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2 In Touch online: A WORD FROM THE EDITOR NEWS

There’s something about a Sunday morning which feels different, even before COMMUNITIES BENEFIT FROM you realise it is a Sunday. Well, I had the same sensation when I woke on Monday 15 June. It felt different and all because it was the day when ‘non-essential’ CORONAVIRUS FUNDING BOOST shops were allowed to reopen. This development makes me extremely happy, Sunday happy, because I’ve hated walking by closed shops for so long, knowing Communities have received more than £100,000 in vital funding from Babergh how the enforced closure has impacted on owners and staff. Now our local and District Councils, helping them to respond to Covid-19 and shops have reopened, I urge you to support them so we can enjoy again the paving the way for a stronger society. many benefits of having vibrant high streets and town centres. Both councils acknowledge the key role of community groups, along with We have to take baby steps for the moment and adhere to social distancing town and parish councils, in easing the challenges faced by residents at guidelines, but the purchasing choices we make have never been so critical for this time. In recognition of this and the financial hardships arising from the the local economy and local employment. The choices we make right now will pandemic, a new Covid-19 Emerging Needs Grant was set up, ensuring much- determine whether those hardest hit by closure can survive and how quickly needed funding could be provided to new and existing groups across both we can revive the sense of local community we’ve missed on our streets in the districts. last three months. As it was such a momentous day for our town centre shops, I made it the focus Grants of up to £2,500 can be applied for to cover increased costs incurred of my son’s home learning for the day. We wandered into town just to see the as a result of the Coronavirus. The grant has a straightforward applications open doors and the new window displays and to enjoy the palpable sense of process, allowing applicants to receive funding within weeks and resulting in freedom. There was a long queue at the shoe shop, mostly mums with small almost 80 applications being submitted to date. This figure is set to increase, children who needed to have their feet measured for long overdue summer with grants continuing to be made available. shoes. We decided to leave that for another day and headed to the sewing shop The councils’ grants team has responded to 98% of applicants so far and where I purchased some funky fabric for face masks. Next up, and central to my grants totalling more than £101,250 have already been approved. Included mission, my favourite boutique with a list of missed and forthcoming birthdays in hand. I may have purchased a little something for myself too, a sort of token within this figure is over £15,000 of funding for local foodbanks. Grants have ‘freedom’ gift which is click-clacking on the keyboard as I type (and beginning also been offered to organisations providing meals on wheels, community to really annoy me!). information services and mental health outreach programmes. Jack was desperate to visit the sweet shop, which we did next, and then on to Grant recipient Mencap said: “This grant will ensure that we will be able what we refer to as ‘the everything and anything shop’ for a new cafetier and to provide the helpline service in Babergh and Mid Suffolk to people with sunflower seeds. Then coffee and off home with a spring in our step. a learning disability and their families and carers. In this challenging and “It’s much better like this, isn’t it mum,” Jack said. It surely is and now we know unprecedented time, the impact of this will be vital.” how much we have missed having town centres and streets where people live, The crucial work of community groups has been complemented by the Home, work and play, perhaps we can be more optimistic than ever about the future. But Not Alone service, set up the county-wide Collaborative Communities Take care, stay safe and shop local (which you can do online if you are still shielding or in isolation). Board to provide emergency assistance by linking TRIBE volunteers to vulnerable residents with care needs or loneliness. Since its launch at the end of March, the helpline has received over 8,500 calls. Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils have managed referrals for its districts, including the distribution of vital medication and urgent requests EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins In Touch Titles T: 01473 400380 for food. One caller said: “A lady very kindly gave me her direct line number • Stowmarket & Stowupland and arranged an emergency food parcel. Although we’d only spoken in the Send editorial copy to: • Kesgrave & Rushmere St Andrew [email protected] afternoon, the food parcel arrived by 6pm that night, which was absolutely • Melton & Woodbridge Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and marvellous.” photographs for publication. The publishers reserve • Manningtree, Brantham, Lawford & Mistley the right to amend such submissions and cannot • Hadleigh, Chattisham, Hintlesham, accept responsibility for any loss. This invaluable support continuing, as the virus and its aftermath remains, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon is a priority for both councils. Plans are being put in place to cement the ADVERTISING • Ipswich East, Ravenswood, Broke Hall T: 01473 400380 & Warren Heath community groups and good neighbour schemes created in response to E: [email protected] • Elmswell, Beyton, Drinkstone, Haughley, Covid-19, with localities officers from the councils’ Communities team aiding DISTRIBUTION Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden with this. & Woolpit Tree Martin: 01473 400380 Cllr Derek Davis, Cabinet Member for Communities for Council E: [email protected] • Needham Market & The Creetings • Shotley, Chelmondiston, Erwarton, said: “I’d like to thank communities in Babergh who have demonstrated PRINTING Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton immense strength and resilience at a time of national emergency. They are ColourPlan Print: 01473 400379 & Woolverstone doing an amazing job and we will continue to do all we can to support their [email protected] E: • Martlesham efforts.” Disclaimer: • Claydon, Barham, Henley & Whitton The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is • East Bergholt, Dedham, Flatford Cllr Julie Flatman, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing for Mid taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine & Stratford St Mary are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any Suffolk District Council said: “I am pleased our grants have already made a responsibility for errors or omissions. • Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham real difference to the communities pulling together in response to Covid-19. While reasonable care is taken when accepting • Capel St Mary (Capel Capers) advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor Although government restrictions are starting to ease, the virus will be with will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory • Copdock, Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone us for some time and protecting our most vulnerable residents remains a transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to & Washbrook include advertising or editorial. They will, however priority.” immediately investigate any written complaints. • Gt & Lt Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. • Westerfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, St Martin & Witnesham without the prior written permission of the publisher. • Sproughton & Burstall © In Touch with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter This month’s cover image was taken by Ipswich based photographer & Needham Market is published by Mansion House We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe Publishing (UK) Ltd Jolanta Putnina. Jolanta provides affordable photography services, from environmental portrait sessions and weddings to commercial event coverage. Friday 17 July View her extended portfolio at: www.jolantaputninaphotography.co.uk is the advertising and editorial deadline for Follow for ideas and inspiration on Instagram and Facebook and Printed on gloss paper from FSC certified sources contact for inquiries via social media or phone 07857 888650. Please recycle. the August edition www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham 3 NEWS

TACKLING THE CORONAVIRUS – ‘STICK WITH IT SUFFOLK’ The Stick With It Suffolk campaign was launched in May 2020 by the Suffolk Resilience Forum, which includes Suffolk’s NHS, emergency and public services, because we are not out of the woods yet. We are asked to keep following these instructions: STOWMARKET & DISTRICT • Keep staying at home CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • Keep working from home where you can The Covid-19 pandemic restrictions have changed the way everybody is • Keep 2 metres apart if you go out working, including the Chamber. This means that for the foreseeable future we will be holding virtual networking meetings via Zoom. • Keep exercising safely So you’ll have to provide your own refreshments on Friday 3 July, 10am-noon, • Keep washing your hands with soap and water and for breakfast on Friday 17 July, starting at 9am, but we would love to • Keep self-isolating if you or anyone in your household see you! has symptoms We are also sending out weekly e-newsletters with tips, advice and the latest • Keep travelling by car, bike or walking information for businesses. • Keep staying safe at work To sign up for newsletters and receive all the latest info and booking links • Keep shielding yourself if you’re vulnerable go to www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk and fill in the form at the foot of the homepage. • Keep supporting local businesses • Keep looking out for each other People are asked to share their stories and how they are managing to stick with it, using the hashtag #StickWithItSuffolk on social media. Stuart Keeble, Suffolk Director of Public Health, said: “On behalf of all the members of the Suffolk Resilience Forum, I’d like to say thank you to the people of Suffolk for the sacrifices they are making by following these instructions. “But now, more than ever, it is important that we stick with it - the Life has changed dramatically over the last few months but we wanted number of cases can very easily increase if we take our eye off the ball. to update you on what has been happening at The Mix. This would be a backward step, with strict lockdown measures coming To follow government guidelines we closed our building and coffee back into force.” shop (Cabbages & Kings) in March. However, we have been able to Dr Mark Shenton, Chair of the Ipswich and East Suffolk Clinical continue with some of our youth work projects remotely. Commissioning Group, said:“I would like to take this opportunity to Sam has been busy supporting young people from Stowupland High thank all of our communities for their continued support in helping School, the Together Project team has been working with 25 young our health and care system to manage this public health emergency. people remotely and the Thrive team have continued with their “These are unprecedented times and the measures we have all taken education provision remotely too. We are immensely proud of our so far are really making a difference. This is why it is so important to team for adapting to these unprecedented times and ensuring our continue following government guidelines and keeping the two metre young people continue to receive the support they need. distance from each other. In addition, we have tried to keep our social media active, with “I am so proud of how our services are responding to this crisis and signposting and wellbeing tips to help during lockdown, interspersed extremely heartened by the continued support that so many people with our own light-hearted Mix personality! are giving us by following these rules. You may have seen that some of our team took on the 2.6 Challenge “Please continue to stay alert, continue to help control this virus and to try and raise some much needed funds. The community really got help us all save lives.” behind us and Stowmarket Rugby Club even joined in. In total almost £2,600 was raised so a huge thank you from The Mix team. Another wonderful community initiative that has supported The Mix was from Beckie Egan Photography. Beckie spent a month offering ‘Porchtraits’ in and around Stowmarket, capturing a moment in time for families. Beckie’s efforts raised in excess of £1,300, split between The Mix and the Stowmarket Food Bank. Thank you so much Beckie. As we move into July we have been working on new ways to continue to reach, engage and support young people in our community during this time of change. Cabbages & Kings will be launching a catering trailer based at Needham Lake over the summer, building up to the opening of the café that we will be running there from the autumn. For the latest updates keep in touch by following The Mix and Cabbages & Kings on social media.

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STOWMARKET RAMBLERS Yes we’re still here; we’re just lying low at the moment. Stowmarket Ramblers has a full programme of Sunday walks, tested and ready to go through to much later in the year. This means that when the government relaxes the rules concerning the number of people who can THE EVENT THAT NEVER HAPPENED meet safely outdoors and the Ramblers Association gives the green light, we can resume our group walks at a moment’s notice. Due to the lead time for The John Peel Centre for Creative Arts (JPC) is a vibrant arts centre offering a In Touch the best place to check what’s on, when you think the time is right, varied programme of theatre, music, poetry and comedy. is the East Anglian Daily Times, Radio Suffolk or the Ramblers website: www. ramblers.org.uk Like so many venues across the country, the John Peel Centre has been greatly affected by the Covid-19 crisis. Due to the pandemic and social In fact, if you key in your postcode there you will get details of every Ramblers distancing measures put in place by the government, the centre has had to walk nearby; there will be a lot to choose from. cancel or postpone a large number of public and private events. Events have been rescheduled where possible and the JPC team continue to navigate In the meantime, why not look on the Discover Suffolk website where you will these unchartered waters. However, there is no doubt of the financial impact find a large number of routes to follow locally: www.discoversuffolk.org.uk Covid-19 will have on the JPC which is a community interest company. Don’t forget the three rules: no more than six in a group, social distancing, Naturally, the closure of the venue has affected not only the audiences who and pop some hand gel in your pocket just in case. regularly attend events at the venue but also artists, community groups, Looking forward to meeting you on a ramble shortly. theatre companies and many more. The small staff team and the dedicated team of JPC volunteers are working hard during this period of closure to do all they can to ensure that the valued community space is still here in the future. CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE There is no doubt that the JPC team is keen to ensure that there is an exciting Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline Charity Shop (Coddenham Road, Needham programme of events for audiences to enjoy when the doors can open again, Market) will reopen on 16 June with lots of new products covering a very however, no-one can deny it is a worrying and uncertain time for the venue. wide range. Of course, we will be following the new retail Covid-19 compliant Encouragingly, the John Peel Centre audiences, customers, community guidelines but we’re looking forward to seeing customers old and new. groups, hirers and artists have been extremely supportive. At a time when All our profits go directly to supporting the children; we have no paid staff. everyone is facing such difficult and uncertain times, it has been heart- We’d also love to hear from anyone interested in volunteering for a few warming for the staff to see how valued the JPC clearly is to its community hours a week. The children may not be able to come this year but we never with some ticket holders donating their tickets rather than asking for refunds stop supporting them. Like many small charities, we are suffering very badly and many sending positive messages of support. during the crisis through loss of all revenue with no fundraising being able to take place. “We have been humbled by the support and well wishes from our audiences, said the general manager, Patsy Cane. “They have offered their tickets as While of course we appreciate the urgency of looking after our own, the donations and expressed how much they want us to be here when this is children of Belarus are suffering greatly during this time in a country with over. This gives us the encouragement to strive to survive these difficult a president who has declared that Covid-19 does not exist. I don’t think I times. I look forward to welcoming our artists and audiences back when we need to detail the consequences of this action which is affecting many of the open our doors again, John Peel Centre.” families and institutes we support including the Children’s Cancer Hospital. However, there is still more work to be done if the JPC is to survive this The older generation suffered greatly during and following the Chernobyl difficult period. disaster. They hoped never to see such hardship again in their lifetimes and certainly would not wish it for their children. The suffering caused by Covid-19 In an effort to ensure the JPC will be here in the future it has teamed up with is like revisiting the past for them. WeGotTickets and is hosting #TheEventThatNeverHappened – an event that Any support we receive, be it a financial donation, clothing for the children or – you guessed it – will never happen! goods that can be utilised as raffle prizes, is really appreciated. One-hundred By purchasing a ticket to The Event That Never Happened, anyone who can per cent of everything goes to support the children with only minimal afford to do so will be helping the JPC to secure a future and will support the administration costs deducted. If you can, please think of our children. They grass roots venue in bringing great artists to the audience of Stowmarket and did not ask to be born into this. Thank you. surrounding areas, as well as provide performance opportunities for up and Elizabeth: 01449 760343 coming artists. Tickets can be purchased for £5, £10, £20 or £50 and you can find out more about the event that never happened at: www.johnpeelcentre.com/event/ the-event-that-never-happened

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www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham 7 8 In Touch online: NEWS / OUT & ABOUT

HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY At present Henley Pre-School is still closed and we are looking forward to Tours of the facility opening again in September. We wish the children that are leaving us all the best as they venture into their new school. We are also looking forward to seeing the existing and new children thrive in our wonderful environment. If you are thinking of sending your child to Henley Pre-school from September or in the next year, please get in touch to get your applications in. If you have applied for a 30-hour funding code, I must have it before the end of the summer term (21 July) for you to be able to use it from September. We are a small, rural and friendly setting based at Henley Community Centre. We pride ourselves on the high ratio of staff to children, therefore providing maximum care and learning for the children. 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. Application forms can be downloaded from our website or you can email the pre-school for further information. We accept eligible 30-hour funded children but the codes must be in place the term before they are needed. We also accept Tax Free Childcare. Children can join us from the age of two; we With lockdown measures across the UK being gradually lifted, we are looking accept government funded and fee paying children. We are open term time at ways that we could safely reopen the site for public visits, while ensuring only from 9am to 3pm. that visitors and SUEZ staff are safe and that social distancing measures are adhered to. We are also exploring the possibility of offering virtual tours of We have a well-supported Facebook page that provides lots of information the facility with a live Q+A with our community liaison manager. If either and you can see what the children have been doing at the pre-School. It is option is of interest, please get in contact with us at: [email protected] also another way to contact the setting directly. As a reminder, any public tours cancelled at the energy-from-waste facility For further information please call 07979 468467 or email our manager, due to restrictions as a result of COVID-19 will be rescheduled once tours Bridget Wyatt: [email protected] have resumed. If you would like to visit the facility in the future, please get in Bridget, Sarah and Kerry contact via the contact details below and we will add you to our waiting list and contact you when it is practical to do so. We’re on Twitter STOWMARKET & DISTRICT Did you know that Suffolk’s energy-from-waste facility is on social media? FLOWER CLUB For more frequent facility updates, fun facts and handy tips about rubbish, recycling and food waste, follow us on Twitter: @suffolkefw Unlike many sports clubs, we will not be able to resume our meetings yet, so I’m sorry to say that the July meeting has been cancelled. We do not normally Any questions? meet in August, but who knows! Obviously the two metre social distancing If you have any queries about our operations, please do not hesitate to is the main concern. Once that hurdle can be dealt with, and we receive contact us: 01473 839149 / [email protected] notification from the government that we can resume, we will be keen to let OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS everyone know. In the meantime stay safe! Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 Club Secretary Carla Firman SUEZ Communities Trust: 01934 524013

PHILOSOPHICAL BELIEFS AND DISCRIMINATION LEGISLATION

A recent case, which was reported earlier this In addition, there have been two cases in 2019, one of which upheld year, held that ethical veganism was capable a philosophical belief, and one of which did not. The first related to a of amounting to a philosophical belief, which is belief that Scotland has a right to govern itself. This belief was sufficiently therefore protected by discrimination legislation. cogent to amount to a philosophical belief and is therefore protected Over the years, there have been a number of cases under the equality legislation. which have established what may or may not The second case in 2019 related to an individual who was a vegetarian. amount to a philosophical belief, and therefore be In this case, it was held that being a vegetarian was a lifestyle choice, protected under the discrimination legislation. which did not amount to a protected philosophical belief, and was not In 2010 a Mr Nicholson brought a case and was able to establish that therefore protected by the equality legislation that is in place. as he strongly believed he must live his life in such a way so that he limited the impact that he has on the environment, this amounted to a philosophical belief. A case brought in 2011 related to a belief in fox hunting as being wrong, which was held to have protection under the equality legislation as the employee’s animal rights beliefs impacted on all aspects of his daily life. The Employment Tribunal in this case was at pains to stress that not all Buttermarket, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1ED Telephone: 01449 613101 • Fax: 01449 615087 opponents of fox hunting would be protected in this way. Email: [email protected] www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham 9 OUT & ABOUT

FROM BEHIND THE MASK STOWMARKET BRIDGE CLUB By Jo Strickland, Radiotherapy Team Leader, South East London The Wednesday evening online tournaments, launched in conjunction Growing up in Felixstowe I never with Bury and Abbeygate Bridge Clubs, are in full swing. There has been really worried about the small a good representation from Stowmarket. John Heath and Caro Hunt things in life. I’d hug my mum have won on two occasions, and there have been top four finishes whenever I wanted, I’d wander from Sekhar Pillai, Andy Billinge, Amanda Roberts, Mike Creffield and into town and browse around Chris Richardson. the shops, I’d hang out with my friends whenever I could and I’d The club’s 50th anniversary celebration day in Elmswell on Sunday 26 July is still on the calendar, but we are waiting to see what develops in go to school for an education that the coming weeks. would serve me well later in life. These were all simple things that I We are always keen to welcome new members. For more information took for granted. Who knew how please see our website or contact Andy Billinge (a.billinge@btinternet. precious they would become? com / 07815 101513) or Arthur Winchester (01449 612105). At the moment life is very different www.bridgewebs.com/stowmarket for everyone. Communication with friends and family is largely via a phone or computer screen, shopping involves a queue even WOOLPIT AND DISTRICT MUSEUM before reaching the checkout As yet we do not know when we will be able to reopen the museum so and children are denied the chance to learn among friends or take exams will continue to feature a photograph from one of our current displays to validate the qualifications they are to be awarded. In addition holidays, each month. weddings and parties have been cancelled or postponed. Social distancing is the new way of life and while many people now work from home many still Woolpit used to have two mills. One don’t know if and when they will have a job to return to. No one can have stood in Mill Lane and was demolished in the 1920s, and this one stood in been unaffected by the coronavirus pandemic. Broom Hill Lane. It was run by the Elmer As a therapeutic radiographer I am a keyworker. I have continued togo family for many years and we believe the to work every day to deliver vital radiotherapy treatment to patients with gentleman in the photograph is Harry cancer. But it’s been a struggle. COVID-19’s impact is far reaching and every Elmer who, like the Mason brothers who area of the NHS has had to adapt to a new way of working, not least cancer featured in last month’s article, played care. Where once there was a welcoming smile, a reassuring hand and the an important part in Woolpit village life opportunity to sit and talk through problems and advice, there is now a mask, in the 1890s and on into the 20th century. a glove, a telephone call and distance. These are all necessary measures The mill ceased grinding corn in 1945 introduced to protect staff and patients alike but they take away an element and was bought by Sidney Darby who of the personalised care that is the pride of my profession. We still care, we was developing the surrounding land for always do, but it’s hard to convey that when you’re wearing an armour of PPE. gravel extraction. He offered it to County Council as a historic monument but neither they nor anyone The pandemic has also seen cancer referral numbers fall to alarmingly low else wanted to pay for its restoration. In October 1963 strong winds hurled levels. I have often joked with patients that in an ideal world there’d be no the sails to the ground, and tons of stone and timber shattered the rest of one for me to treat. But that is because I wish no one had cancer, not because the mill as they tumbled down. Ironically, demolition was due to start the I want a quiet day at work. Quiet days in radiotherapy are always worrying following week. and usually signify the calm before a storm of new patients who will fill our days beyond capacity and lengthen our waiting lists. COVID-19 brought with The Elmer family also ran a bakery in the village centre which presumably it one such calm as the message to stay home sunk in a little too well. All used flour from the family mill. Harry’s son Dick Gentry Elmer and his wife of a sudden, contacting a GP about worrying symptoms no longer seemed Hilda (also known as Poppy) continued to run it for some years after the mill essential. Meanwhile doctors had to make unenviable choices as to whether closed and some older residents remember purchasing fresh bread and cakes from them. The building is now the Elm Tree Gallery but is also known as The to delay vital cancer treatment or instead ask patients to venture to hospital Old Bakery. daily and risk coming into contact with a virus that could do far worse than the disease they were already fighting. Probably like many other local people taking regular exercise walks during lockdown, we have several times been along Broom Hill Lane and looked So now we await the subsequent storm. Those who have been delayed and across the fields to the two mills at Drinkstone. I always try to imagine Elmer’s those who have only now braved a call to their GP will all be welcomed into the mill forming number three in this view. world of radiotherapy. And those of us who greet them with a smile behind a mask, pray that they come with the intention of cure. The reality however is that weeks of lockdown will have pushed many onto a palliative pathway and the total number of deaths caused by this pandemic will eventually far outreach official government figures. In the meantime, while the country tentatively eases itself out of lockdown, I DEMENTIA TOGETHER hope that people do not forget the impact the pandemic has had on so many CALL FREE 08081 688 000 lives or that long after the number of new coronavirus diagnoses and deaths stop growing, many people will still be dealing with the fallout. And let it be Email: [email protected] a lesson to everybody not to take the small things for granted any more. I Visit: www.dementia-together.com for one, will be Felixstowe-bound as soon as is permissible to give my mum a hug. 10 In Touch online: OUT & ABOUT / CHURCH NEWS

SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY AS THE HEARING CARE CENTRE RE-OPENS As it begins to re-open its services after lockdown, local hearing care specialists The Hearing Care Centre have a very clear message to anyone needing support with their hearing: “Your safety is our priority” FINANCIAL PLANNING The company which offers audiology services from the StowHealth has 27 IN A PANDEMIC centres spread across Suffolk and Norfolk. Audiologist Karen Finch, founder of the company, said: “Following the comprehensive COVID-19 joint guidance Really, this is a ‘what happens next?’ issue. Hopefully you will all from the UK’s audiology professional bodies, we have examined every single have been organised enough to be on a sensible financial plan to aspect of how we deliver our service to ensure that we can do so safely as we (a) make sure that you are well insured against perils move forward. This has taken weeks of work and preparation but we are now like ill health and death and are totally confident that we can offer you the support you need in a safe way.” (b) looking to your longer term future and making the Karen added: “The most satisfying part of being able to re-open for care is ‘deferring consumption’ choice by putting money away knowing that we offer a valuable and much needed service. The relief for so that you can eventually exit wage slavery with comfort patients after receiving our help and treatment has been overwhelming and and dignity. emotional. This, of course, all assumes that you can earn a living. To book an appointment for audiology or earwax removal or to find out more But we now have a hiccough in that planning if you are in the private visit: www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk sector of the economy. State sector employees will likely be largely sheltered from the effect of the lockdown. You may be furloughed. In which case, are your furloughed wages adequate to cover your basic needs, your necessary insurances and CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET pension? As I write this, in the middle of June, many places are gradually starting to If not, what do you cancel or suspend first? open up. Non-essential shops are mainly in the news at the moment and it’s good if people can safely start to get their businesses back on track. If you cancel a life insurance policy, will you be able to be reinsured later? At what price? Christchurch isn’t able to open safely yet. It’s amazing how much there is If you cancel your pension saving, what effect will that have to consider when inviting groups of people back into a building, but we are on your final pension or retirement date? looking forward to the day when we can welcome you through our doors again. Meanwhile there is a Rainbow Tree of Hope growing just inside the If you need to use capital to keep body and soul together, glass doors. Many local people have knitted rainbow coloured squares for what investments should you sell first? this tree which will eventually be made into rainbow blankets for charity. Do And is that a good idea at all as, arguably, asset prices turn and look at The Rainbow Tree of Hope if you are passing. We have many are depressed? things to hope and pray for at this time. Looking further out, will your employer survive this lockdown? Places opening their doors indicates a start to getting back to normality. It will certainly be good to get the economy building again and to be able to Maybe they will only be able to offer reduced hours and/or meet up safely with friends and family. But do we want the ‘new normal’ to a lower wage? be just like the ‘old normal’? We have experienced quite a few changes in the Are you ready for that? way that we have to do things, many of them for the better; our environment If you would like to discuss any of this with a friendly and has benefitted from less exhaust fumes from vehicles, the air we breathe dispassionate ear, please contact us. A quick chat may be valuable. seems much cleaner and wildlife is flourishing. There has been much less Or we can organise a longer discussion (technology will let us do that rubbish left in the streets and hedgerows. Many of us have learnt to relax and remotely) for more detailed questions. appreciate what is necessary and manage without all the rest. And in the spirit of the time, we are offering our time for this without Let’s not rush back to the ‘old normal’; let’s take our time and see how we can charge. You may then be better prepared for what happens next. w o r k s o m e o f t h e s e g o o d c h a n g e s i n t o o u r ‘ n e w n o r m a l ’. Live long and prosper. SN

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham 11 As we start to ease out of lockdown it would be easy to fall back into old habits and stop taking our daily exercise, Helping older adults which we have been doing during these challenging times. stay active at home A drop in physical activity levels can At In Touch we are committed to supporting our readers lead to physical deconditioning that to stay active and live healthy lives and are pleased to be increases the risk of falls, loss of physical continuing our partnership with the Keep Moving Su olk capacity and increased need for care. campaign to bring you ideas, tips and inspirational stories A new Active at Home booklet from to help keep you motivated. Public Health England (PHE) aims to help older adults keep up their activity levels while isolating due to coronavirus (Covid-19). Meet your emotional The booklet provides practical guidance to older adults on needs and avoid stress home-based activities to maintain As well as being good for our mental health through their strength and balance and can be the release of endorphins and burning o€ cortisol, accessed and downloaded from the moving about and getting some exercise meets other Keep Moving Su€olk website Emotional Needs that help us avoid stress. Activities for Older People. . For example, when we feel that we’re competent at www.keepmovingsuolk.com/ something, taking on new learning and achieving things, we feel good exercise-if-youre-older about ourselves and this builds self-esteem. This need for Achievement can be met through exercise and physical activity. The Couch-to-5k app is great for building up to achievement in small, manageable steps. We also need to feel valued, like we have a place in the world and a standing in the communities we’re part of. The Strava app tracks your progress as you run for slightly longer, or slightly faster, and shares that progress with people who can give you “kudos” is a great way to meet that need for Status – to feel proud of what you’ve accomplished. As we possibly look forward to some kind of return to the way life was before lockdown, it’s possible we will be able to participate in sports and activities that bring us into contact with others again. But in the meantime, there are online groups and social media pages that can help us feel part of something bigger than ourselves – getting our need for Community met. Even now, this can be met simply by going for a run and saying hello to fellow runners you meet. WIN And an often forgotten Emotional Need is that of Privacy. This isn’t about keeping things secret or data compliance. It’s about getting away from the many distractions of the modern world. Getting out of the house and Women’s Tour Virtual going for a walk, run, cycle ride, scoot…whatever takes your fancy, getting cycling challenge a little exercise is a great way to get some time to yourself. A limited number of 500 places are available on the KMS Women’s Tour Stay safe and stay well, Jon Neal, CEO Su olk Mind Virtual challenge taking place in July and August. Win VIP tickets to the 2021 The Keep Moving Su€olk website is a trusted source of Women’s Tour in Su€olk information, advice and useful links to help you, your For full details on how to secure a family and local community to get active and stay active. place on the challenge visit the Keep Send us your videos and images to show us how you Moving Su€olk website, are keeping active using #keepmovingsu€olk www.keepmovingsuolk.com www.keepmovingsuolk.com Check these out @keepmovingsu olk www.keepmovingsu olk.com @keepmovingsu olk @Most_Active

12 In Touch online: ON THE GRAPEVINE

OUR COMMUNITY CARES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IMPACTED BY DOMESTIC ABUSE are currently facing and what support they need to continue to help children and young people impacted by domestic abuse. Lighthouse Women’s Aid, Bury Women’s Aid Centre and Orwell Housing’s Liberty Project are three of the refuges in the region to receive a £4,600 donation from the East of England Co-op Community Cares Fund. The remaining funds will be distributed between other local organisations and support services. Lighthouse Women’s Aid – Sally Winston, Chief Executive of Lighthouse Women’s Aid “At Lighthouse Women’s Aid we support children of all ages in the refuge. It is important that we have facilities and equipment for children that are age appropriate, therefore we are truly grateful to the East of England Co- op Community Cares Fund as this award now enables us to develop a new toddlers’ playground. “We can accommodate up to 27 children at any one time in our refuge and a high percentage are toddlers under the age of four. It is important that we ensure that young children settle as quickly as possible into the Refuge when Andrea Pittock, Suffolk Community Foundation Head of Grants they arrive with us and that they feel safe, as often they have come from The East of England Co-op is donating £45,000 to support the creation of traumatic circumstances. safe environments and provide mental health support for children and young “We always make sure there is an age appropriate toy box in their bedroom people impacted by domestic abuse in our region. as play is so important for children. The Children’s Team talk with mum and This is the second large scale donation to be made from the East of England their children about what their favourite toys are, and we make sure that Co-op Community Cares Fund, created to support local good causes these are available. This also gives us an idea of what to arrange for them for adapt, enhance and continue to provide much needed services in new and their birthday and Christmas if they are going to be with us then, as mums innovative ways. often have very little money to buy them presents. Funds will be distributed by the Suffolk Community Foundation, in “Young children are included in various activities, for example, in our recent partnership with Essex and Norfolk Community Foundations, to local refuges 2.6 Challenge we had a special toddler obstacle course which was thoroughly and organisations supporting young people impacted by domestic abuse and enjoyed by the young children currently in our refuge. violence. “The toddler playground will be a great addition to our garden as it will mean Supporting young people was one of the four causes voted for by East of that there is a safe area outside with age appropriate toys that the toddlers England Co-op members, alongside supporting older people, reducing food can enjoy playing with as part of free play which is so important for their poverty and tackling food waste. healthy development.” East of England Co-op members can continue to donate to the Community Bury St Edmund’s Women’s Aid Centre Cares Fund, by donating some or all of their dividend. Details can be found – Tina Hickey, Principal Operations Manager at: www.eastofengland.coop/communitycares “We have a dedicated team working with the women and children in the refuge and in the community. During covid-19 we have adapted the way we Domestic abuse has sadly always been an issue, however the need to remain deliver our work to families while sticking to the government guidelines to at home during lockdown has made, and continues to make, life even harder keep everyone safe. for those living with an abusive partner, family member or carer. “Our child support workers have been very creative and have provided A survey carried out by Women’s Aid in April 2020, confirmed that social activities and learning opportunities for the children while they havenot distancing measures had already impacted those experiencing domestic been in school. The garden has been set up with materials to plant and grow abuse. Of those who responded: vegetables, each child has been provided with activity packs bespoke to • 67.4% said abuse had gotten worse since the Coronavirus crisis started their age and needs, and telephone support has been provided to help with • 76.1% said that they were having to spend more time with their abuser schoolwork. There had also been an increase in post-separation abuse “One of our families wrote in a card with an image of a boat on the front “at a time when we were experiencing a shipwreck you guys were like an anchor Many of those who seek support from organisations like Women’s Aid keeping us calm”. have children, who can often feel angry, guilty, insecure, alone, frightened, powerless or confused as a result of their experiences of domestic abuse. “It is the generosity and support from the Co-op that enables us to continue our work with women, young people and children and be that ‘anchor’ for Women’s Aid’s The Domestic Abuse Report 2020: The Annual Audit, found others.” that: Niall O’Keeffe, Joint Chief Executive for the East of England Co-op, said: “We • Of women in refuge services 64.1% had children are proud to be working with the Community Foundations across our region • Of women in community-based services 58.1% had children to deliver a new grants programme to support children impacted by domestic Suffolk Community Foundation CEO Stephen Singleton said: “The positive abuse. results that are achieved by organisation’s addressing issues of abuse have “I would like to thank our members who have generously donated all or part never been needed more than they are today. As the numbers of those of their dividend to the Co-op Community Cares Fund. It is thanks to them needing help increase, as we come out of lockdown, this vital funding could that we are able to provide this support and make a positive impact on young not have come at a better time to re-build local lives.” lives in our communities.” The East of England Co-op have spoken with a number of refuges and Those in need of support or guidance can visit www.womensaid.org.uk/ organisations in Suffolk, Essex and Norfolk to understand the pressures they information-support or call the National Domestic Abuse www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham 13 ON THE GRAPEVINE

SUFFOLK STEPS: PATHS TO THE PAST ON YOUR DOORSTEP

If you’re looking to stay active and find fun ways to explore your local become the scenic coastal village it is today. Walk around the friary ruins area this summer, get your walking shoes on and start exploring with and picture yourself in very different surroundings. Suffolk Steps. Follow the trail around Thomas Gainsborough’s Sudbury and walk in the Suffolk Steps is a collection of local historic walks and trails developed by footsteps of the 18th century master of portrait and landscape painting. museums and partners throughout Suffolk. The free walks are designed Travel back in time to height of the silk and weaving industry asyou to help all ages stay active and uncover hidden history in the towns and pass the historic houses and production centers of wealthy merchants Suffolk countryside. and clothiers. There is so much to see, from the 125 acres of serene countryside at West Stow County Park, to strolling along the famed Keeping active is a key theme for Suffolk Steps partner, Keep Moving ‘Sailors Path’, a well-worn route initially used by sailors and smugglers. Suffolk, a local campaign aimed at helping people stay active during the COVID-19 pandemic. Keep Moving Suffolk aims to inspire and encourage You can also take in the largest Millennium Green in England in people to stay active, move or move more, by sharing ideas, tips, useful Halesworth along the historic malt trail or go off the beaten track with links and positive stories during these unprecedented times, using the Orford Museum’s Elizabethan map of the village. hashtag #KeepMovingSuffolk. As with any form of outdoor exercise, please follow the current Walking is a simple, free way of exercising and is one of the easiest ways government guidelines on staying safe outside your home. to stay active and become healthier. A brisk 10-minute walk has lots of health benefits and counts towards the recommended 150 minutes of This includes keeping at least a 2m distance from those outside your weekly exercise. Whatever your age, increased physical activity is linked household, washing your hands often, (and not touching your face), to helping people lead a healthier and happier life with lower incidences and avoiding crowds. Please view the current government guidance at of chronic illness. www.gov.uk/government/publications/staying-alert-and-safe-social- distancing before undertaking any form of outdoor exercise. You can explore Suffolk Steps by downloading the trails to your phone, or printing if you have access to a printer. Take the historic trail at Dunwich, Visit www.suffolkmuseums.org and look for Suffolk Steps to download a once great medieval port that disappeared beneath the waves to the trails. Share your walk stories and pictures under #SuffolkSteps

Dunwich Museum - The Ruins of Greyfriars Friary Gainsborough’s House - Statue of TG in Market Square, Sudbury

Keep in touch for all the latest information and family-friendly event news on Twitter @Suffolk_Museums and Facebook @AssociationForSuffolkMuseums.

14 In Touch online: ON THE GRAPEVINE

QUESTIONS ON CASH WITH INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER NICK PLUMB

Steve from Woodbridge asks: There are a number of advantages with flexible access drawdown over “I am coming up to my 60th birthday and although I don’t intend to retire buying an annuity: now, I would like to take the tax-free lump sum from my pension to pay for • The tax-free lump sum can be taken straight away regardless of when you a new car and a special holiday. I don’t want to buy an annuity, as I am going start taking any income. to keep working, and I won’t need the extra income yet. Is it possible to just • The income can be varied or deferred completely and when you do take have the lump sum and not take an income from the remaining pension income it can be changed to suit your needs – hence ‘flexible access’. fund?” • You can purchase an annuity at any time, for example; if rates improve. Yes, it is Steve. ou can actually take the benefits from a pension, including the tax-free lump sum, at any age from 55 onwards. Also, after taking the lump • The fund remains invested in a tax-efficient pension wrapper. sum you no longer have to buy an annuity with your remaining pension fund • You can even continue making additional pension contributions into a (the income for life that your pension fund historically would have purchased separate section of the plan, and (from that part of it) you can from an insurance or annuity company). take a further tax-free lump sum at a later date. You have explained in your email to me that you are a self-employed • When you die, the pension fund passes to your nominated beneficiaries. electrician and that you pay higher rate tax on some of your earnings. Not only do you not need the additional income from an annuity right now, but There can also be some disadvantages: also, if you did take that income it would be added to your self-employed • Annuity rates may have fallen by the time you want to buy an annuity. earnings and taxed at 40%, which just does not make sense. • The remaining fund value is not guaranteed and is dependent on Your pension fund is valued at around £200,000. You can take a maximum investment performance, just as your pension fund is now. of 25% of the fund value as a tax-free pension commencement lump sum, That means your fund value and any income produced by that fund is not (PCLS), so in your case that will be around £50,000. To be able to take the guaranteed and the value of the fund and any income produced from it PCLS without having to buy an annuity you will need to transfer your current can fall. personal pension into a Self-Invested Personal Pension or SIPP and enter into flexible access pension drawdown. However, for someone like you, who does not need additional income for the foreseeable future, but who wants access to their tax-free lump sum now, After transferring your current personal pension into a SIPP, up to 25% of the flexible drawdown can be an excellent option to traditional annuity purchase. pension fund is taken as a tax-free lump sum straight away – the £50,000 referred to above. However, instead of buying an annuity with your remaining Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser and Practice Principal at Plumb pension fund, the money stays invested within the SIPP wrapper as a flexible Financial Services. Post your questions to Nick at Plumb Financial Services, pension drawdown fund. Baylham Business Centre, Lower Street, Baylham, Suffolk IP6 8JP, email [email protected], or telephone Nick on 01473 830301. An income can be withdrawn from the fund, but you don’t have to take an Nick’s comments and answers to reader’s questions in this column are provided income if you don’t want to. only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any When you do decide to take an income, as the name ‘Flexible Access readers who require advice on their own situation should contact Nick to Drawdown’ implies, you can take as much or as little as you want, although arrange a no-obligation complimentary initial consultation to discuss their own you should of course consider the impact of large withdrawals on the fund position. Plumb Financial Services are authorised and regulated by the Financial value and you should always try to take a sustainable amount. Conduct Authority.

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