KE TA
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IN THIS ISSUE
Swing into Summer Don't miss our What's On guide full of ideas for great family days out.
Family Law Education Family Health & Wellbeing familiesonline.co.uk Issue 65: May/June 2022
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Families Suffolk: Issue 65 1 familiesonline.co.uk
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Families Suffolk: Issue 65
familiesonline.co.uk
WELCOME & CONTENTS
CONTACT US: EDITOR: Stacey Phillips T: 07951 946736 E: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk
Do you have any photos like this? Share your Royal memories with us.
Design: Stacey Phillips Printed by: Buxton Press Next Issue: July/August 2022
This June we’re celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee by creating Jubilee scrapbooks in each of our nine Suffolk branches.
12,000 copies of the magazine are distributed throughout Suffolk. To request copies please contact the Editor.
You can be part of it by sharing your memories of Royal visits and Jubilee street parties from days gone by.
Welcome Welcome to our new Spring/Summer edition. Once again our What's On feature is packed full of ideas for family days out over the next two months, including the return of the annual Suffolk Show, a great day out for the whole family.
Join the celebrations here: suffolkbuildingsociety.co.uk/platinum-jubilee
Following the successes of Elmer’s Big Parade in 2019 and Pigs Gone Wild in 2016 St Elizabeth Hospice will also be bringing a new art trail to Ipswich this summer. The Big Hoot will see 50 individually designed owls placed around Ipswich for everyone to see and enjoy. You can find out more about this years art trail on pages 11-14.
0330 123 0723 suffolkbuildingsociety.co.uk
22_19_04Families Suffolk Jubilee.indd 1
Plus we have some great advice from Suffolk County Council about Sumer Safety and Suffolk Mum, Sophia Howard shares her experience of the Menopause.
21/04/2022 13:20:41
I hope you enjoy.
Stacey Phillips
IN THIS ISSUE: E M HO
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Clubs & Classes
E M
9-10
KE TA
What's On Guide
FR
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Making Memories
11-14 The Big Hoot 15
Family Law
17-19 Family Health & Wellbeing
Don't miss our What's On guide full of great family days out.
Family Law Education Family Health & Wellb
Fe
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familiesonline.co.uk Issue 65: May/June 2022
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21-24 Education
IN THIS ISSUE
Swing into Summer
familiesonlin Familiese.co.uk Suffolk: Issue 65 1
To subscribe to our FREE online edition, please visit: www.bit.ly/2XolhJe. PRINT DISCLAIMER: Families Suffolk Magazine is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Print Ltd, the distributors, franchisees and LCMB cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
Visit us in our ceramics cafe or pick up a paint at home kit and get creative. * Booking advisable *
Pennikkity Pots Ceramics Cafe, Ipswich, IP1 3DJ T. 01473 216865 E: Info@pennikkitypots.co.uk
www.pennikkitypots.co.uk PennikkityPots
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Families Suffolk: Issue 65
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WHAT'S ON
What's On - Our top pick of local family days Out
TAKE MY LEAD
THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG
THE HADLEIGH SHOW
Family-friendly charity walk
WHERE: Red Rose Chain, The Avenue Theatre, Ipswich, IP2 9AF WHEN: Sat 21st May | 10.30am & 1.30pm www.redrosechain.com
WHERE: Holbecks Park, Hadleigh, IP7 5PE WHEN: Sat 21st May www.hadleighshow.co.uk
WHERE: Woolverstone Hall, Ipswich, IP9 1AZ WHEN: Sun 15th May from 10am www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk
WOOLPIT STEAM 2022
THE BIG PICNIC
RSPCA SPRING FAMILY FUN DAY
WHERE: Warren Farm, Haughley New Street, Haughley, Stowmarket, IP14 3JX WHEN: Sat 28th - Sun 29th May www.woolpit-steam.org.uk
WHERE: The New Wolsey Theatre Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS WHEN: Sat 28th May www.wolseytheatre.co.uk
WHERE: RSPCA, 2 Mill Lane, Martlesham, Ipswich, IP12 4PD WHEN: Sun 29th May www.rspca-suffolkcentral.org.uk/ family-fun-day-returns
THE SUFFOLK SHOW
KIDS RULE AT FRAMLINGHAM CASTLE
WHERE: The Suffolk Showground, Trinity Park, Felixstowe Road, Ipswich, IP3 8UH WHEN: Tue 31st May - Wed 1st June www.suffolkshow.co.uk
QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE IPSWICH CELEBRATIONS WHERE: Various Locations in Ipswich WHEN: Thu 2nd - Sun 5th June www.ipswichentertains.co.uk
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WHERE: Church Street, Framlingham, IP13 9BP WHEN: Tue 31st May - Sun 5th June. www.english-heritage.org.uk/framlingham
LEESTOCK MUSIC FESTIVAL WHERE: Melford Hall, Long Melford, CO10 9AA WHEN: Fri 3rd - Sat 4th June www.leestock.org
NEARLY FESTIVAL
TOTFEST, SUFFOLK
WHERE: Abbey Gardens, Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1LS WHEN: Sat 11th - Sun 12th June. www.nearlyfestival.com/burystedmunds
WHERE: Rowley Mile Racecourse, Cambridge Road, Newmarket, CB8 0TF WHEN: Sun 12th June www.totfestfestival.com/totfest-suffolk
Families Suffolk: Issue 65
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WHAT'S ON
Expires 30th June 2022.
THE BEST FAMILY DAY OUT EVER! 6TH - 7TH AUGUST TRINITY PARK 2022
2022 04 Families Congo Swim Eat.qxp_130mm h x 90mm w 07/04/2022 1
Little
Adventurers Day Out
at Ufford Park Woodbridge
A great day out with the children. Enjoy a round on Congo Rapids, a main meal from the children’s menu & a swim.
ONLY
Family packages available 1 adult, 2 children
£15 per child
(4 - 12 years old)
£45*
* Terms & conditions apply. Food is not included for an adult. Parents must accompany under 12’s at all times.
t 01394 386871 w www.uffordpark.co.uk
Motor Show Events.com
Yarmouth Road, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW
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WOMEN DON’T DO SUCH THINGS: EXHIBITION AND LOW SENSORY DAY EXHIBITION 4 February - 19 June at The Hold. Free entry. Walk in the footsteps of Suffolk women past and present who have led change in their communities, careers and countries throughout history. Explore the pioneering work of activists, doctors, archaeologists, pilots and many more moving and poignant stories of Suffolk women breaking down barriers. LOW SENSORY DAY
Sunday 12 June, 10am - 4pm at The Hold. Free entry. A day of low sensory experiences themed around our exhibition suitable for neurodivergent individuals and their families.
ART IN THE ARCHIVES: LOWESTOFT
Sat 14 May and Sat 11 June, 10.30am - 12.30pm.
Join our free monthly Saturday art club at Lowestoft Archives. Each session explore a different aspect of local history, then get inspired to design, create or make something of your own. Ages 8 - 14 years. Free.
LET’S GET CRAFTY: PLATINUM JUBILEE
Wed 1 June, 10.30am - 12.30pm.
Come along for a range of family fun crafts inspired by The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee at both Lowestoft Archives, and Bury St Edmunds Archives. Ages 5-11. Free. If you are in the Ipswich area then don’t forget to come and say hi to us at the Suffolk Show in the Platinum Years exhibition!
ESCAPE ROOMS: MARGARET CATCHPOLE
Sat 11 and Sun 12 June, 10am - 4pm.
Join Ipswich legend Margaret Catchpole at The Hold and make your escape from Ipswich County Gaol. Solve the puzzles and collect the tools you need to make your way to freedom. There are two different rooms available: one family friendly and one aimed at adults. Ages 8+ for family room. £10 per person, £8 concession. Min 2 people, max 6 in a group.
@suffolkarchives l www.suffolkarchives.co.uk/whatson
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What's On at Suffolk Museums
Bawdsey Radar Museum “A place of intrigue for all the family” The very welcome contribution of National Lottery Heritage Funding enabled the full restoration of the radar transmitter block at Bawdsey and the development of a museum telling the global story of radar. To come from a damp decaying building to winning the Suffolk Small Museum of the Year Award in 2019 is testimony to the hard work and funding that has made the museum the go-to family attraction it is today. Exciting opportunities await families visiting the museum with some fantastic interactive displays demonstrating how radar worked. A virtual reality experience is also currently being developed which will be available at the museum later in the year. Check out the museum website where you can listen to a number of oral histories from RAF personnel who were based at Bawdsey during World War Two. Bawdsey Radar Museum aims to achieve greater understanding and national recognition of radar in the defence story of World War Two, and its role in wider scientific and technological advances across the world. The museum volunteers and staff will be welcoming visitors, running events, and selling a range of gifts from the museum shop through the summer, so please take the family to Bawdsey Radar Museum this summer along for a visit of real intrigue. Find out more at: www.bawdseyradar.org.uk
May / June 2022 East Coast Pirates
Norfolk & Suffolk Aviation Museum Sunday 8th May www.aviationmuseum.net
Bungay Museum @ Bungay Street Market Bungay Museum Sunday 15th May bungaymuseum.co.uk
Aviation art and model display Norfolk & Suffolk Aviation Museum Sunday 22nd May www.aviationmuseum.net
EATM @ 50
East Anglia Transport Museum Sunday 29th May | 11am-5pm www.eatransportmuseum.co.uk
Woof! The Great Landguard Corgi Challenge Landguard Fort Sat 28th & Sun 29th May & Wed 1st & Sun 5th June www.landguard.com
Craft Morning
Woodbridge Tide Mill Museum Tuesday 31st May woodbridgetidemill.org.uk
Festival Of The Sea Celebrations
Landgaurd Fort and Felixstowe Museum Sat 18th - Sun 19th June www.landguard.com
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WHAT'S&ON CLUBS CLASSES
CLUBS & CLASSES
Activities away from school
A
ctivities that take place completely away from the school environment don’t
just keep restless children busy or entertained and help working parents manage their child’s spare time, they can also offer great developmental benefits that will help them academically, physically and socially. New Friendships
Outside of the school environment, your child is likely to make friendships with children that don’t go to their school and get used to socialising with children of all ages outside the structure of the formal school day.
Improving Life and Social Skills
Outside school activities provide an ideal environment in which to nurture social skills and confidence. Many extracurricular activities work to teach children the value of working as a team to achieve a mutual goal — a skill that will benefit them in their future endeavours.
Boosting Academic Performance Discovering that they have a talent can give a child a new source of confidence or a passion that translates into their engagement and behaviour at school. For example, performing in drama club can improve confidence in speaking up in class and inspire creative writing. Playing an instrument will help children understand music lessons.
Building Self-Esteem
In a busy classroom it can sometimes be hard for a child to make themselves heard. Outside of school activities will give your child the chance to build their self-esteem. Most groups or teams are more intimate than the typical classroom environment, making them less intimidating for children. Children may also be more interested than they are in their lessons and will engage more easily with the activities involved.
Positive Role Models
Sports coaches, group leaders and other responsible adults who are sharing their skills provide role models and a valuable new take on the world for children.
Happier Children
Outside of school activities promote emotional well-being by allowing children to work off excess energy, relax their minds, and overcome the stress associated with school life.
Chance to Shine
Outside of school activities offer your child the chance to be themselves away from the influence of their school friends. Without being judged by their peers as “not cool” or “geeky” your child may thrive in developing new outlet for creative, sporting or intellectual pursuits.
Promoting Healthy Hobbies
Children with a regular activity are likely to spend less static time glued to a smartphone or screen and the interests that they develop during outside of school activities are likely to mean they spend more time practicing skills and pursuing their passions.
Explore Interests and Create Broader Perspectives
When children participate in multiple different activities, they get the opportunity to explore a range of interests which subsequently broaden their world view.
Time Management
As children get older and move on to secondary school, being able to juggle different aspects of their lives becomes increasingly important. By attending classes, clubs or activities outside of school, your child will be taking on more responsibility for managing their schedule effectively.
Sense of Commitment
Students who participate in outside of school activities develop a sense of commitment to whatever they are involved in. This is because they have to commit to them and give them their all, and this commitment starts to extend to other areas of their lives.
A Brighter Future
The skills and habits a child learns during his or her school years help to shape the kind of future they will lead as an adult. As a result, outside of school activities that promote everything from healthy-living habits, to leadership skills, good timemanagement, and better social or academic performance have plenty of advantages to offer.
Don’t Push Them
Keep in mind that you shouldn’t push children to over-do it when it comes to extra activities. It’s better for your child to choose something that they really enjoy doing and stick to it, rather than attempt numerous different activities that quickly become overwhelming, and may detract from their school work.
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WHAT'S&ON CLUBS CLASSES
Ali Edwards and her team at Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes introduced their fun-packed group electronic keyboard classes to Ipswich last summer. We offer both home tutorials and face-to-face lessons for the beginner musician between 4 and 12 years.
How does it work?
Football fun for children aged 18 months - 8 7 years.
“Learning the FUNdamentals of Football”
www.LittleKickers.co.uk facebook.com/LittleKickersUKIpswich ipswich@littlekickers.co.uk
07762 341982
After School Climbing Club
For children aged 5 - 11 years
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday afternoons 1 hour sessions
Climbing levels from bronze through to platinum
For more information or to register your place, visit our After School Club page online!
In our face-to-face classes, small groups (maximum 8) are taught how to play the electronic keyboard, read & write music & develop every skill from the very beginning right through to first grade. A well-balanced lesson of group, individual, theory & practical work, tied in with games & quizzes aplenty, means our classes delight & inspire children year after year! Children love coming to learn with like-minded peers and there is never a dull moment in our sessions! As a second, more cost-effective option, our home tutorials enable a pupil to guide themselves with our charming videos and workbooks from the comfort of their own home – meaning parents can learn along with them too!
Summer Workshops This summer, why not try a wonderful workshop? 1 day or 5 days, for children aged 4-9 years.
e v o l r e m Sum
Learn to read, write &
! s e s r u Co
music with
25 July 10am-1.30pm: £30 1-5 August 10am-1pm: £99
Fun-packed one or five day beginners music workshop using electronic keyboards. Perfect for the 4-8 year old beginner musician! Burlington Baptist Church, London Road IP1 2EZ
www.funkymonkey.info 01732 457 100 10
Families Suffolk: Issue 65
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A Wild in Art event brought to Ipswich by St Elizabeth Hospice
Presenting partners:
SPECIAL FEATURE - ADVERTORIAL Following Pigs Gone Wild 2016 and Elmer’s Big Parade Suffolk 2019, St Elizabeth Hospice will be hosting the Big Hoot Ipswich 2022 art trail this summer. The Big Hoot Ipswich 2022, which is being hosted by the hospice in partnership with creative producers Wild in Art, will see 50 ornately decorated owl sculptures scattered throughout Suffolk’s county town from 19 June until 3 September. “We cannot wait to join with the community and enjoy the fantastic artwork the Big Hoot Ipswich 2022 will bring to the town this summer,” said Celia Joseph, community relationships fundraising manager at St Elizabeth Hospice. “The trail is a great opportunity for the hospice to show gratitude to the community, who have been amazing with their continued support, during the period of uncertainty we have lived through over the past two years.” Looking at the success of previous trails, which have raised awareness and funds for the charity, the St Elizabeth Hospice team is confident the Big Hoot Ipswich 2022 will provide a boost to the hospice, local businesses and the wider community. In 2019, accompanying fundraising activities and subsequent statue auction for Elmer’s Big Parade Suffolk generated more than £260,000 for the hospice.
While Pigs Gone Wild 2016 raised over £200,000 for the charity and brought an extra £1 million to Ipswich’s economy through increased visits and spending, as 250,000 people completed the trail.
About St Elizabeth Hospice St Elizabeth Hospice is an independent Suffolk charity, which every year delivers care to over 3,000 patients and their families throughout East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney, who are living with a progressive or lifelimiting illness. These services cost £12.9m to facilitate each year, with the charity raising 70% of funds via revenue streams and the generosity of the community through support of its retail shops and fundraising activities.
For more details visit: www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk
For more details visit: www.thebighoot.co.uk11
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Launching the Big Hoot Ipswich 2022, will be the Hoot Hike. A sponsored family-friendly 5k walk, taking place on Sunday 19 June.
Hoot Hike to Launch Summer of Creativity
The Hoot Hike will begin in Christchurch Park, where the event village will be located for registration, craft activities and stallholders. From here, participants will then complete a 5km trail around Ipswich, featuring a number of the town’s landmarks and a large selection of sculptures from this year’s trail. Joanne Rodger, events and challenges manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, said: “We are delighted to announce the launch of the Hoot Hike, which will signal the start of the Big Hoot Ipswich 2022! “We look forward to joining with supporters and trail fans, to make the occasion, exploring the route around Ipswich and catching a first glimpse of some of the sculptures, all while raising vital funds for the St Elizabeth Hospice.”
Tickets cost £5 and participants are encouraged to raise additional funds for the hospice, as part of the hike, through sponsorship.
Register today - www.bit.ly/HootHike
Sunday 19 June 2022
HOOT HIKE 5K Fundraising Walk
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For more details visit: www.thebighoot.co.uk Families Suffolk: Issue 65
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WIN
this Hoot!
See bottom of the page
The Hoots and the artists behind them Nocturne by Loïs Cordelia
A Hoot to Suffolk by Angie Ashford
The second Big Hoot to be revealed was ‘Nocturne’. Created by Ipswich-based artist Loïs Cordelia, Nocturne showcases iconic sights of Ipswich at night.
With the announcement of the Big Hoot, in May 2021, also came the revealing of the first fully completed sculpture, ‘A Hoot to Suffolk’, by Angie Ashford.
“Ipswich is my hometown and I know people may think otherwise, but in terms of beauty, I think it is an amazing place and at night even more so,” explained Loïs, who has also designed statues for Pigs Gone Wild 2016 and Elmer’s Big Parade Suffolk 2019.
Angie’s design for A Hoot to Suffolk features the oxlip, a flower synonymous with Suffolk, entwined among scenes from around the county, encapsulating the beauty of the area where the hospice provides support throughout the community.
“I love walking round Ipswich at night and seeing the iridescent glow from flood lit buildings, which is why I have used shimmering and metallic paints for Nocturne’s design. “To have an event in Ipswich which promotes people getting outside, exploring the town, supporting local businesses, interacting with art and supporting such a vital local charity, in St Elizabeth Hospice, is a brilliant thing and I look forward to the launch later this year.”
WIN a Big Hoot! Fans of St Elizabeth Hospice’s Wild in Art sculpture trails are in for a treat, as the hospice has launched a raffle for entrants to be in with a chance of winning a Big Hoot sculpture. As part of the Lucky Ticket raffle, which is open until 16 September, supporters can enter to be in with a chance of winning the Big Hoot statue, ‘Nocturne’, which has been designed by Ipswich artist, Loïs Cordelia.
“I was keen for my design to focus on Suffolk, especially after the difficult period brought by Covid-19, it was important to celebrate the positives around us,” explained Angie, who also designed the popular Elmer Travel Trunk which featured in Elmer’s Big Parade Suffolk 2019. “With the oxlip being the flower of Suffolk it was an ideal choice, and its stalks and leaves neatly link the many icons of Suffolk on the Big Hoot, including Framlingham Castle, the Suffolk Punch and Christchurch Mansion.”
Featuring a design showcasing Ipswich landmarks at night, Nocturne was revealed to the public as part of the Welcome Back Ipswich weekend (11-13 March), which saw St Elizabeth Hospice and Ipswich Borough Council host the St Elizabeth Hospice Art Trail Reunion.
LUCKY TICKET
RAFFLE
To enter the Lucky Ticket raffle visit:
www.bit.ly/BigHootLuckyTicket
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Bildeston Primary School
The Little Hoot community and education programme is running alongside the Big Hoot and has seen many schools and youth groups in Suffolk signing up to be inspired and get creative as part of the art trail. By joining the learning programme, each group has pledged to raise a minimum of £695 for the hospice, while they have also received a blank ‘Little Hoot’ sculpture to decorate, and a resource pack linked to the curriculum to help teachers stimulate young minds. All the Little Hoots will come together at the Suffolk Show on the 31st May and 1st June for the pupils and their families to be able to see under one roof and admire the great work and creativity, before they will be displayed throughout the summer in shop windows of independent retailers across Ipswich for everyone to see.
Get Involved! Volunteering allows you to make new friends, work in a team, gain new experiences and enjoy a sense of purpose, whilst having fun too! The Big Hoot Ipswich 2022 needs volunteers to carry out a range of roles, including help with moving sculptures, ticket collecting at events, marshalling, and cleaning sculptures, to name but a few!
To get in touch, email: volunteer@stelizabethhospice.org.uk
Hoot Dates for Your Diary
Swoop over to social media:
31 May – 1 June
@IpswichArtTrail
Little Hoots fly to the Suffolk Show
19 June Hoot Hike launches the Big Hoot Ipswich 2022
19 June – 3 September Big Hoot Ipswich 2022 brings colour and creativity to the town
#TheBigHoot
11 – 12 September Big Hoot Farewell Weekend
15 September 14
Auction of our Big Hoots
www.thebighoot.co.uk
Families Suffolk: Issue 65
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ACCIDENTS WILL HAPPEN WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CHILD IS INJURED AND IT WAS SOMEONE ELSE’S FAULT. Christopher Mason, with over thirty years’ experience in dealing with Personal Injury matters, explores some of the issues when children are involved.
I
t is every parent’s nightmare – a call from school or nursery to say that their child has had an accident or a policeman at the door with news of a road traffic incident. Children are uniquely vulnerable; still learning how to look after themselves and more often than not, reliant on adults to look out for them. And as parents know all too well, children can be very accident-prone. For all our instincts to protect our children and keep them safe, accidents do happen – children can be injured at school, at nursery, on the road and even out shopping. Many accidents occur to children in surprising circumstances, often those which might not occur at all with adults, or where adults might suffer much less significant injuries; take for example, the heart-breaking case last summer of a five-year-old boy who died following a head injury when a mirror fell on him in a department store in Colchester. Children and traffic often do not mix well, although there is some good news at least from The Department for Transport in that overall, child casualties decreased by 5% between 2018 and 2019 to 13,574 casualties in 2019 which is the lowest year on record – but still a worry!. No parent ever wants to have to pursue a personal injury or clinical negligence claim, but if faced with the situation of a child who has sustained injury due to someone else’s fault, then it is a comfort to know that help is close at hand to guide them through the claims process from start to finish and to ensure that their child is fully and properly compensated for the injuries and losses sustained – whether a minor injury with full recovery, or an injury that may have life-long consequences for the injured child. A child who has been involved in an accident cannot make their own claim; any claimant under 18 years old needs a parent or other responsible person (known as a ‘litigation friend’) to make the claim on their behalf. It is also often the case that a child may succeed in a claim where an adult would not – there are many circumstances in which the law recognises that ensuring the safety of children requires a greater standard of care than with adults. The Limitation Act 1980 stipulates that personal injury claims (in most cases) have to be started by adults within three years of the injury occurring. In cases involving children, the three year time limit does not start to run until the child’s 18th birthday – but it is always best to bring a claim as soon as
possible; delay can make it more difficult to successfully bring a claim so advice should always be sought as soon as possible. If your child is injured in an accident, you should consider carefully whether medical attention should be sought even if your child seems alright. Not all injuries are visible; not all have an immediate impact. Make sure that the incident is reported so that there is a formal and official record of what happened; if you were not present yourself, try to find out from any witnesses exactly what happened and get contact details if you can. If the accident has occurred in a public space, take photos if possible, especially where any defect or danger can be clearly seen – preservation of evidence can be vital to the success of any claim. If the accident was due to someone else’s negligence and your child suffered an injury as a result, a claim can be made not only for the pain, suffering and loss of amenity caused by the injury, but for consequential financial losses as well – these can be anything from travel expenses, to treatment costs and losses incurred in providing extra care for your child. In serious cases, where life-altering injuries tragically occur, claims can be made for future needs such as treatment, care, property adaptations, aids and equipment, as well as loss of earnings based on the child’s potential future career. Where the claimant is a child with life-long needs due to injury, the sums for future losses can run to many thousands of pounds, and well into seven figures in serious cases. Dealing with personal injury claims, especially those involving children, can be complicated, so consider taking advice as soon as possible. And remember - it does not need to be costprohibitive. Most lawyers like ourselves, will consider working on a ‘no win – no fee’ basis and our aim is always to ensure that a claim can be pursued with no risk for parent or child.
For advice on Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence claims, contact: Christopher Mason, Head of Dispute Resolution Bates, Wells & Braithwaite, 29 Lower Brook Street Ipswich, Suffolk IP4 1AQ | T: 01473 295524 E: christopher.mason@bates-wells.co.uk To view our full range of legal services for you and your family, visit our NEW website at:
www.bates-wells.co.uk
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WHAT'S SHE MEANS ON BUSINESS
Which structure should your business take? By Victoria Sharp, Business Coach & Mentor at Whitley Morgan Ltd
Whether you decide to become a sole-trader, partnership, or limited company – each structure has its advantages and disadvantages, let’s take a look:
Sole Trader / Partnership vs Limited Company – Who is Who? A Sole Trader means you are the business – there is no distinction between the two. Any business debts become your debts. A Partnership is one or more sole-traders working together. The individuals involved with a partnership are ‘joint and severally liable’. A Partnership agreement is a minimum suggestion, or go Limited for better protection.
A limited company is a legal identity in its own right. So as a shareholder (the owners of the company) your liability is limited – meaning any company debts are the responsibility of the company to pay – not the owners. A Shareholder Agreement for 2+ shareholders can be a vital tool in your toolbox.
What about the tax implications? Sole traders & Partnerships (via the individuals) pay tax on their business profits via the annual self-assessment tax return system. Companies pay corporation tax on profits after paying directors salaries, but dividends distributions are taxed on the individual recipient.
Paperwork Sole traders/partners are not legally required to file annual accounts, but they still must keep a record of business expenses and income to fill in their tax returns annually.
A limited company must prepare: • Annual accounts. • Corporation Tax Return. • A Confirmation Statement. • And maintain a PSC (Persons of Significant Control) register
Prestige A Limited company (whilst not guaranteeing reliability) gives the impression of a soundly based organisation and may appear more credible, especially as it is more transparent as the records are on Companies House – a public record for anyone to view.
Other areas you need to consider are: • National Insurance. • Legal continuity. • Transfer of ownership. • Borrowing. • Credibility & Privacy. • Pension schemes. • Administration. • Director’s responsibilities.
How Can Whitley Morgan help you? Together with a strong financial background we are able to support you and your business, bringing your ideas to reality. With 25+ years’ experience in starting, building, growing, franchising and selling companies we provide training, advice, support and guidance to businesses either starting up or established firms that look to grow their service/ product range or improve an area to help the company grow and we do this in a friendly and approachable way. For more information please visit:
www.whitleymorgan.co.uk or call: 01284 335562 16
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
Menopause…
Why it’s a family matter By Sophia Howard, Suffolk Mum and founder of Paper Kite Yoga
A
year ago I probably wouldn't have even paused to read this article. I thought I knew all I needed to know about the menopause; periods stop, hot flashes happen and women of a certain age get a bit crazy. Nevertheless 6 years ago I thought ‘it’ might be happening. I was getting occasional hot flushes and my periods were irregular and heavy. I saw the GP who thought I was too young at 41, but sent me for a blood test. The result apparently confirmed I wasn’t, so it was nothing to worry about.
The primary caregiver is the cornerstone to the family unit. However if the primary caregiver is a woman over 40 the drop in oestrogen, that contributes to maternal instincts, may have a massive, sometimes devastating impact on the family.
The next couple of years were quite challenging so it was second nature to put unnecessary thoughts of menopause aside and ignore my intuition. Once life settled however, I started to notice more things about my wellbeing that just didn’t feel right. I was tired, ALL the time, kept muddling words and forgetting things. I spent hours googling early onset dementia and Alzheimer's. I was getting heart palpitations, feeling breathless and my back ache was becoming more problematic. Over a couple of years I’d had an ECG, an MRI, ultrasounds and a mammogram - all coming back as normal for my age! I noticed my patience shortening, regularly romanticised about ‘running away from it all’ and my mood swings were getting worse. My poor family were treated to monthly doses of rage or depression, but never knew which it would be or when it would appear.
In the book, The Female Brain by US psychiatrist Louann Brizendine, she explains the menopause as a time when “the mummy brain starts to unplug”. Women in their 50’s are far more likely than younger women to initiate divorce proceedings. Dr. Brizendine attributes this to something called “post-menopausal zest.” “They want their turn, they want to go and do stuff that they’re passionate about and step out in a more independent way—they don’t want to be taking care of everybody else,” she says. When women start to experience feelings/symptoms of menopause they can feel confused, guilty and shameful. The whole subject is still largely misunderstood by women, even more so by their male partners and families. Sadly those aged 45 to 54 have the highest suicide rate among women.
I increased my yoga and meditation, started taking long walks alone and delved into learning about Ayurveda and nature therapy. I discovered a real desire to feel ‘me’ again and to prioritise my wellbeing. I found Menopause Yoga and learnt that I was in perimenopause and had been all along. My intuition was spot on when I first went to see my GP.
Reading this I realised I’d had a first hand experience of how traumatic and devastating the menopause can be on a family. I hadn’t known anything about my mother’s menopause, it was overshadowed by an unpleasant divorce. Naturally there would have been other factors involved, but the timing cannot be ignored. Perhaps this further highlights the importance of family conversations around menopause.
"I started to notice more things about my wellbeing that just didn’t feel right" Perimenopause is when the production of oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone decrease, the drop in hormones produces symptoms and increases health risks in later life. Common symptoms include: irregular periods, temperature irregularities, mood changes, memory problems, depression, migraines, digestive problems, loss of libido, vaginal dryness, joint pain, hair loss, acne and urinary problems. During child bearing years our oestrogen levels increase and are partially responsible for maternal instincts. These maternal instincts keep the female primary caregivers giving, despite juggling work or other family responsibilities. The endless tasks of meal making, clothes washing, homework help, cuddle giver, sleep soother, play date planner and so on.
Thanks to the amazing women who are campaigning for menopause awareness, there are more places than ever to find information and support. HRT is grossly misunderstood and despite previous misinformation, the advantages far outweigh any small risks for most women. Menopause is a natural change and with the right information, the right support and some lifestyle tweaks, it can be a highly empowering time in a woman’s life. There is life beyond menopause and it doesn’t have to wreck the family unit. With information and support, women and their families can adapt and change. Though it might be challenging, relationships can become stronger, more fulfilled and hopefully just as happy as before.
For more information about Sophia's Menopause workshops visit: www.paperkiteyoga.co.uk
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Summer Safety Now that it’s getting warmer, why not do this helpful quiz from CAPT on how to keep kids safe while playing in the garden at:
www.capt.org.uk/garden-safety
Trampolines
Read the instructions
Read the instructions and all the warnings displayed. These will include warnings such as the maximum weight of the user, that adult supervision is required and that no somersaults should be done on the trampoline. One warning that will be displayed, which we know is a difficult one, is that trampolines should only be used by one person at a time. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), 60% of trampoline injuries occur when more than one person is using the trampoline at a time.
Water Safety Young children
Did you know that the majority of accidents happen when two or more people are on the trampoline?
can be fascinated
Collisions when 2 or more people are bouncing can cause head injuries, or the lightest child to fall off.
and fitness.
It's important to read and follow the instructions, and ensure your trampoline complies with the appropriate standards for domestic trampolines.
Buying advice When buying a trampoline, look for a model with safety pads and check that they cover the frame, hooks and springs. Also consider a trampoline with safety netting to help prevent the user from falling off the trampoline. The enclosure entrance should be big enough for an adult to access, and it must be possible to open it from the inside and outside.
by water, and swimming is great for a child's health
Here are some tips to make sure that their time in the water is fun and safe. Babies and small children can drown in just a few centimetres of water. Children should be supervised in the water at all times. Empty paddling pools when they are not in use. It’s not just young children who are at risk. Older children and teens can get into trouble, especially while ‘wild’ swimming. Strong currents, deep water and objects lurking under the water are unlikely to be obvious.
For more guidance, visit: www.healthysuffolk.org.uk/projects/child-friendly 18
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The NHS is offering coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines to children aged 5 to 11 years
Rise in childhood hepatitis
Experts have advised that parents
According to UK Health Officials there have been a growing number of hepatitis cases reported with children in the UK since the start of this year
of all children aged 5 to 11 years should be offered the chance to have their child vaccinated. Vaccination is particularly important for children who have health conditions that put them
What is hepatitis?
at high risk from COVID-19, as the
It's a broad term used to describe inflammation of the liver.
benefts are greater.
Which children are at high risk from coronavirus (COVID-19) infection? Children with certain health conditions, or those with a weakened immune system are at higher risk of serious COVID-19 disease. These children and those who live with someone who has a weakened immune system should already have been invited for vaccination. For more information on the health conditions visit: www.gov.uk/ government/publications/covid19vaccination-resources-forchildrenaged-5-to-11-years or speak to your GP.
Will the vaccine protect my child? The COVID-19 vaccination will reduce the chance of your child suffering from COVID-19 disease. It may take a few weeks for their body to build up some protection from the vaccine. Two doses of the vaccine should give your child long lasting protection against serious complications of infection – including any future waves due to new variants. Your child should also have some protection from the mild symptoms. The protection against mild Omicron infection should last for several weeks. Like all medicines, no vaccine is completely effective – some children may still get COVID-19 despite having a vaccination, but this should be less severe.
About the vaccine Children will be offered the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Each vaccine is a third of the dose of vaccine that is given to older children and adults. Children at greater risk of serious illness if they catch COVID-19 will need 2 doses of vaccine, 8 weeks apart. All other children will be offered 2 doses of vaccine 12 weeks apart. The vaccine has been tested to make sure it is as safe as possible. For more information visit: www.medicines.org.uk/emc/ product/12634/pil#gref
Common side effects Like all medicines, vaccines can cause side effects. Most of these are mild and short-term and not everyone gets them. The very common side effects should only last a day or two. The Pfizer vaccine tends to cause more side effects after the second dose than the first dose.
Very common side effects include: • Having a painful, heavy feeling and tenderness in the arm where you had your injection. This tends to be worst around 1 to 2 days after the vaccination. • Feeling tired. • Headache. • General aches, or mild flu like symptoms.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:
www.sneevaccine.org.uk
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Usually the result of a viral infection, it can also be caused by exposure to some chemicals, drinking too much alcohol, drugs and certain genetic disorders. There are five main types of hepatitis caused by specific viruses - known as A, B, C, D and E - but none of those appear to have caused the liver inflammation seen in these children so far. Some types of hepatitis can pass without any serious problems, while others can be long-lasting.
Hepatitis in children: Signs to look out for • muscle and joint pain • a high temperature • feeling and being sick • feeling unusually tired all the time • a general sense of feeling unwell • loss of appetite • tummy pain • dark urine • pale, grey-coloured poo • itchy skin • yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice) Please contact your GP if your child has any persistent or troublesome symptoms that you think could be caused by hepatitis. For more information visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/hepatitis/
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Five common myths about who can and can’t foster In the UK, 65,000 children live with almost 55,000 foster families right now. The Fostering Network, the UK’s leading fostering charity, estimates a further 8,600 foster families will be needed in the next twelve months. Foster Care FortnightTM (#FCF22) organised by The Fostering Network, runs from 9 to 22 May this year and both raises awareness of fostering and celebrates the fostering community. The fortnight also serves as the UK’s biggest foster carer recruitment campaign. One of the challenges faced in recruiting is ensuring a broad range of carers, so every child in foster care can be matched with a family that meets their needs.
There are many misconceptions about who can or can’t foster. Let’s try to debunk some of the common myths. 1. Sons and daughters Some people worry that not having their own children will bar them from fostering. That is not the case. Any relevant experience of working with or caring for children is helpful. However, a lack of relevant experience does not stop you from fostering. Equally, having children already can also be beneficial to your fostering experience. Sons and daughters of foster carers play a crucial role in a fostering household and by growing up in a family who fosters, they’ll gain valuable life skills.
2. Age As long as you are over 18 and can provide a safe and stable home for the children you look after, your age is secondary. Connie (30), a foster carer from Manchester, started her fostering career five years ago. “Fostering is the most rewarding job I have ever had and there has not been a day where it hasn’t lived up to what I dreamed it would be. I can recommend fostering to everybody. Not just empty nesters, or people who have had their own children, but anybody who has got the space in their house and their hearts.”
3. Employment
and have a dogged determination. Foster carers come from all kinds of Due to my condition, I also backgrounds. While some fancied a understand adversity which I can use career change and are full time foster to relate to the children who I care carers, others have kept their jobs for.” Even though a fostering service alongside fostering. Whether will seek a medical report as part of this is possible depends the assessment process, that is on the needs of the only one part of it and services "Fostering children and whether must treat applicants openly is the most you would be available and without prejudice. to attend necessary rewarding job I appointments such as 5. Religion have ever had" meetings and training. It doesn’t matter what your While you must be able religion is, if you can meet the to demonstrate financial needs of the child placed with you. stability, you don’t have to have Before applying, however, you should a certain salary to become a foster consider whether you would be open carer. You can also apply if you are to discussing alternative religious receiving benefits. beliefs or certain ethical issues with a child, ensuring that you abide by the 4. Disability fostering service's policies. Having a disability or a named illness does not necessarily stop you from FIND OUT MORE... fostering either. Jon has muscular dystrophy – a muscle wasting Foster carers play a crucial condition that is life limiting – and role in society and are vital in became a foster carer eight years ago. transforming young people’s He transforms his fostered children’s lives. Find out more about lives every day. “I foster because of my fostering in Suffolk at: abilities, not my disabilities”, explains www.suffolk.gov.uk/fostering Jon. “I am resilient, compassionate
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EDUCATION
A parent’s guide to...
Secondary school transition By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble
Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting, supporting children, parents and families with the insights, skills and tools needed to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation. For more information visit: www.emparenting.co.uk.
The move from primary to secondary school is a major change for children. Most see this as an exciting next stage in their school journey but, for some, the change can make them feel anxious and uncertain. And all this at an age when children are already going through many physical and emotional changes ahead of adolescence.
B
Before your child starts ORIEXPL NG...
Recognise and talk about their primary school highlights and achievements - and things they may miss. Find out what they are looking forward to at their new school, addressing worries and concerns.
CTIONE NG
... Look at the new school website with your child and take part in any induction events. Help your child think about how to approach new people and start conversations. Find other children on the new school route to travel with.
ringing up children is a slow, staggered process of detachment, from the moment they learn to crawl to the moment they finally leave home. When a child starts secondary school, with a mobile phone and travel card, it’s easy to see impending adulthood in the paraphernalia of independence as the detachment process begins.
M E REWOP RUO Y IHC DL
Our role is to give our children roots and wings. Roots to know where home is and wings to fly away. The roots begin to form during early years education; secondary school is the place where children start to grow their wings.
ORGANITISA ON IS KEY OT CESU
Whilst most children will have a positive secondary school start and will embrace the new experiences on offer, research has found that the shift to secondary school can be stressful for about one in four children and that nearly three quarters of parents are anxious themselves. Our input at this stage is crucial and our role as parents is to be our child’s sounding board, establishing an open relationship in which they feel valued, respected and connected. By adopting this non-judgemental response, our children are more likely to keep talking to us as they get older. Finally, while we may no longer be at the school gates, our involvement continues to be crucial to both our children’s emotional wellbeing and academic success. There are still many opportunities to stay involved: by joining the PTA, becoming part of a class WhatsApp group, getting to know the school and what support it offers. Talk to your children about their day but possibly not the moment they walk through the door - a snack and a drink often help to ease the way into a pleasant chat. Key to a healthy ongoing relationship is to keep the communication going. Remember that you are your child’s emotional coach.
... Encourage your child to take more responsibility at home to build their conffdence and independence. Support steps towards independence: allow them to walk home alone in their ffnal term (if practical), meet a friend locally or run an errand for you. Praise your child where you can and notice when they do something well. ... Help your child plan out their journey and do a few trial runs together. Make sure you have all the uniform and equipment ready in time. Plan a suitable space and time for daily homework.
Adapting to change and uncertainty During times of change children will typically experience many emotions, just as adults do. Remember that change is a normal part of life and can help us develop courage, flexibility and resilience.
So how can we help them understand and manage their feelings? Acknowledge challenging feelings and events: help them learn that life is not perfect and that there may be hard days and difficulties. Teach them to accept these feelings knowing that this acceptance will help them to move on with the emotional strength that they will need as they mature. Validate your child’s feelings: encourage them to process and talk to you about what is going on. Try not to dismiss their concerns and worries as trivial. Help your child learn what they can and can’t control: we can control our goals, relationships and how we spend our time. We can’t control natural disasters, pandemics or loss. Maintain family routines: knowing what to expect will help your child feel grounded and secure, especially during times of transition.
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WHAT'S ON EDUCATION
Become a Host Family for an International Student Alpha Guardians provide high quality Guardianship Services for students studying in the UK living without their parents. They have students studying in both Independent and State schools, living in boarding accommodation or with a local host family.
Welcome a Student into your Home Host students for half terms and holidays
Full training given
Extra income
B
eing a Host Family for an international Student can be incredibly rewarding experience as you welcome someone from a different culture into your home. Students come from many different backgrounds, with different customs and family lives and as a host you have the privilege to help them learn to adapt to life and school in the UK, as well as British Customs and ways of living.
Some of the benefits of being a host family are: • An opportunity to share your family life and learn about different cultures and traditions. • Enabling a student to improve their knowledge of the English language, often gaining excellent results at school.
Contact us today to find out more about becoming a host family with Alpha Guardians T: 01473 559015 E: hello@alphaguardians.co.uk W: alphaguardians.co.uk
• A rewarding experience as you help a student achieve when in the UK. • Regular weekly payments whilst the student is in your home. For more information visit: www.alphaguardians.co.uk.
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Families Suffolk: Issue 65
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EDUCATION
A Greener Education How can schools successfully include an environmental focus in their teaching and learning agenda? Framlingham College Prep School demonstrates how they put environmentalism high on their pupils’ radars. There is no doubt as to the importance of widespread environmental awareness and education of our planet’s climate crisis.
Where every pupil creates their own story.
At Framlingham College we strongly believe we have a responsibility to educate our pupils to understand the intricacies and implications of climate change and equip and empower them to lead a concerted bid to save our planet. At the Prep School we are lucky to be surrounded by 28 acres of beautiful rural countryside, so outdoor learning and education has been a high priority for some time. We have a dedicated Forest School area, and the appointment of our Head of Outdoor Learning was specifically aimed to enhance the outdoor educational experience of all our pupils, putting sustainability at the forefront of their thinking. Our pupils are also encouraged to get involved in the natural world by increasing biodiversity in the grounds through initiatives such as the recent planting of 420 trees in our Forest School area as part of The Queen's Green Canopy initiative - in honour of The Queen's Platinum Jubilee. Our Eco Warrior pupil representatives, from Reception to Year 8, have united to form the FCPS Eco Committee, with a shared remit to enhance the school’s environmental credentials and demonstrate our commitment to protecting the planet. Their initial focus is to create change across several key areas including energy consumption, food waste, recycling and litter reduction. The ability of our pupils to become environmental changemakers is something we strongly advocate for. We see a bright future for so many of our eco activists in taking up the challenge of convincing others, both at our own school and beyond, about the importance of conserving and protecting our planet and adopting more sustainable lifestyles. For more information on an education at Framlingham College Prep School visit www.framlinghamcollege.co.uk or book a tour to see the school by contacting the admissions team admissions@framlinghamcollege.co.uk.
With our ambitious learning culture, a focus on every individual and a breadth and blend of opportunities, we help our pupils discover and develop their talents to create their own life-story. Our size, structure and ethos mean that our entire focus is on understanding, guiding and inspiring each child individually – so they can find their own voice, their confidence, self-belief and aspiration, discover their own talents, challenge themselves and reach their full potential. We are academics, actors, musicians, expeditioners, sports people, innovators, scientists, decision makers, artists, fun lovers, nurturers and thought provokers. Often we are many things within one. But, we are all individual with our own story.
You can arrange a private visit by calling our Prep School Admissions team on 01728 685331, email admissions@framlinghamcollege.co.uk or enquire via our website at framlinghamcollege.co.uk
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We take happiness seriously At St Joseph’s we support the intellectual, spiritual, physical and emotional growth of every pupil Children who thrive are the happiest of all 24
Prep School Open Morning Saturday 14 May To register please visit stjos.co.uk or email admissions@stjos.co.uk
Book a Family Tour For a personal tour of our Prep School, please contact our admissions team on 01473 694576, or email admissions@stjos.co.uk Independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2–18. Nursery open all year round
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