here at Next Generation Roofing we never underestimate the need that people have to feel safe and protected. This is why we put so much hard work into ensuring that we provide the most comprehensive roofing services Ipswich wide, as well as the surrounding areas of Bury St Edmunds and Colchester. As a team of expert roofers, we only use the best quality materials in our work, but it isn’t only this that gives us such as excellent reputation, it’s our work ethic. No matter what amount of work is needed, we approach every job with the same care and attention to detail. All of our work is completed to the highest standard and we know that you’ll be happy with the result. We quote for each job individually, based on your requirements, and offer a wide range of roofing products and services from minor repairs to replacements. We know that roofing doesn’t just stop at the actual roof, which is why we can provide fascias and guttering as well, all of the best quality, and we can help you chose something that will match the rest of your home. Here at Next Generation Roofing Specialists our team of roofers are proud of our strong reputation for quality and reliable roofing services and take our work as seriously as you take your home. We enjoy seeing our work finished to a high standard and look forward to your call. Find out more by visiting: www.nextgeneration-roofing.co.uk Suffolk Office: 01473 833446 / Essex Office: 01206 827454 Mobile: 07896 787424 / enquiries@nextgeneration-roofing.co.uk
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#SaveLives
CRISIS? BUT WHICH CRISIS? So here we are in the middle of a crisis. But do we actually know which ‘crisis’ we are in the middle of? Sure, there is the health tragedy of (to date) about 11,000 deaths of people of all ages dying unpleasantly of (or with) the COVID-19 virus. These are all very painful individual losses for family and friends, and in no way be belittled. The companion crisis is economic. This has been brewing for a much longer time than the virus crisis. Arguably decades, and given my business interests it is the more worrying of the two crisis. This crisis, in my opinion, is one of bad money and bad government. Essentially we have been mortgaging our future for our comfort today. All Governments in all nations that are generally considered developed have, since certainly 1945 or thereabouts, been welded to a sort of punk Keynesian economic policy settlement which encourages credit expansion and consumption over thrift and production, all financed by gigantic quantities of Government and other debt (of course there is no such thing as ‘Government debt’ – it is our debt – the tax payers debt), and monetary expansion. For various reasons we have got away with these bad policies for some time. Maybe until now. The forces of economics are unavoidable and bad policies will eventually fail. Most often the failure is triggered by some unforeseen event. An event that triggers a return to reality. Bad banking (including very bad central banking and financial regulatory bureaucracy) failed in 2008 and we have been kicking the can down the road since then. There has been no meaningful banking reform and government debt, certain classes of private debt and money have continued to expand, but it will not, cannot, do so for ever. Economics will not allow it, and as I said most commonly an event triggers the end game. Is the COVID-19 pandemic this event? Our core business is advising on and administering client investment and pension portfolios. Do not let any ‘expert’ tell you that this activity requires at least one degree in the science of rocketry. It does not. What it does require are common sense and a very cynical world view. It’s not hugely difficult to provide a successful client investment experience. But what we - no one - can defend you from is ongoing Government and bureaucratic failure and their universal companion, the failure of bad money. There are things that can be done to mitigate those third party failures and we have had some modest success. So, if you would like a no obligation, no holds barred chat please feel free to contact us; on Zoom, by email – advice@wfw.co.uk, and telephone 01473 231644 or if you call us first we can arrange Facetime or WhatsApp video calls. Our office is manned daily and our staff are working remotely.
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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS
#SaveLives
HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL Even though Henley Pre-School is currently closed to Coronavirus (COVID-19) we are providing lots of activities and ideas to support parents via their child’s online journal which is called Tapestry. It has been so well supported; we love seeing all of the things you have been doing and hope you are enjoying the activities as well. Staff are also keeping busy doing online courses so we are upskilled and ready for when we will be able to open. If anyone would like more ideas of things to do with your children, you can also go to our Facebook page. We are a small, rural and friendly setting based at Henley Community Centre. We pride ourselves on having a high ratio of staff to children and therefore providing maximum care and learning for the children. All staff are highly trained and continue with regular training to build their knowledge further. We provide an extensive range of resources and activities to suit all ages and abilities, ensuring all levels of development and play within the EYFS are explored. We have a waiting list for September so please fill an application form
and return it via email as soon as possible so we can accommodate the sessions you require. Applications for September can be downloaded from our website or you can email the pre-school for further information. Please feel welcome to visit the pre-school during opening hours so you can see the children play. We accept eligible 30-hour funded children (the codes must be in place the term before they are needed) and also Tax Free Childcare. Children can join us from the age of two and we accept government funded and fee paying children. We are open term time only from 9am to 3pm. We have a well-supported Facebook page that provides lots of information and you can see what the children have been doing. It is also another way to contact the setting directly. For further information please call 07979 468467 or email manager, Bridget Wyatt at: enquiries@henleypreschool.com Bridget, Sarah and Kerry
ELLISONS SOLICITORS ANNOUNCES MERGER WITH BLOCKS SOLICITORS Andrew, who specialises in corporate and commercial as well commercial property, is a trusted adviser to many long-established clients and also acts for a national lender in their security work. He has been listed in the Legal 500 being referenced as a key figure at Blocks and a highly experienced practitioner.
Tim Logan, Guy Longhurst and Seamus Clifford
Ellisons Solicitors is announcing a merger with Ipswich-based law firm, Blocks Solicitors. The merger, which came into effect on 1 April 2020, will see Ellisons expand its expertise in a range of service offerings as well as gaining a second office in the town. The new office, which is located on Arcade Street, will carry a new name – Ellisons Solicitors incorporating Blocks. Ellisons has been keen to expand its presence in Ipswich, particularly in the town centre, since establishing its successful base at Wherstead Park six years ago. Fundamental to its success is Ellisons’ commitment to delivering excellent and transparent customer service from start to finish; an ethos which is shared by Blocks. Both Ipswich offices have existing business and personal service teams, specialising in a variety of areas including agriculture, wills, trust and probate, employment and HR, corporate and commercial, commercial property, dispute resolution and residential property. Established in 1890, Blocks Solicitors is one of the leading law firms in Suffolk and will bring a high level of complementary expertise into the Ellisons ‘fold’. Current equity partners at Blocks, Andrew Fleming and Frances Barker, will continue as partners.
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Meanwhile Frances specialises in employment law, handling both contentious and non-contentious employment issues for both employers and employees. Frances has experience in a wide variety of environments including a range of private businesses, the City of London, education, agriculture and local government. She has also been listed in the Legal 500 and has been referred to as a ‘highly-rated practitioner’. Guy Longhurst, managing partner at Ellisons, said: “We are delighted to announce our merger with Blocks Solicitors. Merging with such a reputable firm perfectly reflects Ellisons’ ethos of traditional values with modern, innovative working, providing our clients with the highest possible standard of service. This is of course an extremely challenging time for everybody, but Ellisons has helped its clients and colleagues through various crises during its 250 year history, and now look forward to supporting the clients, colleagues and contacts of Blocks.” Commenting on the merger, Andrew Fleming added: “There is a lot of synergy between Ellisons Solicitors and Blocks, and our service offerings and firm cultures are a near perfect match. I very much look forward to seeing what the future holds for Ellisons Solicitors incorporating Blocks, and its talented team.” Ellisons offers a comprehensive range of services to both corporate and private clients, including commercial property, immigration, residential property, dispute resolution, wills, trust and probate, insurance litigation, employment and HR, corporate and commercial, financial advice, international services and many other areas listed at:
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NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB
BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB
Because of Coronavirus this is not the article I thought I would be writing.
In light of the government’s announcements on 23 March 2020 to help protect us all against the coronavirus pandemic, our courts were closed with immediate effect and all club activity is currently postponed. Whilst we hope to be able to welcome everyone back to the club soon, the important thing now is for everyone to stay safe, stay at home and save lives!
As most of you are aware, the indoor season at the Meadlands was cut short and the Stowmarket League have cancelled all league and cup matches. If you have paid your 2020 membership fee the options are to apply for a refund or take them forward for 2021. The green is looking really good and the new grass is growing nicely round the raised edges. It is being cut weekly to its winter length and will be ready for bowling when we are given the official all clear and the green team have completed all the preparation work which is being delayed by the virus. A newsletter will be circulated when the green is ready for rollups. When we are given official permission to resume bowling we hope there will be time to run the club competitions, triples, pairs and singles and hopefully arrange friendlies against other clubs. We would also like to arrange as many social events as possible in whatever timeframe we are given. To any of our bowlers who want to stay in touch with fellow members, there is now a NMBC WhatsApp group. Phone Alistair Bailie for details. In the meantime the message to all our bowlers and to the bowlers at all the clubs is STAY SAFE and we will see you sometime this summer. Anyone wishing to discuss any aspect of NMBC can contact either Alistair Bailie on 01449 720759 or Pat Hadden on 01473 831308.
Coach Carl’s Tennis At Home Video Challenge Struggling to keep the kids active at home, then why not join our coach, Carl Douglas, in this series of free to access videos about how to develop basic tennis skills at home? Each video includes a footwork drill to improve fitness and agility as well as highlighting some simple drills to build body coordination and racket skills. You can even take part if you don’t have a tennis racket or tennis net as a range of household equipment, including chairs with bunting strapped between them for a net and the use of a frying pan as a racket are also included. The videos are free to access on Carl’s YouTube page; just go to YouTube and search for ‘Carl Douglas Tennis Coaching’ or call Carl 07553 966380 for details. Membership Update The new membership season was due to commence on 1 April 2020 but until such time as we have received additional advice from the government and LTA, we are holding off sending renewal notifications. The tennis club has become an important part of the local community over the last few years and we hope that all existing members will continue their support and that many new members will get involved as soon as we are able to re-open. Please check the club website for regular updates and we hope to see you soon. To find out more at about any of the items mentioned above please visit: • www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/BramfordTennisClub • www.facebook.com/BramfordTennisClub/ • www.youtube.com/channel/UCrAQUHiREca6mf9EGO6Kk_Q Coaching enquiries: carl.douglas@talk21.com / 07553 966380
FREE COUNSELLLING SESSIONS FOR NHS STAFF The Association of Christian Counsellors (ACC) has set up a scheme called ACC Counselling Crisis Support Service (CCSS), which provides up to 10 sessions no fee online or telephone counselling for those: • working within the NHS who have been impacted by the Coronavirus • who have been bereaved at this time whether as a result of the Coronavirus or any other reason ACC is a professional body of counsellors which holds a Professional Standards Authority (PSA) Register of counsellors and psychotherapists that works with people of all faiths and none under professional ethics and standards. If you or someone you know works within the NHS and has been impacted by Coronavirus or has been bereaved, more information about the scheme is available at: www.acc-uk.org
www.keepingintouchwith.com/blakenham
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THE CLAYDON GROUP OF CHURCHES The Church of England in Claydon and Barham, Henley and Great Blakenham
As this is being written, and in these days of uncertainty, the news regarding COVID-19 is constantly evolving. Our churches are closed as advised but the main point of contact for information from the Church of England is on their dedicated website page: www.churchofengland.org The Church of England is aware of a number of additional questions being raised and some of these need to be addressed at a national level. We thank you for your patience. Our first priority is to care for those most vulnerable in this crisis, and we continue to pray for all those people caught up in the coronavirus epidemic, for those who are sick, for those who care for them, and for those responsible for planning for our care. Thanks are given to the massive effort the NHS and care workers, key support staff, volunteers, food banks and the many others who are working to keep us safe and well. SERVICE GUIDANCE Services are available via Facebook on this link: www.facebook.com/stedscathedral Guidance from the Church of England says you may wish to find a space for prayer in front of a cross, a candle, or a special place. You might choose to make your Spiritual Communion at a particular time of day, or after viewing a live streamed service. Reflect on the day and on your relationships. What good things have come from God today? Where have I fallen short? What might I do tomorrow? You may wish to say or pray “Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy”.
If you have access to the day’s readings for Holy Communion, you may wish to read and reflect on them. Jesus said, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.’ John 6.35. Pray for the needs of the world, for your local community, and for those close to you. End with the Lord’s Prayer. Give thanks for the saving death and resurrection of Jesus and ask him to be with you now. You might then add one or more of the following prayers: Lord Jesus Christ, you said to your disciples, ‘I am with you always’. Be with me today, as I offer myself to you. Hear my prayers for others and for myself, and keep me in your care. Amen. O God, help me to trust you, help me to know that you are with me, help me to believe that nothing can separate me from your love revealed in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord, in these days of mercy, make us quiet and prayerful; in these days of challenge, make us stronger in you; in these days of emptiness, take possession of us; in these days of waiting, open our hearts to the mystery of your cross. Amen Conclude with the following: The Lord bless us, and preserve us from all evil, and keep us in eternal life. Amen. Daily prayer is published on the Church of England website, and also on The Claydon Group of Churches Facebook page. With prayers and love from the Claydon Group of Churches
Find us on Facebook and Twitter by searching ‘The Claydon Group of Churches’. For enquiries please contact The Rev Cathy Austin (01473 830100) or The Rev Diane Williams, Rural Dean (01449 720316) or visit: www.claydonchurches.com HALL BOOKINGS WHEN AVAILABLE Barham Church Hall: Zoe Groom – 831804 / Gt Blakenham Parish Room: Reg Barton – 839958 / Henley Church Vestry: Margaret Gerrard – 831463
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ST MARY THE VIRGIN BRAMFORD, ST MARY NETTLESTEAD, ST MARY LITTLE BLAKENHAM & ST PETER BAYLHAM Dear friends, We hope that you are all keeping safe and well and are managing to cope with these unprecedented times, whether you are self isolating, merely observing social distancing or are one of the selfless people going out to help those who cannot help themselves. At this time of year, when we look out and see blossom and sunshine, it is natural to want to go out and enjoy it and having to restrict our movements so severely is not easy. However, we are all in this together and, with God's help, we will see it through. As you will be aware, churches are now closed until further notice, along with other public venues, so there are no services or events to publish. This is in line with the decision made by the Archbishops of Canterbury and York shortly before the government ordered a temporary halt to public gatherings. While we will miss meeting and worshiping together, we will still be keeping each other in our thoughts and prayers and instead of communal worship, perhaps use some time for quiet reflection and prayer. However, if the services of a priest are required, the person to contact is the Rural Dean, Reverend Diane Williams, on 01449 720316. The present situation, terrible though it is, presents us with a timely reminder that even with all our modern technology, we are not in control. When a tiny, hitherto unknown virus can so quickly take over the whole
world, we are confronted with the fact that we really are powerless against the forces of nature. Recent floods, wildfires and, in some places, long term droughts tell us that something is happening to our world. This beautiful planet, which we have been given to enjoy is, perhaps, telling us that we have been abusing it and need to amend our ways. Throughout history humanity has faced crises from time to time and the Bible tells that even in the worst of times, God is in there, in control and will see us through. Let us turn to him now, in humility and awe and pray that we will soon be able to resume our normal lives, perhaps a little wiser. Best wishes to you all, Jim Sillett PARISH REGISTERS Funerals March 19: Thomas Williams, Bramford April 1: Charles Robert Lay, Bramford We extend to their families and friends our sympathy and prayers. Cleaning Rota: H & P Hart Floodlighting of the Spire of St. Mary’s Church If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring Stewart on 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 per week.
Coronavirus in Suffolk Update
#Covid19Suffolk
For more information, visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/coronavirus www.keepingintouchwith.com/blakenham
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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS BRAMFORD METHODIST CHURCH At the Heart of Community Minister: The Rev Derek Grimshaw 01473 805486 / dkgrimshaw@msn.com Ms R Palmer, 01473 831117 Please feel free to contact either of us with any queries. Baptisms, marriages and funerals by arrangement with the minister, who will also arrange Holy Communion for the housebound.
#SaveLives
MUSEUM CONNECTS COMMUNITIES WITH REMOTE VOLUNTEERING The Museum of East Anglian Life in Stowmarket may have closed its doors due to the Coronavirus pandemic, but that doesn’t mean that work has stopped. With their remote volunteering project Search for the Stars truly shining during this time, the museum is providing an outlet for those looking for a project to get involved with from the safety of their own homes.
Dear Friends, It’s fair to say that when I last wrote for the newsletter, I couldn’t have imagined that life would look anything like it does today. Life has been very interesting and challenging over the last three weeks. I am finding myself learning all sorts of new skills. I’d never even heard of Zoom at the beginning of March and now am becoming quite a dab hand at holding meetings via the Internet. It’s not the same as meeting people face to face, but is at least a reasonable substitute. I’ve dabbled a bit with social media in the past but am finding that I need to become better. We are being forced to respond to our modern technological world and it isn’t easy for everybody. I am also finding that older tried and tested methods are coming back into play and while some of my colleagues are providing online solutions, I have gone back to letter writing and have quite enjoyed putting pen to paper. I’ve got to say how lovely it is to pick up proper cards and letters as they come through the door, as opposed to the type written circulars we normally receive and I am reminded how important it is to stay in touch. As one of those who is having to self-isolate due to health, I miss social contact and I guess that others feel the same. It’s strange not meeting together in church Sunday by Sunday for worship. In addition to preparing worship material for people in their own homes, I also find myself watching and listening to the huge range of material that is available at the moment. This is a particularly difficult time for Christians. I am writing this letter during Holy Week, normally one of my busiest weeks of the year with several services to prepare for, each one different. During the next few weeks, we would journey through the resurrection appearances, the ascension, Pentecost and Trinity Sunday. Looking at the picture today, it is unlikely that we will celebrate any of those events in the traditional way. The important thing we need to remember is that while we might be doing things in different ways, we continue to worship the same God, who was there at the beginning of life and will be there at the end. As we read stories recorded in scripture, God stood alongside people in all their challenges, fears and joys and because of that simple piece of knowledge, we can be certain that God stands alongside us in what is happening now. My hope is that having witnessed the divisions and anger caused by Brexit, our agenda moving forward will include unity and love. May God be with you in this interesting time. Take care, Derek
The Search for the Stars project, generously funded by Esmée Fairbairn and the Headley Trust, aims to transfer all of their 40,000 paper-based object records over to the museum’s online collections management system. The project will make the museum collection accessible to everyone with some records already searchable through their website. Along the way the star searching team have also been identifying ‘star objects’ to be researched for an upcoming travelling exhibition Fake News in the Age of the Horse. All volunteers need to take part is a laptop, so when social distancing began the museum started to get more requests from people wanting to take part. Over 40 people reached out about getting involved, in addition to over 200 who have already taken part. Volunteer Elza Zeneli explains: “During such a difficult time I thought that volunteering to help people in a small way would be the best use of my time, especially giving back to my community. I am very proud to given an opportunity to represent my voice within this exciting project that focuses on making history and culture accessible to all particularly to those who are more vulnerable/in rural areas. It’s a truly inspiring project to be a part of.” Search for the Stars has been running since the end of 2017 and recently hit the 14,000 record mark thanks to the efforts of volunteers both onsite and remotely, across the country and worldwide with volunteers taking part in countries such as Australia, the USA and Canada. Jin Lu, another volunteer, said: ‘I’m volunteering because this is a great opportunity to convert any anxiety or uncertainty into satisfaction and fulfilment. You don’t need to go out but you are still making contributions and developing yourself.” The project is headed up by museum curator Kate Knowlden who has been tirelessly co-ordinating the work being done. “I’ve been overwhelmed with the amount of interest we’ve had in this project from people who have had to give up other volunteering roles or have been unable to work or continue their studying. It’s really moving to see how people are still so giving during such a difficult time, and it’s going to make a massive difference to the accessibility of our collection.” Volunteers are given copies of object records which they then transfer into an online collections management system, each object is a fascinating look at a different part of East Anglian history. Though the project is suited to adults and older teenagers, the museum has also developed a family resource to accompany the project. Be a Historian is available free to download from their website. For more information visit: www.eastanglianlife.org.uk
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SUFFOLK LIBRARIES GOES ONLINE AND INTERACTIVE TO KEEP PEOPLE STIMULATED AND ENTERTAINED
Although library buildings across the country are currently closed, Suffolk Libraries is making sure that people stuck at home can still get access to books, music, films as well as new interactive streamed sessions. Several libraries have already been recording and streaming live singing and rhyme sessions for young children, as well as running craft and Lego activities to enjoy at home. These videos have already been enjoyed and shared thousands of times. Quizzes and virtual book groups are also being introduced as Suffolk Libraries explores different ways to keep people entertained. Full details of these new sessions can be found at: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk (go to ‘online and streamed events’) Suffolk Libraries is also promoting its extensive eLibrary which provides free access to around 60,000 titles including eBooks, eAudiobooks, online newspapers, magazines, music, films and educational courses. There is plenty of content for families too with books on how to make crafts, eAudiobooks for children and Kanopy Kids which offers free streaming of programmes and movies. Extra content is being added to cope with the significant increase in demand with around a 200 percent increase in people using the eLibrary and streaming services over the past week. Visits to the Suffolk Libraries eLibrary webpages increased from nearly 2,000 to over 9,000 in just one week at the end of March.
If you’ve not already signed up to use this service you can do so online at: suffolklibraries.co.uk/elibrary Bruce Leeke, Chief Executive of Suffolk Libraries, said: “It’s a very challenging time for everyone at the moment and with library buildings closed we’re doing everything we can to provide content, information and entertainment. We’re working on plans to keep in contact with regular customers who might be isolated but we’re delighted that so many of our wonderful staff have risen to the challenge to run online activities which will hopefully make a difference to people across the county.” Home Library Service volunteers have also been encouraged to stay in touch with their customers too. Suffolk Libraries is also helping to promote Suffolk’s new Home, but not alone scheme. People can call 0800 876 6926 for information or support during the current crisis.
Wash your hands of coronavirus scams! Friends Against Scams aims to protect and prevent people from becoming victims of scams. Be aware of people offering or selling:
Protect yourself and others:
Virus testing kits - these are only offered by NHS.
Don’t be rushed into making a decision. If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.
Vaccines or miracle cures – there is currently no vaccine or cure.
Only purchase goods from legitimate retailers and take a moment to think before parting with money or personal information.
Overpriced or fake goods to protect yourself from coronavirus such as anti-bacterial products. Shopping or medication collection services.
Don’t assume everyone is genuine. It’s okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you. If someone claims to represent a charity, ask them for ID. Be suspicious of requests for money up front. If someone attempts to pressurise you into accepting a service they are unlikely to be genuine. Check with family and friends before accepting offers of help if you are unsure.
Home cleaning services.
Be a good friend, help to protect your family, friends and neighbours from scams. Read it. Share it. Prevent it. #Coronavirus #ScamAware
Contact For advice on scams call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 11 33 To report a scam call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 Contact your bank if you think you have been scammed.
To learn more about the different types of scams visit www.FriendsAgainstScams.org.uk www.keepingintouchwith.com/blakenham
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YOU CAN’T KEEP A GOOD THING DOWN! What do you do when the one thing you promote, the one thing you live for, disappears overnight?
between friends watching the performance and using messaging apps. I even had someone drink a virtual pint I’d left unattended.”
The team at Grapevine magazine live for live music, theatre and dance. When we all went into lockdown, not only did our raison d’être vanish, but along with it the livelihood of the musicians, lighting engineers, sound engineers, roadies, front of house staff, box office assistants and ushers, not to mention the future of the venues themselves.
More organised musicians have arranged regular slots to ensure a regular audience. Some are even doing online collaborations with their fellow band members. Some decide to go online when the mood takes them, which makes it a little difficult to add to a forward looking calendar. How these gigs make it to the internet varies depending on the tools available and the strength of the broadband link but some are available to watch afterwards so you can catch up.
Generally speaking musicians are tech savvy – you’d be surprised how many sound engineers moonlight as web designers. It wasn’t long before they invented the virtual gig, and Grapevine became the home of the Virtual Gig Guide. In no way are these virtual gigs a substitute for the real thing but they help us keep in touch with the artists we would normally see each weekend. Such is the abundance of these live virtual gigs that choosing who to watch and when is bordering on an art form. Grapevine’s Tony Bell says: “It became very obvious that everyone wanted to gig at 8pm on Saturday night so I’ve advised performers to spread their gigs out if they want to get seen. What I found particularly surreal at one gig, which was ‘attended’ by many friends, was the banter that took place
Musicians all across the country have been spring cleaning their living rooms, kitchens and sheds so that their homes look neat and tidy when you tune in. Although one musician, who will remain nameless, broadcast from his loo… perhaps he was after the reverb effect from the tiling. Who knows! Ingenious as we humans are, none of what we are doing in the virtual world can hold a candle to a live gig. We can’t do that so for now check out GrapevineLIVE, the home of The Virtual Gig Guide. www.grapevinelive.co.uk/virtual-gig-guide
www.ellisonssolicitors.com
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CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE AND CHARITY SHOP We apologise for having to cancel the Chocolate Bingo which I know so many were looking forward to. The Christmas version is already booked for November 21 so save the date! I think it will come as no surprise to you all that I have had to cancel the summer visit for the group. There is a possibility of our bringing a smaller group in the autumn and/or December, however I do feel that we must take each day as it comes and just look to a time when we can return to what we have always thought of as ‘normal’, whatever that may be Whilst the charity shop remains closed and our presence in the community is at an extremely low level, I do hope that you will not forget us altogether and that we can regroup in the future. Please do not deposit donations outside the shop – there are notices giving numbers to call and where possible we will arrange collections. Not only do goods get ruined when left exposed to the weather, but there are residents at the rear of the shop and it makes access very difficult and unpleasant for them to negotiate
The second picture shows the young lady she is today, now 21 years old. She credits her success to the support she received from the charity. The second set of photos shows Masha who came to us when she was seven years old. Without going into a lot of details, she had a very poor start in life, living in very bad conditions and first watching her mother, then her grandmother pass away right in front of her.
Please do keep in touch and if anyone is in need of anything, feel free to contact me. If we can help we will do our best to do so. The president of Belarus is known to have said, “The Coronavirus will not be a problem (probably because he has not given permission for it to be so). Just drive it out by getting on your tractor and ploughing!” The other piece of advice, which we obviously cannot condone, is, “take a drink of Vodka each day”. Belarus possibly does not face the same problem as we do as although the country is the same size as the UK the total population is less than that of London City. People in the villages rarely see a stranger and tend to just go to work, come home and then repeat the cycle. We can just hope the children and families we support remain safe and healthy and, of course, our thoughts have also to be with the hundreds of children in the Cancer Hospitals throughout Belarus and hope that the virus does not reach them. I recently put this on Facebook but in case you do not subscribe, this is the little girl who started it all for us in 2007. When she went home she kept saying the ‘knitted hat’ (under the charity hat in the photo) did not belong to her. It was only years later when she could speak English well did we find out that she hated the hat so much she had pretended it wasn’t hers so she didn’t have to take it home!
We had lost touch with her but then managed to find her as a teenager living in a hostel. We have kept in touch with her since then and are really pleased to be able to tell you she now has everything she wished for in life – a family of her own. She is married to a very kind and caring young man and has two beautiful children. These are just two of our success stories and these plus many others have only been achievable with the support of you all. Thank you are just two little words but with such a big meaning! Stay home stay well and stay safe. Best wishes to all. Elizabeth Parker: 01449 760343 FB: @Ccllmidsuffolk
PRETTYS COVID ASSIST Help is at hand for local businesses that need legal advice as a result of the devastating Covid 19 outbreak. Prettys solicitors in Ipswich are offering up to an hour of free consultation without obligation to assist and support local businesses. With an 80 strong team Prettys have served the local community since they were founded in 1906. As a recognised leader in commercial law and personal law they work regionally, nationally and internationally. Prettys’ business experts are inviting local businesses to get in touch for free specialist advice with their lawyers who specialise in corporate and commercial, property, employment, commercial disputes and have first-hand experience of advising on all aspects of business in which difficulties have arisen because of the Covid 19 outbreak. Whether a business has a question about business contracts, restructuring, employment matters or disputes that have arisen because of the pandemic this is the chance to obtain free legal advice. This offer is extended throughout April and May. To reserve a consultation please email covidassist@prettys.co.uk or visit www.prettyscovidassist.co.uk and complete the application form. To ensure that an appointment is booked with the right specialist you will need to provide your name, the nature of your concern, name of your business, business location, and of course your contact details.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/blakenham
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PULLING TOGETHER TO SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITIES Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils remain committed to working with partners to support the volunteers assembling to help protect our communities. Both councils have today pledged to support parish and town councils and voluntary groups who we acknowledge will play a key role in empowering our communities to remain resilient during the Covid-19 outbreak. The councils have established a new light touch grant scheme, with over £80,000 available through grants of up to £2,500, to provide financial assistance to other local community organisations assisting with the response to the pandemic. This is in conjunction with new financial help from both councils, which already been made available, for major food banks within the districts in Stowmarket, Sudbury and Hadleigh, to support their vital work during the Covid-19 outbreak. The councils will also be working with partners to address any logistic needs the food banks may face. This partnership work also extends to collating and sharing local intelligence, identifying existing support networks, and where gaps lie, enabling us to help those who need it most. Our Communities Team has been bolstered by the redeployment of council officers from other duties to support this work and there is scope to increase this further if required. The councils are also part of the Collaborative Communities Board which is behind the creation of the new Suffolk-focused community support service, Home But Not Alone. The service sees willing volunteers and charities logging their details and offers of support on a phone app, matching them to people who need their help. This ensures that help can be given where it’s most needed, and can be in line with safeguarding policies. The Tribe Volunteer app is free to download on both Apple and Android. Vulnerable residents who are without alternative support and need assistance with the delivery of groceries, medicines and other supplies should telephone freephone number 0800 876 6926. This is open from 9am to 5pm seven days a week, with staff from our two councils working through their weekends to support this service. We have also put measures in place to help key workers. During the Covid-19 outbreak Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils are suspending restrictions in our car parks to permit critical key workers to use council parking bays without time restriction or charges. In addition to this, we recognise that key workers may need to self-isolate, so have worked with Suffolk’s Public Sector Partnership to help find short term accommodation for key workers who are unable to return home. Any key workers with an urgent need for this service should email: accommodation@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk Cllr Julie Flatman, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing for Mid Suffolk District Council said: “It is incredibly heartening that in these challenging times we can work with partners across Suffolk to respond to an increased demand for community support as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. I am also delighted that we’ve been able to provide support for our district’s key workers.” Cllr Derek Davis, Cabinet Member for Communities for Babergh District Council said: “It’s wonderful to see Babergh’s communities rallying together to look after one another. Unfortunately, while many have a genuine desire to help, we must be mindful of unscrupulous criminals fraudulently posing as good Samaritans. I would encourage all those wishing to help to use the Tribe Volunteer app, which I have already downloaded myself.”
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LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY In these difficult times in which we find ourselves, Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) are a useful legal document which enables a person (called the Donor) to choose a person or people (called the Attorney(s)) who they would like to make decisions on their behalf. Below are some frequently asked questions relating to Powers of Attorney: What is Lasting Power of Attorney? A LPA is the legal document which gives authority to the Attorney to make decisions on behalf of the Donor. The Attorney(s) must be trustworthy and have the ability to make property & financial and/or health & care decisions in the best interests of the Donor. When would a LPA be used? LPAs are equally as important as making a Will as they relate to decisions which need to be made during your lifetime. Types of Lasting Power of Attorney There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney: • Property & Financial Affairs: This allows the Attorney(s) to make decisions about and help the Donor in matters relating to their finances and property. Decisions covered could include selling the Donor’s home; operating and managing bank accounts; dealing with the Donor’s incomeand tax affairs. This type of LPA can be used before and after the onset of mental incapacity. • Health & Welfare: This allows the Attorney(s) to make decisions about the Donor in matters relating to their health and care. Decisions covered could include medical and healthcare treatments; where the Donor lives and day to day living such as the Donor’s diet and daily routine. This type of LPA can only be used if the Donor lacks mental capacity to make a decision. Lasting Powers of Attorney must be registered at the Office of the Public Guardian before they can be used. This process takes a few weeks. As the OPG processes take a few weeks, during these difficult times, I offer clients a General Power of Attorney (which can be used immediately after signing) and not need to wait for the registration process to be completed before they can be used. What will happen if I don’t have an LPA and I am unable to manage my own affairs? A person can only make an LPA if they understand the legal process. If someone is unable to make their own decisions, their family or friends will need to make an application to the Court of Protection for a Deputyship Order. This process is more complicated; time consuming and expensive than making a Lasting Power of Attorney. If you have any questions relating to Lasting Powers of Attorney or Wills, please get in touch. Helen Algar
helen@suffolkwillservices.co.uk 07415 135449 / 01473 808499
WWW.SUFFOLKWILLSERVICES.CO.UK
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BRAIN TEASERS FOR CHILDREN (AND ADULTS) RIDDLES It’s time to get your thinking caps on. You’ll find the answers on page 34 but no peeking! 1: What’s bright orange with green on top and sounds like a parrot? 2: What’s really easy to get into, and hard to get out of?
FIND THE WORDS Including two letter words, there are 250 words hidden in ‘Chocolate Ice Cream’. ‘Ceramic’ is one to get you started but you may want to get the entire family involved!
3: What word contains 26 letters, but only has three syllables? 4: A girl fell off a 20-foot ladder. She wasn’t hurt. Why? 5: What has lots of eyes, but can’t see?
Say the colour of each word!
6: I am often following you and copying your every move. Yet you can never touch me or catch me. What am I? 7: Grandpa went out for a walk and it started to rain. He didn’t bring an umbrella or a hat. His clothes got soaked, but not a hair on his head was wet. How is this possible? 8: I add lots of flavour and have many layers, but if you get to close I’ll make you cry. What am I? 9: What has legs, but doesn’t walk?
10: You see me once in June, twice in November, but not at all in May. What am I? Use the Egyptian alphabet to write your name or share it with your best friend and use it to write coded messages! Parents you could use this to create clues for a treasure hunt.
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TOGETHER TODAY & TOMORROW While preparing to cope with the impact of Coronavirus on its end of life care and bereavement services over the coming weeks, St Elizabeth Hospice has launched an urgent appeal to the public to support their local hospice in light of all fundraising events being postponed and all 31 retail shops closing. The clinical staff at St Elizabeth are working in partnership with the NHS and partners at speed to significantly expand our services both in the community and at the hospice in response to Coronavirus, whilst continuing to care for patients with nonCovid end of life and palliative care needs. A new rapid response co-ordination centre has been created in the past week to cope with the expected increase in demand for clinical advice and end of life care in the community, doubling the capacity of the hospice’s existing OneCall telephone advice helpline. Last year, the hospice cared for over 3,000 Suffolk patients and their families at a cost of £10.5m, of which 75% was raised by the community through the shops and local fundraising – income-generating activities which are now impossible due to social distancing and self-isolation. Chief Executive Ru Watkins has called on the local community to support the hospice’s new Here Together appeal to highlight the role of St Elizabeth at the clinical frontline of the current pandemic and to make sure that its end of life care can continue unaffected when the crisis is over: “Every family who has come into contact with our consultants, doctors, nurses, carers and volunteers over the years knows how dedicated they are to our local community. We are still here with our patients delivering the care they need today so ask everyone to support our efforts together.” With all fundraising events postponed or cancelled, many supporters are looking for alternative ways to support the hospice. As local supporter Wendy Goddard says: “St Elizabeth Hospice was there for me and my family when my daughter Zoe sadly passed away and their support was outstanding. Last month I was due to hold a charity night for 300 people to raise funds to support the hospice but sadly this has had to be postponed. I would ask you to do what you can in this time of need to support our local hospice together.” The Here Together appeal is being launched across the hospice’s social media platforms to raise awareness of St Elizabeth’s frontline role in continuing to care for some of Suffolk’s most vulnerable patients throughout the pandemic and our shared commitment as a community to protecting its vital services today and tomorrow.
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COMMUNITY ACTION SUFFOLK SUPPORTING VOLUNTEERS, COMMUNITIES & ORGANISATIONS DURING COVID-19 As we all make our way through these uncertain times, Community Action Suffolk (CAS) is continuing to support organisations and volunteers to deliver vital services in communities. Not only are organisations across Suffolk continuing their usual services wherever possible, but there is also an incredible rise in activity with many organisations changing and adding to their offer to meet the huge rise in demand. Alongside this, the surge in people wanting to do whatever they can, however big or small, to care for others is truly heart-warming. CAS has been involved in supporting a whole range of groups and ‘movements’ to promote themselves and encourage others to follow suit in recent weeks. Many of these spring from individuals who simply want to show they care to those in close proximity to them, from ‘Backyard Buddies’ and ‘Tear down the Fence’ initiatives, to groups of residents setting up ‘Emergency Response’ schemes akin to Good Neighbour Schemes. It is important to ensure that this is done in a supported and safe manner so CAS has produced a suite of new resources and guides to help with this which can be found on the website (details below). In addition to work with local groups and organisations, CAS is also supporting various campaigns to recruit and support volunteers. The Suffolk Collaborative Communities Board, made up of key strategic partners from across the county including CAS, has recently launched the Tribe Volunteer app specifically to recruit volunteers during the pandemic in Suffolk alongside an accompanying telephone helpline for those in need of support. Volunteer Suffolk, the county’s volunteer brokerage portal for organisations that need volunteers is also still going strong. If you would like to volunteer during Covid-19, or need to recruit volunteers for your organisation, click ‘I want to Volunteer’ on the homepage of the CAS website for more information on both these portals. Suffolk’s business and voluntary sector community are also being encouraged to come together as part of a county-wide campaign to help more organisations deliver their important work throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. Volunteering Matters and Community Action Suffolk are collectively calling for charities, groups and social enterprises to let them know of their specific ‘need’ at this critical time, and for business leaders to step forward with help in areas such as planning, IT, legal advice, logistics and media relations. Businesses are encouraged to list how they would like to help. They can do so by completing the survey at: www.volunteeringmatters. org.uk/what-we-do/support-us/working-together While all this is going on, CAS still has another ‘day job’ to do – to continue supporting the already established voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations in Suffolk to stay operational, safe, well governed and as financially resilient as they can. We are continuously lobbying national government with the support of national partners to make provision for those on the ground carrying out activities. We cannot emphasise enough how important these groups and organisations are at this time and you too can help by showing your support on social media using #EveryDayCounts.
Or call the hospice on: 01473 723600
This is a challenging time for every Suffolk resident, but at CAS we never cease to be amazed by the dedication, commitment and kindness that Suffolk residents show on a daily basis, and we are so proud to be able to help our voluntary, community and social enterprise sector play their part. Stay safe, support each other, and keep going Suffolk, you are all incredible!
To find out how to get involved or fundraise for us, please contact your hospice community fundraiser, Fiona Gin: fiona.ginn@stelizabethhospice.org.uk / 07740 405764
For more information on anything Community Action Suffolk is doing, or to contact us, visit www.communityactionsuffolk.org.uk or follow @CASuffolk on Twitter.
To donate to the appeal, visit the hospice Just Giving appeal page: www.justgiving.com/campaign/SEHCoronavirusAppeal
Hannah Reid, Director of Innovation & Business Development
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SUFFOLK SCOUTS ANNOUNCE THEIR FIRST INTERNATIONAL MOOT FOR 2021
Suffolk Scouts have announced an exciting event taking place in Suffolk in August 2021. Their first Suffolk International Moot (SIM) is open to Scouts and Guides everywhere and will be taking place at Ipswich’s Trinity Park. The theme of Go Higher, Faster, Further captures the essence of the event, which is to create opportunities for adventure, learning and gaining #skillsforlife, a fundamental principle of the Scouting movement. Held over six days from August 26-31 2021, the event offers a range of exciting activities including many water activities on the beautiful River Deben. These include rafting, open canoes, kayaks and even stand-up paddleboards for the really adventurous. There will also be a range of vertigo inducing activities like abseiling, crate stacking and aerial runway. Scouts and Guides attending can also choose from a number of creative activities including backwoods cooking, a craft tent and whittling. There will also be activities covering self-awareness and community, and a range of social activities to do during the evenings. A full list of activities can be found on the SIM website: www.suffolkmoot.com
County Commissioner Mark Pearson commented: “We are delighted to announce our very first Suffolk International Moot (SIM). SIM will bring together up to 2,000 Scouts and Guides from all over the UK and the world to take part in our widest range of activities yet. Whilst this is our first international event, Suffolk Scouts have delivered a number of successful Moots in past years helped along by an army of volunteers providing support to our Scouts and Guides. We will also be holding a cub day for younger members. At the moment we have a number of vacancies for volunteers with details on our SIM website.” Booking for the event has now opened with an early bird offer available. Mark commented further: “In these uncertain times I think it’s important to have something to look forward to. SIM represents incredible value for money and this is a great opportunity for all those keen to get something in the diary for summer 2021 by taking advantage of these early offers.”
e ctiv a e B
Relax
When we’re together it feels better Rest
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#LoveNHS #ColourForOurCarers @milliemarotta 22
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LOVE NHS INITIATIVE FROM BESTSELLING UNLIMITED TITLES AVAILABLE FOR ILLUSTRATOR MILLIE MAROTTA VIRTUAL BOOK GROUPS Suffolk Libraries is promoting its collections of unlimited use eBooks which would be ideal for anyone thinking of setting up virtual book groups. Most library eBooks work like physical books in that individual copies can only be borrowed one at a time. Suffolk Libraries now has two new collections of 25 eBook titles with unlimited copies available for loan via the Overdrive service. This means they can be borrowed by anyone with no waiting times and are ideal for book groups. There is a collection for adults and one for children and young adults. Photo by Gareth Davies Photography
Bestselling colouring book illustrator Millie Marotta, author of Millie Marotta’s Animal Kingdom, has launched an initiative to get the nation colouring in to show appreciation for our NHS. Colouring has surged in popularity in recent years and many health professionals and organisations, including the NHS, have promoted colouring as a way to beat stress and anxiety. In this time of crisis, many of us are feeling anxious. The Love NHS initiative offers a way to de-stress through the mindful activity of colouring in while celebrating our heroes working in the National Health Service. Millie has kindly allowed us to provide the Love NHS illustration here but it’s also available as a download that can be printed at home: bit.ly/mmlovenhs Once coloured, the illustration can be posted on social media, put up in the window, used as a flag or be sent to a loved one. Millie Marotta is a freelance illustrator working in her studio by the sea in a little corner of West Wales.
The adult collection includes a Tale for the Time being by Ruth Ozeki, How not to Be a Boy by Robert Webb and Life of Pi by Yann Martel. The collection for younger readers includes The House with Chicken Legs by Sophie Anderson, A Dog’s Life by Ann M Martin and It Only Happens in the Movies by Holly Bourne. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is also currently available as an unlimited eBook and eAudiobook and there is also a collection of eBook classics with multiple copies available. There are also some unlimited use eAudiobooks available via the Borrowbox service. These include Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan, The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness, The Great Gatsby by Scott Fitzgerald and Wed Wabbit by Lissa Evans. Some of our libraries are already setting up their own online book groups or discussions via their Facebook pages. The Reading Agency also provides lots of tips and information for anyone of thinking of setting up their own: www. readingagency.org.uk/resources/4327
A pioneer in the global colouring movement, Millie had been an illustrator long before she inked her first book. Millie’s intricate illustrations are inspired by a love of wildlife and fascination with the natural world. In 2015, Millie’s debut title Animal Kingdom (published by Batsford) spent a record 22 weeks as the official paperback non-fiction No.1. Since then she has published several colouring books and stationery products, which have been translated into over 30 languages. #LoveNHS
#ColourForOurCarers
@milliemarotta
IMAGINE THAT BOOK DROP Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity are thrilled to announce that Imagine That, a leading independent children’s publisher based in Woodbridge, have chosen us as their 2020 charity of the year. They are specifically fundraising for The Children’s Appeal at Ipswich Hospital. Their programme of events for the year include book drops, wear yellow to work day and, when safe to do so, they will continue storytelling on the wards and have a bucket collection at Ipswich Town Football Club. Recently the children’s department received many boxes of books for children of all ages who are isolating on the ward to read and enjoy.
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HELPFUL LINKS FOR FAMILIES AND VOLUNTEERS The team at Home-Start in Suffolk are dedicated to supporting the families and volunteers they work with and alongside other local charities working across the county they have been looking at a variety of ways to help us all navigate through this difficult and uncertain time following the outbreak of COVID-19. This is just a small selection of their ideas, including ways to stay in touch and prevent loneliness, ideas to help you stay calm, educational links for children, creative ideas for keeping occupied, ways to keep fit whilst in isolation, simple recipes and much more. You’ll find much at www.homestartinsuffolk.org/supportforfamilies which is updated daily. COMMUNICATION Physical social distancing during COVID-19 is recommended but we all need human contact and here are some ways we can work together to support each other – preventing your family, friends, neighbours and communities feeling the effects of loneliness and total isolation from human interaction. Whether you are tech savvy or not communication is key. From a simple telephone conversation to a video chat we can all stay in touch to avoid that feeling of being alone and isolated. It’s Good To Talk You could post notes through to your neighbours. You may have spoken to each other over years or acknowledged each other in passing but telephone number exchange may not have been a priority at the time. Here’s a sample postcard you could use that several charities are sharing at the moment to exchange contact numbers.
Hello!
If you are self-isolating, I can help.
My name is I live locally at
Facebook Messenger also has the facility for you to video call your friends and family. You’ll even find instructional videos on YouTube. Write a letter! Try writing letters or sending handmade cards. Those family members you cannot see or visit will be delighted to receive a special note from you. ACTIVITIES FOR YOU Look out for fun ways to get together with other people and do things, you could even start something yourself. It could be as simple as starting a book club with a handful of neighbours which meets online or over the phone (there are free online resources available: Project Gutenberg has a library of over 60,000 free eBooks, Kindle have an app you can use on any device and there are a few free titles available along with the option of Kindle Unlimited giving you access to 1000s of titles for a monthly fee. Audible offers a free 30-day trial for audio-books and have a variety of titles available for free including some children’s books too), join a singing group or take exercise classes online that are being organised for free. Learn a new skill and complete an online course There are a huge number of free online courses that you could take on the Open University, a great way to broaden your horizons and keep busy during your time at home. Why not take up a new hobby? Try your hand at something new… knitting, art, photography, sign language, learn a new language… Search the internet if you have something in mind. There are many options available. HEALTH AND WELLBEING Keep fit and active indoors even though the gym is closed or your walking or running group has had to suspend activities. If you have a Smart TV and Broadband you can access apps on there to practise a new daily exercise. How about a form of yoga that suits you? Think about ways to keep fit during isolation. Try the home fitness workout videos from NHS Fitness Studio: www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-fitness-studio
My phone number is If you are self-isolating due to COVID-19 I can help with: Picking up shopping
Posting mail
A friendly phone call
Urgent supplies
Just call or text me and I’ll do my best to help you (for free!) Coronavirus is contagious. Please take every precaution to ensure you are spreading only kindness. Avoid physical contact (2m distance). Wash your hands regularly. Items should be left on your doorstep. # V i r a l K i n d n e s s
Sharing Information Consider setting up a community or friends phone tree to communicate via landline. Coordinate phone treeself-isolating, which includes a handful of your friends If ayou are I can help. and neighbours. These are a useful way of passing messages around small social networks but could be vital social contact for those stuck at home in My name is the weeks ahead.
Hello!
I live locally at A 10-minute check-in or friendly chat can make all the difference to help people feel less isolated. You’ll find a downloadable version here: My phone number is https://tinyurl.com/tqmh6fb If you are self-isolating due to COVID-19 I can help with: Virtual Visiting If you love the idea of video calls there are a number Picking up shopping Posting mail of options available to you for this, the easiest being WhatsApp. A free app you can use on your A friendly phone call to your Wi-FiUrgent supplies mobile phone which connects or mobile data to communicate. Alternatively you could use ZOOM, there are a number offree!) options available Just call or text me and I’ll do my best to help you (for including FaceTime and Skype and a new app called HouseParty which allows you to group chat andPlease play games together too. to ensure you are Coronavirus is contagious. take every precaution spreading only kindness. Avoid physical contact (2m distance). Wash your
24hands regularly. Items should be left on your doorstep.
#ViralKindness
Take your pick from 24 instructor-led videos across aerobics exercise, strength and resistance, and Pilates and yoga categories. The Body Coach Joe Wicks has been hosting daily PE classes for children but adults can join in too! Check out his YouTube channel. Alternatively there are number of fitness videos online that can accessed through social media, YouTube and other online services. Tips on staying calm Stress and anxiety can stop the immune system from working so well, meaning we are more susceptible to catching any bugs or viruses, so it is essential now to be doing as much as possible to release stress. By remaining calm, we are more able to respond to developing situations more objectively rather than getting lost in a spiral of panic, fear and catastrophising thoughts. Helen Wyre of Advance Hypnotherapy has uploaded some helpful videos to her Facebook page: Helen Wyer Advance Hypnotherapy The 30 day Coping Calendar on page 25 suggests 30 actions to look after ourselves as we face this global crisis together. Action for Happiness helps people take action for a happier and more caring world and their website offers ideas for taking care of ourselves and others: www.actionforhappiness.org Self-isolation posters could be useful to display to potential visitors and couriers of how exposure to Covid-19 could be detrimental to your health, and advising where to leave deliveries at your property. Chronically Awesome Tribe has produced a set of free downloads which you can access at: www.chronicallyawesome.org.uk
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SMALL BUSINESSES IN SUFFOLK URGED TO ACCESS £200M POT OF COVID-19 AID Eligible businesses across Suffolk are being urged to access grants of £10,000 or £25,000 to help them through COVID-19 crisis. The government has allocated over £213m to support qualifying businesses in Suffolk who are struggling because of restrictions in place to combat the Coronavirus. There are over 15,000 eligible businesses across the county who can access one of two grants of either £10,000 or £25,000 to help with their ongoing business costs. The Small Business Grant Fund is available to businesses that pay little or no business rates and currently receive small business rate relief (SBRR) and/or rural rate relief (RRR). In addition, there is a cash grant available to retail, hospitality and leisure businesses that have a property with a rateable value up to £51,000. Businesses who meet the eligibility criteria are being contacted by their local authority to confirm eligibility and payment details and staff are working to get this information out to firms as quickly as they can. Businesses must follow the process outlined by their Local Authority for the payment to be made. Business owners who have not yet been contacted and believe they are eligible for either of the grants should check their local council’s website for further details. The grants will be administered by local authorities; Babergh District Council, East Suffolk Council, Ipswich Borough Council, Mid Suffolk
District Council and West Suffolk Council. Karen Chapman, from the Suffolk Growth Board representing all local authorities, commented; “The Small Business Grant Fund and Cash Grant for retail, leisure and hospitality businesses could provide an important lifeline during these unprecedented times. We urge all eligible businesses to take advantage of the financial support, advice and guidance that is available during this difficult period.” Further information, on these two grants and all support available for businesses and the self-employed can be found on the Government business support website: www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirusbusiness-support To contact your local council please visit: Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/business/business-rates/grant-funding-schemes East Suffolk Council: www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/business/covid-19-business-grant-funding Ipswich Borough Council: www.ipswich.gov.uk/businessratesgrant West Suffolk Council: www.westsuffolk.gov.uk/c19business Additional support is available at from trained advisers at the New Anglia Growth Hub: www.newangliagrowthhub.co.uk
DON'T QUIT
by John Greenleaf Whittier When things go wrong as they sometimes will, When the road you're trudging seems all up hill, When the funds are low and the debts are high And you want to smile, but you have to sigh, When care is pressing you down a bit, Rest if you must, but don't you quit. Life is strange with its twists and turns As every one of us sometimes learns And many a failure comes about When he might have won had he stuck it out; Don't give up though the pace seems slow You may succeed with another blow. Success is failure turned inside out The silver tint of the clouds of doubt, And you never can tell just how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far; So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.
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RADIO TIMES
A short story by Derek Curry “Fantastic,” Ginger said, staring enviously at my radio, “can I hold it?” I held it tighter against my chest. “No you can’t,” I said, “you’ll only drop it, or move the dial and lose the station.” “No I won’t,” he insisted. “Go on, I just want a closer look. Is it brand new?” “Of course it’s new.” I sighed and handed my beloved radio over as if it were a precious jewel - which of course it was, to me. Prostate Cancer Awareness & Screening With Coronavirus swirling about us, all of a sudden there is an opportunity forced upon us to stop and think about what CHAPS has been doing and what the charity should be doing when this crisis abates. Over the last few years CHAPS has continued to stage men’s health events across Essex and Suffolk, screening particularly for undiagnosed heart disease, diabetes, aortic aneurysms, skin cancer and prostate cancer (PCa). We always detect unsuspected disease and our efforts are much appreciated by our attendees. CHAPS could of course carry on exactly the same once things return to normal but would this still represent the best use of our resources? We think not. The area of clinical activity that has increased most for the charity has been screening for prostate cancer. This increase has been seen by other charities working in the same field and most likely reflects publicity given to stars such as Messrs Fry, Turnbull, and Stewart reporting their personal experiences, together with reports on the increasing prevalence of the disease – over 12,000 UK PCa deaths per year which now exceeds deaths from breast cancer. Consequently we are running bespoke PCa screening events for an increasing number of organisations such as the Freemasons, Rotary and the Lions as well as major commercial infrastructure companies right across the UK. Whilst increased publicity is certainly helpful, there remains an alarming lack of knowledge amongst many, if not most, UK men about their prostate gland in general and awareness of PCa in particular. This is compounded by lack of a medical consensus on screening and only patchy provision of the simple PSA screening blood test by GPs. In many other western counties evidence built up over the last 30 years is now clearly demonstrating the benefit of properly organised PCa screening programmes that can halve a man’s risk of dying from this most unpleasant cancer. A consensus of international experts recommends that all men should start screening with PSA in their 40s especially men at high risk. These are: Men in their 40s with an initial PSA >1.0ng/ml or in their 50’s with a PSA > 2.0ng/ml. Black men or mixed race men of African or Caribbean descent who carry a one in four lifetime risk of developing PCa. Men with a family history of PCa or breast cancer on the mother’s side where the risk rises rapidly with every affected family member.
Ginger slipped it into his shirt pocket, trying it for size. “So how do you turn it on then?” he asked, pulling it back out and fiddling with the dial. “That’s it,” I said furiously, “now you’ve lost the station.” I snatched it back. “It took me nearly two months to save up for it and you treat it like a toy! It’s a Dansette RT66 for goodness sake, not some Hong Kong rubbish.” We glared at each other but I couldn’t stay angry with Ginger for long. We’d been friends since our secondary school days and now, in 1962, we were teenagers and, at sixteen, we’d been holding down jobs for nearly a year. “Look,” I said, “this is the on/off switch and volume, and this,” I turned the larger dial carefully until a voice sounded from the little speaker, “is where you tune it in.” But something wasn’t quite right. It was only four o’clock and Alan Freeman should have been introducing Pick of the Pops after Movie Go-Round had ended, like on every Sunday. I was looking forward to listening to Ray Charles singing I Can’t Stop Loving You again. What was coming out of the radio was some sort of news, which shouldn’t have been on until ten thirty. And the news didn’t sound right either; it was normally read by some posh man, but the voice was a woman’s and she didn’t sound particularly posh, just sort of normal. Ginger and I glanced at each other in puzzlement and concentrated on what was being said: “Here is a summary of the news on Sunday June the 14th 2020. The Health Secretary announced earlier today that there would be a further easing of the self-isolating restrictions next week. In his statement he thanked the public for following government guidelines and staying at least two metres from other people for the last several weeks, saying that the self-discipline exhibited by U.K. citizens was what was defeating Covid-19, but that the discipline must continue. “With the end of panic buying, retail outlets are now able to open at preCoronavirus times, with the usual restrictions on supermarkets’ Sunday opening. It is anticipated that there will continue to be a high demand for ‘click and collect’ in the future. “The government expects continuing flare ups of the epidemic in some regions of the U.K., but the Health Secretary has assured the public that the NHS is ready and able to cope with any further emergencies while work on a vaccine continues.”
Remember, the NHS’s Prostate Cancer Risk Management Programme entitles men over 50 to a PSA test. All GPs have been sent the programme so don’t be put off; it is your entitlement. Early detection of PCa leads almost always to cure whereas late detection once the cancer has spread ends eventually in death. Currently 51 percent of UK men diagnosed with PCa are diagnosed with advanced disease and in nearly one in five it has already spread widely to other parts of the body.
The radio reception was fading so I turned the Dansette in various directions to try to improve it. As the volume dropped I turned it up and made tiny changes to the tuning but eventually the woman’s voice evaporated completely into the rushing sound of static.
The future role of CHAPS Charity will be determined by where we judge the greatest need to be. At present it is to achieve a substantial reduction in our unacceptable death rate from prostate cancer.
“I dunno,” I said. “Perhaps it was some sort of radio play. Anyway, it didn’t make any sense. What’s ‘self-isolating’ and who is Covid-19 when he’s at home? Perhaps it’s science fiction like in The Eagle or a Captain Marvel film.”
Whilst future screening events are postponed due to Coronavirus, keep in touch via our website or contact us directly by email to info@chaps.uk.com or phone 07873 541505, particularly if you would like more information on prostate cancer.
“Nah,” Ginger said, “I reckon there’s something wrong with that cheap old radio you bought.”
www.chaps.uk.com
www.keepingintouchwith.com/blakenham
One more small adjustment and suddenly there was Alan Freeman introducing Pick of the Pops. “What was that all about?” Ginger demanded.
I punched him playfully on the arm. “Jealously will get you no-where,” I said. “Come on, never mind Coronavirus, let’s go and see if my mum’s got any Corona Dandelion and Burdock pop in the cupboard.”
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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS
#SaveLives
FIVE KEY AREAS FOR YOUR BUSINESS TO FOCUS ON RIGHT NOW TO SURVIVE THE CRISIS? These are unprecedented times and things are changing quickly with a lot of people suffering. One thing’s for sure, there will be an end to this. As part of the ActionCOACH community I am in contact with 1300 Business Coaches globally and 220 in the UK. Which allows us to help businesses with the best strategies quickly. For a fuller list of the steps your business needs to take now register for one of our webinars. See www.actioncoach.co.uk/nikgray under events for details. Leadership Whether you have hundreds of employees or you are working solo you need to be the leader. You need to be clear on the vision for the business to create that direction. Communicate regularly – with your team daily whether they are working or not, let them know what is going on. People worry when they don’t know, keep them informed. Customers’ too, tell them how you’re changing, how you’re making things safe or what you’ve got planned for the future. Watch less news. It will have a negative impact on you and your thoughts. Stick to one daily update then turn it off. You need to be the most positive person in the room. Celebrate wins and communicate good news with everybody. Finances Firstly complete a cashflow forecast these can be done simply, if you’re not sure, ask your accountant or call me. Look at your expenditure ask yourself what can be stopped or postpone? Speak with your suppliers ask them how they can help you. Predict the next 90 days income what’s the worst case what’s best case. What do you need to survive? Can you take advantage of the 80% furlough scheme for your staff? Check .gov website for what you are entitled to on grants and where you can apply for the business disruption loan. Even if you don’t use it. It’s interest free for 12 months so you can pay it back if you don’t use it.
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What next? How are you changing? How can you ‘pivot’ to change your direction? When the gyms closed down one gym rented its static bikes out to members to use at home and continued to run classes virtually. Just like communication, marketing is important right now. Yes, your message will have to change, people’s needs and buying habits have changed. So, you change with them. What do they need now? How can you help them? If you have a solution to their problem and you are helping them then you should be selling to them right now, it’s the right thing to do. Plan Most businesses fail because they haven’t got a plan. It’s easy to put off planning and working ‘on’ the business, because it’s thinking time and thinking is difficult. We’d rather do something we know how to do, like working ‘in’ the business. As a leader people look to you for direction. You get that confidence and direction from planning. Reflect on what’s worked and what’s not. What do you need to focus on for the next 90 days? Break it down into small tasks or actions which when combined will have a big impact. If you need help join our free 90 day planning sessions online. Reach out Finally, reach out. Everyone is in the same boat so reach out to others for help. A business coach or an accountant. We are giving away free webinars and free oneto-one sessions with business owners during this period to make sure everybody gets through this. Follow this link and have a chat: https://calendly.com/nikgray
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People in every community will face the challenges of Covid-19 in some way – from needing basic provisions to help while they are unwell.
Think of others, consider your actions & be kind
As self-isolation sel increases, we need to ďŹ nd new ways to stay connected and check in on one another for our physical and mental wellbeing. Sha phone numbers Share and stay in touch.
Connect and reach out to your neighbours
Keep up to date, share information and be a positive part of your local community conversations.
Make the most of local online groups
Diierent groups in our communities are at increased risk and isol social isolation and loneliness are key concerns for all ages. There are things you can do like volunteering for local support services or donating to ban to help. food banks
Support vulnerable or isolated people
Support anyone a who may be anxious about Covid-19. Sign post them to the correct advice from Public Health England and encourage people to foll follow the correct hygiene practices.
Share accurate information and advice
5 things you can do to make a positive diierence in your community
Community Action Response: Covid-19
#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS
#SaveLives
KEEPING PEOPLE CONNECTED ActivLives is a small, grassroots charity which has been working in Ipswich and across Suffolk for 13 years, supporting and motivating people to improve their own health and well-being; keeping people connected with their communities to reduce social isolation and loneliness and providing access to learning, training and volunteering opportunities to enable people to gain skills and employment. ActivLives normally provides a wide range of face to face activities and support including, community gardening, Men in Shed projects, singing and physical / sport activities such as walking football, Boccia, New Age Kurling, seated and standing OTAGO exercise, health walks and social activity. We also have specialist hubs for people living with dementia and their carers and for carers and former carers. These activities bring people together to enable them to meet and make new friends, build support networks in the community, volunteer and learn and share skills. Unfortunately, we have had to close all our activities because of Coronavirus which has had a great impact on the organisation. However, we are a very flexible and resilient organisation with very passionate and dedicated staff and key volunteers who are currently keeping an eye on our gardens and exploring different ways so that we can keep in touch and support our members and volunteers while they are self-isolating at home.
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For those who have access to the internet we will, over the coming weeks, be posting a variety of videos that might interest not only our members, but also the general public who may not know about our organisation. We will have general information to support people through the lock down. There are videos showing how to keep moving with seated and standing exercise for people to do safely at home with our lovely Step by Step instructor Jo. There are singing videos on our Facebook page with Gina, our amazing music facilitator who leads our community singing groups. There are two quizzes each week, gardening videos will be coming from the ActivGardens team and a reminiscence arts project is being planned. For those members and volunteers who cannot access the internet we are keeping in touch by phone and helping in whatever way we can. That may be doing some shopping, collecting prescriptions, just having a weekly chat on the phone or setting up WhatsApp groups so members from our different groups can keep connected while the sessions are closed. We hope that people who haven’t heard of us or don’t currently use our services across Suffolk will enjoy following our home page, joining in with our videos or finding the information we post useful during these unprecedented times. www.activlives.org.uk Facebook / Twitter / Instagram
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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS
#SaveLives
DON’T BECOME A VICTIM CRIMINALS ARE USING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC TO SCAM THE PUBLIC Law enforcement, government and private sectors partners are working together to encourage members of the public to be more vigilant against fraud, particularly about sharing their financial and personal information, as criminals seek to capitalise on the Covid-19 pandemic. Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police. They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment. Stop: Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe. Challenge: Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you. Protect: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud*. Your bank or the police will NEVER ask you to transfer money or move it to a safe account. Criminals are targeting people looking to buy medical supplies online, sending emails offering fake medical support and scamming people who may be vulnerable or increasingly isolated at home. These frauds try to lure you in with offers that look too good to be true, such as high return investments and ‘healthcare opportunities’, or make appeals for you to support bogus charities or those who are ill. Reports from the public have already included online shopping scams where people have ordered protective face masks, hand sanitiser, and other products, which have never arrived and a number of cases have been identified where fake testing kits have been offered for sale. Criminals are also using government branding to try to trick people, including reports of using HMRC branding to make spurious offers of financial support through unsolicited emails, phone calls and text messages. This situation is likely to continue, with criminals looking to exploit further consequences of the pandemic, such as exploiting financial concerns to ask for upfront fees for bogus loans, offering high-return investment scams, or targeting pensions. Huge increases in the number of people working remotely mean that significantly more people will be vulnerable to computer service fraud where criminals will try and convince you to provide access to your computer or divulge your logon details and passwords. It is also anticipated that there will be a surge in phishing scams or calls claiming to be from government departments offering grants, tax rebates, or compensation.
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Please see below for more information on the most common COVID-19 frauds and the steps you can take to keep yourself safe. Online Shopping and Auction Fraud More people may fall victim to #onlineshopping fraud as they self-isolate due to #COVID19. You are a victim of online shopping fraud if you buy goods from an online seller that never arrive. Computer Software Service Fraud As more people work from home due to #COVID19, fraudsters may capitalise on slow networks and IT problems, to commit computer software service fraud. Be wary of cold calls or unsolicited emails offering you help with your device or to fix a problem Lender Loan Fraud People may be worrying about their finances during the #COVID19 outbreak. Lender loan fraudsters will use the opportunity to: • approve your application for a fast loan regardless of your credit history • ask you to pay an upfront fee • take your payment and never provide the loan Pension Liberation Fraud and Investment Fraud Fraudsters could try to take advantage of the financial uncertainty surrounding #COVID19 by offering people sham investment opportunities. If you get a cold call or unsolicited email offering you a deal that sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Mandate Fraud As more people work from home due to #COVID19, fraudsters may try to get you to change a direct debit, standing order or bank transfer mandate, to divert funds to their bank account, by purporting to be an organisation you make regular payments to. Phishing A number of #COVID19 related phishing emails have been reported to Action Fraud. These emails attempt to trick you into opening malicious attachments which could lead to fraudsters stealing your personal information, logins, passwords, or banking details. As of March 26, the government has only sent one text message to the public regarding new rules about staying at home to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Any others claiming to be from UK Government are false. “Criminals are able to use spoofing technology to send texts and emails impersonating organisations that you know and trust. We would remind anyone who receives an unexpected text or email asking for personal or financial details not click on the links or attachments, and don’t respond to any messages that ask for your personal or financial details.”
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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS
#SaveLives
SARABAND SNAPS UP IAN MAITLAND THRILLER spine 22 mm
IAIN MAITLAND
Indie publisher Saraband has signed Felixstowe-based mental health author Iain Maitland for a thriller about unsolved murders of LGBTQ+ victims. MURDERS 1981-
The Scribbler will be published under Saraband’s crime, mystery and noir fiction imprint Contraband on 12 May.
They thought the killer was long gone...
IAIN
MAITLAND “Brilliantly creepy.”
BARBARA NADEL
In The Scribbler, newly qualified DC Carrie and her much more experienced colleague DI Gayther are the unlikely pairing tasked with investigating a series of cold cases, specifically unsolved murders of LGBTQ+ victims. “Back in the Eighties, these had not been considered a priority for police resources,” Saraband said.
“But times have changed and so has the whole matter of how policing is done. Gayther may trust his old-style hunches, but DC Carrie favours technologydriven, algorithm-based methods.” Hunt said: “Iain Maitland has a dark, original and chilling imagination and an uncanny ability to write disturbed characters whilst wrong-footing the reader along the way. He finds brilliant stories in the neglected corners of crime and punishment and keeps us uncomfortably glued to the pages as the tension escalates.” Maitland is the author of the thriller Sweet William (2017) and Mr Todd’s Reckoning (2019), both published by Saraband, as well as two non-fiction books on mental health: Dear Michael, Love Dad (2016, Hodder & Stoughton) and Out of the Madhouse (2018, Jessica Kingsley Publishers). An ambassador for Stem4, the teenage mental health charity, he also speaks on mental health issues in the workplace.
AN EXCLUSIVE EXTRACT FROM THE SCRIBBLER Newly qualified Detective Constable Georgia Carrie walked slowly up the steps of the temporary portacabin office to the side of the main police station building, balancing two full mugs of tea, one in each hand. She stopped to read the sign, ‘DI Gayther, Cold Cases’ and the handwritten scrawl above it, ‘LGBTQ+’. She put the mugs down on the top step to open the door and then paused for a moment, thinking what she might say.
“When was this…?
She opened the door. Picked up the mugs. Stepped inside. The older man, in his battered grey suit and brown loafers, looked up as the young woman put the mugs of tea on the desk. One on his side, the other on hers. He smiled briefly and nodded his thanks. She went to say her opening words, “Good to see you again, sir”, but as she did so, he turned the papers he was reading round so they were facing her on the desk. Old man in a hurry, she thought.
“He is described as white British and would now be in his fifties.”
“Read this, Carrie,” he said abruptly, pushing two sheets of A4 paper across towards her. She took the sheets and sat down at the desk and began reading the first one. He picked up his mug of tea and swung round on his chair, his back to her, looking out of the window towards the back of the main building and what looked like a building site. The police station was being renovated. Ladders, pots and paints and stacked-up scaffolding seemed to fill the whole space. It was a mess. He hated mess. “Still At Large,” she read the front page headline of the local newspaper out loud, “The Scribbler.”
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“Two years ago. Thirtieth anniversary of the first killing,” he replied. He gestured towards the two sheets and she carried on reading without speaking. “Police are still searching for The Scribbler, the serial killer who murdered six people in Norfolk between 1988 and 1990.” “The first victim was Donald Worthington, a 53-year-old abattoir supervisor.” “The second victim was 42-year-old office clerk Andrew Marven.” “The other four victims, middle-aged men from the Norwich area, were found dead in the summer and autumn of 1990.” “Police believe The Scribbler may have killed twelve men in total.” She wasn’t sure who to ask about first, but this was one of an endless stream of cold cases they’d be looking at over the coming days, so she decided to come straight to the point. “And so … ” she said, “why are we looking at this case again now? First of all?” “Because he’s back, Carrie. The Scribbler is back.” Iain Maitland
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Use your calendar to record your daily kindness acts.
month Monday
year Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Congratulations
Saturday
Being kind sends a powerful message about our connections to each other and the world around us.
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Sunday
The British Red Cross Society, incorporated by Royal Charter 1908, is a charity registered in England and Wales (220949), Scotland (SC037738) and Isle of Man (0752). Illustrations: Š Sara Chew/BRC. BRC18-303
The power of kindness calendar
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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS
#SaveLives
ALMOST LOST IN TRANSLATION A short story by Beryl P. Brown The flea market was rammed. Mid-morning sun blazed on the hordes of people forging paths to the stalls and traders. Some attempted to worm deeper into the market, certain that better bargains were to be had in the further reaches. Tourists, too hot, too overcome by the tide of humanity that, good-natured though it was, seemed a threat, pushed their way to the exit and their tour buses.
lucky rabbit bag would be lost forever.
This was my favourite place; I made sure I was here every Sunday morning. I loved the crush, the noise, the smell – not, as someone who had never been to a Parisian flea market would assume, predominantly garlic, but a mixture of perfume, exotic oils, street food and coffee.
My words seemed to flow through the crowd like a Mexican Wave as the message was passed on. I held my breath and squinted into the sunlight, but the white hair reached the place where the road dipped again and the man disappeared.
There has to be an exception to every rule and, as I was soaking up the ambience, a man caught my elbow and breathed the reek of garlic into my face. I swung away, ducking behind a large German tourist shouting into his phone and smelling of suntan oil. The German apologised as his shoulder knocked into my bag. I lifted a hand in response and pushed on towards the stall that sold the best coffee in Paris.
I was swept along, tears stinging, I didn’t care where I ended up.
I was sipping my espresso when I noticed a man hovering at the edge of the crowd letting people flow past him. This was odd; no one gave way here. It was the garlic breath man, I remembered him not just for his breath, but because of the white hair that hung down to his shoulders. I drained the little cup, thanked the stallholder in my appalling French – I really should take lessons – and slipped into the crowd. Glancing behind me, I saw the white haired man scanning around. I slid quickly in front of a pair of tall teenage boys before dodging around an elegant French woman enveloped in a cloud of Chanel. I walked on for several minutes, weaving my way through until the sound of a tolling church bell let me know that I was about halfway along the road that was completely taken over by the market every Sunday. The crowd had thinned for a second and, relaxing, I was enjoying the space when something thudded into my back. I was thrust forward and felt my bag being ripped from my hand. ‘NO,’ I yelled, staggering to keep my balance. I raised my head in time to see the white haired man elbowing through the crowd, the straps of my rabbit bag clutched in his fist. I couldn’t lose that bag; it was my most important possession. The red rabbit appliqued to the flap was my good luck charm and it went everywhere with me. ‘Thief,’ I yelled. Stupid, I told myself, as a few people looked at me curiously. ‘Voleur.’ I screamed. People turned, I could see the man’s head above the crowd but he was disappearing fast. To my eternal embarrassment, I then shouted. ‘Le homme avec le cheveaux blanc est un voleur.’ I’d got attention. People scanned around but then shrugged and stared at me. What was the matter with them? The man was vanishing into the crowd when it struck me that I’d said the thief was a man with white horses! Why hadn’t I learned French properly? My
The crowd ahead was thick now but, beyond the church, the road rose slightly and I could just spot the white hair in the far distance. That subway scene in Crocodile Dundee came back to me, and I screamed, ‘Le sac avec le lapin rouge.’
Someone tapped me on the shoulder and pointed. Miraculously, my bag was being passed back through the people. When it reached me, I hugged it to my chest and shouted, ‘Merci mes amis.’ As soon as I could, I fought my way aside and found an alleyway where I could escape and have privacy to check my bag. I unzipped it. It was packed with wallets, purses and mobile phones. I lifted out a wallet and opened it. Stuffed with Euros. The picture of the big German tourist grinned at me from its plastic window. A leather purse wafted expensive perfume as I flipped through the plastic cards. Two of the mobiles had macho cases – the type teenage lads carried. They’d have learnt a hard lesson about hanging on to their belongings in a crowd. At the end of the alleyway I threw the empty wallets, purses and phone cases into a waste bin and swung the bag over my shoulder. The lucky rabbit had done its job, but I’d need to think hard about next Sunday. The robber nearly robbed; I could be losing my touch. passed on. I held my breath and squinted into the sunlight, but the white hair reached the place where the road dipped again and the man disappeared. I was swept along, tears stinging, I didn’t care where I ended up. Someone tapped me on the shoulder and pointed. Miraculously, my bag was being passed back through the people. When it reached me, I hugged it to my chest and shouted, ‘Merci mes amis.’ As soon as I could, I fought my way aside and found an alleyway where I could escape and have privacy to check my bag. I unzipped it. It was packed with wallets, purses and mobile phones. I lifted out a wallet and opened it. Stuffed with Euros. The picture of the big German tourist grinned at me from its plastic window. A leather purse wafted expensive perfume as I flipped through the plastic cards. Two of the mobiles had macho cases – the type teenage lads carried. They’d have learnt a hard lesson about hanging on to their belongings in a crowd. At the end of the alleyway I threw the empty wallets, purses and phone cases into a waste bin and swung the bag over my shoulder. The lucky rabbit had done its job, but I’d need to think hard about next Sunday. The robber nearly robbed; I could be losing my touch.
Beryl P. Brown lives in Manningtree. Many of her short stories have been published and frequently enjoy competition success. Her debut novel, May’s Boys: a boy wants a mother, a woman wants a son… was published in February and is available in print and e-format from booksellers and online suppliers. For further details detrails visit: www.berylpbrown.uk
Answers to the riddles on page 19 1: Carrot; 2: Trouble; 3: Alphabet; 4: She fell off the bottom step; 5: A potato; 6: My shadow; 7: Grandpa was bald; 8: An onion; 9: A table; 10: The letter ‘e’
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Rural Coffee Caravan is one of many charities which has transformed its service in response to current need. Their website is a great source of information and ideas and they have created this flyer which you can tape to a bin, pop in milk bottle, give to a supermarket worker or in fact any key worker. You can download it direct from: www.ruralcoffeecaravan.org.uk
To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380
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